Carolyn M. Comer

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Democratic incumbent Carolyn Comer was elected to serve another four-year term as Surry County Register of Deeds during Tuesday’s election.

Comer overcame a strong challenge by Republican Todd Harris, receiving 15,719 votes, or 55.4 percent, to Harris’ 12,654 votes.

The tw0-term register said she is both “blessed and grateful” to have received the confidence of the voters.

“I really didn’t know whether I could pull it out, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Surry County for four more years,” she said.

Comer credited Harris with running a good and spirited campaign, but credited the voters with placing performance over politics.

“I’m so proud for the people of this county that Democrats, Republicans and Independents were able to to place service above politics,” she said. “That speaks volumes for the people of Surry County.

“From the beginning, (Harris) had made some comment about trying to ride in on the Republican’s coat tails, but the people worked very hard to get this result for me,” she said. “I’d especially like to thank the Republicans and Independents who voted for me.”

She said she owes them a debt of gratitude.

“I won’t ever be able to adequately thank them for their friendship, hard work and dedication,” Comer said. “So many people have worked so hard to get us here and I couldn’t have done it without them. Over the next four years, I can only promise to continue to serve the county in the same manner we have since I took this office.”

Harris said he was somewhat disappointed with the results.

“Obviously we were hoping for better,” he said. “I would certainly have preferred to have won, but this isn’t horseshoes or hand grenades, so close doesn’t count for much.”

The Republican challenger said he’s grateful for the support he received during the campaign.

“I appreciate the votes for me,” he said, “and wish I could have delivered a victory, but Carolyn ran an aggressive ground campaign and seems to be what won it for her.”

Harris, a former Mount Airy commissioner, hesitated in considering another run for office.

“I can’t foresee that,” he said. “It’s expensive and mentally and physically exhausting. Right now, all I can think about is some rest and relaxation.”

Reach Keith Strange at kstrange@heartlandpublications.com or 719-1929.