**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Poll Reveals Shifting Dynamics in Key North Carolina Congressional Race

RALEIGH, N.C. — A newly released survey conducted by the nonpartisan electoral analysis firm, The Bellwether Group, has revealed a statistically significant shift in voter preference in North Carolina’s competitive 13th Congressional District, with potential implications for the state’s political landscape.

WHO: The survey measured registered voters’ preferences between incumbent Representative Roy Cooper (D-NC) and challenger Michael Whatley (R-NC).

WHAT: The poll indicates that former Governor Roy Cooper now holds a 4-point lead over Michael Whatley, a figure outside the margin of error. This represents a notable departure from previous polls, which showed the race as a statistical tie. The survey also measured voter sentiment on key local issues, including infrastructure funding and education reform, where Cooper’s positions appear to be gaining traction.

WHEN: The survey was conducted over a four-day period from October 24-27, 2024, interviewing 1,200 likely voters.

WHERE: The poll focused exclusively on North Carolina’s 13th Congressional District, which encompasses portions of the Piedmont Triad and western Wake County.

WHY: Political analysts cite two primary factors for Cooper’s apparent advantage: increased voter turnout among suburban moderates and a slight erosion of support for Whatley among independent voters, following recent controversial statements regarding local energy policy. The poll’s release has triggered a flurry of strategic adjustments from both campaign headquarters.

HOW: The poll was conducted via live telephone interviews and online panels, with a margin of error of ±2.8 percentage points. Full cross-tabulations and methodology are available on The Bellwether Group’s official website. Both campaigns have issued statements reacting to the data, with the Cooper team calling it “a mandate for pragmatic leadership” and the Whatley