# 2002 North Carolina Senate election

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vte :
The 2002 North Carolina Senate election was held on November 5, 2002, as part of the state's biennial election to the General Assembly. All fifty seats in the North Carolina Senate were elected.

## Results summary

| District | Incumbent | Party | Party | Elected | Party |
| 1st | Marc Basnight | | Dem | Marc Basnight | Dem |
| 2nd | Scott Thomas | | Dem | Scott Thomas | Dem |
| 3rd | Edward Warren | | Dem | Clark Jenkins | Dem |
| 3rd | R. L. "Bob" Martin | | Dem | Clark Jenkins | Dem |
| 4th | Frank Ballance | | Dem | Robert Lee Holloman | Dem |
| 5th | New seat | New seat | New seat | Tony P. Moore | Dem |
| 6th | New seat | New seat | New seat | Cecil Hargett | Dem |
| 7th | John Kerr | | Dem | John Kerr | Dem |
| 8th | R. C. Soles Jr. | | Dem | R. C. Soles Jr. | Dem |
| 9th | Patrick J. Ballantine | | Rep | Patrick J. Ballantine | Rep |
| 9th | Luther Jordan | | Dem | Patrick J. Ballantine | Rep |
| 10th | Charles W. Albertson | | Dem | Charles W. Albertson | Dem |
| 10th | Oscar Harris | | Dem | Charles W. Albertson | Dem |
| 11th | A. B. Swindell | | Dem | A. B. Swindell | Dem |
| 12th | Allen Wellons | | Dem | Fred Smith | Rep |
| 13th | David F. Weinstein | | Dem | David F. Weinstein | Dem |
| 14th | New seat | New seat | New seat | Vernon Malone | Dem |
| 15th | John H. Carrington | | Rep | John H. Carrington | Rep |
| 16th | Eric Miller Reeves | | Dem | Eric Miller Reeves | Dem |
| 16th | Brad Miller | | Dem | Eric Miller Reeves | Dem |
| 17th | New seat | New seat | New seat | Richard Y. Stevens | Rep |
| 18th | Wib Gulley | | Dem | Wib Gulley | Dem |
| 19th | Tony Rand | | Dem | Tony Rand | Dem |
| 20th | Jeanne Hopkins Lucas | | Dem | Jeanne Hopkins Lucas | Dem |
| 21st | Larry Shaw | | Dem | Larry Shaw | Dem |
| 22nd | New seat | New seat | New seat | Harris Blake | Rep |
| 23rd | Eleanor Kinnaird | | Dem | Eleanor Kinnaird | Dem |
| 23rd | Howard Lee | | Dem | Eleanor Kinnaird | Dem |
| 24th | Hugh Webster | | Rep | Hugh Webster | Rep |
| 25th | William R. Purcell | | Dem | William R. Purcell | Dem |
| 26th | Phil Berger | | Rep | Phil Berger | Rep |
| 26th | Bob Shaw | | Rep | Phil Berger | Rep |
| 27th | Kay Hagan | | Dem | Kay Hagan | Dem |
| 28th | Bill Martin† | | Dem | Katie G. Dorsett | Dem |
| 29th | New seat | New seat | New seat | Jerry W. Tillman | Rep |
| 30th | John A. Garwood | | Rep | John A. Garwood | Rep |
| 31st | Hamilton Horton Jr. | | Rep | Hamilton Horton Jr. | Rep |
| 32nd | Linda Garrou | | Dem | Linda Garrou | Dem |
| 33rd | Stan Bingham | | Rep | Stan Bingham | Rep |
| 33rd | Cal Cunningham† | | Dem | Stan Bingham | Rep |
| 34th | New seat | New seat | New seat | Andrew C. Brock | Rep |
| 35th | Aaron Plyler† | | Dem | Fern Shubert | Rep |
| 36th | Fletcher L. Hartsell Jr. | | Rep | Fletcher L. Hartsell Jr. | Rep |
| 37th | Dan Clodfelter | | Dem | Dan Clodfelter | Dem |
| 38th | Charlie Dannelly | | Dem | Charlie Dannelly | Dem |
| 39th | Bob Rucho | | Rep | Bob Rucho | Rep |
| 40th | T. L. "Fountain" Odom | | Dem | Robert Pittenger | Rep |
| 41st | New seat | New seat | New seat | R. B. Sloan Jr. | Rep |
| 42nd | James Forrester | | Rep | James Forrester | Rep |
| 43rd | David W. Hoyle | | Dem | David W. Hoyle | Dem |
| 44th | Austin M. Allran | | Rep | Austin M. Allran | Rep |
| 45th | Virginia Foxx | | Rep | Virginia Foxx | Rep |
| 45th | Kenneth Moore | | Rep | Virginia Foxx | Rep |
| 46th | Walter H. Dalton | | Dem | Walter H. Dalton | Dem |
| 47th | New seat | New seat | New seat | Joe Sam Queen | Dem |
| 48th | Charles Newell Carter† | | Dem | Tom Apodaca | Rep |
| 49th | Steve Metcalf | | Dem | Steve Metcalf | Dem |
| 50th | Robert C. Carpenter | | Rep | Robert C. Carpenter | Rep |
| 50th | Dan Robinson | | Dem | Robert C. Carpenter | Rep |
† - Incumbent not seeking re-election
| Party | Party | Candi- dates | Votes | Votes | Seats | Seats | Seats |
| Party | Party | Candi- dates | No. | % | No. | +/– | % |
| | Democratic Party | 45 | 1,022,552 | 46.770% | 28 | 7 | 56% |
| | Republican Party | 42 | 1,109,755 | 50.759% | 22 | 7 | 44% |
| | Libertarian Party | 27 | 54,025 | 2.471% | 0 | | 0% |
| Total | Total | 114 | 2,186,332 | 100.00% | 50 | | 100.00% |
Senate seats
Democratic
56%
Republican
44% :
Popular vote
Republican
50.76%
Democratic
46.77%
Libertarian
2.47% :

### Incumbents defeated in the primary election

* Howard Lee (D-District 23) lost re-nomination to Eleanor Kinnaird in a redistricting race
* Bob Shaw (R-District 26) lost re-nomination to Phil Berger in a redistricting race
* Kenneth Moore (R-District 45) lost re-nomination to Virginia Foxx in a redistricting race

### Incumbents defeated in the general election

* Allen Wellons (D-District 12), defeated by Fred Smith (R)
* T. L. "Fountain" Odom (D-District 40), defeated by Robert Pittenger (R)

### Open seats that changed parties

* Aaron Plyler (D-District 35) didn't seek re-election, seat won by Fern Shubert (R)
* Charles Newell Carter (D-District 28) didn't seek re-election, seat won by Tom Apodaca
* Dan Robinson (D-District 50) lost a redistricting race to Robert C. Carpenter (R-District 50)

### Newly created seats

* District 5, won by Tony P. Moore (D)
* District 6, won by Cecil Hargett (D)
* District 14, won by Vernon Malone (D)
* District 17, won by Richard Y. Stevens (R)
* District 22, won by Harris Blake (R)
* District 29, won by Jerry W. Tillman (R)
* District 34, won by Andrew C. Brock (R)
* District 41, won by R. B. Sloan Jr. (R)
* District 47, won by Joe Sam Queen (D)

## Predictions

| Source | Ranking | As of |
| The Cook Political Report | Tossup | October 4, 2002 |

## Detailed results
### Districts 1–25
#### District 1

Incumbent Democratic President Pro Tempore Marc Basnight has represented the 1st district since 1985.
North Carolina Senate 1st district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Marc Basnight (incumbent) | 32,723 | 66.63% |
| | Republican | Ron Toppin | 16,392 | 33.37% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 49,115 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 2

The new 2nd district overlaps with much of the former 3rd district. Incumbent Democrat Scott Thomas, who has represented the 3rd district since 2001, was re-elected here. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 2nd district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Chuck Tyson | 5,951 | 56.67% |
| | Republican | Jule D. Wheatly | 4,551 | 43.33% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 10,502 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 2nd district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Scott Thomas (incumbent) | 26,011 | 51.69% |
| | Republican | Chuck Tyson | 24,310 | 48.31% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 50,321 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 3

The new 3rd district includes the homes of incumbent Democrats Edward Warren, who has represented the 9th district since 1991, and R. L. "Bob" Martin, who has represented the 6th district since 1985. Neither sought re-election here and Democrat Clark Jenkins won the open seat. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 3rd district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Clark Jenkins | 10,687 | 45.30% |
| | Democratic | Patricia Ferguson | 9,757 | 41.36% |
| | Democratic | Ann M. Slocumb | 1,626 | 6.89% |
| | Democratic | Henry Williams II | 1,523 | 6.46% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 23,593 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 3rd district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Clark Jenkins | 26,444 | 66.69% |
| | Republican | Don Carson | 12,743 | 32.14% |
| | Libertarian | Henry Boschen | 464 | 1.17% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 39,651 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 4

The new 4th district overlaps with much of the former 2nd district. Incumbent Democrat Frank Ballance, who has represented the 2nd district since 1989, ran for the U.S. House. Democrat Robert Lee Holloman won the open seat. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 4th district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Robert Lee Holloman | 8,142 | 31.61% |
| | Democratic | Robert B. Partin | 6,950 | 26.99% |
| | Democratic | Ronnie C. Reaves | 5,133 | 19.93% |
| | Democratic | Clinton G. "T-Bone" Alston | 3,040 | 11.80% |
| | Democratic | Charles J. Worth | 2,490 | 9.67% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 25,755 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 4th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Robert Lee Holloman | 28,336 | 84.11% |
| | Libertarian | Tom Eisenmenger | 5,352 | 15.89% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 33,688 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 5

The new 5th district is based in Wilson and Pitt counties and isn't a safe seat for either party. Democrat Tony P. Moore won the open seat. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 5th district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Tony P. Moore | 5,005 | 33.94% |
| | Democratic | James M. Johnson III | 4,859 | 32.95% |
| | Democratic | William L. Neill | 2,511 | 17.03% |
| | Democratic | Robert Wheeler Jr. | 2,371 | 16.08% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 14,746 | 100% |
Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 5th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Tom Coulson | 3,651 | 69.74% |
| | Republican | George H. Gray | 1,584 | 30.26% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 5,235 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 5th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Tony P. Moore | 22,265 | 50.86% |
| | Republican | Tom Coulson | 20,992 | 47.95% |
| | Libertarian | Christopher Ruff | 521 | 1.19% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 43,778 | 100% |
| | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) |

#### District 6

The new 6th district is based in Jones and Onslow counties. Democrat Cecil Hargett won the open seat. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 6th district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Cecil Hargett | 6,329 | 63.70% |
| | Democratic | Kever M. Clark | 3,606 | 36.30% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 9,935 | 100% |
Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 6th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Tommy Pollard Jr. | 2,893 | 61.61% |
| | Republican | Thomas R. "Tom" Mattison | 1,803 | 38.39% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 4,696 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 6th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Cecil Hargett | 14,146 | 51.78% |
| | Republican | Tommy Pollard Jr. | 13,175 | 48.22% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 27,321 | 100% |
| | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) |

#### District 7

The new 7th district overlaps with much of the former 8th district. Incumbent Democrat John Kerr, who has represented the 8th district since 1993, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 7th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | John Kerr (incumbent) | 21,211 | 53.95% |
| | Republican | Carolyn B. Russell | 18,108 | 46.05% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 39,319 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 8

The new 8th district overlaps with much of the former 18th district. Incumbent Democrat R. C. Soles Jr., who has represented the 18th district and its predecessors since 1977, was re-elected here. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 8th district Republican election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Ray Gilbert | 3,208 | 56.47% |
| | Republican | Dial Gray | 2,473 | 43.53% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 5,681 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina District 8th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | R. C. Soles Jr. (incumbent) | 28,513 | 54.56% |
| | Republican | Ray Gilbert | 20,993 | 40.17% |
| | Libertarian | Edward Gore | 2,750 | 5.26% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 52,256 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 9

The new 9th district includes the homes of incumbent Republican Patrick J. Ballantine, who has represented the 4th district since 1995, and Democrat Luther Jordan, who has represented the 7th district since 1993, Ballantine was re-elected here. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 9th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Patrick J. Ballantine (incumbent) | 8,552 | 88.82% |
| | Republican | Dallas J. Brown Jr. | 1,076 | 11.18% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 9,628 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 9th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Patrick J. Ballantine (incumbent) | 34,361 | 65.11% |
| | Democratic | Laura Padgett | 17,381 | 32.93% |
| | Libertarian | Shaun Mitchell | 1,033 | 1.96% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 52,775 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 10

The new 10th district includes the homes of incumbent Democrats Charles W. Albertson, who has represented the 5th district since 1993, and Oscar Harris, who has represented the 15th district since 1999, Albertson was re-elected here. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 10th district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Charles W. Albertson (incumbent) | 10,935 | 70.22% |
| | Democratic | Robert Bradshaw | 4,638 | 29.78% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 15,573 | 100% |
Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 10th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | George E. Wilson | 5,048 | 69.69% |
| | Republican | Lewis T. Harris III | 1,121 | 15.47% |
| | Republican | Derl Walker | 1,075 | 14.84% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 7,244 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 10th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Charles W. Albertson (incumbent) | 21,927 | 54.52% |
| | Republican | George E. Wilson | 18,290 | 45.48% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 40,217 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 11

The new 11th district overlaps with much of the former 10th district. Incumbent Democrat A. B. Swindell, who has represented the 10th district since 2001, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 11th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | A. B. Swindell (incumbent) | 26,471 | 60.13% |
| | Republican | Willie Cooke | 16,636 | 37.79% |
| | Libertarian | Charles Yow | 914 | 2.08% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 44,021 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 12

The new 12th district includes the homes of incumbent Democrat Allen Wellons, who has represented the 11th district since 1997. Wellons lost re-election here to Republican Fred Smith. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 12th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Fred Smith | 6,371 | 80.54% |
| | Republican | E. Ray Boswell | 1,539 | 19.46% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 7,910 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 12th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Fred Smith | 26,225 | 57.67% |
| | Democratic | Allen Wellons (incumbent) | 19,253 | 42.33% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 45,478 | 100% |
| | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic |

#### District 13

The new 13th district overlaps with much of the former 30th district. Incumbent Democrat David F. Weinstein, who has represented the 30th district since 1997, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 13th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | David F. Weinstein (incumbent) | 21,602 | 100% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 21,602 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 14

The new 14th district is based in Wake County and has no incumbent. Democrat Vernon Malone won the open seat. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 14th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Carol Bennett | 1,999 | 55.65% |
| | Republican | Loretta Thompson | 1,593 | 44.35% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 3,592 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 14th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Vernon Malone | 28,469 | 64.55% |
| | Republican | Carol Bennett | 14,518 | 32.92% |
| | Libertarian | Richard Davison | 1,117 | 2.53% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 44,104 | 100% |
| | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) |

#### District 15

The new 15th district overlaps with much of the former 36th district. Incumbent Republican John H. Carrington, who has represented the 15th district since 1995, was re-elected here. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 15th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | John H. Carrington (incumbent) | 8,126 | 70.48% |
| | Republican | George C. Mackie Jr. | 3,403 | 29.52% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 11,529 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 15th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | John H. Carrington (incumbent) | 36,177 | 57.08% |
| | Democratic | Dorothy Gerry Bowles | 25,581 | 40.36% |
| | Libertarian | Nathan Wilson | 1,626 | 2.57% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 63,384 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 16

The new 16th district overlaps with much of the former 14th district. Incumbent Democrats Eric Miller Reeves and Brad Miller have represented the 14th district since 1997. Miller ran for the U.S. House while Reeves was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 16th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Eric Miller Reeves (incumbent) | 25,799 | 49.29% |
| | Republican | Paul Coble | 25,323 | 48.38% |
| | Libertarian | Jason Mara | 1,215 | 2.32% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 52,337 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 17

The new 17th district is based in Southern Wake County and had no incumbent. Republican Richard Y. Stevens won the open seat. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 17th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Richard Y. Stevens | 6,213 | 69.53% |
| | Republican | David S. Sharpe Jr. | 2,723 | 30.47% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 8,936 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 17th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Richard Y. Stevens | 37,076 | 61.69% |
| | Democratic | Thomas B. Hunt | 20,616 | 34.30% |
| | Libertarian | Susan Hogarth | 2,411 | 4.01% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 60,103 | 100% |
| | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) |

#### District 18

The new 18th district overlaps with much of the northern portion of the former 13th district. Incumbent Democrat Wib Gulley, who has represented the 13th district since 1993, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 18th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Wib Gulley (incumbent) | 27,335 | 46.23% |
| | Republican | Tom Davidson | 19,706 | 40.53% |
| | Libertarian | Mark Kitchens | 1,576 | 3.24% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 48,617 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 19

The new 19th district overlaps with much of the former 24th district. Incumbent Democrat Tony Rand, who has represented the 24th district since 1995, was re-elected here. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 19th district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Tony Rand (incumbent) | 15,025 | 77.58% |
| | Democratic | Russell McLaurin | 4,341 | 22.42% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 19,366 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 19th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Tony Rand (incumbent) | 25,493 | 63.36% |
| | Republican | Bob White | 14,741 | 36.64% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 40,234 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 20

The new 20th district (based in Durham County) overlaps with much of the southern portion of the old 13th district. Incumbent Democrat Jeanne Hopkins Lucas, who has represented the 13th district since 1993, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate District 20th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Jeanne Hopkins Lucas (incumbent) | 30,216 | 89.31% |
| | Libertarian | Jonathan Guze | 3,617 | 10.69% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 33,833 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 21

The new 21st district overlaps with much of the former 41st district. Incumbent Democrat Larry Shaw, who has represented the 41st district since 1995, was re-elected here. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 21st district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Larry Shaw (incumbent) | 6,951 | 66.31% |
| | Democratic | Audrey "Sister" Ray | 3,532 | 33.69% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 10,483 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 21st district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Larry Shaw (incumbent) | 16,584 | 66.66% |
| | Republican | Richard D. Evans | 8,293 | 33.34% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 24,877 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 22

The new 22nd district includes all of Moore and Lee counties, as well as the western portion of Harnett County. Republican Harris Blake won the open seat. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 22nd district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Jimmy L. Love Sr. | 6,690 | 62.17% |
| | Democratic | Wanda H. Hunt | 4,071 | 37.83% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 10,761 | 100% |
Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 22nd district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Harris Blake | 4,687 | 37.29% |
| | Republican | Teena S. Little | 3,995 | 31.78% |
| | Republican | Bobby Ray Hall | 1,963 | 15.62% |
| | Republican | Tim McNeill | 1,925 | 15.31% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 12,570 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 22nd district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Harris Blake | 24,975 | 54.43% |
| | Democratic | Jimmy L. Love Sr. | 20,072 | 43.74% |
| | Libertarian | Jonathan Lubecky | 840 | 1.83% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 45,887 | 100% |
| | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) |

#### District 23

The new 23rd district overlaps with much of the former 16th district. Incumbent Democrats Eleanor Kinnaird and Howard Lee have both represented the 16th district since 1997. Kinnaird was re-elected here. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 23rd district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Eleanor Kinnaird (incumbent) | 12,488 | 50.24% |
| | Democratic | Howard Lee (incumbent) | 12,369 | 49.76% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 24,857 | 100% |
General election
2002 North Carolina Senate 23rd district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Eleanor Kinnaird (incumbent) | 37,481 | 65.74% |
| | Republican | Peter Morcombe | 17,686 | 31.02% |
| | Libertarian | Christopher Todd Goss | 1,847 | 3.24% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 57,014 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 24

The new 24th district overlaps with much of the former 21st district. Incumbent Republican Hugh Webster, who has represented the 21st district since 1995, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 24th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Hugh Webster (incumbent) | 23,685 | 57.79% |
| | Democratic | Bill Powell | 17,299 | 42.21% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 40,984 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 25

The new 25th district overlaps with much of the eastern portion of the former 17th district. Incumbent Democrat William R. Purcell, who has represented the 17th district since 1997, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 25th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | William R. Purcell (incumbent) | 24,178 | 57.63% |
| | Republican | Donald M. Dawkins | 17,778 | 42.37% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 41,956 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

### Districts 26–50
#### District 26

The new 26th district includes the homes of incumbent Republicans Phil Berger, who has represented the 12th district since 2001, and Bob Shaw, who has represented the 19th district since 1985. Berger was re-elected here. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 26th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Phil Berger (incumbent) | 4,580 | 52.82% |
| | Republican | Bob Shaw (incumbent) | 4,091 | 47.18% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 8,671 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 26th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Phil Berger (incumbent) | 40,187 | 84.69% |
| | Libertarian | Jim Capo | 7,264 | 15.31% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 47,451 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 27

The new 27th district overlaps with much of the former 32nd district. Incumbent Democrat Kay Hagan, who has represented the 32nd district since 1999, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 27th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Kay Hagan (incumbent) | 28,170 | 56.16% |
| | Republican | Mark McDaniel | 20,714 | 41.30% |
| | Libertarian | Tom Bailey | 1,272 | 2.54% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 50,156 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 28

The new 28th district overlaps with much of the former 31st district. Incumbent Democrat Bill Martin, who has represented the 31st district since 1983 did not seek re-election. Democrat Katie G. Dorsett won the open seat.
North Carolina Senate 28th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Katie G. Dorsett | 26,395 | 64.01% |
| | Republican | Mike Causey | 14,139 | 34.29% |
| | Libertarian | Eric Preston Medlock | 702 | 1.70% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 41,236 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 29

The new 29th district includes Randolph and Montgomery counties and had no incumbent. Republican Jerry W. Tillman won the open seat. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 29th district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Mac Whatley | 3,864 | 64.50% |
| | Democratic | Charles K. Moss | 2,127 | 35.50% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 5,991 | 100% |
Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 29th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Jerry W. Tillman | 6,616 | 46.26% |
| | Republican | Bob Crumley | 3,509 | 24.54% |
| | Republican | Joe O. Shaw | 3,314 | 23.17% |
| | Republican | Max Gardner Reece Jr. | 862 | 6.03% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 14,301 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 29th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Jerry W. Tillman | 24,972 | 64.64% |
| | Democratic | Mac Whatley | 12,932 | 33.47% |
| | Libertarian | Douglas Kania | 728 | 1.88% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 38,632 | 100% |
| | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) |

#### District 30

The new 30th district overlaps with much of the former 27th district. Incumbent Republican John A. Garwood, who has represented the 27th district since 1997, was re-elected here. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 30th district Democratic election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Ed Gambill | 4,648 | 54.09% |
| | Democratic | Lana Wood Brendle | 3,945 | 45.91% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 8,593 | 100% |
Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 30th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | John A. Garwood (incumbent) | 6,205 | 54.88% |
| | Republican | Don W. East | 5,101 | 45.12% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 11,306 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 30th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | John A. Garwood (incumbent) | 28,591 | 61.16% |
| | Democratic | Ed Gambill | 16,842 | 36.03% |
| | Libertarian | James Wentz | 1,315 | 2.81% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 46,748 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 31

The new 31st district overlaps with parts of the former 20th district. Incumbent Republican Hamilton Horton Jr., who has represented the 20th district since 1995, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 31st district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Hamilton Horton Jr. (incumbent) | 43,590 | 88.15% |
| | Libertarian | Donn Linton | 5,857 | 11.85% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 49,447 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 32

the new 32nd district overlaps with parts of the former 20th district. Incumbent Democrat Linda Garrou, who has represented the 20th district since 1999, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 32nd district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Linda Garrou (incumbent) | 28,388 | 100% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 28,388 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 33

The new 33rd district includes the homes of incumbent Democrat Cal Cunningham, who has represented the 23rd district since 2001, and incumbent Republican Stan Bingham, who has represented the 38th district since 2001. Cunningham did not seek re-election and Bingham was re-elected here. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 33rd district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Stan Bingham (incumbent) | 8,609 | 71.13% |
| | Republican | Ronald Gilbert Coleman | 3,495 | 28.87% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 12,104 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 33rd district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Stan Bingham (incumbent) | 39,932 | 100% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 39,932 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 34

The new 34th district includes all of Davie and Yadkin counties as well as most of Rowan County. Republican Andrew C. Brock won the open seat. Democratic primary
North Carolina Senate 34th district Democratic primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | John Carlyle Sherrill III | 4,720 | 58.82% |
| | Democratic | Debra Brown Groce | 3,305 | 41.18% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 8,025 | 100% |
Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 34th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Andrew C. Brock | 6,816 | 36.69% |
| | Republican | Gus Andrews | 5,972 | 32.15% |
| | Republican | Mac Butner | 4,830 | 26.00% |
| | Republican | Baxter (Bo) Turner | 957 | 5.15% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 18,575 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 34th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Andrew C. Brock | 28,593 | 60.19% |
| | Democratic | John Carlyle Sherrill III | 17,625 | 37.10% |
| | Libertarian | J. Conrad Jones | 1,290 | 2.72% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 47,508 | 100% |
| | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) |

#### District 35

The new 35th district overlaps with much of the western portion of the old 17th district. Incumbent Democrat Aaron Plyler, who has represented the 17th district since 1983, did not seek re-election. Republican Fern Shubert won the open seat. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 35th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Fern Shubert | 5,823 | 49.23% |
| | Republican | Eddie Goodall | 2,122 | 17.94% |
| | Republican | Clayton Loflin | 1,541 | 13.03% |
| | Republican | Paul Standridge | 1,220 | 10.31% |
| | Republican | W. P. "Bill" Davis | 1,122 | 9.49% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 11,828 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 35th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Fern Shubert | 33,822 | 66.68% |
| | Democratic | Frank McGuirt | 16,903 | 33.32% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 50,725 | 100% |
| | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic |

#### District 36

The new 36th district overlaps with much of the former 22nd district. Incumbent Republican Fletcher L. Hartsell Jr., who has represented the 22nd district since 1991, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 36th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Fletcher L. Hartsell Jr. (incumbent) | 31,428 | 66.23% |
| | Democratic | Larry Harris | 13,363 | 28.16% |
| | Libertarian | Mike Helms | 2,664 | 5.61% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 47,455 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 37

The new 37th district overlaps with much of the former 40th district. Incumbent Democrat Dan Clodfelter, who has represented the 40th district since 1999, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 37th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Dan Clodfelter (incumbent) | 23,003 | 100% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 23,003 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 38

The new 38th district overlaps with much of the former 33rd district. Incumbent Democrat Charlie Dannelly, who has represented the 38th district since 1995, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 38th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Charlie Dannelly (incumbent) | 26,569 | 100% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 26,569 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 39

The new 39th district overlaps with much of the former 35th district. Incumbent Republican Bob Rucho, who has represented the 35th district since 1997, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 39th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Bob Rucho (incumbent) | 37,700 | 65.15% |
| | Democratic | Joe Spencer | 18,244 | 31.53% |
| | Libertarian | Heather Head | 1,919 | 3.32% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 57,863 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 40

The new 40th district overlaps with much of the former 34th district. Incumbent Democrat T. L. "Fountain" Odom, who has represented the 40th district since 1989, lost re-election here to Republican Robert Pittenger.
North Carolina Senate 40th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Robert Pittenger | 29,979 | 54.55% |
| | Democratic | T. L. "Fountain" Odom (incumbent) | 23,704 | 43.13% |
| | Libertarian | Steven Wright | 1,272 | 2.31% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 54,955 | 100% |
| | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic |

#### District 41

The new 41st district includes all of Alexander and Iredell counties and had no incumbent. Republican R. B. Sloan Jr. won the open seat.
North Carolina Senate 41st district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | R. B. Sloan Jr. | 30,338 | 68.02% |
| | Democratic | Victor Crosby | 14,261 | 31.98% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 44,599 | 100% |
| | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) | Republican win (new seat) |

#### District 42

The new 42nd district overlaps with much of the former 39th district. Incumbent Republican James Forrester, who has represented the 39th district and its predecessors since 1991, was re-elected here. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 42nd district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | James Forrester (incumbent) | 9,625 | 80.46% |
| | Republican | Ronald Pope | 2,337 | 19.54% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 11,962 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 42nd district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | James Forrester (incumbent) | 36,478 | 100% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 36,478 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 43

The new 43rd district overlaps with much of the former 25th district. Incumbent Democrat David W. Hoyle, who has represented the 25th district since 1993, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 43rd district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | David W. Hoyle (incumbent) | 18,958 | 53.01% |
| | Republican | Michael Harrington | 16,805 | 46.99% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 35,763 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 44

The new 44th district overlaps with much of the former 26th district. Incumbent Republican Austin M. Allran, who has represented the 26th district since 1987, was re-elected here. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 44th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Austin M. Allran (incumbent) | 5,728 | 63.04% |
| | Republican | William R. "Bill" McDonald III | 3,358 | 36.96% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 9,086 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 44th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Austin M. Allran (incumbent) | 30,278 | 100% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 30,278 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 45

The new 45th district includes the homes of incumbent Republicans Virginia Foxx, who has represented the 12th district since 1995, and Kenneth Moore, who has represented the 27th district since 1997. Foxx was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 45th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Virginia Foxx (incumbent) | 32,971 | 61.81% |
| | Democratic | Mollie C. Laws | 18,602 | 34.87% |
| | Libertarian | Fran Grig | 1,768 | 3.31% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 53,341 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |

#### District 46

The new 46th district overlaps with much of the former 37th district. Incumbent Democrat Walter H. Dalton, who has represented the 37th district since 1997, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 46th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Walter H. Dalton (incumbent) | 22,251 | 52.43% |
| | Republican | John Weatherly | 19,118 | 45.05% |
| | Libertarian | Tony Brown | 1,072 | 2.53% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 42,441 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 47

The new 47th district includes all of Avery, Mitchell, McDowell, Yancey, and Madison counties as well as most of Haywood County. The district had no incumbent and Democrat Joe Sam Queen won the open seat. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 47th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Gregg Thompson | 5,749 | 41.99% |
| | Republican | Keith Presnell | 4,307 | 31.46% |
| | Republican | Judith C. Fraser | 2,671 | 19.51% |
| | Republican | Garry W. Aldridge | 964 | 7.04% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 13,691 | 100% |
General election
2002 North Carolina Senate District 47th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Joe Sam Queen | 25,022 | 49.05% |
| | Republican | Gregg Thompson | 24,375 | 47.78% |
| | Libertarian | Sherry Hill | 1,619 | 3.17% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 51,016 | 100% |
| | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) | Democratic win (new seat) |

#### District 48

The new 48th District includes all of Henderson and Polk counties as well as southwestern Buncombe County. The District includes the home of Incumbent Democrat Charles Newell Carter, who has represented the 28th district since 1999. Carter did not seek re-election and Republican Tom Apodaca won the open seat. Republican primary
North Carolina Senate 48th district Republican primary election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Tom Apodaca | 6,182 | 34.72% |
| | Republican | Grady H. Hawkins | 4,636 | 26.04% |
| | Republican | Ralph Ledford | 4,081 | 22.92% |
| | Republican | Jesse Ledbetter | 2,905 | 16.32% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 17,804 | 100% |
General election
North Carolina Senate 48th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Tom Apodaca | 32,685 | 66.74% |
| | Democratic | Robert Cogburn Burris | 16,291 | 33.26% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 48,976 | 100% |
| | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic | Republican gain from Democratic |

#### District 49

The new 49th district overlaps with much of the western portion of the old 28th district. Incumbent Democrat Steve Metcalf, who has represented the 28th district since 1999, was re-elected here.
North Carolina Senate 49th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Democratic | Steve Metcalf (incumbent) | 26,459 | 55.93% |
| | Republican | R. L. Clark | 20,845 | 44.07% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 47,304 | 100% |
| | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold | Democratic hold |

#### District 50

The new 50th district includes the homes of Incumbent Democrat Dan Robinson, who has represented the 29th district since 1999, and incumbent Republican Robert C. Carpenter, who has represented the 42nd district since 1989. Carpenter defeated Robinson to win another term in the Senate.
North Carolina Senate 50th district general election, 2002 :
| Party | Party | Candidate | Votes | % |
| | Republican | Robert C. Carpenter (incumbent) | 30,032 | 56.46% |
| | Democratic | Dan Robinson (incumbent) | 23,164 | 43.54% |
| Total votes | Total votes | Total votes | 53,196 | 100% |
| | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold | Republican hold |