NC Sen. Hartsell won’t run for re-election after all

RALEIGH, NC (AP) — The longest-serving current member of the North Carolina state Senate has decided he won’t run for re-election after all.

Republican Sen. Fletcher Hartsell of Concord withdrew his name as a candidate late Wednesday after filing earlier this month to seek a 14th term. The Cabarrus County election board website confirmed the withdrawal.

In a news release, Hartsell says he’s 68 years old and wants to spend more time with his grandchildren and other interests.

Hartsell joined the Senate in 1991.

The State Board of Elections last June referred an investigation of Hartsell’s campaign finances to state and federal prosecutors. The board’s review scrutinized the use of campaign contributions for personal expenses. Board attorney Josh Lawson says the board is continuing to cooperate with prosecutors.

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