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Catawba Today
By the People, for the People
Controversial North Carolina Elections Official Resigns After Breaking Law
Robert Rucho, a former GOP state lawmaker, donated to political candidates while serving on the state elections board, violating state law.
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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Robert Rucho, a former Republican state lawmaker recently appointed to the North Carolina State Board of Elections, has resigned after it was revealed he violated state law by making political contributions to two county sheriffs while serving on the elections board.
Why it matters
Rucho's resignation highlights ongoing concerns about partisanship and conflicts of interest in election administration, especially in states where one political party dominates. His past role in gerrymandering also raises questions about the integrity of North Carolina's electoral process.
The details
According to public records, Rucho wrote a $259 check to Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell in October and a $1,000 check to Catawba County Sheriff Don Brown in January, both of whom are up for reelection this year. This is against North Carolina law, which prohibits election board members from contributing to candidates under the board's jurisdiction. Rucho also faced criticism for social media posts defending a powerful Republican state legislator, another violation of the same law.
- Rucho made the $259 contribution to Sheriff Darren Campbell in October 2025.
- Rucho made the $1,000 contribution to Sheriff Don Brown in January 2026.
- As of March 2026, Sheriff Brown has returned Rucho's contribution.
The players
Robert Rucho
A former Republican state lawmaker who was recently appointed to the North Carolina State Board of Elections, but has now resigned after revelations that he violated state law by making political contributions to two county sheriffs.
Darren Campbell
The Iredell County Sheriff, who received a $259 contribution from Rucho while Rucho was on the state elections board.
Don Brown
The Catawba County Sheriff, who received a $1,000 contribution from Rucho while Rucho was on the state elections board, but has since returned the contribution.
Phil Berger
A powerful Republican state legislator in North Carolina, whom Rucho defended on social media, also in violation of state law.
Sam Page
Rucho's former legislative colleague, who is challenging Phil Berger in a Republican primary and currently trails him by just two votes, with a recount set to take place.
What’s next
The state elections board and the Office of the State Auditor have not cited a specific reason for Rucho's resignation, but the revelations about his campaign contributions and social media posts defending a powerful Republican legislator are likely the main factors.
The takeaway
Rucho's resignation highlights ongoing concerns about partisanship and conflicts of interest in election administration, especially in states where one political party dominates. His past role in gerrymandering also raises questions about the integrity of North Carolina's electoral process, underscoring the need for nonpartisan oversight and reforms to ensure fair and transparent elections.
