Citing a "strong belief" that U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx upholds conservative values in the 5th Congressional District, Watauga County Republican Party chairman Aaron Whitener stepped down from his post on Thursday night in order to actively support Foxx, his employer, amid a surprise primary race for the seat.

Upon Whitener's election as party chairman in 2009, some party insiders criticized the move since Whitener works as Foxx's field representative in Watauga County.

"It is critical that the party chairman remain impartial during primaries to maintain the integrity of this important process. I would be unable to do that in my current position," Whitener said in an e-mail sent to the media Thursday evening.

In addition to a primary challenge from Alexander County resident Keith Gardner, Foxx faces local opposition from Democratic challenger, Watauga County farmer and radio host, Billy Kennedy.
Kennedy will run unopposed in the May primary.

Former vice-chairwoman Pam Blume will now assume the duties of chairwoman until the next party convention on Saturday.

Foxx's husband, Tom Foxx, is currently listed as the local party's Watauga precinct chairman. It is unclear if he will also resign.