Earls secures victory in N.C. Supreme Court race
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Sarah Stevens (left) and Anita Earls. Photos: Courtesy of candidates
Anita Earls, an incumbent Democrat, defeated Republican Sarah Stevens Tuesday to win reelection to the North Carolina state Supreme Court.
Why it matters: The result does not change the makeup of the Republican-majority state Supreme Court — but Earls' victory sets up a 2028 election that could determine control of the court.
- The state Supreme Court has made pivotal rulings on issues ranging from gerrymandering and voter ID to overturning a long-running lawsuit on public school funding.
Driving the news: At the time she declared victory, Earls had received more than 58% of the vote against Stevens, a former member of the N.C. House, with 87% of precincts reporting.
- The New York Times called the race in Earls favor, citing Associated Press data. Multiple news outlets also called the race in Earls' favor.
State of play: The North Carolina Supreme Court has a 5-2 Republican majority.
- The court flipped from a Democratic majority after elections in 2022.
- Three Republican justices' terms expire in 2028.
What they're saying: "It is the honor of my life to continue serving the people of North Carolina on the Supreme Court for another term," Earls said in a statement declaring victory.
- "I will work every day to uphold the Constitution and protect the rights and freedoms of all North Carolinians."