Democrats in Robeson and Hoke counties selected businessman Michael Walters to replace David Weinstein in the state Senate.
Weinstein resigned his seat to become director of the Governor's Highway Safety Program.
Walters, 53, is president of Claybourn Walters Logging Company in Fairmont.
A lifelong resident of Robeson County, Walters said today that he wants to give back to the community.
A committee representing Democrats in the Hoke and Robeson district selected Walters last week. Walters said he plans to run to keep the seat next year.
This article appeared at the News and Observer website.