"Former GOP Congressman Joins Trump Campaign, Clearing Path for Addison McDowell in North Carolina House Race"

Former US Rep. Mark Walker is abandoning his bid for a congressional comeback in North Carolina's 6th District to join Donald Trump's presidential campaign as director of outreach for faith and minority communities. This move comes as a way to avoid a competitive House primary runoff against an opponent backed by Trump. Walker's decision allows former state health care lobbyist Addison McDowell, supported by Trump and other Republican candidates, to advance to the general election. Trump announced Walker's new position, expressing their intention to continue working together. Walker's withdrawal paves the way for McDowell to likely enter Congress next year in the safe GOP seat.