Keith Crisco, Clay Aiken's Congressional opponent, dies

Keith Crisco, a Democratic Congressional candidate in North Carolina, died today, reportedly from injuries suffered during a fall at his home. He was 71.

Crisco was a businessman from Asheboro, North Carolina, and a former state Secretary of Commerce. He co-founded the Asheboro Elastics Company in 1986. He announced his run in North Carolina's 2nd district this January, saying he was motivated by "fixing our economy and bringing jobs and economic growth to our district, our state, and our nation."

Crisco's primary campaign had garnered some national attention because his opponent was Clay Aiken, a runner-up on American Idol. The primary took place last Tuesday, but the counting of provisional ballots wasn't yet finished. Aiken currently holds a lead of about 370 votes. Crisco had not yet conceded the race, and hadn't decided whether he was going to request a recount.

Aiken said in a statement that he would suspend all campaign activities, and pray for Crisco's family and friends.

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