Democrat Jeff Jackson expected to drop out of US Senate race (NC) [View all]

[brooklynite]

WRAL

RALEIGH, N.C. — A leading Democrat vying for North Carolina's soon-to-be-open U.S. Senate seat plans to leave the race, people familiar with the matter told WRAL News on Wednesday.

Sen. Jeff Jackson, D-Mecklenburg, was expected to announce his plan to drop out as soon as Thursday morning, according to four sources familiar with his plans. Two sources said Jackson was calling donors to inform them of his decision.

Jackson and his campaign spokesman did not return multiple WRAL calls or texts Wednesday evening, including texts specifically asking about his plans to leave the race. North Carolina Democratic Party officials also didn't return calls or texts.

Jackson has been considered one of the top candidates to win the Democratic primary in a race to replace retiring Republican Sen. Richard Burr, whose seat will come open next year.

Point 1: I was scheduled to have coffee with him; meeting was cancelled last week.

Point 2: That likely hands the nomination to Cheri Beasley, who has been unsupportive of lifting the filibuster.