Clay Aiken's Primary Opponent in Democractic Congressional Race Dies

Posted on May 12, 2014

Keith Crisco has died after a fall in his home at age 71. Crisco was a textile entrepreneur. He was also formerly the Secretary of Commerce for the state of North Carolina. Singer Clay Aiken has been in a tight race with Crisco for the Democratic seat in North Carolina's 2nd district.

Clay says in a tweeted statement, "I am stunned and deeply saddened by Keith Crisco's death. He was a gentleman, a good and honorable man and an extraordinary public servant."

The AP says Aiken and Crisco were just hundreds of votes apart. However, the News Observer says Crisco was planning to concede his campaign to Aiken. The winner of the campaign will face Republican incumbent Renee Ellmers. Take a look: