Keith Crisco, Clay Aiken's Rival for Congress, Has Died

Keith Crisco, a former North Carolina Secretary of Commerce who was Clay Aiken's main rival for the Democratic nomination in the 2nd Congressional District, has tragically died. Crisco reportedly died suddenly as the result of injuries sustained from a fall in his home. He was 71.

In last week's Democratic primary, Crisco and Aiken were neck-and-neck, with the former American Idol runner-up holding the lead by a slim margin of just 369 votes. The winner of the primary was to be determined by tomorrow's results of the official canvassing, the outcome of which could either trigger a full recount or a two-man runoff. However, the future of the election is now uncertain. The only thing known for sure is that whomever the Democratic nominee ends up being, that person will face Republican Rep. Renee Ellmers in the general election.

A statement of condolences was released by the North Carolina State Board of Elections:

"A native of North Carolina, we are grateful for Mr. Crisco’s service to our state and his community through the years," the board said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Crisco family during this difficult time."

Crisco is survived by his wife, Jane, his three children, and six grandchildren. Our condolences go out to the Crisco family at this difficult time.

Via: NBC News

Credit: USA Today