Karl for Congress ?

Yes.  That is the political gospel. being preached from Raleigh to the far reaches of the 11th congressional district.  The Karl we’re talking about is Karl Gillespie,  NC House majority whip and representative of district 120 (Cherokee,  Clay,  Graham, and Macon counties).

The 11th district executive committee of the NCGOP still has to meet on and approve a replacement for the disgraced Chuck Edwards. (That meeting happens Monday.).  Barring any unexpected drama, Gillespie is expected to be nominated and approved.

Gillespie appears to get high marks from Republicans of all stripes – Haymaker fans to establishment types.  He’s a farmer with deep roots in the district  – which might help him eat into the support of Democrat Jamie Ager, also a farmer. with deep family roots.   Other things we hear about Gillespie?  Words like “responsive” and “honest.”  Also, we hear he is one of the least likely people to either cry in Harris Teeter or get dragged in front of the Ethics Committee.

Originally, we heard about a serious plan to install senator Tim Moffitt into the congressional race, have state rep. Jennifer Balkcom run for Moffitt’s senate seat, and Adam Smith run for Balkcom’s House seat.  But Moffitt put the kibosh on that whole idea with a post on X earlier today.

With about two months to go before early voting, this race will be tough for whomever gets selected as the replacement nominee.  That’s a short, short time to familiarize the district’s voters with a new face

Though, we are hearing that DC Republicans are pledging a multi-million dollar injection of cash to help whomever gets selected Monday.