NORTH CAROLINA: Clay Aiken's Primary Opponent Dies After Fall At Home

Former North Carolina Secretary of Commerce Keith Crisco died at the age of 71 today following a fall at his home. Crisco was Clay Aiken's opponent in last week's Democratic primary for the U.S House. 

His campaign spokesperson said Crisco was preparing to leave his home when he fell down a flight of stairs. Crisco was trailing Aiken by just a few hundred votes in the primary, and was reportedly waiting for final numbers before deciding if he would ask for a recount. The winner of the primary takes on incumbent Rep. Renee Ellmers this fall. Crisco was born and raised in North Carolina. Crisco was married for 49 years to his wife Jane. They had three children and six grandchildren.

Aiken has issued a statement.

"We are incredibly shocked and saddened to hear about Keith Crisco's sudden passing. Keith was an accomplished businessman and public servant with a sterling reputation and a tremendous amount of respect from North Carolinians across the partisan spectrum. Keith, like my father, served the state as Commerce Secretary with dignity and humility, and also like my father, passed away well before his time. Keith's family is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. I am suspending all campaign activities as we pray for his family and friends."

North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory:

"My heart sank, like so many other people who admired Keith Crisco, when I learned of his sudden passing. While I was a mayor, and now as governor, Keith was a partner, collaborator and strong advocate for the state he loved. Although Keith was a Democrat and a Pfeiffer University graduate, and I went to Catawba and am a Republican, nothing could stop Keith Crisco from building a lasting friendship. North Carolina was blessed and is a better state because of his leadership.”