North Carolina: Clay Aiken's Democratic primary opponent dies at 71

Former North Carolina Secretary of Commerce Keith Crisco died at the age of 71 today following a fall at his home.

Crisco was Clay Aiken's opponent in last week's Democratic primary for the U.S House.

From the Huffington Post:

The Asheboro Courier-Tribune reported that Crisco, 71, apparently suffered injuries from a fall Monday afternoon at his home in Asheboro, N.C. He was dead when emergency services arrived, according to the paper.

The race between Aiken and Crisco was considered too close to call, with Aiken leading Crisco by just 369 votes. Both candidates were awaiting confirmation from election authorities before deciding how to proceed in the race to unseat Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-N.C.) in November.

Clay Aiken issued this statement:

"We are incredibly shocked and saddened to hear about Keith Crisco's sudden passing. Keith was an accomplished businessman and public servant with a sterling reputation and a tremendous amount of respect from North Carolinians across the partisan spectrum. Keith, like my father, served the state as Commerce Secretary with dignity and humility, and also like my father, passed away well before his time. Keith's family is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. I am suspending all campaign activities as we pray for his family and friends."

The election results are still in flux with Aiken ahead by 369 votes. The state law says to not face a runoff, the candidate who leads with at least 40% +1 vote wins the primary. If Crisco should pull ahead as the votes are still being counted, the state Democratic party would choose the candidate.