RALEIGH — The four-way race to succeed outgoing N.C. House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain) in his longtime state House district has prominent endorsements coming in for one of the contenders.
Moore has been representing the Cleveland County-based district since 2003 and announced in 2023 he was not seeking reelection. He subsequently announced a run for Congress and appears to be a strong favorite in that contest based on available polling and fundraising totals.
The North Carolina Troopers Association formally endorsed King Mountain city councilman David Allen in the Republican primary on March 5.
NCTA President Ben Kral said in a statement, “David has the proven leadership ability to be a great asset to the N.C. House. His years of public service make him uniquely qualified to serve the people of District 111.”
Also backing Allen is powerful House Senior Appropriations chairman Rep. Jason Saine (R-Lincoln), who represents a neighboring district.
“I have known David for years professionally and personally, and I can confidently say that he is the right person for this crucial role,” Saine said in a statement to North State Journal.
“David’s experience as a retired captain with the North Carolina Highway Patrol brings invaluable insight to the table. David has consistently demonstrated his ability to listen, collaborate, and make informed decisions that benefit his constituents. His understanding of law enforcement and his commitment to public service make him a strong advocate for public safety, infrastructure development and community well-being.”
Following the General Assembly’s 2023 redistricting session, the 111th District comprises parts of both Cleveland and Rutherford counties.
The other candidates in the race are Paul Brintley of Kings Mountain, Scott Neisler, the former mayor of Kings Mountain and Rutherford County school board member Paul Scott of Ellenboro. Brintley is endorsed by Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson in the contest.
Once a Republican nominee is chosen by voters, the winner will face Democratic nominee Frances Rollinson Webber of Shelby in the Nov. 5 general election.
