Democratic incumbent Erica D. Smith will continue representing North Carolina Senate District 3 for the next two years after edging out Republican challenger Chuck Earley Jr. on election night, according to unofficial vote totals.

While Smith defeated Earley district-wide by a margin of 33,627 to 28,932, Earley managed to win Beaufort County by a margin of 11,216 to 7,230. While Smith was not immediately available for comment on Tuesday evening, Earley shared his appreciation for those who voted for him.

“For a blue-collar worker to run for the first time ever for anything, it’s just really remarkable,” Earley said. “I wish more people had gotten out to vote. I’m just truly honored and privileged to be an outsider just moving into the community.”