RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — A Democratic-aligned political group is spending $2.3 million on advertisements connecting Republican U.S. Senate nominee Michael Whatley to Harvey West, a former police officer and party official convicted of sex offenses involving children.
WinSenate PAC is running digital ads on YouTube and streaming platforms. The ads state that Whatley appointed West to key North Carolina Republican Party roles even though he knew about West’s criminal record.
West pleaded guilty in 2000 to five counts of taking indecent liberties with a child after initially facing statutory rape charges involving three minors. He served approximately six years in prison and remains a registered sex offender. West has said he openly disclosed his record to party officials.
As state GOP chair, Whatley appointed West to the party’s rules committee more than once. West also led the party’s 1st Congressional District group before stepping down after criticism this year. News reports have confirmed these appointments, but Whatley has not explained his reasons for choosing West.
When asked about the issue, Whatley shifted focus to prisoners released under Democratic Governor Roy Cooper. The ad comes as outside spending increases in a Senate race that could affect which party controls the chamber.
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