An alleged cash-for-votes scheme is under investigation in Wilmington, North Carolina, following claims that voters were offered money to support specific city council candidates. The allegations surfaced after a New Hanover County voter reported receiving text messages promising $100 for each vote cast for three Democratic candidates.
The North Carolina Republican Party (NCGOP) reviewed the unredacted text messages before submitting them to the North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE) for further investigation. According to the NCGOP, the incident has raised concerns about election integrity.
NCGOP Chairman Jason Simmons addressed the situation in a press release: “This is troubling. An allegation of paying a voter and attempting to buy votes in an election is an affront to our shared values,” Simmons said. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to the integrity of honest elections and will continue to work diligently to keep North Carolina elections fair, free, honest, and transparent.”
John Hinnant, chairman of the New Hanover County Republican Party, emphasized the need for vigilance among voters during election season.
Social media posts have circulated screenshots of alleged communications related to the case. Matt Van Swol, a North Carolina resident, posted online:
“HOLY CRAP!!!!
A left-wing group in North Carolina has just been exposed for offering to PAY $100 PER PERSON TO VOTE FOR DEMOCRATS!!!!!
‘I can’t afford my electric bill. How long till I get the money after I vote?’
‘Each candidate will pay you $100 for your vote…’
WHAT?!!”
Van Swol later added: “Update: this has been 100% confirmed by the North Carolina GOP.
There will be investigations and people will be held accountable.
This is election bribery / vote buying and is a CLASS 1 FELONY crime.”
The matter remains under investigation by state authorities as officials seek more information about potential violations of election law.
