Candidate drops out of race for Beaufort County coroner

Robert J. Blok Sr., a retired U.S. Army physician, announced Wednesday that he has withdrawn as a candidate in the Beaufort County coroner’s race.

That leaves Republicans David J. Zeoli and David Ott running for the position. Incumbent Ed Allen has not filed for re-election.

The Republican primary will be June 9 in advance of the Nov. 3 general election.

Asked why he was withdrawing, Blok said, “This is the best decision for me at this time.”

Allen has held the coroner’s seat since 2008. Both he and Blok have endorsed Ott.

“Of the two remaining candidates, David Ott is the only one with the experience, integrity, honor, and respect that is needed to serve as our coroner,” Blok said. Ott currently serves as chief deputy coroner for the office.

Zeoli is the former deputy director of Beaufort County Emergency management.

This story was originally published May 20, 2020 at 6:12 PM.