The field of candidates for the NC Senate District 11 seat was narrowed from five to two following Tuesday’s primary race.
Lisa Stone Barnes defeated Patrick Harris and Dennis Nielsen in the Republican primary with 68 percent of the total vote count across Johnston and Nash counties. Barnes received 12,576 votes to 5,279 for Harris and 613 for Nielsen, in unofficial returns.
On the Democratic ticket, Smithfield attorney Allen Wellons defeated Albert R. Pacer carrying more than 60 percent of the vote total. Mr. Wellons received 12,504 votes and Pacer 8,126 votes across the two counties.
Barnes and Wellons will face off on the November ballot for the District 11 seat being vacated by retiring state senator Rick Horner.
After her win on Tuesday night Mrs. Barnes said, “I am humbled and honored by the support I have received during my primary campaign. From my first election as a Nash County Commissioner, to serving in the North Carolina House, I have worked hard to meet the dynamic needs of my constituents and I will continue to apply that same work ethic in the Senate.”
“Looking toward November and beyond, I will remain committed to engaging with the people who help our communities thrive – and whom I hope to serve in the Senate,” said Barnes.
Barnes said her campaign will continue to focus on addressing critical needs like access to affordable healthcare, promoting jobs and ensuring the state’s economy can continue to grow and prosper.
