New Hanover County Elections Director files response opposing removal petition

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Director of Elections for New Hanover County has formally responded to an effort seeking her removal, setting the stage for a decision by state election officials in the coming weeks.

DeNay Harris has filed a formal response opposing a Petition for Removal initiated by the New Hanover County Board of Elections.

Her attorney, Gary Shipman, described the removal effort as “clearly pretextual, retaliatory, and unsupported by reliable evidence,” arguing that it stems from internal disputes over management of the elections office rather than performance concerns.

Shipman further stated a “disturbing pattern of micro-management” by county leadership and said the petition followed Harris’ efforts to ensure the independence of the elections office. He also questioned what he characterized as an improper shift of authority away from the elections board toward county management.

In her statement, Harris emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust in the electoral process.

“The community in New Hanover County depends on the Director of Elections to uphold the law and maintain honest, fair, and transparent elections,” she said. “That is not something I take lightly–it is the foundation of the position.”

Harris added that she looks forward to working with the North Carolina State Board of Elections as the matter moves forward.

Under state law, the Executive Director of the State Board of Elections has 20 days to issue a decision on whether to dismiss or uphold the petition. Further proceedings could follow depending on that outcome.