Controversial Pastor’s Prayer Sparks Outrage in NC Senate Race

A registered sex offender led a prayer at a GOP event for Senate candidate Michael Whatley, sparking backlash and questions about his campaign.

Editorial Desk

September 12, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Raleigh, North Carolina — A controversial moment has emerged in the North Carolina Senate race as a registered sex offender led a prayer at an event featuring Republican candidate Michael Whatley.

The incident occurred during a rally in Craven County where Whatley, a prominent figure in the state’s Republican Party, was speaking alongside Dr. Mehmet Oz, a former TV personality and Trump administration official. The prayer was delivered by Daimon L. King, a pastor with a history of convictions involving children.

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King, who is required to register as a sex offender for life under North Carolina law, has been active in local GOP politics and has previously praised Trump. His involvement has raised concerns about Whatley’s association with individuals with criminal records, particularly as the senatorial race intensifies ahead of the November elections.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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