RALEIGH, N.C., July 4 (UPI) -- Former arch-conservative U.S. Sen. Jesse Helms of North Carolina died Friday at age 86 after battling cancer and heart disease, hospital officials said.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- Ward Connerly could learn a thing or two if he simply read Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's opinion in the recent affirmative action case.

(Part of UPI's Special Report on Election 2002) CHARLOTTE, N.C. (UPI) -- Rep. Robin Hayes, R-N.C., faces a strong challenge from political newcomer Chris Kouri, a Charlotte lawyer and former pro football player, in a closely watched race in the North Ca