Abstract:
Clarence Bender, a Democratic state Senate candidate from Nash County ran for election from a prison cell. Bender was arrested on the first day of early voting for allegedly selling drugs to an undercover police officer. Bender’s history and experience as a local politician is explored. Currently a town commissioner in Castalia, NC, Bender has been described by several as a con-man and by others as a well-respected leader in the community.