Kenn Gardner, a Republican candidate for secretary of state, picked up an endorsement from a former rival as he aims to win the runoff election.
Mike Beitler finished third in the four-way contest for the GOP nomination. In his endorsement, Beitler called Gardner, a former Wake County commissioner, "the clear choice with a record of creating jobs in Wake County and reducing government spending."
“Kenn is a proven conservative businessman who has been recognized nationally for his innovation and leadership. For 30-years he has grown businesses across North Carolina and has the experience we need in our next Secretary of State,” Beitler said in a statement released by Gardner's campaign.
Gardner will face Ed Goodwin, a Chowan County commissioner, in the July 17 runoff election. Goodwin recently picked up the endorsement of fourth-place finisher A.J. Daoud.
