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• A Charlotte-based Washington Post blogger points out that the scandal brewing at Veterans Administration medical facilities (including the hospital in Durham) has added a national issue with local importance to the U.S. Senate race between Democrat Kay Hagan, Republican Thom Tillis, and Libertarian Sean Haugh.

• The liberal advocacy group People for the American Way is running a radio ad aimed at Hispanic voters attacking Tillis.

• A Charlotte publication that highlights issues of interest to the gay-rights community notes that, even though Clay Aiken won the Democratic nomination in the 2nd Congressional District, no other openly gay candidates won May 6 primary races. Since Rep. Marcus Brandon, D-Guilford, gave up his legislative seat to seek the 12th Congressional District nomination, no openly gay members will serve in the General Assembly next session.

• Another unsuccessful 12th District contender, Sen. Malcolm Graham, D-Mecklenburg, suggests he’s considering a rematch with Rep. Alma Adams — who’s almost certain to win this fall’s general election — in the 2016 Democratic primary.

• Former FBI agent Chuck Stuber, who was active in the corruption investigations that led to criminal convictions of former Gov. Mike Easley and former state House Speaker Jim Black, has joined the State Board of Elections as a full-time investigator.