The race to replace Phil Berger as leader of the North Carolina Senate is heating up after he lost a primary election to Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page. Berger has been in the Senate since 2011, becoming arguably the most influential Republican and politician in the state. His successor will need to be able to maintain the party's near-supermajority over Democrats in Raleigh. The state still has yet to finalize a budget and Berger's influence will influence negotiations with the state House. The General Assembly returns to session next month to discuss leadership changes. The main contenders for the position include New Hanover County Republican majority leader, New Hise, Lee, and Jackson and Galey.