Triangle-area Democrat drops out of competitive NC House race

A Democratic candidate in one of North Carolina’s most competitive legislative districts is dropping out.

Curtis McCrae announced Friday that he is ending his campaign for House District 32, which covers Vance and Granville counties. McCrae was running against Frank Sossamon, a Republican who held the seat from 2023 to 2025.

“Recent personal health challenges have made it clear that I need to focus my time and energy on my health and my family,” McCrae said in a statement. “I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this campaign, volunteered, donated, offered encouragement, or simply believed in our vision for the district.”

McCrae, a Granville County native, served in the Marine Corps before spending 25 years in law enforcement with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. He’ll be replaced on the ballot by someone chosen by the members of the Vance and Granville Democratic parties.

The seat is currently held by Democrat Bryan Cohn, who isn’t seeking reelection. Cohn’s victory over Sossamon in 2024 helped Democrats stop Republicans from gaining a legislative supermajority, which is needed to override gubernatorial vetoes. Cohn won by 228 votes, or less than one percentage point.

Cohn told WRAL Friday that he's reconsidering his decision to stay out of the race. 

"I’m just learning of Curtis’s decision and evaluating all available options," Cohn said. "I appreciate [McCrae's] willingness to step forward and serve. At this point, I’m taking time to assess the situation before making any decisions about next steps."