This week’s decision by the Republican majority on the Wake County Board of Commissioners to reject holding a Nov. 4 referendum to raise the sales tax rate to fund higher salaries for teachers could impact this fall’s elections.

According to Democratic-leaning Public Policy Polling, 61 percent of 586 likely voters surveyed July 23 and July 24 said they’d support a referendum for a quarter-cent sales tax for education. PPP also found that Democrats hold leads over all four incumbent Republican commissioners running this fall.

Democrat Jessica Holmes had the biggest lead with 50 percent, compared with 38 percent for Commissioner Rich Gianni, a Republican. Gianni was appointed earlier this year to fill Tony Gurley’s seat.

Democrat Sig Hutchinson led Republican Commissioner Joe Bryan 45 percent to 41 percent.

Democrat Matthew Calabria led Republican Commissioner Phil Matthews 43 percent to 39 percent.

Democrat John Burns led Republican Commissioner Paul Coble 47 percent to 44 percent.

Republicans hold a 4-3 majority. If Republicans lose a single seat, Democrats would take the majority.

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