North Carolina Primary Pits Powerful Senate Leader Against Popular Sheriff

Phil Berger faces a surprising challenge from Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page in a race that could upend conservative power in the state.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Phil Berger, the powerful Republican leader of the North Carolina State Senate, is facing an unexpected challenge from Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page in a tight primary race that could reshape the balance of conservative power in the state. Berger, who has led the Senate since 2011, is fighting to keep his seat against the popular, Trump-friendly sheriff who is running an unconventional campaign focused on connecting with voters. The race has drawn national attention, with President Trump endorsing both candidates, and its outcome could have major implications for the state's political landscape.

Why it matters

This race represents a rare threat to the political dominance of Berger, who has built a formidable power base in the state. A loss for Berger would create a significant power vacuum in North Carolina's Republican leadership, with unclear consequences. The contest also reflects broader tensions within the GOP between establishment figures and outsider, Trump-aligned candidates.

The details

Berger, known for his reserved, behind-the-scenes approach, is facing a very different candidate in the extroverted Sheriff Page, who has built a reputation as a Trump-aligned, border hawk. Page has been campaigning aggressively, visiting local businesses and events, while Berger's campaign has flooded the airwaves with ads. The race has been shaped by Berger's failed attempt to bring a casino to Rockingham County, which angered many conservative voters. Polls suggest Page may win Berger's home county, though Berger still has an advantage in the larger Guilford County portion of the district.

  • The primary election is scheduled for March 3, 2026.
  • In 2023, Berger tried to rush through legislation that would have brought a casino to Rockingham County, angering many conservative voters in the area.

The players

Phil Berger

The powerful Republican leader of the North Carolina State Senate, who has held the position since 2011 and built a formidable political machine in the state.

Sam Page

The Rockingham County sheriff, who is running an unconventional campaign against Berger and has the support of President Trump.

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What they’re saying

“If you see me toting a shotgun over my shoulder, if you see me riding a horse, or if you see me standing with Donald Trump, it's not A.I. — it's real. I am who I am.”

— Sam Page, Rockingham County Sheriff (New York Times)

“The way I've described it is, I've had the opportunity to exercise political muscles that I haven't had to exercise in a while. And it feels good.”

— Phil Berger, North Carolina State Senate Leader (New York Times)

What’s next

The outcome of the March 3rd primary could have major implications for the balance of power in the North Carolina State Senate, as well as the state's broader political landscape. If Berger loses, it would create a significant power vacuum that is unclear who would fill.

The takeaway

This race highlights the growing tensions within the Republican Party between establishment figures like Berger and outsider, Trump-aligned candidates like Sheriff Page. The contest could serve as a bellwether for the direction of the GOP in North Carolina and beyond.