In light of Curtis McRae’s recent announcement that he is withdrawing from the House District 32 race, Vance and Granville County Democratic leaders are planning meetings this week to discuss possible replacements in the upcoming election.

“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 on Friday. “I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this campaign, volunteered, donated, offered encouragement, or simply believed in our vision for the district.”

Vance County Democratic Party Chairperson Angela Thornton told WIZS News Monday that representatives from the two counties that comprise House District 32 will meet this week – most likely several times – to determine a replacement.

“The committee will meet and discuss appointing a replacement for (Mr. McRae),” Thornton said.

“It’s too late in the election cycle for a candidate to say ‘I want to run for this seat,’” Thornton explained. The committee – three representatives from Granville County and two representatives from Vance County – will appoint a replacement and will inform the House Caucus of its decision before an announcement is made.

The counties’ representatives have not met yet, but plan to this week, she said.

The seat is currently held by Democrat Bryan Cohn, who announced that he would not seek re-election. McRae defeated Melissa Elliott in the March primary. The Democratic replacement will face Republican challenger Frank Sossamon, who held the seat before being beaten by Cohn in the last election.

When asked Monday about whether he was reconsidering his decision, Cohn told WIZS Monday that he’s “evaluating that now.” Elliott told WIZS that she has “inquired about the process” of being considered by the local committee for consideration as a replacement candidate.

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