The 2023 municipal unofficial election results for the Kinston City Council race are in, and the registered voters of Kinston have made their voices heard. Incumbents Mayor Pro Tem Antonio Hardy, City Council Member Felicia Solomon, and City Council Member Sammy Aiken hoped to secure their seats for another term against opponents Les Lipford and Barbara Seaforth. Hardy, Solomon, and Seaforth secured a seat on the Kinston City Council.

The City of Kinston City Council election allowed voters to choose three candidates from a field of five contenders. With all 13 precincts reporting, the unofficial results are as follows:

• Felicia (Nikki) Solomon: 1,458 votes (26.69%)

• Antonio (Pearl) Hardy: 1,386 votes (25.37%)

• Barbara Seaforth: 1,251 votes (22.90%)

• Sammy C. Aiken: 913 votes (16.71%)

• Les Lipford: 314 votes (5.75%)

• Write-In (Miscellaneous): 141 votes (2.58%)

According to the North Carolina Board of Election’s results page, 14.88% of the registered ballots were cast, or 2,467 out of 16,580.

“Trust in the people because they trust in you,” said Hardy who retained his seat.

Solomon emerged as the top vote-getter in an otherwise lackluster municipal election.

“I'm extremely grateful to the citizens of Kinston granting me another opportunity to serve and represent them,” said Solomon. “I'm looking forward to the continued work with the existing Council. I expect working with Council woman elect Seaforth will be of great benefit. She has the education, experience, and skillset to enhance the work of our governing body.”

City Council Member Sammy Aiken was not one of the top three vote-getters, but he may not be done with public service.

“I thank God and all the citizens who participated in the election,” said Aiken. “Sammy “C”. The “C” stands for Commissioner and or Congress.”

Though the vote did not turn out in his favor, Lipford gave his support to those who will fill the city council seats.

“I would like to congratulate all the candidates who won. Also, thank all the people who voted,” said candidate Les Lipford.