Candidate for NC House passes suddenly

On Jan. 26, Kim Delaney, a Democratic candidate for the 73rd district of the North Carolina House of Representatives, representing parts of Cabarrus County, passed away unexpectedly. The Concord resident passed away at the age of 46 at 2:05 pm, surrounded by her family. 

“Kim was a devoted mother and leaves behind two children. Our thoughts are with them, as well as with Kim’s family and loved ones, during this incredibly difficult time,” NC Democratic Party, said in a statement according to news reports. “Kim was a kind, sincere, and caring person who believed in community and in showing up for others.”

Delaney leaves behind her two children. 

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Kim DeLaney for House District 73, who died unexpectedly today.

Kim was a kind, sincere, and caring person who believed in community and in showing up for others. pic.twitter.com/hQXe4P3l30

— NC Democratic Party House Caucus (@NCHouseDems) January 27, 2026

Before her passing, Delaney was a community advocate and led a local nonprofit and a small business focused on wellness and housing, according to a Charlotte Observer report.

According to state law, because her passing occurred more than 30 days after the closing of the filing period, the race is not required to be reopened, and her opponent will advance to the general election, director of the Cabarrus Board of Elections Carol Soles told the Charlotte Observer. 

“Over the last few months leading up to the primary, I had the opportunity to get to know her just a bit beyond the campaign, and I am genuinely grateful for that,” said Thomas Monks, Delaney’s Democratic opponent, in a statement. “Kim was a lovely person with a warm, generous heart, and she carried herself with kindness, sincerity, and grace.” 

Republican state Rep. Jonathan Almond currently holds the seat representing the House’s 73rd district.

Her family has established a fund to cover expenses, aiming to raise $50,000, having raised just $11,195 so far. 

“Because of pre-existing medical conditions, Kim was unable to obtain life insurance, and our family is coming together to ensure her children are supported and her life is honored,” according to the fund page. 

All donations will go towards funeral expenses and to support Delaney’s children. 

“Candidate for NC House passes suddenly” was originally published on www.carolinajournal.com.