CARTERET COUNTY/CRAVEN COUNTY/ONSLOW COUNTY VOTER GUIDE
PRIMARY ELECTION 2024
Compiled by the God & Country Christian Alliance and Coastal Carolina Taxpayers Association
In compiling this Voter Guide, we emailed/mailed questionnaires to all local & state office and judicial candidates appearing on the Primary election ballots in Carteret, Craven, and Onslow counties to give the voters in our organizations and the community some information on which to base their voting decisions.
The candidates that provided responses are included in this Voter Guide grouped by the office that they’re running for.
We hope that you find it helpful in selecting a candidate.
For Carteret County, information about where, when, and how to vote, including a personalized sample ballot, can be found at: https://www.carteretcountync.gov/475/Current-Election
For Craven County, information about where, when, and how to vote can be found at https://www.cravencountync.gov/1497/Voter-Information
For Onslow County, information about where, when, and how to vote can be found at: https://www.onslowcountync.gov/373/Board-of-Elections
The North Carolina State Board of Elections Judicial Voter Guide can be found at: https://www.ncsbe.gov/voting/upcoming-election/judicial-voter-guide-2024-primary-election
May God bless you, your family, and our nation!
As of 2/23/2024
Table of Contents
Republican Patti Mason Craven County Board Of Education District 01 4
Republican Perry Morris Craven County Board Of Education District 01 5
Republican Jennell Reddick Craven County Board Of Education District 03 6
Republican Lori Grady Spiece Craven County Board Of Education District 03 7
Republican Dee Taylor Craven County Board Of Education District 03 8
Republican Amy Eastwood Davis Craven County Board Of Education District 05 9
Republican Kelli S. Muse Craven County Board Of Education District 05 10
Republican Darlene Gibbs Craven County Board Of Education District 07 11
Republican Randall G. Butler Onslow County Board Of Education 12
Republican Louis Rogers Onslow County Board Of Education 13
Republican Susanne Long Onslow County Board Of Education 14
County Board Of Commissioners 15
Republican Harvey Walker Carteret County Board Of Commissioners District 03 15
Republican Hans J. Miller Onslow County Board Of Commissioners 16
NC Supreme Court Associate Justice 17
Democrat Lora Christine Cubbage NC Supreme Court Associate Justice Seat 06 17
NC House Of Representatives 18
Republican George G. Cleveland NC House Of Representatives District 014 18
Republican Bob Brinson NC State Senate District 03 19
Republican Michael Speciale NC State Senate District 03 20
NC Commissioner of Insurance 21
Republican C. Robert Brawley NC Commissioner Of Insurance 21
Republican Andrew Marcus NC Commissioner of Insurance 22
Republican Travis J. Wilson NC Commissioner Of Labor 23
Democrat Satana Deberry NC Attorney General 24
Democrat Tim Dunn NC Attorney General 25
NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction 26
Republican Michele Morrow NC Superintendent of Public Instruction 26
Republican Catherine Truitt NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction 27
Democrat Gabe Esparza NC Treasurer 28
Republican Rachel Johnson NC Treasurer 29
Republican David Boliek NC Auditor 30
Republican Jack Clark NC Auditor 31
Republican Charles Dingee NC Auditor 32
Republican Jim Kee NC Auditor 33
Republican Anthony Wayne (Tony) Street NC Auditor 34
Republican Jeff Tarte NC Auditor 35
Republican Jesse Thomas NC Secretary Of State 36
Republican Christine E. Villaverde NC Secretary Of State 37
Democrat Mark H. Robinson NC Lieutenant Governor 38
Republican Deanna Ballard NC Lieutenant Governor 39
Republican Peter Boykin NC Lieutenant Governor 40
Republican Rivera Douthit NC Lieutenant Governor 41
Republican Jeffrey Elmore NC Lieutenant Governor 42
Republican Allen Mashburn NC Lieutenant Governor 43
Republican Hal Weatherman NC Lieutenant Governor 44
Republican Dale R. Folwell NC Governor 45
County Board Of Education
Republican Patti Mason Craven County Board Of Education District 01
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I trained in college as a Secondary Math Educator. I was hired into private industry to start a programming school after graduation. I then transferred to the National Security Agency where I served as a programmer, engineer, technical director, manager, and 3 years as the IT Budget process owner (e.g., I ran the process for the decision makers). I served in the Pentagon as well representing NSA. My expertise was starting new programs and creating programs/processes/organizations successfully. I retired from government in 2014. I taught GED Math 2 at the Community College for one semester. I serve at my church as the Finance Chair and communication person. I was in Rotary in NC for three years. I have actively assisted the GOP with elections and for the Craven County Board of Elections for 8 years. I believe there is no retirement, just new callings to be answered. (Additionally I have a MS in Computer Science from The John’s Hopkins University and a MS in Telecommunications Engineering from the George Washington University)
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible is the primary book for my core beliefs. I will supplement with American leaders such as Lincoln, the Founding Fathers, Reagan. For government work I use the Constitution because I swear an oath to the Constitution when taking a government position. I supplement the Constitution by using the Declaration of Independence. I believe Lincoln was right, the Constitution is the frame around the golden apple, the Declaration of Independence and the two documents must be used that way. I love reading Ann Graham Lotz. I am participating in a women’s bible study for women, by women that is very important to me in maintaining my core beliefs. I will look at case law, but only to form arguments as to why the Constitution was written correctly.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Obtaining a standard curriculum for each grade and a process to maintain that curriculum along with the county appreciating the need for state standards, county curriculum, teacher’s expertise in execution via lesson plans. This will help eliminate learning gaps because
expectations from grade to grade would be established and expected. Focus on the basics first expanding after mastery of those.
Budget – tie each budget item to an expected outcome along with metrics to measure it is being achieved – especially in the School Improvement Plans and to improved student performance.
A strategic plan that identifies the top goals and priorities from which to make all other decisions
A workload study for the teachers. We have the teachers doing way more than teaching and we need to get their job back in the box.
Expand one of the jewels of the district, the Career Technical Education Program – where the jobs are – actively advertising and recruiting in middle school
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Rarely is money the cause of failure. With that said, the county has $143M district budget (county, state, federal) which is significant – money is not the issue. The dollars need to be maximized and tied to a prioritized list of expected outcomes. I look at other counties to see what they are doing because we are not unique as much as we would love to believe that. Iredell County has one of the lowest county compensations for teachers in the state, yet they are in the top 10 performing districts in the state. How did they do that? To strive for excellence, you look at excellence and learn from that. Historically, only throwing money at a problem rarely leads to success. Actually sometimes too much money can make an organization lazy and not strive for the best because of the luxury to rest.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years? Hopefully back in retirement still giving back to the community by tutoring, being active in my church, and other areas like these two – pending on how well my first term goes. I have the tools, experience, and commitment to enhance the system which will change our current unacceptable student results.
6. Why should I vote for you? Because I have a career of proven success record of getting diverse groups of people to agree on a goal and putting together successful programs to achieve those goals. My qualifications and experiences will make the board stronger. I am not afraid to be creative – frequently I am unaware there is a box for how to think. I am dedicated and will give my best all the time. I am not afraid of hard problems – I welcome the challenge and look forward to putting in the time and effort to make Craven County schools part of the top 10 in the state initially.
Specific Questions for Craven County Board Of Education District 01 – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
I want to work with the legislators to make one major change to the Bill and that is to add that these rights are endowed by the Creator. This will make it hard to take the rights away if there is a legislation turn over. I would also like to work to change the law to the parents are in charge of their children’s health – period. I would like to remove the clause except where otherwise designated by law.
I want to work with the county to get more parental involvement. The parents need to be the central figure in all decisions concerning their children. The school system should not be taking the role of the parents. If there is difficulty, then use county services to get the desired outcome – the board must start working with other county organizations.
I would want a policy to say a biological male participates in male sports and a biological female participates in female sports – period.
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Parents are the primary decision maker for children. Yes, there are SOME parents that do not participate – take this as a challenge to get them to participate. One idea is to institute the parent/teacher conference the first week of school and the beginning of the third quarter so that expectations can be set and explained. Yes, it will be hard to get parents to participate – but we need to do this and need to be creative to make this happen.
Republican Perry Morris Craven County Board Of Education District 01
General questions
1. Short biography – 200 words or less
Perry Morris, DOB February 11,1958, Attended Vanceboro Elementary, Farm Life High and West Craven High Schools all in Craven County graduating in 1976. Out of High School I went to work with my Father in the Site Clearing, Land Development Business. In 1992 we built a large hog operation under contract with Murphy Farms out of Rose Hill NC. When the State put a moratorium on the construction on new operations being built, because our farm had been a consistent leader in production as well as always being in compliance with environmental rules Murphy Farms approached us about buying our operation and did so under the name of JCT LLC. I then put in 75 acres of Catfish which I operated for 8 years until I went into owning and operating Top Dollar Timber, LLC where I developed a dealership purchasing standing timber and marketing with most of timber processors in NC.
I severed on multiple appointed boards with the BOE, representing West Craven High and Farm Life Elem. Dating back to 1986.
I serve as a Surrogate Parent for children in the Craven County School System in Foster homes.
I coached youth sports in western Craven County for 10 years. 1983-1987;1990-1994
I have severed in the Vanceboro Fire dept. for 47 years.
I am a member of the Vanceboro Rotary Club for the past 20+ years
I severed as a Craven County Commissioner 8 years, 2002-2010.
I am PROUD TO BE A CHRISTIAN who attends Vanceboro Global Methodist Church.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
My core beliefs are built from my years of attending Church and studying Gods WORD, THE HOLY BIBLE. I normally today turn to my computer for my information on topics being discussed nationally or on a state level. Today’s news seems to have a tendency of twisting matters to say what their sponsors support. This often leads to misrepresentation of a topic or bill and cast several different views about what should be simple questions at times.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
A. Safety in our class rooms has always been one of my top concerns. Our local law enforcement does a great job being visible at our schools helping provide a safe learning environment. I believe in the right for citizens to buy, own and maintain firearms. I would continue our School Resource Officer Program with an emphasis on educating the youth who are continually in the wrong on what life is like behind bars. They need to hear from former prison inmates who have turned their lives around and are willing to help make a difference. They are out there and it is like a drug seminar, someone who has lived it can make a lot more impact than someone who has only read the story.
B. Our Elementary Teachers, K-2 especially need Assistance in their classrooms. Today we have children showing up at school who have never been required to sit down and remain seated, go to the restroom without help, sit at a lunch table and properly feed themselves, even tie their shoe yet we place 15 to 20 with one teacher and expect them to be doing simple math, reading, writing, and staying in their seat while the teacher teaches. Every elected official should be required to spend one week in an Elementary class room.
C. Our Teachers need to be paid for their performance. We have a shortage of Teachers Nation Wide because of all the jobs requiring a minimum of 4 years education, teachers pay is very close to the bottom of that list. Our teachers who have been successful in the classroom and maintained their Master’s Degree should receive the Master’s Degree pay Level. When as a State we do not offer our teachers equal pay as neighboring states, how do you expect to recruit them back home.
D. Promoting from with-in. I am a strong believer that when you have personal in your system that are vested in your program and have a proven track record of being successful in every position they have held, they should be promoted up instead going outside and bring in new blood. Principles that came through our system and know the parents in the community have always made our better principles and had our best performing schools. But at the same time we are looking at the proven track record first, the advance degrees without the ability to serve as a leader does not make one a leader.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
The budget for the BOE is set by the local Board of Commissioners. This Budget as a normal rule always has an increase, but never meets the requested amount of the BOE. This does not create a shortfall, only a reallocation of how the funds will be spent. The BOE usually ask for project funding for items in there long range plan. The commissioners are responsible for the Capital Improvements of our School system so where as an area may not be funded, it does not mean spending will have to be cut from educational programs. The Board of Education is not a Taxing Authority in North Carolina.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In 5 years I want to be able to say I helped build the Craven County School System back to the School Of Choice for North Carolina. I support a Parents right to School Of Choice, and believe all parents should feel their children are in a school that meets and servers the needs of their child. I hope to have re-implemented our vocational studies back onto our High School Campuses and be Graduating Seniors who are ready to excel in their college degree as well as Seniors who can walk into any business in Eastern NC and say I am a graduate of Craven County Schools and the business owner know they have been educated in vocational skills to meet today’s job set whether it be operating a CNC machine, or reading a carpenter’s ruler.
6. Why should I vote for you?
A Vote for Perry Morris is a Vote for someone who has spent the Majority of his life SUPPORTING the Children of the Craven County School System through his time and financial means. I have the experience in working on elected boards and getting positive results. I have always been a supporter of the children, and will always be looking at what is best for the student’s education in my decision making. A Vote for Perry Morris is not a Vote for someone who has attended a handful of board meeting and decided I could do better than this.
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
I cannot speak to what changes in our local Policies I would make without first studying our local policy. As to the Parents Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports, I can speak. I OPPOSE even the thought that a MAN be allowed to compete in women’s sports on any level. We have sporting events today where boys and girls compete against each other at their pleasure, but to say a man or male gender can decide and declare I feel like a female so I will participate against the women is out of the question in my book. I have read and studied my life rule book, the Bible for years and today the signs of the end time grow nearer seemingly at a faster rate than ever before.
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Parents should play a very large role in a student’s education. Having been married to a retired elementary school teacher of 33 years, and a daughter who has taught for 16 years I have heard my share of parent excuses for why their child stays in trouble at school. Most of them go back to the same saying, I, the parent, have never been able to make them behave since they started walking, that’s why I send them to school, you train them. A Teachers job is not to train a child, it’s to educate them. There is a difference.
Republican Jennell Reddick Craven County Board Of Education District 03
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I am a native of New Bern, North Carolina. In 1991, I graduated of New Bern High School. Thereafter, I attended Eastern Carolina University where I earned a Bachelor of Science Math Education, Minor in Business Administration and a Master in Administration and Curriculum Instruction. I am the second-generation President of, R.L. Thompson Company Inc, a business formed by her father.
I began my career in the public education system, where I worked as a high school math teacher. I have a passion for education. I am in continuous pursuit to educate and connect available resources to my community. I am currently the CEO and founder of Open Doors Academy, an up-and-coming private trade school in Craven County. My zeal for education has aided my reputation as a determined GO GETTER!
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I rely on the word of God.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
I want to address staff morale, fundamentals of education, introduce/implement trades, keep a stance on accountability to all and affirm good values
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
As of now I will not support either until I get in office and access the REAL situation. Where is the current funding used for and what is lacking?
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I pray I continue to grow spiritually and financially. I pray I stay in the right lane doing what I’m called to do and fulfilling my purpose.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I have experience. I am a trusted member in the community. I am a business owner. I have experience in the classroom and as a parent. I love and advocate for all children
Specific Questions for Craven County Board Of Education District 03 – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Republican Lori Grady Spiece Craven County Board Of Education District 03
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Born July 31, 1978 at Craven Regional Medical Center in New Bern; I was raised in The Ghent neighborhood, where my mother still makes her home today. I am a product of Craven County Schools (Trent Park, FR Danyus, HJ MacDonald, Grover C. Fields and New Bern High). I am a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, with a BA in Industrial Relations and a Minor in Spanish and a graduate of East Carolina University, with a MBA. I spent 21 years in private industry (forestry and manufacturing) in Finance, Accounting & Business Planning. I am a Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser and Owner/Operator of First Choice Appraisals, LLC. I am a Christian, Conservative Republican, in that order of priority, and I currently serve on the Craven County GOP Executive Committee as Chair of Community Outreach; I have recently finished two terms as Treasurer of the Craven County Republican Women and still serve on that Executive Board as Chair of the Scholarship Committee. I serve on the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Forestry Association (2014 – Present, past Education Committee Chair) and Craven County Partners in Education (2008 – Present, Past President). Along with my husband, I am an Advisor to the Coastal Teen Age Republicans (TARs), and I am a member of the New Bern Church of God.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I am a Christian, Conservative, Republican, in that order of priority. My core beliefs are shaped by The Holy Bible, which I believe is the infallible Word of God, and I believe that The Declaration of Independence and The Constitution are the two greatest and most important political documents ever written. I am a Constitutional Conservative. I believe that America is the greatest nation on earth, a City on a Hill, and I believe that our schools should be a place where our students learn about American Exceptionalism and are inspired to be Patriots. My parents are both members of The Greatest Generation, and they raised me in a home where a love of Christ and a love of country made up our core beliefs; we were taught to use whatever God has given us to serve Him and our neighbors.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
-1. Comprehensive implementation of Parents’ Bill of Rights
-2. Oppose Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) at every turn, because SEL is the masking of indoctrination and a major vehicle for liberals to get their ideology into our schools
-3. Safety & Security of our facilities
-4. Teacher Recruitment & Retention
-5. Literacy & Academic Rigor back in the classroom, while reducing our dependency on technology
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I do not support increased taxes, especially pre-emptive to examining the root cause/request for additional funding sources. I pride myself in being a true, fiscal conservative, which means that my financial decision-making rests on spending the right amount of money on the right things and never spending just because of fund availability. Every single budgeting and spending request or action should be filtered in this way. By profession, I am a finance professional and business owner, bringing nearly 25 years of well-exercised business strategy and financial acumen to any organization. This is a deficient skill area with our current board, and I believe my professional perspective and inquiry will improve financial transparency to the public.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself in whatever capacity of service and industriousness that God directs me. I know that whatever my work, this will include being the wife and mother He has purposed me to be.
“There are many plans in a man’s heart; Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand.” Proverbs 19:21 NKJV
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am the Conservative Candidate for District 3. My extensive service to the Republican Party has afforded me exposure and relationships that will additionally serve my constituents on critical school issues, including relationships with members of the County Commission and local law enforcement. Additionally, I have spent the last 4 years preparing for the school board by being a regular attendant at school board Work Sessions and Regular Meetings, with regular contributions to Public Input on a variety of topics. During this time, I have exhaustively gathered and analyzed NC Department of Public Instruction (DPI) and Craven County Schools data to understand our benchmark position relative to our sister counties.
I am a strong advocate for school choice. However, we all know that the majority of our students will continue to be educated in the public school system for the foreseeable future, and we cannot surrender our public schools and our children to the liberal agenda.
I respect my opponents, but I do not believe that anyone is as prepared as I am to hit the ground running on Day 1. I have put in the work to prepare, and I am extremely passionate about the education of our students and improving the working conditions of our faculty and staff.
Specific Questions for Craven County Board Of Education District 03 – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
-1. The school board should make all curriculum and classroom content and materials available in a way that is reasonably accessible by any parent or member of the public (taxpayers are funding this). Current Policy 3200 is not sufficient, as it outlines a process for parents to request access to review curriculum and classroom content; Parents and the public should have this information available on-demand in a centrally located, publicly (or electronically) accessible place.
-2. The school board should remove all references to Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) topics and focus on academic and vocational learning. The NC Department of Public Instruction strongly encourages the integration of SEL topics into every core and elective course; this is not a requirement, yet we continue to be permissive of this content in Craven County. Not only should we eliminate this from our local curriculum content, but our school board should be vocal to NCDPI about our rejection of this topic. At the time of my responses to this questionnaire, the SEL references were still on the district website; this is not acceptable.
-3. All sensitive topics should only follow an Opt-In policy; there should be no Opt-Out protocols. Common examples are use/assignment of technology (Ipads) and presentation of sexual education content in the classroom. Parents should be required to Opt-In their children for these topics. Opt-Out policies can be dangerous, because they can permit curriculum to be unchecked by parents; however, Opt-In policies require parents to be intentional about choices for their children and can serve as an additional safeguard against inappropriate and unwanted content.
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Education starts in the home, and parents are responsible for preparing their children for the rigor of the classroom experience, which includes discipline and foundational learning. The school system is responsible for the academic education of our children, not for shaping the social, ethical and religious persona of our children. At no time, and not under any circumstances, should the school board, school system or any representatives thereof undermine or trespass against the God-given authority that a parent has over their own children.
Republican Dee Taylor Craven County Board Of Education District 03
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Widow of a USMC Veteran who has one child in Craven County Schools. Business owner and founding board member of Riverside Leadership academy. I worked in Corporate telecommunications for 21 years. I have been in leadership roles for 17 years. I am a member of Women in Technology and attended Harvard Leadership program and USC Berkely.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible is my sole foundation of core beliefs.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Academic progress
Teacher Work Environment
Teacher Retention
Accountability at all levels
Transparency
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting spending
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
As a Christian, a mother of a college student, a board member who is the voice of parents, teachers and students and a compelling community supporter.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I have a child who attends Craven County Schools. I have been an advocate for transparency and accountability for many years through my ParentTalk podcast. I am close to the issues that teachers face and the reasons they are leaving CCS. I understand what is happening as a parent in the schools and the need for parent input. I was a catalyst in getting rid of the illicit books in our schools by driving awareness on my show. I am a reasonable voice that represents the parent, taxpayer and teacher.
Specific Questions for Craven County Board Of Education District 03 – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
The Fairness in Women’s Sports Act should be adopted in every state. I have a daughter who is a female athlete. I understand the equalities of women in sports. I am proponent of protecting the fairness of women’s sports and the integrity of biological birth classifications. The change I would recommend is the adoption of this act in all states.
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Parents should know what is being taught in our schools. Parents should have a right to opt in to the teaching of their children. Parents know what is best for their child. Parents should have the right to give input on what they choose to do with their child. Choice is the answer not a mandate.
Republican Amy Eastwood Davis Craven County Board Of Education District 05
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
My name is Amy Eastwood Davis, and I am married and have three beautiful children all in Craven County Schools. One in Elementary, one in Middle, and one in High School. I was born and raised in Pamlico County, and have lived in New Bern, NC since 2018. I am the Administrative Manager for Carolina Craniospinal Neurosurgery for 2 surgeons and have been there for 20 years.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The only book I use and rely on daily for my core beliefs in the Holy Bible. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
There are many items I would like to address if elected, but I will try and keep it short. I de?nitely want to enforce the Parents Bill of Rights, Eliminate the overuse of IPads for students as well. We have kids who can’t write in cursive and do arithmetic still. Let’s get back to the basics or reading, writing, arithmetic, as well as proper knowledge of US History. We also must be more transparent on the board as a whole. There are too many closed session meetings, and nobody currently on the board is holding the Superintendent accountable. Accountability goes a long way in gaining our constituents con?dence and trust.
I would like to Prioritize School Safety, as a parent. I want to ensure my children are safe at school. No student, teacher, administrator, or anyone working in our schools should ever feel unsafe. Last but not least, I would like to see us cut out all the wasteful spending and ?nd ways to keep our wonderful teachers in Craven County! Our retention rate is awful, and we are losing teachers to Carteret County, Jones County, Lenoir County, and some are leaving all together for better paying jobs.
We have to put our teachers ?rst! We have to listen to them as they are on the front line and they need our respect, and their voices need to be heard.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I would only support cutting spending and the wasteful spending we have done; never would I support increasing taxes. We must work together to make this happen and make good decisions about where our money is spent and what it’s spent on.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In ?ve years, I see myself still married, raising our three children, still at the same profession that I have been at for the past 20 years, and hopefully with your support making a difference on the Craven County School Board, listening to the people that put me in that position and making positive change!
6. Why should I vote for you?
You should vote for me because I am not only the ONLY Lifelong Republican running in District 5, but I am a true Christian Conservative who will uphold the Republican Parties true core values. As a mother of three kids in Craven County schools, I can assure you I will do what’s best for all the students in our schools. I will do exactly what the people in District 5 want from a calm, professional true conservative.
Specific Questions for Craven County Board Of Education District 05 – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
There is no excuse for all local policies to NOT be in compliance with the Parents Bill of Rights or the Fairness in Women’s Sports act. I am committed to doing a top to bottom review of all policies to ensure they in no way violate or in any way place unnecessary administrative barriers to compliance. The Fairness in Women’s Sport act is close to my heart, because as a female athlete in school where I played Basketball, Softball & Volleyball, I couldn’t imagine a world where males could compete against women. There is no place whatsoever where males should compete against women period!
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Parents play the main role in the children’s education. We as a district should make every effort possible to ensure patents are involved, which starts with proactive communication from the school system. Parents’ voices should always be heard and never silenced. As a parent of three children in the system, I know I have been al1d always will be active in what’s going on with my children’s education, and I will push to ensure more parents are proactive in District 5.
Republican Kelli S. Muse Craven County Board Of Education District 05
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I am a wife, mother, educational professional, business owner, and animal lover. I’ve been married to my husband Greg for 20 years and we have two wonderful children. Our daughter is a 2023 graduate of New Bern High School who is currently working as a CNA at Carolina East while pursuing her nursing degrees. Our son, also a graduate of New Bern High School, is currently serving in the US Navy.
I began my educational career with Craven County Schools as a Program Assistant with Career and Technical Education. I was responsible for fiscal operations of state and federal CTE funding as well as assisting with program implementation and business partnerships. I then served in the same role in Onslow County Schools and am now working in the Department of Corrections, where I see firsthand how a lack of education leads some to a life of incarceration.
An avid animal lover, I raise and show French Bulldogs in AKC conformation and currently have two AKC Grand Champions, as well as Champions. I am now starting three pups out on their show career. When my son was in elementary school, I volunteered to start a reading with dogs’ program for exceptional children as well as regular education students. Students would read stories to the dogs to build confidence by reading aloud. I also organized a visit to local elementary schools by author Deborah Stevenson, who wrote “Soaring Soren: When French Bulldogs Fly” which emphasized the importance of believing in yourself and that champions come in all different shapes and sizes.
Coming from a family of educators, I have a passion for students and ensuring they have the tools and resources necessary to pursue their career goals.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs? The Bible and the US and North Carolina Constitutions
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
We need to complete a new strategic plan for exceeding the growth of our students, in that I would like to see three deliverables in that plan, I want the main things the plain things, and the plain things the main things. You have to have a direction and the way we do that is with a plan.
We need to take a hard look at our facilities, this will require a commitment from us, and the Board of Commissioners. We have some schools in need of some major support. Kids want to be a great environment that is bright, engaging and fun. Our kids deserve that.
Craven County is a beautiful place to work, live and play, we have some really good things going on in our schools, we have 17 schools that met or exceeded growth, I want to see all 26 of them accomplish this. Since being on the board the past three years we have went from the bottom third of the state to the top third. However, sometimes it is really hard to tell our story to share with others to make them want to come to our community to work, live and play. When there are so many naysayers promoting not necessarily 100% accurate narrative about what is really going on.
Teacher support, over the past three years I think our teachers have had the freedom to use their voices more than ever before, I want that to continue to be supported, and I want their classroom needs met to the very best we can with limited funding. Therefore, I would like to encourage some aggressive seeking of grants. We have very talented grant writers within our district to assist with meeting some special classroom project need of teachers.
Parental involvement, we need to find a way to get parents really involved with our schools, their children’s education is the key to their success, I know it takes a two-income household to make ends meet these days, but we are so in need of involvement at some of our schools. I would like to see them aware, aware of grades, attendance, and having a relationship with their children’s teacher’s.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
The Board of Education does not have the ability to raise taxes, and instead is at the mercy of the General Assembly and the Board of Commissioners for much of our funding. We must balance our budget under state law, cutting positions and deferring maintenance on facilities when that is required. Like other sectors of state government, the fastest growing portion of our budget is retirement and health care benefits for our employees.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years? Retired from the Board of Education and showing my precious French bulldogs every weekend!
6. Why should I vote for you? Because I have been a tireless advocate for students, staff and parents in my district and around our county. Voters know that I get results and that is why people call me for help. I kept my campaign promises and was the single voice on the Board advocating for in person education during the pandemic. Now that I have a majority Republican Board to work with, our district is headed in the right direction, and I want to continue our progress. There’s much more work left to do.
Specific Questions for Craven County Board Of Education District 05 – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act? Our Board has already made a number of policy changes to keep in compliance with the Parents’ Bill of Rights and more will be coming as additional guidance comes from the Department of Public Instruction. Our current Board policies are already consistent with the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act. Young women are not being forced to compete against biological male transgender athletes in our district.
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Parents are always their child’s first teacher. Our school district, state and nation desperately need all parents to play an active role in their children’s education and life choices. The pandemic of absenteeism we are seeing in this county and across the country is problem that only parents can effectively help us to address.
Republican Darlene Gibbs Craven County Board Of Education District 07
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I have been a resident of Havelock/Harlowe for over 40 years. I have been involved with Craven County schools as a parent, grandparent and an educator. Both of my daughters attended and graduated from Havelock. Now, as a grandparent, I have five grandchildren currently attending school in Craven County. Previously, as an educator, I worked in the school system for over 11 years. First as a substitute teacher at Graham A. Barden Elementary and Roger Bell Elementary, (now, Roger Bell New Tech Academy). Next, as an assistant Teacher at Roger Bell Elementary. Finally, as the Technology Specialist at Tucker Creek Middle School for the first six years that it was open. Through these experiences, I understand firsthand the struggles of students, staff and parents in this district. I have recently retired from FRC EAST, Cherry Point. There I was tasked with supporting the fleet by managing and publishing technical manuals for various aircraft platforms. I would like to apply my experience and abilities to help bring positive changes for Craven County Schools.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Transparency, Accountability, Student First Driven Policy
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
The Craven County School budget could be increased with higher taxes, however, With the current economy, taxpayers must survive. I don’t understand why the funds for the education lottery are not more abundant. While I worked for the school system, I was very frustrated with the pay. After 11 years, I was managing Tucker Creek’s technology needs. I was paid the same as a teacher assistant walking in the door on their first day. That was what drove me to seek a higher paying career. It hasn’t changed much as far as I can tell. Schools are having to manage with fewer staff members. Why is that? I understand that the tax base determines the amount of subsidy the county can rely on for their budget. Surrounding counties manage to pay their staff a significantly higher wage. Why would the brightest candidates choose Craven County to teach in? Why don’t we see more of the education lottery revenue? We all need to ask that question?
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Older and wiser.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I understand the struggles and needs of the community that I live in very well. I would be the best candidate because I will fight for my community’s children, parents and staff. My community members are my family.
Specific Questions for Craven County Board Of Education District 07 – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
I believe that transgenderism is a mental disease. We need more qualified counselors in the system or easier access for students and parents to counseling outside of the school system.
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Parents should be fully invested in their children’s education. It will be very difficult for a child to succeed without adequate parental involvement.
Republican Randall G. Butler Onslow County Board Of Education
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I was raised on a dairy farm in New Hampshire. Joined the Marines in 1972 and retired 1994, I taught Navy JROTC Aug. 1994 to July 2007. Self employed July 2007 to March 2009. Joined Onslow county Sheriff’s office March 2009 then retired June 2019. Still work as a reserve deputy. Married 50 years 3 biological daughters and 1 adopted daughter, 12 Grandchildren 2 great grandchildren an one on the way.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Holy Bible and the US Constitution.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Security, Safety and discipline.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I think it would be best to see where money is spent and evaluate the need verses the wants.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Still in Onslow County working as a reserve deputy.
6. Why should I vote for you?
My concern is for our country’s future freedoms. I know our students are the key to it all. I will be an advocate for our students and teachers. I will be looking for ways parents would be encouraged to be involved in their students education.
Specific Questions for Onslow County Board Of Education – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
I am a firm believer biological boys and biological girls should only be involved in their perspective sports.
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
In an ideal world they should be fully invested in their child’s education. I know that’s not usual, but we should be able to find ways to get them more involved.
Republican Louis Rogers Onslow County Board Of Education
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I am a Republican driven by conservative Judeo-Christian principles, committed to nurturing robust and principled leadership. For the past 18 years, I’ve shared a life with my bride & high school sweetheart, blessed with four children aged between 16 and 3. An interesting tidbit about me is that among my three siblings, I have a twin sister.
My journey in the professional realm commenced when I enlisted in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division in 2003, culminating in a deployment to Kandahar, Afghanistan, in 2005. Post-military service, I transitioned into roles as a fugitive recovery agent and later pursued a career as an NC Private Investigator. I dedicated three years to combating human trafficking before redirecting my efforts toward clinical therapy, specializing in trauma-focused treatment, and boasting extensive training in social work policy advocacy.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
As I deepen my relationship with the Lord on a daily basis, I’ve found that combining daily Bible study with insightful readings from authors such as Jordan Peterson or C.S. Lewis enriches my spiritual journey.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
If elected, I will remain steadfast in prioritizing school safety, fostering community engagement, and encouraging local board members to actively advocate for legislative initiatives at the general assembly.
Establishing a District Community Advisory Council ensures that our school district collaborates effectively with local agencies, organizations, and families in shaping crucial policies and practices. By including representatives from community non-profits, construction developers, mental health agencies, mentorship organizations, and more, we enhance decision-making and promote fiscal responsibility by leveraging local resources before turning to outside sources for support.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Predicting where I’ll be in five years is a challenging task. Seven years ago, I was serving warrants; today, I find myself in the comfort of a nice office, offering counseling services to my patients. The only certainty I have is that I will be wherever the Lord leads me. His plans are unpredictable, and I try daily to submit to His guidance, wherever it may take me. Currently, it appears I’ll be serving in a servant role as a therapist and/or in a government capacity.
6. Why should I vote for you?
My ideals aren’t rooted in politics; they revolve around fostering accountability and parental rights and supporting educators in their challenging roles. Engaging the community not only offers valuable resources to the district, curbing wasteful spending but also ensures the district remains accountable for its decisions. I remain committed to challenging the status quo and pushing back against the “that’s how it’s always been” mindset.
e0. Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Parents play a crucial role in their children’s lives, serving as their primary source of support. While it’s true that “it all starts at home,” administrators must recognize and support parents who are working diligently to provide for their children. Those who entrust their children to public schools rightfully expect the district to actively engage with community organizations and parents. Personally, I feel responsible for instilling the values of the Lord in my own children, ensuring they remain grounded as they grow older.
It’s been a pleasure answering your questions. Thank you for the opportunity.
Sincerely, Louis Rogers: (910) 357-3636
Republican Susanne Long Onslow County Board Of Education
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I retired from the Onslow County School System in July of 2021. During my 30-year tenure, I served the district in the following capacities: Elementary and Middle School Teacher, Elementary and Middle School Assistant Principal, Elementary and Middle School Principal, District-Level Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and District-Level Executive Director of Exceptional Children’s Program. Both my father and husband retired from the United States Marine Corps. We have made our home in Onslow County for over 30 years. We have one son who graduated from Jacksonville High School in 2017 and NCSU in 2021. My husband works at New Bridge Middle School as a teacher assistant. I graduated from White Oak High School and East Carolina University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree, a Master’s Degree in School Administration and Instruction, and a Dual Language Immersion Administration Certificate. I am a registered Republican and have attended River of Life Church in Jacksonville for over 30 years.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
To continue to stay focused, I read the Bible and use the YouVersion Bible App as it provides a wealth of specific reading plans. I follow Christian authors including Rick Warren, Sarah Young and Priscilla Shirer. To grow in terms of content for work/educational topics, I have a number of books currently on my Kindle. For updates in my email box, I subscribe to a number of North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Listserv emails for both educators and parents, including the K-12 Education Legislation and Reports, Community Affairs Updates, and news, From the Boardroom Activities of the North Carolina State Board of Education.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
“Serve, Strengthen, Unite”
Strengthen safety measures to include student and staff well-being.
Strengthen instruction and student opportunities.
Strengthen parent, community, and business involvement.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Tax reduction is important if done in the right way. If there were a need to increase taxes, I prefer a sales tax increase over an increase in property tax.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Serving the community in some aspect.
6. Why should I vote for you?
Schools are the heart of their communities; I believe in the goals of public education and the hope it brings. Almost everyone’s life has been enriched by someone serving in a public school system whether that be a teacher, coach, administrator, bus driver or other support personnel. Students are afforded a free and appropriate education which includes opportunities to take challenging courses, participate in a wealth of student enriching opportunities including academic clubs, the arts, and sports. These activities are an essential part of a student’s education, and these opportunities help students connect, develop leadership skills, and explore career opportunities. We are called to serve, and I believe that includes advocating for children attending public schools.
Specific Questions for Onslow County Board Of Education – Education
e1. What changes to policies would you recommend to comply with the Parent’s Bill of Rights and Fairness in Women’s Sports Act?
Overarching topics include priority of parental involvement, legal rights for their child’s education, guide for student achievement, policies to increase parent involvement, timelines of parental requests, notifications of student mental and physical health, and age-appropriate instruction. It will be vital for parents to see the outlined rights aligned to a local school board’s guiding principles and policies within the one thousand series.
New policy will need to be created to address sharing/storing of a student’s biometric scan, creation, sharing, storing of a child’s blood/DNA and creation of a video/voice recording without a parent’s written request. Policy will also need to be reviewed to address the right to review standardized testing as part of the NC Report Card, and to receive accurate depictions of their child’s academic performance, conduct and attendance. Guidance addressing parent councils will need to be crafted including thoroughly communicated parent involvement opportunities. I believe the parent’s right to opt-in to surveys is a much-needed aspect versus previous opt-out protocol. Opt-out protocol is a passive approach.
The Fairness in Women’s Sports Act aims to prevent transgender males from competing in women designated sports. Current local policy states athletics may participate only on the team consistent with the gender on the student’s birth certificate unless otherwise permitted under North Carolina High School Athletic Association rules and regulations.
e2. What role should parents play in their children’s education?
Parents are the single most influential component of a child’s life. Parents should play a vital active ongoing role in their child’s education. Parents should be heard and valued.
County Board Of Commissioners
Republican Harvey Walker Carteret County Board Of Commissioners District 03
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Born Morehead City; BSBA Western Carolina University 1978; USAF Veteran; private and public Administrative and Operations experience; 12 years serving on the Morehead City Council. Member 1st Baptist Church, Member of the Master’s Men of First Methodist Church.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Holy Bible. The Constitution.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Quality of life, Growth, Economic development,
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting spending
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Whatever God’s plan has for me.
6. Why should I vote for you?
My education, proven work experience in both the public and private sectors with my commitment to serving will assist in continuing making Carteret County a great place to live. I will be a voice for all.
Specific Questions for Carteret County Board Of Commissioners – Commissioners
c1. What policy changes would you recommend for the county to comply with the Parents’ Bill of Rights?
Whatever would be required.
c2. Should education money follow the child – going to public schools, private schools, charter schools, or homeschooling?
Yes
Republican Hans J. Miller Onslow County Board Of Commissioners
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Born in June, 1953. Became a U.S. Marine at age 17, served 12 years enlisted & 14+ years as a commissioned officer, held top secret clearance. Served as NC SBI Special Agent for 12+ years, investigating homicides & crimes against children. Served 4 years as police chief at Albert J. Ellis Airport. Served two terms (Dec 2014-Dec 2022) as elected Sheriff of Onslow county. Honorably retired. Geographically separated, 3 adult children (2 daughters & one son).
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I have frequently let it be known that my core beliefs are based on the Holy Bible & the Constitution of the United States of America/Bill of Rights.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Not in any particular order. All are important goals for me:
-> Encourage more businesses (manufacturing & service) to come into the county. Made in USA (JOBS!)
-> Ensure the PROPER use of taxpayer money & keep taxes low.
-> Ensure that EVERY part of Onslow County is represented equally, fairly & all citizens will be listened to.
->Reduce EMS response times in needed parts of Onslow County.
-> Support a VA medical facility to keep veterans from having to travel to Fayetteville or Wilmington for medical treatment.
-> School & church safety! I will work with my successor, who was a key member of my staff when I retired as sheriff.
-> More…
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I will take a critical look at where the county administration departments are budgeting. I will focus on NEEDS. Any “wants” will be critically evaluated.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Where “We the People” want me to be. I can serve one term, or two (if the people want me to).
6. Why should I vote for you?
You can not, unless you live in Onslow County. Every registered Onslow County citizen should research my history as their airport police chief & their elected sheriff, and realize that I always served them well with honor & integrity. My door was always open to every citizen & I LISTENED to the citizens who came to me.
Specific Questions for Onslow County Board Of Commissioners – Commissioners
c1. What policy changes would you recommend for the county to comply with the Parents’ Bill of Rights?
Parents who love, nourish, shelter, clean & properly raise their children will be supported by me. Schools & county administration must inform all parents of anything of concern surrounding their child(ren). Two way communication! I will NOT stand for any indoctrination or bullying of children & stand firm with good parents & their parental rights.
c2. Should education money follow the child – going to public schools, private schools, charter schools, or homeschooling?
I believe in school choice, as long as the public, private or home school teaches the basics & advanced education that makes a child successful later in their life. The money should go to education, never indoctrination.
NC Supreme Court Associate Justice
Democrat Lora Christine Cubbage NC Supreme Court Associate Justice Seat 06
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please) – I was born of a military father and evangelist mother as one of 5 daughters. I grew up poor, no running water until 4th grade, no money for college. I went to barber school and cut hair for 17 years, and then went to college and law school due to my clients having challenges in the judicial system. I obtained my undergraduate degree from NC A & T State University and my Juris Doctor from UNC – Chapel Hill. I have served the State of NC for 18 years with the last 8 years serving on the District Court and Superior Court bench. I have presided over thousands of cases and hundreds of trials. I have served as a specially appointed judge to handle voting/redistricting cases. I have served on the NC Courts Commission for four years where we draft proposed legislative language. I serve on several boards and have membership to several organizations such as NC Bar Association, National Black Lawyers Association, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Piedmont Capital Funding, and others.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs? The main book is The Bible. I have a strong faith and core belief system. My mother being an evangelist and my dad a Deacon, the bible and the church are the core source of what forms my core beliefs. As a citizen and judge, I strongly rely on the Constitution for my core beliefs also. I read and rely on other faith based and inspirational publishings for auxiliary learning and growth.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected. My primary role as a judge is to protect, maintain and defend the Constitution. My judicial role is to make sure my judgments are in alignment with the law and make sure the law is in alignment with the Constitution.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes? That would be a question for the legislative branch.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years? On the Supreme Court as an Associate Justice.
6. Why should I vote for you? I deserve the vote because of my commitment to justice. I believe in upholding the principles of fairness, equality, and the rule of law. I am dedicated to ensuring every person regardless of status or background, receives equal treatment under the law. Another reason that I deserve the vote is because of my expertise and experience in the legal field. I have spent years studying, applying the law and administering justice, gaining a deep understanding of the legal system and its intricacies. I have handled complex cases and have a proven track record of making sound legal judgments. With my knowledge and experience, I believe I can contribute effectively to the Supreme Court. Finally, I deserve your vote because of my dedication to upholding the principles of the Constitution. I will strive to protect individual rights and liberties while maintaining the delicate balance of powers between the three branches of government.
Specific Questions for NC Supreme Court Associate Justice Seat 06 – Judicially
j1. Do you believe that the Constitution is a living document that changes with the times? I firmly believe in the importance of interpreting the Constitution in a way that respects its original intent while also adapting to the changing needs of our society. I am committed to preserving the integrity of our Constitution and ensuring that it remains a guiding force in our legal system.
j2. What is the authority on which you base your rulings? I base my rulings on the authority of the law. I am responsible for interpreting and applying the law and have been trusted to do so over the last 8 years. The primary authority is statutory law which comes from the legislative branch. I also consider legal precedent which comes from the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court (state and federal). This helps to ensure predictability and consistency. I also refer to the Constitution and administrative law for many cases depending on the subject matter jurisdiction of the case. My reliance on all of this authority helps to ensure that I make fair and impartial rulings.
Respectfully yours,
Judge Lora Cubbage
NC House Of Representatives
Republican George G. Cleveland NC House Of Representatives District 014
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
George Cleveland’s distinguished career of service to this country spans over four decades and three continents. As a United States Marine Cleveland served in various Countries. He was with the Marines when they landed in the Dominican Republic in 1965, earning the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and from there he went to Parris Island to become a Drill Instructor where he molded young men into Marines.
Cleveland served in Vietnam earning the Combat Action Ribbon after which he was posted to the Marine Security Guard Battalion. He served as the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of the Security Guard Detachment at the American Embassy in Mexico City. Cleveland was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for his service at the Embassy.
Upon retiring Cleveland completed his Bachelors of Science Degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Maryland, College Park. He taught high school mathematics in the Montgomery County public school system for four years until his wife was posted to the American Embassy in Italy. He accompanied her to Rome where he was hired to teach mathematics at the Notre Dame International School. He was also hired as a part-time Assistant Security Officer in the Embassy. Upon departure from Rome, George was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation from the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Branch for his service at the Embassy.
Upon returning to the United States the Cleveland’s chose Jacksonville, North Carolina as their retirement venue. He revived his AMSOIL synthetic lubricants business and joined the Jacksonville/Onslow Chamber of Commerce where he has been a member for over twenty years.
Cleveland also became active in his community as the Election Volunteer Coordinator for the National Rifle Association for the 3rd Congressional District. He became a life member in 1970 and is presently a Benefactor Member of the Association. George is a member of the North Carolina Rifle and Pistol Association, a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, The Enlisted Association and American Veterans. He is also a lifetime member of the Fleet Reserve Association.
In 2004 he was elected to the North Carolina House of Representatives where he presently serves.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
Our founding documents are the basis for my core beliefs that were solidified over twenty some years’ service in the USMC.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Continue lowering the income tax rate
Clean up the voter rolls and ensure fair elections
Keep NC business friendly
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
If you have a budget short fall you adjust your spending to keep within your income.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Retired
6. Why should I vote for you?
I have served nineteen years in the General Assembly and my record is one of conservativism. I will continue this trend to working to keep the State on a conservative path.
Specific Questions for NC House Of Representatives District 014 – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
NO
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
YES
NC State Senate
Republican Bob Brinson NC State Senate District 03
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I graduated from New Bern High School and the United States Military Academy at West Point. I served in the Army as a helicopter pilot, a logistician, and an Inspector General. I commanded at the company and battalion levels. Honesty, integrity, and transparency are built into my character. My wife, Amy, also graduated from West Point. She and I retired from the Army after serving on active duty for 26 and 28 years respectively and decided to return to New Bern. I am currently a City of New Bern Alderman. I have been actively involved in the communities in which I have lived, serving as a Parish President, a church elder, a President and Vice President of the Parent, Teacher, Student Association (PTSA) at the high school level, Vice Chairman and Treasurer for the Veterans Council of Craven County (VCCC), Judge Advocate for American Legion Post 539 and delegate to the VCCC from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2514. For the Craven County Republican Party, I served as County Chairman, Precinct Organizer, Volunteer Coordinator, and a Precinct Chair. I have been married to Amy for 31 years and we have three adult children. I am a lifetime NRA member.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I am a Christian and the Bible is my primary source document. I pray and read the Bible daily. As a conservative, I also refer directly to the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of North Carolina. My degree from West Point is in Political Science with an American Politics concentration which included American political thought from the colonial era through the revolution and Constitution. I am a Constitutional Conservative and believe the Constitution’s meaning is derived from the time when it was written with additional clarity in the Federalist Papers. In addition to these sources, I consult papers and publications from the Heritage Foundation, the John Locke Foundation, Hillsdale College, and the Cato Institute.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
We must protect our children against a liberal agenda. I am a firm supporter of the Parents’ Bill of Rights to keep our parents informed and involved in what goes on with their child in school. I want to continue to expand school choice and opportunity scholarships so that parents have a choice and can send their students to an institution that aligns with their values and beliefs. Without a Republican Attorney General, this is the only recourse the legislature has to combat the school systems that are refusing to implement the Parents’ Bill of Rights. The open US southern border is allowing drugs and criminals into our state. We must supply our law enforcement and first responders with the tools they need to combat this. We must also pass laws to keep undocumented people from receiving driver’s licenses, automobile plates, and tuition scholarships. We must enforce eVerify to prevent the undocumented from taking jobs. We need to make it hard for the undocumented to live in North Carolina. The third is we are facing a behavioral and mental health crisis with an extreme lack of services that affects both our veterans and our school-aged children. The state of NC has five veterans’ homes, and I would like to see us establish at least one more that is dedicated to mental and behavioral health. Then perhaps we can look regionally at public-private partnerships for mental and behavioral health services for school-aged children, especially for our rural counties.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
During budget shortfalls, the legislature must cut spending. Thankfully because of the legislature’s reduction of corporate and income taxes, North Carolina is one of best states for business growth and this encourages people to move into our state. Through fiscally conservative decisions, North Carolina also has a very healthy Rainy Day Fund to take care of unforeseen circumstances and downturns. Being fiscally conservative is how government should continue to be managed.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I will serve God and follow His leading in my life. I intend to serve several terms as the NC State Senator for the Third District.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am running for State Senate to continue a life-long legacy of service. After West Point and 28 years in the Army, I came back home to Eastern North Carolina to serve. Public service is in my DNA. Honesty, integrity, and transparency are built into my character. I am a public servant, not a politician. I am a Christian and a Constitutional Conservative. I want to go to Raleigh not just to continue to fight the Liberals, but to work with other Republicans to restore our rights and liberties that have been taken away. This is our opportunity to take wins on every front. I will also work hard for you just like I have the Republican Party. I got the best compliment the other day from one of our board members. She stated that anytime something needs to be done, my name comes up, I’m called, and I show up and do it. She recognized and appreciated my work ethic. The Bible says that one who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much. I have served my country, the Republican Party, and the citizens of New Bern well and now I want to serve you in the State Senate. My name is Bob Brinson. I ask for your prayers and for your vote on March 5th.
Specific Questions for NC State Senate District 03 – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
In short, no to both. The problem with legalizing medical marijuana is it brings an entire distribution industry with it because marijuana is illegal at the federal level. Once this industry is in place, it only takes a flip of a switch to legalize recreational marijuana. If marijuana is a viable medicine for pain management, then at the federal level, it should be taken off the schedule of illegal drugs and placed on the controlled substances list. Then it can be regulated by the USDA, approved by the FDA, and distributed through our pharmacies. This would prevent the slippery slope to recreational marijuana. I am personally opposed to casinos because it brings petty crime, poverty, and homelessness for the people that can least afford to lose their money. This, to me, outweighs the economic development argument that could be made. Regardless of the arguments, the General Assembly must not force casinos into counties that do not want them. The citizens must have input into legislative proposals that impact them.
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
Yes, parental rights need to be restored in all aspects. I believe that instead of a revision there should be an entirely separate bill. That way an activist judge cannot put an injunction on the entire law (schools and medical practices). Having a separate bill would require separate lawsuits to be filed. We need to be thinking ahead strategically to effectively counteract and mitigate the liberal tactics that would negatively impact our citizens.
Republican Michael Speciale NC State Senate District 03
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I am Christian and Conservative, and I have an eight-year voting history which substantiates this. I am a proven fighter for the citizens, and I will continue the fight for you if elected. I am a man of integrity, my word being my bond. I am transparent in public service by holding town halls and staying in contact with those in my district. I call folks locally to find out how legislation is going to affect you, and I have defeated many bills I committee and on the floor of the House. I have lived in Eastern NC most of my life, and I am a Retired US Marine.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I am guided by the Bible, the US Constitution, and the NC Constitution. The proof of this is in my recorded votes in the General Assembly, and in my day-to-day interactions with others. I am a Conservative, which is saying that I believe in those things which made America Great: God, Country, Family, the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, personal responsibility, honor and integrity, and free markets and the like.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Education – ending indoctrination, pursuing the basics (reading, history, science, English and writing, and math).
Economy – doing those things which will keep and bring businesses into this state, without corporate welfare (removing unnecessary regulations, continuing to lower corporate taxes, etc to make it more attractive and easier to do business here)
Healthcare – transparency in healthcare will go a long way toward lowering costs (if you know what you are paying, they will not get away with charging $350.00 for aspirin given during hospital stays). Ending Certificate of Need laws will reduce costs by allowing competition in healthcare. Competition lowers costs.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
While we are not currently facing huge shortfalls, in the event that we do we definitely need to cut spending rather than raise taxes. Regardless of shortfalls, we need to cut spending where monies are being spent wastefully (pet projects, giveaways to non-profits, etc.).
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I suspect that I will either be retired or getting ready to retire.
6. Why should I vote for you?
Because I am experienced, I am a man of honor, I am transparent, I am running to make things better rather than to advance my career, and because I still believe that North Carolina is the shining light upon the hill, and she can shine brighter with the best people guiding her in public service.
Specific Questions for NC State Senate District 03 – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
No to both. There are medications that will do what marijuana is purported to do to relieve pain, so there is not a need for this. One year after legalizing marijuana, Colorado determined that 70% of people stopped on the highways were high. That is a scary statistic, that 70% of the people on the roads are high while guiding a ton of steel at 60 mph down the highway.
Casinos consume dollars that should be spent on food, housing and the like. The folks that gamble are in the least position to do so. They are buying hope, but that hope is fleeting. Other states have gambling, and it is available by visiting them, or by using the state sponsored gambling lottery. The tyranny that has been done in the halls of government in order to pass this bill such as bribery and arm twisting, are plenty reason enough to understand the pitfalls casinos and gambling bring forth.
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
Yes. I believe that parents have the sole responsibility and authority to raise, educate and keep safe their children, not the state. All decisions about children belong to the parents. Legislation making this clear is needed.
NC Commissioner of Insurance
Republican C. Robert Brawley NC Commissioner Of Insurance
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
C. Robert Brawley, a true North Carolinian, has a remarkable background in both athletics and public service. As a former ACC Wrestling Champion and Lt. Colonel in the N.C. Army National Guard, he brings dedication and discipline to everything he does. With a degree in Engineering Operations from NC State University and a successful career that includes insurance agencies, construction businesses, and more, Robert is ready to bring his experience to the role of Insurance Commissioner. He served as a legislator in the North Carolina General Assembly for eighteen years and received the “National Republican Legislator of the Year” award in 1995. Always campaigning on “Together We Can”. His commitment to public service extends to his role as a Sunday School teacher and church lay speaker for over thirty years.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
BIBLE , Sunday School lesson, Concept of America and core beliefs
A). Do unto others as you would have them do to you
B). We do not learn anything bi only talking to people who agree with us.
C). Honesty, integrity, and not play word games
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
A) Fair pricing for insurance products
B) Prevent unfair and fraudlent practices (they seem to go unchallenged now)
C) Rapid response to citizen inquiry D) Maintain fair competition in the insurance industry while ensuring availability
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting SPENDING, having served in government I know there is much waste that needs to be stopped
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Having completed four years of making Insurance great again in North Carolina.
6. Why should I vote for you?
With my experience and background, I am the ONLY candidate with more than four years with an insurance licenses according to NCDOI records. with over thirty years serving the public NCDOI has never received a complaint about my service. I will do my best to maintain fair pricing for products, Prevent unfair practices, Ensure availability of insurance coverage, I will be the balance between the carriers and the consumers that is required by law.
Specific Questions for NC Commissioner Of Insurance – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
I would use all the authority of my office to prevent it.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
It should be more of a continued advisory role, always update on the issues so as to avoid t emergency issues.
Respectfully, Robert Brawley www.RobertBrawley.net
Republican Andrew Marcus NC Commissioner of Insurance
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Andrew Marcus is a candidate for Insurance Commissioner in North Carolina. He started his career as a prosecutor, where he worked hand and hand with law enforcement to achieve justice. He has worked as an insurance regulator and personally led investigations of insurance company misconduct which resulted in fines of hundreds of thousands of dollars on the companies who took advantage of their customers. He has represented all sides in the insurance industry – policyholders, small businesses, doctors, agents, hospitals, and insurers. Andrew comes from eleven generations of North Carolinians, with one ancestor signing the Mecklenburg Declaration. He and his wife, Sophie, have two sons and love to spend their free time doing anything outdoors. At a time when inflation is hurting the family pocketbook, Andrew Marcus will fight for lower insurance rates.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Constitution and the Insurance Code.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Fixing the property insurance issues impacting the coast and state.
Fighting Fraud
Driving innovation and competition to lower rates
Investigating Chinese Communist Party influence on the insurance industry
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I would only support cutting spending.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself as Insurance Commissioner having helped lower people’s property insurance rates.
6. Why should I vote for you?
We need change in the Commissioner’s office. We need to bring back transparency and integrity to the office. As a former prosecutor and insurance regulator, I am the one to do that. We need someone who will be proactive, not reactive, and to find solutions to stem the rise of rate increases.
Specific Questions for NC Commissioner Of Insurance – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
I would do what is in the authority of the office to push back on any attempts to close the state. The extent of the shutdowns during Covid were unacceptable and illegal. It also inflicted damage on the students of this state.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
The Insurance Commissioner has emergency response roles. When there is a catastrophe the Commissioner must act fast to ensure that people are covered under their property, flood, or health insurances. He must make sure the insurers pay the obligations under their contracts.
NC Commissioner Of Labor
Republican Travis J. Wilson NC Commissioner Of Labor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I grew up as a missionary kid with Wycliffe Bible Translators, which is what brought my parents to Union County where my wife and I still live. I gained my Bachelor’s of Arts in History from Montreat College and my Master’s in Library Science from East Carolina University. I served as an audio technician for Wycliffe while working nights as a stocker at Walmart to support my family. I eventually decided to scale down to one job and now work as a grocery stocker at Food Lion.
While living overseas as a missionary kid and as a young newlywed I had the opportunity to become bilingual and my wife speaks French with our son.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
In college I listened to many sermons by R.C. Sproul, John Piper and Paul Washer. The concept of fallen nature is central to my understanding of human nature and the form of government that is needed. I have written a 32 page booklet on the subject that can be found for free on my campaign website. I believe my understanding of fallen nature is found within the Bible and reflected in the Constitution of the United States when it limits the powers of government.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
– Review the budget
– Review the process by which safety audits are conducted and ensure that we are completed as many as possible with the time we pay for.
– Although it fits within the first two points, I will cut superfluous spending that is found within the budget or the fulfillment of the department’s duties.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting spending is always the right course of action. Economic decline, which tends to be the driving force behind budget shortfalls, hits family’s first so why should governmental departments be shielded from impact?
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
The Commissioner of Labor’s office needs stability and it is my intention to run for a second term if elected. So in five years I hope to be starting my second term.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am the only laborer running for Commissioner of Labor. I know what it was like to do physically demanding work while under a mask mandate and I know what it’s like to be injured on the job. I work alongside the “working poor” and am well positioned to articulate a message that will preserve this seat for the Republican Party. The Democratic candidate in this race is Braxton Winston, a proponent of Critical Race Theory and activist within the Black Lives Matter movement. As a working class man who has written down my views of American history, I am uniquely prepared to undermine Winston’s narrative.
Specific Questions for NC Commissioner Of Labor – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
I was opposed to the Great Lockdown at the time that it happened and with the passage of time I believe I was on the right side. The decision to lockdown our country destroyed businesses, worsened cases of depression and drug abuse, and created inflation that continues to impact our economy going into 2024.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
The Council of State has powers and responsibilities that continue regardless of the state of emergency. Most of these involve approving certain financial decisions concerning assets or investments within the state. The most prominent role for the Council of State in the wake of events in 2020 is approving a state of emergency. This power has been strengthened in the wake of the Great Lockdown and that power should be jealously guarded by members of the council.
NC Attorney General
Democrat Satana Deberry NC Attorney General
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Satana Deberry is running for North Carolina Attorney General. As a North Carolina native from Hamlet, NC, she has worked to dismantle systems that restrict the lives of poor people, families, communities of color, and other marginalized and underrepresented groups. Her daughters inspire her work where she has been the Executive Director of the North Carolina Housing Coalition and currently the District Attorney of Durham County. As District Attorney she has implemented policies to reduce unnecessary pretrial incarceration and worked to improve the trust and equity in the courts.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
Their Eyes Were Watching God Author: Zora Neale Hurston Dare to Lead Brene Brown
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
The protection of reproductive rights – NC has joined other states in severely restricting the rights of women and their healthcare providers around reproductive choices. This not only implicates abortion but issues around the pregnancy and reproductive choices. NC could very easily follow the legal landscape in places like Texas where prosecutors and courts are substituting their political judgment for healthcare choices. In the wake of NC’s changing legal atmosphere, we are already seeing obstetricians and gynecologists leaving the state – even when their services do not include the termination of pregnancy. This restricts healthcare access and affordability for all North Carolinians with many people in rural communities or communities of color having to travel long distances for basic care. Rural counties are experiencing the consolidation of healthcare systems in our state with fewer specialty care options driving up the costs for everyone.
The protection of civil and voting rights – I would expand the newly created Civil Rights Unit. As Attorney General, I would use existing authority to conduct civil rights investigations – adding more staff and devoting more funding to impact litigation.
Consumer protection – I would protect against the continued attempts to defraud North Carolinians out of their hard earned money. Whether that is by protecting seniors from fraud, workers from wage theft, or companies trying to defraud consumers.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
As NC Attorney General, I would not have the power to cut or increase taxes. However, I will protect all North Carolinians. Even if that meant having the political courage to stand up against the North Carolina Attorney General Assembly.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years if elected as NC Attorney General I will have protected all North Carolinians access to healthcare and reproductive rights, including their voting rights and consumerism.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am the best candidate in this race for EVERY reason. First, I am the most experienced lawyer in this race on either side of the aisle. I have a thirty year legal career that spans everything from criminal prosecution and defense to consumer finance to healthcare to financial services. Literally everything the AG does, I have already done in my career. In addition to being the two term elected District Attorney of Durham County, I spent half a decade as General Counsel at the NC Department of Health and Human Services, I ran Durham Habitat for Humanity and the NC Housing Coalition, and I spent time at Self-Help Credit Union. My whole career has been centered on being an advocate for the most vulnerable people in NC – whether those be rural or low income communities, children, families or communities of color.
My progressive values have led me to run perhaps one of the most fair and equitable prosecutors offices in the country. I have reformed my office in 5 years to decrease the effects of mass incarceration in my community, to provide more partnerships with community providers to divert low level cases from court, and to protect children from the school to prison pipeline. I was the first District Attorney in NC to say I would never prosecute a pregnant person or their healthcare provider for exercising their right to choose. And I am the ONLY District Attorney who has refused to seek the death penalty.
Finally, as the black mother of black children, I know what is at stake in NC. From public education to criminal justice, I know who is really at risk and I am willing to show the political courage necessary to stand up for the most vulnerable.
Specific Questions for NC Attorney General – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
As NC Attorney General, I will protect North Carolinians by making sure they are not criminalized for being marginalized in a health crisis.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
As I mentioned above, a Democratic Attorney General in NC is going to have to show some political courage. For me that means being willing to stand for the personal freedoms and rights of the most vulnerable people in our state. To me that means fighting the General Assembly over reproductive rights and healthcare access (especially for queer children and their families). It means being willing to litigate issues of voting and civil rights and environmental justice with the same fervor and legal certainty as the General Assembly does. One of the things the NC General Assembly does is to hire outside counsel to represent them and not the people of NC. I will aggressively fight that in the courts. will also join other states and Attorneys General to litigate at the federal level and support progressive issues in the courts.
As Attorney General, I will also work to develop administrative rules that help to blunt the more extreme positions taken by the General Assembly. While the statutes are important, it is the administrative rules that determine how state agencies carry out those statutes. Lawyers in my office will work with agencies to develop rules that are fair and equitable and do not put our basic rights and freedoms in jeopardy.
Finally, I will lead an office in which the lawyers are committed to fairness and justice and not just political expediency. Often, running for Attorney General is a path to the Governor’s Office. That is not the case for me. I have no desire, nor intention, to the Governor of NC. What I do want is a state in which a little black girl like me can go from Hamlet to Princeton. I want a state that is a beacon of progress in the South and I am willing to rise to that political challenge so that we all get the state we deserve.
Democrat Tim Dunn NC Attorney General
General Questions – 1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I apologize to you, but the Office of Attorney General is vitally important to the citizens of NC and due to my vast experience and background I was unable to limit it to 200 words. I have attached my biography and Curriculum Vitae and graciously ask for your review.
<< To limit the size of this voter guide, we’ve posted Col. Dunn’s resume on the Voter Guide page of the God & Country Christian Alliance at https://godandcountrync.org/. >>
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Holy Bible
The U.S. and N.C. Constitution
The Federalists Papers
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
1. Reduce violent crime by supporting the local District Attorneys and Law Enforcement agencies and providing world class Law Enforcement training at our Justice Academies.
2. Improve NC Juvenile Justice System top to bottom
3. Support, defend, protect, and preserve NC’s citizens’ inalienable/constitutional rights, specifically the right to vote for the person they choose to represent them from cities, counties, courthouses, State House, Governor’s mansion, and the White House.
4. Prosecute and hold accountable in accordance with our environmental laws corporate and individual environmental polluters, with an emphasis on illegal dumping of toxic chemicals into our rivers and streams and on the ground which may seep into ground water and well water.
5. Uphold and fulfill to the best of my abilities the duties and responsibilities of the Attorney General as enumerated in the NC Constitution, Article III, Section 7 and the NC General Statutes Chapter 114.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I support using the funding allocated to the NC Dept of Justice by the NC General Assembly as efficiently and judicially as possible. Based on my top to bottom review of the fiscal needs of the Dept of Justice, within 90 days of taking over that department I will do everything within my legal authority to regain the $10 million budget allocation that was taken away from the Dept of Justice by the current Republican General Assembly.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself in the first year of my second term as NC Attorney General.
6. Why should I vote for you?
You should vote for me because of my vast experience as an attorney licensed by the state of NC since 1987; because of my vast experience of upholding our U.S. Constitution and NC Constitution as a U.S. Marine Corps officer since 1986; because I know, understand, and speak the truth and know that the truth will keep us all free; because of my honor, courage, and commitment as evidenced by my attached Biography/Curriculum Vitae.
Specific Questions for NC Attorney General – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
As a Council of State member, I have a bully pulpit, a voice, and a vote and will use all three to do what I think is right depending on the facts and circumstances of each potential crisis and/or health care concern.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
I believe the Council of State role is both an emergency response and a continued advisory role to the Executive of our state which is the elected Governor by the people/Citizens of NC. Each individual member of the Council of State possesses enumerated duties, responsibilities, and authority under the NC General Statutes which each member of the Council of State must uphold in individual and collective capacity.
NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction
Republican Michele Morrow NC Superintendent of Public Instruction
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
My name is Michele Morrow and I am a Christian, Conservative, wife of 26 years and a mom of 5. I am a nurse, an educator, and a community activist. I became passionate about politics when I moved back to NC 9 years ago and witnessed the decline in election integrity, medical freedom and academic prowess.
I have worked with Grassroots groups and the Wake County GOP for several years and have spoken to thousands of citizens around NC, at hundreds of legislative and school board meetings, and was responsible for writing a petition to get the Parental Bill of Rights passed, as well as ending the dangerous medical practices of puberty blockers, hormone replacement therapy and transgender surgeries.
I am running for Superintendent of Public Instruction to make our schools the safest buildings in the state, to rid our curriculum of CRT, DEI and SEL, and to bring fiscal conservancy into the DPI. I want civility in our classroom, an end to the sexualization of our children and a return to the sound basic education most of us received.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I rely on the Bible to form my core, personal beliefs and worldview. I rely on the Federal Constitution to guide me in national issues and the state constitution to do so on state and local issues.
If elected I will collaborate with other officials on ideas, but never compromise my values. I will use the Republican platform as my guide to protect religious and personal liberties, promote free market enterprise and healthy competition, respect parental rights and the family structure, and make fiscally conservative budgetary decisions.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
My top three issues I would like to address when elected are safety, scholastics and spending. Safety from external threats includes student resource officers, video surveillance, and weapons detection systems and safety inside the classroom requires clear, fair, swift discipline policies bringing civility back to the classroom.
Scholastics includes removing critical race theory (CRT) training and ideology from our curriculum, a return to merit-based hiring and evaluation (ending DEI, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion), and focusing our classroom time and resources to sound basic education (ending Social Emotional Learning). I would push to not allow any student to advance from elementary school before mastering reading, writing and math, since these are the bedrock skills to all higher levels of instruction.
I would push for an external audit, on day one, to uncover where the waste and misappropriation is happening and lobby the legislature to focus our funding on the classroom needs and work upwards into the bureaucracy, instead of the other way around. I would evaluate all of our departments in the DPI, contracts with vendors, and programs in our districts to eliminate those which cannot statistically prove having contributed positively to the academic, character development or career preparedness of NC students. I will also seek partnerships with local businesses to strengthen NC’s economy and reduce costs.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I would cut spending to deal with budgetary shortfalls. Please see the paragraph above.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I expect to be starting my second term as the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
6. Why should I vote for you?
A vote for me is a vote to destroy the radical, Anti-American, racist, sexually perverse, and academically weak curriculum in our public school system. As Superintendent, I will return our classrooms to places of discipline and civility and restore the work patriotism and work ethic that made the United States the freest, bravest and most prosperous country on Earth .I will raise the bar of expectations morally and academically, and seek to strengthen the family unit and the collaboration between teachers and parents. I will focus classroom time and resources to preparing our young people to be hard working, responsible and critically thinking adults prepared to positively contribute to society and pursue careers which are financially lucrative and personally rewarding.
Specific Questions for NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
As a council of state member, I will vehemently push back against any request/demand to close down our state for any reason.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
I believe the council of state should function as an advisory role. The general assembly should function as the emergency response system, since there is more representation through the general assembly than the 10 members of the Council of state. Also, the legislature creates the laws, and the Executive branch ensures that they are carried out. Just as the judicial branch should not legislate from the bench, the executive branch should not legislate.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my views and plans with you regarding the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Republican Catherine Truitt NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Catherine Truitt, the only statewide elected Republican female currently in office, is a mother of three and a Navy Wife. Before serving as State Superintendent, she was a teacher, turnaround coach, education policy advisor to Gov. McCrory, Vice President of PreK-12 outreach at the UNC System Office and Chancellor of North Carolina Western Governor’s school. She’s a defender of school choice, believes every child deserves the best education that fits their needs and their family’s. Wants to ensure that all parents’ voices are brought forward, particularly after the pandemic. That’s why she created the first ever state-wide parent advisory council, which even includes homeschool, private school and public charter parents. Her first order of business when she was sworn into office was to get our kids back into school full-time. Once that was accomplished, she set her focus on early literacy and worked with this General Assembly to secure almost $50 million to retrain all our k-5 teachers in the science of reading, which is a PHONICS based approach to teaching our students to read. Our state is already reaping the benefits of this investment out pacing the rest of the nation in early literacy scores. As we look ahead, workforce and ensuring our students will become productive adults in our society is her number one priority.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The bible, read it every day. I also believe in the rule of law and always look to the US and NC Constitution/statutes when making my decisions in office.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
1) Continue the success we’ve seen in early literacy by addressing middle school English language arts.
2) Address math through target interventions across the state. I am rolling out my plan at the State Board of Education meeting on February 1st. 3) Continue to provide funding and resources for school safety.
4) Continue to use research and data to drive decisions.
5) Continue to push for more school options for all children at all ages.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting spending for sure.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Serving the students and families of North Carolina, and having our state being a leader in ELA (English Language Arts) and Math as well as preparing our students for adulthood and the workforce.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am the most qualified person in this race, I have the pedigree and backing of almost every member of the NC General Assembly because they want to continue to see the positive results a Truitt Administration brings to all students.
Specific Questions for NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
Never again should we use fear to drive decisions. The data and information available to the Governor’s office was clear, it was safe to open schools for children and teachers. Unfortunately, politics drove decision making, but I did not give up the fight and led the charge to reopen schools. I was proud to work with the General Assembly to force the Governor’s hand in reopening schools finally after they were shut down for far too long.
s2. DPI: What policy changes would you recommend for North Carolina to comply with the Parental Bill of Rights?
I think the PBOR law is good first step to bringing parents back to the front of the conversation when it comes to a child’s upbringing, but there might need to be some teeth put into the statutes. I think we need to wait and see because it has only been implemented fully for this school year. However, with situations, like the one happening in Chapel Hill Carrboro, where the district is openly violating the law, legislators need to come back in the short session and ensure there are penalties if this were to continue to happen. I have publicly stated that this needs to happen and will work to address this in a few months.
NC Treasurer
Democrat Gabe Esparza NC Treasurer
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Gabe Esparza is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience leading businesses spanning both large corporations and nimble start-ups. With a wealth of global understanding and perspective gained through professional and personal experience, Gabe is highly sought after for his leadership in both business and community affairs. From 2021-2023, Gabe served our country as Associate Administrator of the Office of International Trade at the U.S. Small Business Administration. Prior to that, he played an integral part of the success story at RapidSOS – a gov tech platform that radically transformed the way people communicate with 911. Earlier in his career, Gabe spent 13 years at American Express, including as Vice President of Global Business Development in their Commercial Payments business. From 2009 to 2018, Gabe served as a public official in the City of Los Angeles having been appointed by the Mayor to the Board of Civil Service Commissioners. He is a frequent guest lecturer at various business schools and currently serves on the boards of Pat’s Place (Child Advocacy Center) and the Central Piedmont Community College. He holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA in International Relations from Stanford University.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The United States Constitution
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
• Maximizing the return on investment of the North Carolina State Pension Fund
• Keeping healthcare costs low for state employees and retirees, let alone all North Carolinians
• Attracting the most talented team of investment professionals to the Office of State Treasurer
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
The Treasurer equivalent to that question is that budget shortfalls are real when, as is the case with our current State Treasurer, he is unable to generate enough return on investment from the state pension fund to pay for the retirement obligations of our retirees. In fact, our state pension fund is the worst performing state pension fund in the nation (https://yale.app.box.com/s/xa0mrhmwj5kbv1236dilf8d3oj12aof2). The solution is to elect someone who knows how to invest well and actually generate outsized returns.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
As NC State Treasurer
6. Why should I vote for you?
I encourage your readers to vote for me, Gabe Esparza, because I bring the most experience to the table – Stanford for college, Harvard for my MBA. 25 years in the private sector, and then the last 2 years as a senior official at the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Treasurer’s job requires deep experience, and I bring that to the table – managing people, managing budgets, negotiated deals, and investing money. I am a business person. I invested in ran and grew a successful 9-1-1 technology company (public safety), and started a charter school back in the early 2000’s. I bring a seasoned, steady hand to the Treasurer’s office.
Specific Questions for NC Treasurer – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
Its the government’s obligation to warn the public of any pending health care crisis, do whatever it can do to prevent such a crisis from happening in the first place, and provide effective solutions when people’s health is at risk. I like to think the Governor of Colorado got it right when he said during the Covid epidemic – and I paraphrase, “Covid is real, we have created effective medications that can prevent serious illness, and those medications are free to the public. Its up to the people to choose to do what they want from there, businesses and schools are open.”
s2. Treasurer: What is your first priority to help improve the financial position of North Carolina?
As I mentioned earlier, the current State Treasurer has had a dismal investment record. So I would immediately do the following three things – a) invest more of the pension fund cash that is sitting by idly doing nothing. I would put $10B of cash and invest it. b) I would increase pension fund allocations to real assets – infrastructure, broadband distribution, and other new technologies, and c) I would re-staff the office of the State Treasurer with high-quality investment professionals draw from nationwide talent pools. This collective effort will help create stability in our state pension fund.
Republican Rachel Johnson NC Treasurer
Good afternoon. Below is a short description of why Rachel Johnson is running for NC Treasurer and also the answers to the questions. Thank you.
Rachel Johnson is a Conservative running for NC Treasurer because Rachel wants the people of North Carolina to know their money is being wisely invested to safeguard our future. Rachel is a devout Christian, a mother, a businesswoman, and a taxpayer.
Rachel was born and raised in North Carolina. She ran a small, family-owned business in Davie County in recent years. So, Rachel’s recent professional experience is significantly different than one of the Republican candidates seeking this nomination, who has spent his recent years working for Michael Bloomberg and helping him fund his agenda.
Rachel’s career started right here in North Carolina helping middle-class moms and dads plan for financial security in their later years and, hopefully, be able to leave a little something behind for their kids. The good folks of NC deserve to know the keeper of the public purse has their financial security as her top priority.
Rachel has worked in retirement and financial services and as a small business owner. She has seen the peace of mind that comes from smart, conservative planning. It’s time that Republicans put a woman in charge of the public purse.
www.RachelforNC.com
Questions:
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I was born and raised in North Carolina and started my career at Wachovia in retirement services and earned financial securities licenses. I know the peace of mind that comes with smart, conservative financial planning. After earning my MBA from UNC Chapel Hill, I worked on regulatory response strategies in banking. That’s a fancy way of saying my job was to make sure banks were safeguarding their customers’ money but were also able to invest and grow their customers’ savings in a responsible manner. Most recently, after my dad passed away, I was running our family-owned business on a farm in Davie County. My professional experience has all been right here in North Carolina ranging from the skyscrapers in Charlotte to a farm in Davie County, Metropolis to Mayberry you might say. I am prepared and ready to advocate for the people of North Carolina as their State Treasurer.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
Bible, Constitution
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
I want to do everything I can to maintain the NC treasury in a responsible manner that will help continue to grow our state’s economy. More and better jobs in North Carolina mean more and better opportunities for all North Carolinians. And if you’ve spent a career working for the good people of North Carolina, you deserve to know your retirement and healthcare are the top priorities. There’s always a temptation in this role to flex and try to make a risky play. It’s gotten a few folks in trouble over the years.
The people of North Carolina deserve an experienced candidate who will enter the job completely independent of previous ties to Wall Street and the elites of New York finance. I want to be State Treasurer because North Carolina deserves a Treasurer who answers only to the people of North Carolina.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting spending
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
NC Treasurer
6. Why should I vote for you?
I’m a mother, a businesswoman, and a taxpayer. I am running for NC Treasurer because I want the people of North Carolina to know that their money is being wisely invested to safeguard our future. My career hasn’t been spent with New York City billionaires helping them make another billion. My career started right here in North Carolina helping middle-class moms and dads plan for financial security in their later years and, hopefully, be able to leave a little something behind for their kids. The good folks who have paid into the NC treasury deserve to know the keeper of the public purse has their financial security as her top priority. My experience and passion make me the best candidate for the job.
Specific Questions for NC Treasurer – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
Would not support and would work with Republicans to keep the state open
s2. Treasurer: What is your first priority to help improve the financial position of North Carolina?
The NC Treasurer is the keeper of the public purse. I will continue Treasurer Folwell’s good work of protecting and improving the NC retirement system and working with lawmakers to find common solutions that can bring down the costs of healthcare.
NC Auditor
Republican David Boliek NC Auditor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I am 56-years-old, born in Lincolnton, N.C. I have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ; have been married to the same woman for 28 years and we have four fantastic children (2 grown). I’ve lived in 12 towns across NC; graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill; earned a Law Degree and an MBA from Campbell University. I am a former Prosecutor (prosecuting seatbelt tickets to murders); I am a practicing attorney; a consultant on healthcare issues; and I own and run small businesses. I am an elder at my church. I’ve chaired the board of directors for the Southeast Regional AHEC (training doctors for southeastern NC), and I serve on and chaired the Board of Trustees at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill where I lead the charge against the woke left agendas in higher education. At Chapel Hill, I led a budget reform effort that consolidated a $4 billion budget, turned a $100 million shortfall into a surplus, I introduced the School of Civic Life and Leadership for conservative professors and students at UNC (was on FOX news), and I stood up and voted NO on the 1619 Project coming to the University.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Holy Bible; the U.S. Constitution (as a lawyer I am sworn to uphold its strict construction); the N.C. Constitution (which has been strictly construed by our legislature and the “fruits of labor” clause is vitally important to conservative governance); I read a couple of daily devotionals (one sent by friends, and “daily bread”); I read biographies of important and inspirational Americans; I read Thomas Sowell and I try to read the Wall Street Journal everyday.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
1. Re-define the State Auditor’s office to assist in helping make policy by exposing bad government actions/processes and making recommendations with conservative principles.
2. Auditing state agencies/institutions/non-profits that receive state funds, and have not been audited in several years by the current administration (ex. Board of Elections, Department of Transportation – including the DMV, NC DHHS, and NC DEQ – environmental quality).
3. Creating a taxpayer watchdog department that is accountable to citizens and that responds timely to inquiries and complaints.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Thankfully, we have had a conservative legislature that has managed our state’s funds so that there is a budgetary surplus and a healthy rainy-day fund. Quite frankly, the State Auditor can further assist the legislature with performance and efficiency audits that identify places to cut our growing government bureaucracy even further. We should always look to cut spending so that we can cut taxes and make NC a destination for people to live and own businesses.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
If I am blessed to be elected Auditor, I would be running for re-election. In any event, I see myself continuing to serve my community, my state and my nation through hard work, raising my family and participating in community service opportunities (such as my current board service, church service and within the Republican Party)
6. Why should I vote for you?
Council of State positions require experience leading large organizations. I have experience leading and making change in large organizations. I have a solid conservative record by currently holding a position in N.C. where we’ve been able to make a difference (copy and paste these links to see examples on Fox News — https://www.foxnews.com/video/6319418361112; and in the newspaper — https://www.charlotteobserver.com/opinion/article272173008.html). I have the experience and background to be a successful leader as State Auditor. I also have courage to speak up and make hard, morally correct, and conservative choices in the face of pressure to stand down.
Specific Questions for NC Auditor – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
We should never completely shut down the State of North Carolina. (as I said earlier… our state constitution guarantees every citizen the right to the “fruits of his labor”) I would oppose the shutting down of our state due to health concerns. We can address and develop solutions short of shutting down our economy, our schools, our churches and our way of life to address health concerns.
s2. Auditor: What more can be done to help reduce Fraud in North Carolina state-funded programs?
My approach as State Auditor will be to approach the auditing function from a perspective broader than merely financial. We must take a deep dive into how agencies are run day-to-day. Performance and efficiency audits reveal more information than audits limited only to financial matters. However, we should perform detailed financial audits as well, of course.
Republican Jack Clark NC Auditor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I was born in DC, but escaped the swamp as soon as I could, which was when I went to college in Durham, and have been bouncing around the triangle ever since. I earned a B.S. in Economics from Duke University and a Master of Accounting from UNC-Chapel Hill. I earned my CPA license as an external auditor for Grant Thornton, working with multibillion dollar corporations and small startups alike. I then transitioned into an internal audit role for a large, multinational company, where I helped prepare the company for SOX readiness. Feeling God calling me into public service, I now work on budget policy in the General Assembly.
Personally, I got married in 2022, and my wife and I are expecting the birth of our first child in July. We now live in South Raleigh and serve at our newly formed local church, Kings Table Church.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible. My upbringing, of course, helped me develop my core beliefs, but everything stems for the Word of God.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
(1) I will take stock of what blind spots the administration of 15 years developed and audit places that have flown under the radar.
(2) I will modernize the audit department, including adding data analytics, to make our processes more efficient so that we can perform more audits and more effective audits.
(3) I will improve the pipeline of accountants coming into the workforce by encouraging HS and college students to pursue this profession.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting Spending. A government is not unlike a person: it doesn’t matter how much money you make if you spend it all. Making sure we only spend when necessary is important. The auditor can help make sure of that.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In my second term as auditor. A good father to my future children (first one due this summer). Living in the best run state in the country.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am the only candidate in any party with the following qualifications:
– Master’s degree in accounting (Audit Track)
– CPA license (Audit exam was highest score of 4 exams – 98)
– Experience in auditing in the private sector (as both external and internal auditor)
– 21st century audit experience (of any kind)
– 21st century major accounting firm experience (Grant Thornton)
To be State Auditor, the most important qualification is to understand auditing. I have education, training, and experience in the field. There are skills and mindsets necessary to proper auditing that someone cannot develop unless they have audited.
In addition, I have current NC budget experience as a Research Assistant to a budget chair. That means I know where the money is supposed to go, and I have the skills to audit where it does go.
Lastly – and most importantly – I recognize that the Auditor position is a lot like a judge’s position: you want someone who rules objectively based on the facts. There is no room for a personal agenda or making campaign promises on what cases you’ll take and how you’ll rule.
Specific Questions for NC Auditor – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
With rationality and common sense. If it’s an actual apocalyptic scenario, emergency powers do need to be used. Emergency power MUST be temporary, yet people rarely give up power. I will give the governor power very, very reluctantly, and I will be adamant when that power needs to be given back.
s2. Auditor: What more can be done to help reduce Fraud in North Carolina state-funded programs?
As an auditor, I know how I can help everywhere I audit to set up processes and procedures and controls that prevent fraud. Instead of just catching fraud, the auditor should help prevent it.
Republican Charles Dingee NC Auditor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I am a life long grassroots Republican. I am a husband father and small business owner with a professional background in banking. After my term ended as the vice chairman of the Wake County Republican party, I entered the race to be your next State auditor. I bring a unique background of private sector, small business and activism experience which makes me the best choice to lead the State Auditors office.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible and US Constitution
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Election integrity
Schools
The education lottery
The NCDOT
The above listed areas which need to be audited I have come up with based on having traveled to 89 counties and speaking with thousands of voters of the concerns they have. That is also how I plan to direct the office is based on the concerns of the voters.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting spending.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
With at least 2 children and in a second term as your State Auditor
6. Why should I vote for you?
I will be a thorn in the side to every level of government to ensure they are transparent and accountable with your money.
Specific Questions for NC Auditor – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns? We won’t do that again.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
Depending on the context it is both. For the most part is less emergency response and more day-to-day operations and advisory.
Republican Jim Kee NC Auditor
1. Short biography – 200 words or less
I am a native of North Carolina, born in Northampton county and raised on my grandfather’s farm.
I was educated in Guilford county where I received a bachelor of science degree in Economics. I have lived in six states and seven cities which include New York, California, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and the great state of North Carolina which shows that I am versatile in interacting with all types of people. I worked in government for six years ranging from the federal to local government. I invested forty years of my career in the private sector. I was a sales manager with the
following companies: US Airways (American Airlines), Bristol-Myers Squibb, and TheraSense Inc. (Abbott Laboratories).
I am a former two term city councilman in Greensboro, NC. Currently, I am the Executive Director of Concept Innovators, a community development corporation that builds housing and develops urban farms. I am CEO of Kee Development Corp and we developed a residential subdivision in Greensboro called Knottingham Forest. I am a Cristian, husband, father,
grandfather, developer, farmer and public servant. God is and continues to be good to me and my family.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I read the Bible and 40 days with Jesus. A song that inspires me is Thank you Jesus. I also listen to love ballads.
I am governed by conservative principles that shape my core beliefs.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
My goals as State Auditor include:
1. To verify the financial and operational viability and integrity of all state and local governmental agencies to ensure
compliance with NC law and regulations.
2. I will offer technical assistance to all agencies that want to improve their financial management.
3. I will hold all agencies accountable to follow the law and any agency that willfully breaks the law will be held accountable
to the fullest degree of the law.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I will always support cutting spending.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I will continue to be a public servant.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I, as well as most citizens, want our leaders to be the most qualified in their leadership roles. I am the only state auditor candidate, Republican or Democrat, that has federal auditing experience. I was a federal auditor with the US Treasury Department, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Actually, I am the only candidate that has any significant auditing experience.
Specific Questions for NC Auditor – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
I will do all that is within my power to never shut down the state for any reason by examining the facts and consulting with citizens and other Council of State offices and members of the general assembly.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
The Council of State is a significant constant advisor in the NC government.
Republican Anthony Wayne (Tony) Street NC Auditor
I pray this letter finds you and yours doing well and being blessed! I greatly appreciate this opportunity to introduce myself and explain why I am seeking the opportunity to serve you as your next NC Auditor.
I am a 42-year-old lifelong resident of southeastern North Carolina and I have lived at Holden Beach since I was 8; here in coastal Brunswick County where both sides of my mom’s family go back for generations.
I grew up in a very Christian and conservative family. My mother is a retired rural mail carrier and my dad was a Pentecostal pastor. Every time I am given a chance to speak I introduce myself as being a fiscal, moral and social conservative and a man who will never give enough praise to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
I have always sought to serve the public and that is why I worked my way through college to earn a bachelors in Geography and a Masters in Public Administration/Emergency Management. I served for ten years on the Brunswick County Soil and Water Board. I started working at local grocery stores as a boy, six years as an armed officer at the nuclear power plant in Southport, and today I am a self-employed small business owner that has worked in construction, trucking and commercial fishing.
As a Christian I believe the highest source of authority is the word of our Almighty God the Father who has laid out his plan of salvation and guidance for all of mankind in his holy word we call the Bible and the King James is my most favorite translation.
The literary work that I hold to be the next in importance is our United States Constitution. I have always been astounded by the wisdom contained therein as provided by our great nation’s Founding Fathers. It has long been my personal belief that the same Holy Spirit that led the penmanship of those that authored God’s word in the scripture must have led those that constructed the greatest Republic that has ever existed. The constitution of the great state of North Carolina is also a great and inspiring work!
I first ran for NC Auditor in 2020, I won the primary but sadly I was one of only four Republicans seeking Council of State Offices that year that did not make it past the general election the other three being Governor, Attorney General and Secretary of State. In his investigation Retired Army Major David Goetze proved that we all four won in the absentee, early and election day voting and wound up losing the primary because of mail-in votes. Based upon that experience a major focus of my tenure as Auditor will be focused on ensuring election integrity in all future elections!
Education will also a top priority and every school board in our state should be audited. Education is the largest recipient of our tax dollars and constitutes the largest percentage of our state budget. Sadly, after all of this expenditure many of our students test below average in math and English proficiency…there is a problem somewhere and I do NOT believe the teachers are at fault!
The auditing of education in our state should not be focused solely on our K-12th grade schools but also on our colleges and universities as well. In October 2014 a CNN news story revealed that “For 18 years, thousands of students at the prestigious University of North Carolina took fake “paper classes,” and advisers funneled athletes into the program to keep them eligible” for enrollment.
The DOT is in severe need of an honest and partisan neutral investigation as well!
IF elected I will fight for accountability and transparency as I am driven by a belief that the hard-working tax paying citizens of our state deserve to know how their tax dollars are being spent and that they are being invested as efficiently, efficiently and conservatively as possible!
I have always admired the way that upon becoming President, Ronald Reagan set about going through the books and cutting wasteful spending anywhere that he found it possible. I will always believe the people that do or have earned their money should be entitled to keep it! Government at ALL levels should always seek to reduce spending NOT increase taxes.
Article 1, Section 1 of our state constitution states that “We hold it to be self-evident that all persons are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, the enjoyment of the fruits of their own labor, and the pursuit of happiness”. My interpretation of this is that men and women of all demographics have the God-given right to keep, preserve and enjoy what they earn!
In five years from now I hope and pray that with the help of our Lord I will have proved to the North Carolina tax payers that I am a competent and efficient public servant and the guard dog of the public purse working tirelessly to ensure that they know where and how their tax dollars are being spent!
As a man who has signed both sides of a check, worked as an employee and an employer, gained experience as a public servant, been involved with local politics and constantly sought to gain more education and experience I humbly seek the opportunity to serve you as your next Auditor and I would greatly appreciate your support!
I was strongly against the actions of our so-called Governor Roy Cooper that resulted in shutting down our state and the way in which he refused to regard or seek the counsel of the other Council of State members. IF provided with the opportunity in the future I will always voice my opposition to such actions and use any authority I may have to stop such a harmful and reckless abuse of authority!
I would also use this office as a bully pulpit to ensure that ALL state funded agencies, departments, programs, and ALL others that receive money from the tax payers of our state will remain under constant scrutiny to ensure that they are not abusing public funds and that their actions and intentions are inline with our state constitution.
Again, I thank you for your consideration and all that you do! I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with some of you folks at your God and Country Dinner in Havelock a few months ago. I always love being in the Carteret and Craven County area.
If any of you should have any further questions or if I may ever be of service to you please don’t hesitate to contact me.
I pray the Lord will bless all of you, our state and raise up Christlike public servants that will seek to serve the true needs of We The People!
Republican Jeff Tarte NC Auditor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
A career Management Consultant, Experienced Executive, Legislator with an impeccable history of achievement in State and Local Government. Skilled in Complex IT Project Management, full range of financial, performance, operational, and IT audits, Contract Negotiation, Navigating State and Local Bureaucratic Processes, Operations Management, and Strategic Planning. Consult to executives, boards of directors and business leaders in North Carolina and throughout the United States. I have had clients in every U.S. state and five foreign countries.
I am a former three term state Senator, three term mayor and Partner at EY the third largest global accounting firm and CEO/Co-Founder of Applied Revenue Analytics a multi-million dollar technology consulting firm specializing in data analytics and forensic investigative work. In the NC Senate chaired the State and Local Government Committee with oversight responsibilities of the Office of State Auditor (OSA).
Named one of the Top 100 IT Executives in the USA by CIO Magazine, National Employee of the Year, held a Top Secret Department of Defense Security Clearance and was recognized as the North Carolina Public Leader of the Year in 2018 by NC Tech, “Accomplished Alumni Past 150 Years” University of Illinois.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
First and foremost the Bible. Second the US Constitution. Hard to go wrong if you follow these two foundational documents. I was once asked in a candidate forum, if my faith and beliefs would influence the decisions I make in office? I said, they better, otherwise my faith and beliefs are misplaced. I go to church 45+ weeks per year and involved in all aspects of my church. Headed on a church mission trip to Guatemala in March. My wife is Lay Leader of our 3,000 member church.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
1. Advocate for all state agencies to undergo regular independent financial audits (IFA), which they do not currently do. As State Senator, I authored legislation that required such. Many agencies had not undergone an IFA in decades. Imagine the first one performed for the Department of Health and Human Services identified millions of unaccounted monies.
2. Call out improper financial and operations management while remaining unbiased to party and politics.
3. Stand up a Detection and Prevention Center within the OSA to address fraud and waste for any entity or person receiving state monies. I have identified $100M of funds that are available to be recovered from overpayments and fraud in health care claims, insurance fraud in the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) program. Additional funds can be harvested from waste in utility expenses and statewide IT contracts. Implement technological safeguards using software tools with embedded AI, rules engines, and advanced algorithms to prevent recurring fraud and waste.
4. Secure “Demand Letter” authority. Once we identify fraud or waste the OSA does not have authority to go DEMAND repayment of those monies. That needs to change. I know how to find it and I know how to collect it.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Basic principles apply to running a government agency as running your personal and business finances which oversimplified are as follows:
a. Spend within your means
b. Pay yourself first (save a little from every paycheck)
c. Establish spending priorities based on needs vs wants
d. Avoid instant gratification and plan for large expense items
First you cut spending to within your means while prioritizing critical needs. Now this is going to seem counter intuitive, but to increase revenues in a governmental body you reduce taxes, broaden the base and minimize tax deductions.
As mayor I reduced taxes every year. Our bond rating went from AA to AAA. As state Senator assisted in design of NC tax reform. We cut spending and reduced taxes. NC went from running $2B annual budget deficits to $300M+ surpluses. We have proven this works.
As Pell Grant kid I understand what it is like not having much and working hard to get ahead without the government taking everything.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Fishing. I am not running for any higher office. Not looking for or worried about re-election. Once I can get the OSA in order, four years is plenty of time, I will leave OSA in a manner that the next State Auditor will have an easy pathway to maintain the well-functioning OSA operation that I establish.
6. Why should I vote for you?
If this is a beauty contest… I am the best looking. On a serious note, I am principled, proven and pragmatic. I am a former three term state Senator, three term mayor and Partner at EY the third largest global accounting firm. I understand how state government works. I have run successful businesses. I understand and have performed audit processes. We all recognize there is an endless supply of waste in state government. I have by far the most outstanding background, education and professional experience necessary to perform the duties of State Auditor. I am the only professional running for this office experienced in performing the duties of the State Auditor. Validating financials, performing operational audits and confirming compliance with contract provisions, as well as regulatory requirements through sophisticated data analytics are duties, I have done my entire professional career.
For perspective if any of the other candidates serve as State Auditor for four years, they will then have the experience of a new manager at a Big 4 accounting firm. They will have the same level of experience I had 25 years ago. None of the other candidates are going to gain 25 years of experience by March 5th.
Specific Questions for NC Auditor – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
In health matters I seek guidance from credentialed medical professionals and credible clinical studies. I have seen no scientific evidence from any credentialed medical organization or any peer review clinical studies that supports shuttering businesses for any health reason, even and including a pandemic.
The State Auditor has no authority legislatively or by executive order to affect such an shut down. However, the State Auditor is a member of the Council of State. New legislation has given authority to the Council of State to determine how long the Governor can leave a state of emergency in place. Any emergency that has a duration past 60 days is probably no longer an emergency, but a new normal.
s2. Auditor: What more can be done to help reduce Fraud in North Carolina state-funded programs?
As stated earlier I will stand up a Detection and Prevention Center for Fraud and Waste. I will add AI engineers, data analytics experts, and subject matter experts in the field of predictive analytics. I will implement technological safeguards using advance software tools with embedded AI, rules engines, and advanced algorithms to identify and prevent recurring fraud and waste. Again, things I have done for a living.
Ultimately if you want fraud and waste reduced or eliminated, we must first identify it. Next, we must pursue the perpetrators. At a minimum we need to make the guilty pay the state back all monies taken with “interest.” Same interest rates commercial credit cards get for first timer users.
s3. What is your educational background that prepares you to serve as State Auditor?
Education:
Economics, BS, College of Commerce and Business Administration, University of Illinois
Finance, Executive Education, Fuqua School of Business, Duke University
Quest, Partner Development Program, Ernst & Young
Compliance, Executive Education, University of Pennsylvania
Center for Advancement of Leadership Skills, Southern Legislative Conference, University of Arkansas
Senior Leadership State and Local Government, Executive Education, Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University
NC Secretary of State
Republican Jesse Thomas NC Secretary Of State
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please):
Jesse Thomas is an American success story. From the cotton fields to the corner office as a health plan CEO in multiple markets. Through God’s grace, hard work, thirst for education and sheer determination, this son of sharecroppers rose above the societal expectations of his Jim Crow-era Mississippi Delta upbringing. Jesse’s desire to lift and serve others has been his motivation throughout his career in the private sector. Jesse recently retired as CEO of Healthy Blue, the Medicaid Segment of Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC. Under his leadership, Healthy Blue secured the statewide contract to serve over 500,000 members across all 100 North Carolina counties with over $2 billion in annual revenue. The former CEO of numerous other healthcare related corporations, Jesse has proven himself an effective leader in the business and healthcare sectors. He has put his expertise to the public’s use, having served on: the UNC Pembroke Board of Trustees; NC CHILD Board of Directors; and the North Carolina American Indian Health Board. Also, serving as the Health Policy Advisor to former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder, Jesse provided results. Now, he is ready to do the same for the People of North Carolina. Jesse Thomas is a no nonsense Republican focused on tangible results for everyday citizens. Jesse believes that efficient governance, practical solutions, and common sense decision making are at the core of conservatism and that by embracing these tenants, Republican ideas will improve the lives of all citizens.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
First and foundational are The Holy Scriptures! Second, I’m a recently published author of … Financial Peace of Mind From The Scriptures … a short self help book available on Amazon which articulates my overarching principles and guiding core beliefs. It is my personal witness of achievement, progress, prosperity, spiritual and temporal self reliance. Third, I’m deeply and profoundly encouraged and inspired by the following three books: Standing For Something by Gordon B. Hinckley; The Lincoln Hypothesis by Timothy Ballard; and God’s Politician by Garth Lean.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
The office has become unremarkable and functioning on auto-pilot after 28-years of democratic incumbency. It has devolved into mostly being the Chief Notary Officer of the State and is performing well below its power and authority to be an aggressive Chief Economy and Business Services Officer of the State. Also, the Governor and Lt. Governor as officers in the Council of State have term limits. Since the Secretary of State is another officer on the Council who can succeed the Governor, it should have the same constraints. As such, it ought to be subject to term limits to ensure regular and timely executive turnover to inject freshness, new ideas, disruptive innovation, and new thought leadership as a potential successor to the Governor during extenuating circumstances. I will champion being subject to term limits; and more accountable to work with a fierce urgency of now to stimulate the economy, grow businesses and help tame inflation through more fair and responsible tax policy. My priorities would be the kitchen table issues of the volatile economy and jobs. As our next Secretary of State, I will aggressively advocate to the General Assembly a 0% state income tax by 2030 for all our citizens. And, doing so for seniors, teachers, first responders and active duty military by the end of the 2028 biennial budget. Also, I will be an energetic Chief Emissary Officer (CEO) travelling throughout the State promoting business expansion and across the Country for new business relocation to NC. I will modernize the office and the overwhelming website. I will implement a business one stop system beginning with business registrations including trademarks, then integrating notary, then UCC, etc.; add a “chat bot” to the website and also reduce unnecessary red tape.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I would support cutting wasteful spending while at the same time cutting taxes on a revenue neutral basis. As our next Secretary of State, I will champion a zero percent state income tax by 2030. There are already 9 States with “0%” state income tax rates who have burgeoning economies which include neighboring TN, also FL and TX within our region of the Country. Such an incentive will make NC a sustainable destination state for business, more jobs, stronger economy, strategic and well planned population migration, tourism, entrepreneurship, etc. which will drive expansive demand for consumption of goods, services and housing, etc. resulting in explosive tax revenue.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I would be in my second term as Secretary of State or in my first term as the next Republican Governor if we fail to gain the governorship in 2024. In that regard, I will continue to lead my vision for North Carolina to be First in Healthy: a) Healthy Economy for Business and Consumers, b) Healthy Education System for Workforce Readiness, and c) Healthy Population for Thriving Families and Sustainable Workforce. In that combination, First in Healthy will modernize our business processes and communicate to the State, Country and the World that North Carolina is enthusiastically open and welcoming for business and citizens.
6. Why should I vote for you?
Because I’m a no nonsense citizen public servant, business executive and retired health plan CEO. Also, I’m experienced in leading multi-billion dollar organizations resulting in positive economic impact for tens of thousands of employees. And, equally important, I’m not a career politician or beholden to a tribal litmus test. Instead, I’m guided by two simple principles: 1) does it pass the straight face test, and 2) does it put the interest of “we the people” ahead of the interests of pure politics and eliminate the status quo? Also, I’m so sick and tired of the political gridlock and Republicans losing key statewide races in the Council of State offices. In that connection, I retired a year early so I could give my full and undivided attention to running and winning back this office for … “we the people” … North Carolinians and not the career politicians.
Specific Questions for NC Secretary Of State – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close down this state due to health concerns?
First, I would seek divine guidance from the Lord Himself who is the Master Healer and the Great Physician. Second, I would not acquiesce to the big-footed one size fit all perspective out of Washington DC. Instead, I would thoughtfully and persuasively collaborate with the no nonsense conservative members of the Council to put the interests of North Carolina and our citizens first and foremost in every consideration to avoid repeating the economic and health failures of the recent past. We can do better and better when we work together … period … end of story.
s2. Is the Council of State more of an emergency response role or continued advisory role?
According to Ballotpedia, “The Constitution of North Carolina assigns minimal duties to the Council of State; per Article III, Section 3, it may call the General Assembly into an extraordinary session to consider the governor’s mental capacity, and, per Article III, Section 5, the governor must consult it before they call the assembly into an extraordinary session. The council’s most significant responsibilities have been assigned by statute,[19] most dealing with real property and financial transactions.[11] This includes approving the governor’s acquisitions and disposals of state property,[19] approving property allocations, authorizing taking on debt in anticipation of tax revenue, authorizing the state treasurer to borrow money in times of crisis, creating emergency funds, approving bond issues, and advising the governor and treasurer on assurance investments, approving of banks in which state funds can be deposited, and approving securities in which state funds may be invested.[11] If the governor exercises a power or authority which requires the concurrence of the council, they are required by law to secure the body’s approval within 48 hours of exercising said power”.[30]
Also, not lost on me is the following (which gives some influence over what’s considered by the Council): “The secretary of state maintains the schedule and agenda of council meetings”.[28]
Jesse Thomas, Republican Candidate, NC – Secretary of State – CitizenThomasNC@gmail.com – www.jessethomasnc.com – 919.601.1923
Republican Christine E. Villaverde NC Secretary Of State
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I was born in New York but moved around a lot because of my father’s service in the Air Force. I eventually moved to North Carolina when my father was stationed at Pope Air Force Base. I attended school in Sanford, before dropping out of school at the age of 16, but eventually earned my GED at Central Carolina Community College.
I met my paratrooper husband when he was stationed at Fort Bragg and had my first son at Womack Army Hospital. Our family relocated to Germany where my husband was stationed at Baumholder Kaserne. During our time in Germany, I became aware of the need for better support for military families. My husband’s military service provided many opportunities to travel throughout Europe, Africa, the Maldives, and many other parts of the world. Traveling to various countries helped me appreciate all the opportunities and resources we have in the United States.
We eventually moved back to Arizona, and I trained to be a Law Enforcement Officer. After graduating from the Arizona Law Enforcement Academy, I served in various capacities with the Avondale Police Department for five years.
Although the military provided me with the opportunity to live in many different places, I always considered North Carolina to be home. In North Carolina I earned a degree in Criminal Justice at Fayetteville State University and a master’s degree in public policy at Liberty University while at the same time caring for premature twin boys.
I later served as the Emergency Manager for the North Carolina State Judicial Branch, serving over five hundred elected officials and six thousand employees across the state.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible on my nightstand is the source that forms my core beliefs. As Secretary of State, my decision-making will be based upon my Christian worldview. I would also strictly adhere to the United States Constitution as well as the North Carolina Constitution.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Citizens deserve the best possible constituent experience from their elected officials. As North Carolina’s next Secretary of State, I will ensure that citizens are able to access information and services quickly through various channels. Citizens must be able to access the services of the Secretary of States office more easily and I will ensure that my agency proactively provides up-to-date and accurate information to better streamline agency services. I will also ensure my office is transparent and responsive to constituent inquiries.
One other priority would be to petition the State Legislature so that the Secretary of State will have purview over our elections in North Carolina. Since my office would have investigative and prosecutorial powers, I could ensure that North Carolina elections are conducted fairly and accurately, and I would be able to prosecute all voting-related crimes.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
If faced with budget shortfalls I would always support cutting spending over increasing the already enormous tax burdens on North Carolina families. As North Carolina’s Secretary of State my priority will be to ensure that my agency is restrained in its spending and is limited to what is necessary to serve North Carolinians. Under the Democrats, government spending has grown dramatically, and I aim to curb this so that the citizens of North Carolina can keep more of their hard-earned money. As a steward of taxpayer funds, I will make sure that every dollar spent by my agency is well spent and only spent in their best interest. I am committed to making tough choices to save taxpayer’s money and to ensure that their money does not fund private business ventures or pick winners and losers in a way that makes North Carolina less economically competitive.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years I see myself as a dedicated public servant continuing to fight for North Carolina’s safety and prosperity.
6. Why should I vote for you?
You should vote for me because out of all the candidates I am the most educated, trained, and qualified to be a successful Secretary of State. I have previous law enforcement training and experience; The Secretary of State’s office has investigative and prosecutorial authority over fraud and counterfeiting which makes my law enforcement experience an asset. I have experience supporting over 500 elected officials and 6000 employees as the NC Judicial Branch Emergency Manager, and I have a Masters Degree in Public Policy/Public Administration from Liberty University. I have the skills, ability, training, and education to create an organization that will make it easier to start a small business, protect citizens from fraud, and create an office that always prioritizes people.
Specific Questions for NC Secretary of State – Council of State
s1. As a Council of State member how would you handle any attempt to close this state due to health concerns?
As Secretary of State, I would vehemently oppose any closures of our churches, schools, or businesses just as I did when Governor Cooper tyrannically attempted to close our courthouses. I am the only candidate that actively created a COVID Taskforce in order to gather expert advice so that we could safely keep our Judicial Branch facilities across the entire state open safely for citizens to continue to conduct business.
s2. Secretary of State: What is your priority to help make North Carolina more business friendly?
On average creating an LLC in other states after the registration documents are submitted takes anywhere between a week and 10 business days for completion; however, North Carolina can take up to 7 weeks! As Secretary of State, I will improve customer service experiences by innovating and pushing forward with better practices, implementing modern tools such as AI, and better utilize available technology to streamline agency processes. I would also like to create a small fleet of mobile offices to better serve the often forgotten Western and Eastern North Carolina rural communities.
NC Lieutenant Governor
Democrat Mark H. Robinson NC Lieutenant Governor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I have had the opportunity to live a life well beyond my expectations. Growing up on a small farm, eight of 10 children, my family reluctantly used government services as a safety net. I would have been a farmer had I had money in my pocket. I am a product of public schools and went on to UNC Chapel Hill before becoming a naval officer (retired as a Captain (colonel equivalent)). I completed two tours in Iraq and served on the staffs of General Petraeus and General Austin (current Secretary of Defense). I have the values of Sampson County – Respect, Help where you can, Empathy, Honesty, and Work. I have had the opportunity to work for myself, for others, and the US Government. My greatest achievement is being the father of three children. I tried to instill in them three core values: 1) Have a personal relationship with GOD, 2) Be the best citizen you can, and 3) Do your best at whatever you attempt. I feel that my purpose is to help as many people as I can before leaving earth. People have helped me who I will not be able to thank, so I need to help others.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
My core belief is that I am a child of GOD. As a result, I try to put the needs of others before mine. The things that help maintain that include daily devotions, interactions with people, and just having a positive outlook on life. I own a print by Gilbert Young (He Ain’t Heavy). That tells you a lot about me. Additionally, two of my recent books have been, “The Best Practices of Fasting: The Chosen Fast” and “The Lies Men Believe”.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
* Funding public school education
* Regional economic growth
* Protecting personal freedoms
* State worker pay with teacher pay and law enforcement pay at the top
* Government accountability and state services available in all areas
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
This is a “black and white” question that deserves a “grey” answer (Faced with feeding a hungry child, does the struggling father let his child get hungrier or ask the state for assistance?) My grey answer is, “It all depends.” After speaking with over 1,700 people from the 100 counties, I have learned that the people of North Carolina don’t mind helping others who really need help.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Still trying to help people on a one-on-one level. The position of Lieutenant Governor isn’t going to change me as a person.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am going to make an assumption and think that you believe in long-term planning. The position of NC Lieutenant Governor is one of “influence”… not power. I will be an advocate for the five things I listed above. If the state plans for the future, it will be in a position to better meet the needs of the future. I would like your support, but if you get to know me as a father, you will learn my character and then it is up to you to decide. As a father, I tried to rear my children with three core values: 1) Have a personal relationship with GOD, 2) Be the best citizen you can, and 3) Do your best at whatever you attempt.
Specific Questions for NC Lieutenant Governor – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
These are two separate questions and should not be grouped:
Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana?
Yes. On or about 3 Feb 2023, I was at the Wake Forest Walmart and I met an elderly lady from Florida. She shared with me how CBD was prescribed to her and how it helped her with her pain. Before that encounter, I was against any type of marijuana legalization.
Do you think North Carolina should legalize gambling casinos?
No.
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
“§ 90-21.10B. Parental consent for treatment. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this Article or by court order, a health care practitioner shall not provide, solicit, or arrange treatment for a minor child without first obtaining written or documented consent from that minor child’s parent. (b) Except as otherwise provided in this Article or by court order, a health care facility shall not allow treatment to be performed on a minor child in its facility without first obtaining written or documented consent from that minor child’s parent. (c) This section does not apply to services provided by a clinical laboratory unless the services are delivered through a direct encounter with the minor child at the clinical laboratory facility. “§ 90-21.10C. Penalty. A health care practitioner or other person that violates this section is subject to disciplinary action by the board that licensed, certified, or otherwise authorized the health care practitioner to provide treatment, including a fine of up to five thousand dollars ($5,000).”
The above seems be appropriate as it stands.
Republican Deanna Ballard NC Lieutenant Governor
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I grew up in Lincoln County, the middle daughter of a school teacher and a logger. My parents worked six jobs at times – I remember Dad’s hour-plus commutes to a logging job, and the uncertainty when he was laid off at the Bowater paper mill.
Because of my parents’ work and devotion, I was the first person in my family to graduate from a four-year college, and I’ve stayed true to that scrappy, blue-collar ethic my whole life.
In 2009, I started working with the Rev. Franklin Graham and family at Billy Graham’s ministry in Charlotte, and Samaritan’s Purse, in Boone. I helped expand the organization’s charitable work, including North Carolina’s own people devastated by natural disasters.
In 2016, I ran for office for the first time to make sure the resilient people of Western North Carolina had a strong conservative voice in Raleigh. In the state Senate, I focused relentlessly on empowering parents in their children’s schooling, just as my parents empowered me.
I worked closely with Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson on his task force uncovering political indoctrination in public schools and fought to focus all levels of education on the skills needed to thrive in the workforce.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I read the Bible for guidance in all things. My personal relationship with Jesus Christ is rooted in God’s Word. Hearing, believing, and obeying are critical to building up others and speaking truth even when it’s not easy.
Another book in recent years that has been helpful in how to lead during these divisive times is Faithful Presence – The Promise and The Peril of Faith in the Public Square by former TN Governor Bill Haslam. It focused on the importance of being faithful to God’s Word no matter what political party you’re in, how to speak truth in love with grace and mercy and the value of humility when leading and serving the public.
I occasionally listen to classic sermons by Billy Graham, speeches by former Presidents such as Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush. All have impacted me in how I serve, why I serve and who we’re serving during these challenging times.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
First is protecting kids from the woke agenda. I focused relentlessly in the Senate on empowering parents. I helped write the Parents’ Bill of Rights and authored multiple bills championing school choice. In 2020 I went toe-to-toe with Roy Cooper and Mandy Cohen to order the schools reopened.
Second is focusing on working family needs. I’ve long championed economic policies that focus on skills training and don’t center on a college education. Too many students take on crushing student loan debt – and for what? Often a job that pays less than “blue collar” work.
Three is preserving conservative family values: Biological males should not be competing against women in sports. We all have a right to gun ownership. Illegal immigrants need to be deported, not protected in sanctuary cities.
Fourth is securing elections. The sanctity of the ballot box is the bedrock of self-government. That’s why I helped lead the effort to finally make photo voter ID a reality in North Carolina. As Lt. Governor, I’ll fight for election integrity efforts that eliminate voter fraud and ensure one person, one vote.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cutting spending! People in Congress need only look to North Carolina to learn what happens when you keep taxes and spending low. In the state legislature, we lowered taxes on families and businesses, we kept spending to responsible levels and focused only on what government should be funding (like roads, bridges, and education), and we socked away enough money in the Rainy Day Fund to withstand a downturn even worse than the Great Recession.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I decided long ago to leave my life and my future in God’s hands. I believe I’m called to serve and help sort out the mess that this country has gotten itself into, but that’s for God to decide, not me.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I’m a family-first conservative running for Lieutenant Governor because our financial security and constitutional freedoms are in jeopardy. I dedicated my life to fighting for our children and serving working families – the backbone of North Carolina. They’ve been stretched thin by inflation, looked down upon by elites, and told their way of thinking and worshipping is no longer mainstream. Enough is enough!
Specific Questions for NC Lieutenant Governor – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
I do not support legalizing marijuana as we’ve seen in other states like Colorado. However, I have voted for very limited use of medical marijuana, in very specific cases such as cancer, epilepsy, ALS, or any condition resulting in hospice care.
The long term effects of casinos are harmful and costly to families and communities. While the job creation and budgetary impact are tangible benefits, I believe there are other, better ways of creating jobs in rural communities and balancing our budget. North Carolina has a robust economy already. We should keep our focus on lowering taxes and equipping the workforce with the skills and education needed.
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
I helped write the Parents’ Bill of Rights, and I was thrilled when it became law last year. I think the bill is a great step toward truly empowering parents, not government bureaucrats, to decide what’s best for a child. I am certainly open to requiring parental consent for all medical care of minors. When I was growing up, “minor” meant someone who isn’t an adult and therefore can’t make major health and life decisions. Somehow in the past few years society seems to have lost its way. The family is the core unit of our country, and nobody should be trying to substitute their judgment for mom and dad’s.
Republican Peter Boykin NC Lieutenant Governor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Peter Boykin (born May 13, 1977) is an American activist and political candidate for NC Lt Governor. In November 2022, Boykin declared his candidacy in the 2024 North Carolina lieutenant gubernatorial election. Peter Boykin was born in Florida and grew up in Virginia. He now resides in North Carolina. His parents were conservative Catholics who campaigned for Ronald Reagan.
He holds an associate degree in information systems technology from Danville Community College, a Bachelor of Science in web development, a Master of Science (M.S.) in information security and assurance from Purdue University, and a M.S. in e-commerce and entrepreneurship from Purdue.
More info: Peter Boykin – Wikipedia
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
I keep up with multiple publications, and research to help me come up with options on politics. I was raised a Catholic and even went to a Catholic School from 5th to 9th grade.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Everything comes down to Infrastructure, Jobs, and Education, that is what needs to be addressed.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
We do not need to increase taxes; we just need to learn how to spend within our means.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I would hope in a Political Office, otherwise a nice job.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I believe in the power of our Constitution, and I believe that when you are in office your job is to defend our rights given in that grand document. I believe we need to work towards issues that ALL citizens have issues with and need, that’s all about Infrastructure, Jobs, and education.
Specific Questions for NC Lieutenant Governor – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
I believe that the legalization of medical marijuana and recreational should be allowed. It should be regulated like China and Alcohol. As for Casinos it would bring a great increase in taxable income for the state. (I also do not believe these are a right or left issue as some try to put them in)
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
I feel that public schools need to work with parents on the educational needs of the students. I don’t believe that our public schools should be making any medical care decisions for the minors without parental consent, unless there are major issues of child abuse from the parents, or fear of harm from the parents. Even then only counseling is what I would agree with.
Republican Rivera Douthit NC Lieutenant Governor
General Questions
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
• I am a wife of 28 years to my husband, David. We have 2 adult children, Hunter and Haley. We’ve owned a successful plumbing business in Mooresville, NC for 20+ years. My career background includes critical care nursing; women’s ministry and I’ve authored several books. Apart from sharing the gospel internationally I have hosted and spoken for conferences and retreats across the country.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
• The Bible has formed my core beliefs. I see the world through a biblical lens. Also, I am passionate about the founding documents of our country, the Declaration of Independence and The Constitution which are largely written on biblical principles.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Education
• Keep the children safe
• Ensure curriculums are teaching the truth rather than indoctrination
• Put Bible and prayer back in the schools
Eradicate human trafficking as we are in the top 10 in the nation
Economy
• Eliminate useless spending
• Encourage creativity/Capitalism to promote economic growth
• Eliminate government overreach
• Bring large businesses into rural areas to jumpstart growth in those areas
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
• Support cutting spending
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
• The Lord has called me to this position. Holy Spirit will guide me into what’s next.
6. Why should I vote for you?
• I am NOT a politician.
• I am a mother and believe women can bring something unique to the conversation, especially the heart of a mother.
• From my years as a critical care nurse, I’m a team worker and great at leading. I stay calm and easily prioritize to make important decisions in high stress environments, which could be needed in the days ahead.
• Also, I admit I don’t have all the answers and have a willingness to surround myself with wise counsel. I’m teachable but also capable of finding the answers needed and great at creating solutions. Also, I depend on the Holy Spirit for guidance in all things.
• From my years in ministry with women, I work well with people and believe the best leaders are servants first. Also, I’ve been influencing and encouraging people with truth for years. The position of Lt. Governor influences to build bridges between the legislative and executive branches. Having the personality and anointing to influence, is important in this role.
• As an author of 2 books, I believe in finishing what you start.
• As a business owner, leadership, time management and budgeting are all skills; I will bring to the table. All of these are key skills for the position of Lt. Governor
Specific Questions for NC Lieutenant Governor – Legislative
11. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
• No
12. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
• Yes
Rivera Douthit
rivera4nc.com
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us…” Ephesians 3:20
Republican Jeffrey Elmore NC Lieutenant Governor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Representative Jeffrey Elmore is a conservative candidate for North Carolina Lieutenant Governor and proudly represents the 94th House District in the North Carolina House of Representatives.
A true son of Wilkes County, Jeffrey’s roots run deep into its soil. He is a distinguished North Carolina Teaching Fellow and an alumnus of Appalachian State University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. Upon graduation, he started working in the classroom and is currently in his twenty-third year as a dedicated teacher in Wilkes County Schools.
A keen advocate for education, Jeffrey held the presidency of Professional Educators of North Carolina (PENC). His commitment to moving North Carolina forward is echoed in his service on the board of the Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission (BROC), an organization that supervises the Head Start program and supports underprivileged citizens in Wilkes, Ashe, and Alleghany counties.
Together with his wife Laura and their children, Jeffrey continues to call North Wilkesboro home. He is a conservative who gets things done. As your Lieutenant Governor, Jeffrey Elmore will be a champion of conservative values and will always work for a brighter future for North Carolina.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
Bible, NC Constitution, US Constitution
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
education, economy, workforce development
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
cutting spreading
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I do not know. I rely on prayer and faith to guide me.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am a principled conservative that has a proven track record of getting things accomplished. The Lt. Governor is a liaison position between the legislative and executive branch. I have the established relationships in place because of my service as a Representative and the overall knowledge needed because of my role as a full Appropriations Chair in the House.
Specific Questions for NC Lieutenant Governor – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
At this time, no. I have concerns about the structure of the proposals with both issues.
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
I am open to that discussion. There is a great deal of push back from medical interests about this change. We must do what we can to protect children who have minimal legal rights of their own.
Republican Allen Mashburn NC Lieutenant Governor
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
Allen Mashburn is a leading candidate in the race for the 36th Lieutenant Governor of North Carolina, boasting an extensive background in Christian ministry spanning three decades. His enduring partnership with his wife of twenty-four years, Melissa, has flourished while raising four children: Zachary, Lexi, Haley, and John Luke. Mashburn’s voice resonates on influential platforms such as American Family Radio, The Jenna Ellis Show, The Eric Metaxas Show, The David Webb Show, Indivisible with John Stubbins, Real America’s Voice Television, Human Events with Jack Pesobeic, and The Dinesh D’Sousa Show.
He’s also a Contributing Author to American Greatness, The Blaze Media, and The Stream. Endorsements from both state and national figures—ranging from Veterans for Trump, Students for Trump, acclaimed swim champion and women’s sports activist Riley Gaines, fair-minded civil rights attorney Leo Terrell (known as Leo 2.0), Eric Metaxas, Duck Dynasty star John Godwin, and the substantial 47,000-member-strong Oil & Gas Workers Association—highlight Mashburn’s commitment to an America-First platform. This underscores his unwavering dedication to American and North Carolina values. Mashburn’s bold convictions and principled stance have provided him with a national platform to fearlessly speak the truth.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible, of which I believe to be the infallible, inerrant, and inspired Word of God; as well as the Constitutions of the United States and State of North Carolina.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
Inappropriate books in school libraries, DEI/SEL/CRT in the educational system— I want it gone and return to academics (including US History). I want to see a Joint-Taskforce formed to eradicate human trafficking and the fentanyl crisis in NC. I want to see Constitutional Carry made law. I want to initiate a Constitutional Amendment to make the State Board of Education positions elected by the people and their term shortened from 8 years (currently) to two year terms (in accordance with the legislative terms).
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
Cut spending.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I want to see myself at the next lieutenant governor that has much of the ideas detailed above— a good start and implementation of them. I have no desire to be a career politician, I only want to make a substantial difference for my children and their children.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I am the only candidate in my race that has been fighting for children and liberty. For three years, we have fought to remove books that are pornographic and completely inappropriate for children. Just a few weeks ago, while continuing this fight and running for a statewide office, we were able to see four books removed from the Moore County School System.
My father died in a nursing care facility during the covid shutdown. We were threatened with law enforcement if we dared to defy the rules. We did defy the rules, but we only were able to spend 43 minutes with him before he passed away the next day. I have experienced a microcosm of what a tyrannical government can do, and I don’t want any part of it. I am running for prevent that from ever happening again.
I am one of the few pastors that sued the governor because he closed the churches during covid. We won. I know how to stand and say “No.”
Finally, I am the only candidate with a plan. I would invite everyone to read our Contract with North Carolina on our website, Allen4NC.com.
Specific Questions for – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
A hard NO on casinos! I was the only candidate (to my knowledge) who came out and voiced heavy opposition to this, which in turn gave me a couple of death threats.
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
The Parent’s Bill of Rights MUSTbe revised and include what you stated AND it must have more teeth in it. As is, there are no penalties. A law is not a law without the penalty of breaking that law.
Republican Hal Weatherman NC Lieutenant Governor
General Questions –
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
I am a husband, father of three, and a candidate seeking the Republican nomination for the office of Lieutenant Governor. A native of North Carolina, I received my undergraduate degree from Wake Forest University and my Master’s Degree from Wheaton College. I am the founder and President of the Electoral Education Foundation, a 501-c3 non profit organization dedicated to advancing election integrity efforts in North Carolina. I served as Chief of Staff to former North Carolina Lt. Governor Dan Forest and former US Representative Sue Myrick. I am a published author and have advised many Conservative candidates and campaigns over the last three decades. I am open about my Christian faith, my love for my family and my call to serve others.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible is the foundational document I use to develop my principles and values. Outside of the Word of God, I believe in the Federal and State constitutions and will abide by their restrictions placed on the government.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
In short, my campaign is about making our state and our people self-sufficient. First, I want to use the authority of the office to fundamentally remove the stigma our society has placed on working in the trades. The Lt. Governor serves on the State Board of Education and the State Board of Community Colleges, providing a unique opportunity of influence to advance a new culture in our state that values entrepreneurship, trade work and small business ownership.
North Carolina’s apprenticeship program is not well advertised or easily navigated. When elected Lt. Governor, I will streamline the Apprenticeship program and work to give tax incentives to participating companies. North Carolina should be number one in Apprenticeships and I will accept nothing less.
Second, agriculture is our state’s number one industry, but North Carolina’s primary agriculture market is still the fresh market. With the global population now eclipsing 8 billion people, we have a God given geographic advantage and opportunity to feed the world. With the right investments, our agriculture industry will rapidly make the transition from the fresh market to the global market. I will advocate for investments into our ports (including inland ports and intermodal systems), cold storage facilities, and connectivity between farms and distribution hubs.
Finally, I believe the day of reckoning is coming for our state and country. It could be a financial calamity, geopolitical havoc, or some other form of mass disruption. We need a strong limited government Constitutional Conservative Governor and Lt. Governor who have the ability to set a vision for the state that allows our people to thrive when our federal government is no longer able to be depended upon and who will protect our civil liberties at all costs.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I will always prioritize cutting spending before asking for more taxes from the people of North Carolina. To do so, I will launch a comprehensive database of all contracts that are let by the State of North Carolina regardless of the state agency of origin. No such publicly available resource currently exists, which denies the people transparency of the use of their money. Likewise, I will launch a similar comprehensive user-friendly database of every disbursement or line item of our state budget – again for complete transparency to the people.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Ideally, I will be serving as the Lt. Governor of North Carolina. Regardless of future election outcomes, I will be advocating and advancing the conservative movement in North Carolina.
6. Why should I vote for you?
I have served as Chief of Staff for the previous Lt. Governor Dan Forest as well as Chief of Staff to US Rep. Sue Myrick. There will be no on the job training if I serve as Lt. Governor. I believe Mark Robinson will serve as the next Governor and North Carolina and I would like to use my experience to help him set up a new administration that puts him on a path to success.
Specific Questions for NC Lieutenant Governor – Legislative
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
No.
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
Yes.
NC Governor
Republican Dale R. Folwell NC Governor
1. Short biography – (200 words or less, please)
1/3 Blue collar from age 10 to 26 (took shower at the end of the day) motorcycle mechanic, garbage collector
1/3 White collar- Investment analyst
1/3 Public service (WSFC School Board, NC House, Asst. Secretary of Commerce, 1st elected Republican Treasurer since President Grant.
Married 35 years to Synthia with 3 children.
2. What books/documents/principles/sources do you rely on that form your core beliefs?
The Bible, NC Constitution and Websters dictionary.
3. Name the top 3 to 5 items that you want to address if elected.
*Return State Government to a culture of conservatism (to save), common sense, (not common), humility, (owning mistakes), ethics (what you do when powerful people want you to look the other way)
*Protect NC from the Federal Government’s inability to protect our borders or our economy because of their addition to debt.
*Bring low-cost natural gas to eastern NC.
*Remove the bigotry of low expectations in education by acknowledging that God made each of our students possibly better at (not better than) anyone else in the world.
*Clean up the election and voting process in NC to remove any doubt that a voting is secure.
*Enforce the laws of NC, obey the constitution.
*Pass a constitutional carry bill.
4. Faced with budget shortfalls, would you support cutting spending or increasing taxes?
I would address a shortfall by cutting spending. A Folwell Governorship will have a process in place that anticipates and deals with government shortfalls.
*As per the constitution, the governor originates the budget. I’ll be the first Governor in NC history to institute zero based budgeting, a longstanding goal of CCTA .
*Except for pension, healthcare and debt service, every budget item will be zeroed out to determine its viability.
*We will calculate NC’s financial exposure to a Federal Government which is addicted to debt.
*If an unforeseen shortfall occurs, we will convene the Council of State to get to the right outcome for citizens and taxpayers.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Finishing my first term as the 76th Governor of NC who was known as a leader of the people who restored confidence in government through conservatism, common sense, courtesy, humility and ethics.
6. Why should I vote for you?
In the last two Presidential elections, I’m the only Republican in NC history to receive every newspaper endorsement , State Employees endorsement, every law enforcement group’s endorsement, more votes than President Trump in both of his elections and received over half a million votes more than Josh Stein. I will be a constitutional Governor who will never turn my back on the Constitution, the Plan of Organization, and the Grassroots. I live by former Governor Jim Martin’s motto (who recently endorsed me), that “being right is rarely wrong”. I also don’t mind being wrong for the right reason.
l1. Do you think North Carolina should legalize medical marijuana and gambling casinos?
I’ve never consumed alcohol or drugs but have said publically that I would support a highly regulated medical marijuana program for pain relief. In terms of gambling, I’m the only candidate for NC Governor who has voted against the lottery and sweepstakes. I am opposed to “casinoizing” North Carolina.
l2. Do you think the Parents’ Bill of Rights (Session Law 2023-106) should be revised to mandate parental consent for ALL medical care of minors and create meaningful civil penalties for violation of this law?
I’m totally in favor of the Parents Bill of Rights and as Governor will look for every opportunity to let parents be parents. That will include an amendment to include parental consent.
No reply yet
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Denise Magwood |
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Elbert Garvey |
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Michele Halley |
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Mat Hamm |
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Melissa Oakley |
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Erin Urbanski |
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Phillip Williams |
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Pete Benton |
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Chimer Clark |
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Keith Moore |
Carteret County Board Of Commissioners District 05 |
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Eddie Bo Wheatly |
Carteret County Board Of Commissioners District 05 |
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William (Bill) Boone |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Paul Buchanan |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Cheryl Coulson |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Republican |
John Davis |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Republican |
Robin L. Knapp |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Republican |
Debra Watkins Morton |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Republican |
Tony Padgett |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Republican |
Walter J. Scott |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Republican |
John Yopp |
Onslow County Board Of Commissioners |
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Republican |
Chris Freeman |
NC Court Of Appeals Judge Seat 15 |
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Republican |
Hunter Murphy |
NC Court Of Appeals Judge Seat 15 |
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Democrat |
Allison Riggs |
NC Supreme Court Associate Justice Seat 06 |
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Democrat |
Linda G. Moore |
NC House Of Representatives District 003 |
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Democrat |
Dorothea Downing White |
NC House Of Representatives District 003 |
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Democrat |
Melvin Cooper |
NC House Of Representatives District 013 |
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Democrat |
Katie Tomberlin |
NC House Of Representatives District 013 |
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Republican |
Wyatt Gable |
NC House Of Representatives District 014 |
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Democrat |
Natasha Marcus |
NC Commissioner Of Insurance |
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Democrat |
David Wheeler |
NC Commissioner Of Insurance |
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Republican |
Mike Causey |
NC Commissioner Of Insurance |
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Republican |
Luke Farley |
NC Commissioner Of Labor |
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Republican |
Jon Hardister |
NC Commissioner Of Labor |
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Republican |
Chuck Stanley |
NC Commissioner Of Labor |
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Republican |
Colby (Bear) Hammonds |
NC Commissioner Of Agriculture |
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Republican |
Steve Troxler |
NC Commissioner Of Agriculture |
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Democrat |
Jeff Jackson |
NC Attorney General |
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Democrat |
Kenon Crumble |
NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction |
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Democrat |
C.R. Katie Eddings |
NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction |
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Democrat |
Maurice (Mo) Green |
NC Superintendent Of Public Instruction |
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Democrat |
Wesley Harris |
NC Treasurer |
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Republican |
Brad Briner |
NC Treasurer |
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Republican |
A. J. Daoud |
NC Treasurer |
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Republican |
Chad Brown |
NC Secretary Of State |
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Democrat |
Ben Clark |
NC Lieutenant Governor |
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Democrat |
Rachel Hunt |
NC Lieutenant Governor |
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Republican |
Marlenis Hernandez Novoa |
NC Lieutenant Governor |
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Republican |
Jim O’neill |
NC Lieutenant Governor |
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Republican |
Sam Page |
NC Lieutenant Governor |
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Republican |
Ernest T. Reeves |
NC Lieutenant Governor |
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Republican |
Seth Woodall |
NC Lieutenant Governor |
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Democrat |
Chrelle Booker |
NC Governor |
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Democrat |
Gary Foxx |
NC Governor |
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Democrat |
Michael R. (Mike) Morgan |
NC Governor |
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Democrat |
Josh Stein |
NC Governor |
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Democrat |
Marcus W. Williams |
NC Governor |
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Libertarian |
Shannon W. Bray |
NC Governor |
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Libertarian |
Mike Ross |
NC Governor |
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Republican |
Bill Graham |
NC Governor |
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Republican |
Mark Robinson |
NC Governor |
