In North Carolina and Lenoir County, voters have a diverse candidate landscape to consider when making choices. From local races to statewide elections, candidates may vary in their platforms, experience, and priorities. It’s important for voters to research each candidate’s background, policies, and values to make informed decisions that align with your personal beliefs and vision for the future. This directory serves to inform and empower your vote!
National
US Vice President: Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris is a prominent American politician and attorney, serving as the Vice President of the United States. As the National Democratic Nominee for President, she champions progressive policies focused on social justice, healthcare reform, and climate change. Harris made history as the first woman, first Black woman, and first person of South Asian descent to hold the vice presidency. Kamala has a background in law and public service, she aims to unite the nation and address the challenges facing American families.
US Vice President Tim Walz
Tim Walz is the current Governor of Minnesota, known for his commitment to public service and community engagement. A former high school teacher and a veteran of the U.S. Army, he brings a unique perspective to leadership and education. As a Democratic candidate for Vice President alongside Kamala Harris, Walz focuses on issues such as healthcare, education reform, and climate change. His dedication to building a more inclusive and equitable society resonates among voters seeking progressive change.
US House of Representative District 01: Donald (Don) Davis
North Carolina Congressman Don Davis brings a wealth of experience and dedication to serving his constituents. His focus on community needs and legislative advocacy sets him apart in his role.
State
NC Governor: Josh Stein
Josh Stein, a tireless advocate for justice and equality, is dedicated to bringing positive change to North Carolina as a candidate for governor. With a background in law and a passion for serving the people, Josh Stein is committed to prioritizing the well-being of every resident in the state. Josh is a leader who will work tirelessly to address the needs and concerns of all.
NC Lieutenant Governor: Rachel Hunt
Rachel Hunt is a Democratic Candidate running for North Carolina Lieutenant Governor. With a background in public service, Hunt is passionate about advocating for education and healthcare reform. As a dedicated community leader, she is committed to representing the needs of all North Carolinians. Her platform focuses on creating a more inclusive and equitable future for the state.
NC Attorney General: Jeff Jackson
Democratic candidate Jeff Jackson is vying for the position of North Carolina Attorney General, bringing with him a wealth of experience in law and public service. Known for his commitment to upholding justice and defending the rights of individuals, Jackson is a respected state senator with a strong record of advocating for transparency and accountability. His vision for the role includes enhancing law enforcement practices and promoting fair treatment for all residents of North Carolina. Jeff Jackson’s campaign focuses on building a more just legal system in NC.
NC Auditor: Jessica Holmes
Jessica Holmes, a dedicated attorney and politician, currently serves as the 18th North Carolina State Auditor. Jessica brings a background in employment law and experience as the Chair of the Wake County Board of Commissioners, Jessica brings a strong commitment to integrity, accountability, and transparency to her role. Her focus on improving government services, identifying wasteful spending, and ensuring programs serve the public good.
NC Commissioner of Agriculture: Sarah Taber
Sarah Taber, a North Carolina Democratic candidate for Commissioner of Agriculture, is a passionate advocate for the state’s rural economy. With deep roots in agriculture and a career focused on bringing new people into the farming industry, Sarah understands the importance of making agriculture a viable livelihood. Her three-part plan aims to invest in the countryside, focusing on what we grow, who makes a living in agriculture, and how we do business.
NC Commissioner of Insurance: Natasha Marcus
Natasha Marcus, a long-time servant of the people of NC, is a dedicated advocate for affordable, quality insurance coverage. She has a focus on transparency, accountability, and advocating for the people’s best interests, Natasha aims to ensure fair rates, honest coverage, and smart regulation.
NC Commissioner of Labor: Braxton Winston II
Braxton Winston II, a former Mayor Pro Tem of Charlotte and a proud union member, is running as the Democratic nominee for North Carolina Commissioner of Labor and brings a focus on worker representation and safety, Braxton aims to address the understaffing and lack of worker protections in the Department of Labor. His experience in municipal leadership and as a labor leader positions him to build coalitions and advocate for the common good of North Carolina’s workforce and business communities.
NC Secretary of State: Elaine Marshall
Elaine Marshall, a trailblazer in North Carolina politics, made history in 1996 as the first woman elected to a statewide executive office in the state. Serving as the North Carolina Secretary of State since then, Elaine has been re-elected six times, demonstrating her dedication and effectiveness in the role. She has been recognized for her work in modernizing the office, introducing e-commerce, and implementing online registration for lobbyists and businesses.
NC Superintendent of Public Instruction: Maurice (Mo) Green
Maurice “Mo” Green, a former superintendent of Guilford County Schools and general counsel for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, is running as the Democratic candidate for North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction. Mo brings a deep admiration for educators and a belief in the transformative value of public education, Mo Green aims to improve the system by increasing funding, preparing students for life after graduation, and recognizing the positive aspects of public schools.
NC Treasurer: Wesley Harris
Wesley Harris is a dedicated public servant with a passion for financial responsibility and transparency. With a background in finance and a commitment to serving the people of North Carolina, Wesley Harris is running for State Treasurer to ensure a secure financial future for all residents.
NC House of Representatives District 12: Lillie Williams
Lillie Williams is a dedicated Democratic candidate running for the North Carolina House of Representatives in District 0 and brings over 30 years of experience in education as a classroom teacher, school administrator, and director of education. Lillie has a deep understanding of the needs of the community. As an ordained minister and volunteer chaplain, she is committed to serving the people and improving their quality of life. Lillie is passionate about decreasing poverty, increasing economic equality, fully funding public education, ensuring affordable housing, and protecting voting rights.
NC State Senate District 03: Charles T. Dudley
Charles T. Dudley is a Democratic candidate running for the North Carolina State Senate to represent District 3. Charles and brings a background as a United States Marine and a minister. He is committed to making a difference by prioritizing issues such as improving public education, reducing the incarceration rate, raising the minimum wage, ensuring access to affordable healthcare, protecting the environment, enacting sensible gun regulations, and fighting against gerrymandering. His goal is to be a fair and compassionate representative who listens to his constituents and works in their best interests.
Local
Lenoir County Board of Commissioner: Linda Rouse Sutton
Linda Rouse Sutton is a dedicated public servant and a familiar name in Lenoir County politics. As the Chair of the Lenoir County Commissioners, she has played a pivotal role in bringing positive changes to the community by using a focus on infrastructure development, economic growth, and collaboration. Sutton has worked tirelessly to attract businesses, improve public safety, and address the needs of the county.
Lenoir County Board of Commissioners: June S. Cummings
June S. Cummings is a dedicated public servant and a respected member of the Lenoir County Board of Commissioners and has a strong background in community advocacy and leadership. She is committed to addressing the needs of the county, promoting economic growth, and ensuring the well-being of its residents.
Lenoir County Board of Commissioners District 04: Preston L. Harris
Preston L. Harris is a dedicated public servant and a member of the Lenoir County Board of Commissioners representing District 04. and has a background originally in contracting. Harris is committed to addressing the needs of the community and working towards its growth and development.
Lenoir County Board of Commissioner: Sammy C. Aiken
Sammy C. Aiken is a dedicated public servant and a candidate for the Lenoir County Board of Commissioners. Sammy is as a retired Navy veteran and currently has 12 years of service on the Kinston City Council. Aiken brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to improving the quality of life for all county residents. He is focused on enhancing infrastructure, supporting small businesses, and addressing issues such as unemployment and public safety.
Lenoir County Board of Education At-Large: Bruce E. Hill
Bruce E. Hill is a dedicated public servant and a member of the Lenoir County Board of Education, representing the At-Large position with extensive experience in education and a commitment to the community, which he has been serving on for five terms and currently serves as Board Chair. He has undergone professional development through the North Carolina School Boards Association and has built strong relationships with stakeholders in the education system. Bruce prioritizes transparency and open communication, ensuring that the public is informed about important issues affecting students and the community.
Lenoir County Board of Education At-Large: Merwyn K. Smith
Merwyn K. Smith is a dedicated public servant and a member of the Lenoir County Board of Education, representing the At-Large position and brings a strong background in education and a passion for student success. He is committed to ensuring quality education for all students, promoting innovative teaching methods, and addressing the needs of the community.
Dr. Kimberly Outlaw is a dedicated member of the Lenoir County Board of Education, representing District 03. Outlaw is committed to ensuring quality education for all students in the district. She is passionate about creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment that fosters academic growth and personal development.
Lenoir County Board of Education District 04: Elijah Woods
Elijah Woods is a dedicated member of the Lenoir County Board of Education, representing District 04 delivering a strong commitment to education and a passion for student success. He is focused on creating a positive learning environment, promoting academic excellence, and addressing the needs of students and parents in the district.
Lenoir County Register of Deeds: Treva Jenkins
Treva Jenkins is a dedicated public servant serving as the Lenoir County Register of Deeds and has a wealth of experience with a strong commitment to serving the community. Jenkins ensures the accurate and secure recording of land records, vital records, and other important documents wit an attention to detail. Her professionalism and dedication to providing excellent customer service make her an invaluable asset to the Lenoir County Register of Deeds office. Her expertise and commitment to upholding the integrity of public records contribute to the smooth functioning of the county’s legal and administrative processes.
Judicial
NC Supreme Court Associate Justice Seat 6: Allison Riggs
Allison Riggs currently serves as the Associate Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court for Seat 6. She was appointed by Governor Roy Cooper in September 2023. With a background in civil rights advocacy and grassroots work, Riggs brings a passion for justice and equity to her role. She has a strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and using her position to advocate for the rights of all North Carolinians.
NC Court of Appeals Seat 12: Carolyn Jennings Thompson
Carolyn Jennings Thompson serves on the North Carolina Court of Appeals, which she was appointed by Governor Roy Cooper in 2023 to fill. Prior to her appointment, Thompson served as a Deputy Commissioner on the North Carolina Industrial Commission and as a District Court Judge and Superior Court Judge in District 9. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Hampton University and a Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law.
NC Court of Appeals Seat 14: Ed Eldred
Ed Eldred is a distinguished judge currently serving on the North Carolina Court of Appeals for Seat 14. Ed has a wealth of experience in the legal field, Eldred brings a deep understanding of the intricacies of the appellate process. Known for his fair and impartial approach, he is committed to upholding the principles of justice and ensuring that every case is carefully considered.
NC Court of Appeals Seat 15: Martin E. Moore
Martin E. Moore is a highly respected judge currently serving on the North Carolina Court of Appeals for Seat 15. He has a strong background in law and a commitment to upholding justice, Moore brings a wealth of experience to the bench. Known for his fair and impartial approach, he is dedicated to ensuring that every case is carefully considered and decided upon based on the merits.
NC Superior Court Judge District 09A: Imelda J. Pate
Imelda J. Pate is a highly esteemed judge serving in the North Carolina Superior Court for District 09A. Imelda has a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to justice and brings a fair and impartial approach to the bench. Known for her dedication to upholding the law and ensuring a fair trial process, she is respected by colleagues and litigants alike.
NC District 09 Court Judge Seat: Jon Sargeant
Jon Sargeant is a highly respected attorney and former chairman of the Lenoir County School Board. Recently appointed as the District Court Judge for District 8 by Governor Roy Cooper, Sargeant brings a wealth of legal experience to the bench. He has over 22 years of law practice and he is a North Carolina Board Certified Specialist in Family Law. Jon is dedicated to public service and his commitment to upholding justice make him a valuable addition to the District Court.
NOTICE: all photos have been sourced from public resources including but not limited to: Wikimedia/Wikipedia, directly from candidate websites and/or public/social websites. Bios are researched from public sources and intended to be presented as informative and without bias as possible.