NHC Democrats pick Margie Gewirtzman to replace Southerland in school board race

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — Officials with the New Hanover County Democratic Party have selected a new candidate to replace Rick Southerland on the ballot for this November’s general election.

More than 75 people gathered at the New Hanover County Government Center for what party leaders described as a “mini-primary,” where Kristina Mercier and Margie Gewirtzman competed for the open spot.

Southerland withdrew from the race days after the primary when his association with James Osborne became public.

During the event, both candidates spoke about their qualifications and reasons for seeking the nomination.

“And because of that involvement and my years of advocacy in the community, I’m not a new or unknown voice,” said Mercier. “Many people already know me as someone who shows up, pays attention, and speaks up when it matters.”

“I will work tirelessly using every skill gained, even up through today, for my campaign and for every fellow candidate,” said Gewirtzman. “Every position matters.”

Party officials said the outcome was decided by a single vote, with Gewirtzman narrowly winning the nomination.

“You know, my lucky number is 44,” said Gewirtzman. “I think I’m gonna go buy a lottery ticket tonight. It is overwhelming and again, Jill Hopman said it best, there were no bad choices. We were two strong candidates that she found.”

Gewirtzman said she plans to begin assembling her campaign team immediately as she prepares for the general election.

She joins a Democratic slate that includes Brittnei LaRue, Wendy Dale, and Jerry Jones Jr.