UPDATE: Spear will not seek Basnight’s Senate seat

State Rep. Tim Spear, a Democrat from Creswell, said today that he will not be a candidate for the Senate seat that will be vacant when Sen. Marc Basnight, a Manteo Democrat, resigns on Jan. 25.

“I am humbled by all those who have encouraged me to seek the vacant Senate seat held by Senator Marc Basnight and have pledged their support.” Spear said in a media release. “Serving in the Senate, like the House, is a tremendous honor and privilege; however, I will remain in the House to serve my district as I was re-elected to do.

“With my seniority and the good working relationships I have on both sides of the aisle, including the incoming House leadership, I believe I can be more effective and better serve the people as a member of the House of Representatives.”

Spear represent District 2, which includes Chowan, Dare, Hyde, and Washington counties.

Basnight’s successor will be chosen from a Democratic executive committee with two representatives from each of the eight counties in his district — Beaufort, Camden, Currituck, Dare, Hyde,  Pasquotank, Tyrrell and Washington counties.

The committee will meet and choose a candidate before the beginning of the General Assembly session late this month.