NORTH CAROLINA -- Mark Harris, one of the candidates in the District 9 controversy, released a statement saying he will not run in the district's new election.
Last week, a hearing was held to examine problems with voting irregularities in Bladen County with absentee ballots in the November election.
Harris tallied just over 900 votes more than Dan McCready, the Democratic contender.
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During Harris's testimony Thursday, he called for a new election and the State Board of Elections unanimously voted for it.
Tuesday, Harris said he will not run in the new election due to concerns for his health, which include two strokes. He says he needs to regain full strength as well as undergo surgery the last week of March, and owes it to his family and citizens of District 9 to elect someone at full strength.
Harris also endorsed Union County Commissioner Stony Rushing for the seat and says he hopes those who stood with him will consider getting behind Rushing.