Voter Guide Wake County NC Election 2022 (Part 1)

Party: Democrat

Background: I have served my community for more than 25 years, as an attorney, a civil rights advocate, a State Legislator with a record of bipartisan accomplishment, and now as the Congresswoman for North Carolina’s Second Congressional District.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
I am working hard to help lower prescription drug prices, invest in infrastructure, continue to push for racial justice, and expand voting rights. Since taking office, I have gotten multiple bipartisan laws signed into law that deliver real results for the people of North Carolina.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: Abortion is still legal in North Carolina, and we must do everything in our power to keep it that way. In Congress, I have supported critical legislation such as the Women’s Health Protection Act, Ensuring Women’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act, and Right to Contraception Act.

Website: DeborahRoss.com

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

Background: First and foremost, I’m a husband and father of 2. I’ve spent two terms serving North Carolina families in the State Senate. I worked for President Obama during some of his toughest fights to deliver affordable healthcare, and VP Al Gore before him.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Working for two White House’s and in the NC Senate, I’ve learned to build coalitions to get results for working people. I’m running for Congress to reach across the aisle and lower the cost of healthcare, build a strong economy, and protect reproductive rights.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: The rising cost of living has been hitting working families hard in NC13. In Congress, I’ll crack down on price gouging, support investments that bolster our supply chains and transportation routes, invest in the Manufacturing USA program, and prepare our workforce for the next generation of jobs.

Website: WileyNickelForCongress.com

Party: Democrat

Background: I have been a civil rights lawyer for the past 27 years. I am running for the NC Senate because I believe in public service, and that we are here to make a difference. I have spent my legal career trying to do just that.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
I am prioritizing economic justice issues like good jobs/wages, public education, access to healthcare (including reproductive rights), and voting rights. These affect the daily lives of North Carolinians because they are building blocks of freedom and a good life.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I support codification of Roe in state law, as well as eliminating burdensome and medically unnecessary regulations on providers. These restrictions are designed to limit the availability of abortion care and have a disproportionate effect on those in rural communities and communities of color.

Website: LisaGrafstein.com

Party: Libertarian

no response from candidate

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Libertarian

Background: Raised in a military family, I have lived in NC since 2001. I have a Business Degree from NC Wesleyan that I earned while raising a family and working two jobs. I am married with 4 grown children. I am an Ops Manager with a team of 40+ personnel.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Expand school choice and give parents more control over their children’s educational options and dollars. Reduce regulation so that people are free to choose how they live and work.  Restore trust in our justice system by limiting qualified immunity, pre-trial incarcerations, and no-knock warrants.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: We have inflation because too much money is chasing too few goods. We should immediately suspend zoning laws that prevent developers from creating new low-cost housing and we should create an economic environment that is conducive to increasing the supply of gas, groceries, and transportation.

Website: Matt4NC.us

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

Background: I have served in the General Assembly for over 35 years in both the House and the Senate. I served as Speaker of the House 1991-1994, and as Senate Democratic Leader since 2015. I have practiced law for over 40 years in Raleigh.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Medicaid expansion, restore funding and respect to public schools, and protect/expand the rights of North Carolinians.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: We need to hold the line in North Carolina on abortion access by protecting current law that allows for abortions up to 20 weeks. In order to do that, we need to protect the veto in 2022, and expand our Democratic seats in the legislature in 2022-2024.

Website: DanBlueForSenate.org

Party: Democrat

Background: He has spent his career fighting for the people of North Carolina. For two decades, he has worked at the highest levels of all three branches in state government, including senior counsel at the Department of Justice and Department of State Treasurer.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
First, I plan to continue to advocate we meet our state constitutional obligation for every child to receive a “sound, basic education.” Second, I plan to continue to advocate we expand Medicaid so we can close the coverage gap for more than a half million North Carolinians.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: After the Parkland shooting in 2018,  I served as the primary sponsor of the Safer Schools, Healthier Kids Act, a bill that authorizes extreme risk protection orders to temporarily restrict firearms if a person poses danger of physical harm to themselves or others.

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: Now that Roe v. Wade has been overturned, I believe women, not politicians, should have the right to make their own private healthcare decisions. I’ve served as the primary sponsor of the Codify Roe and Casey Protections this year that’s been sponsored by all 22 Senate Democrats.

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: I’ve sponsored a bill that would give $200 tax rebates to motorists in our state no later than October 1. In addition, I believe we should target middle-class tax cuts to further provide relief for our working families.

Website: JayForNC.com

Party: Republican

Background: I am a licensed attorney in Texas and North Carolina and I practice immigration law. I am a citizen, a parent and a taxpayer. I grew up in Italy and I am Jewish. I speak Italian and English fluently and Spanish quite well.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Restoring freedom to the individual citizen and striving for equality before the law for all citizens. Reducing the size and reach of government at all levels into private lives. Restoring the Constitutional promise of a good basic education for all North Carolina Children.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: I oppose restrictions on gun ownership other than those based on criminal background/ mental illness checks.

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I favor a balance between preserving the life of the unborn child and the interests of the mother. The Law should allow abortion if necessary because of rape, incest, and to preserve the life of the mother. I also favor a strict time limit for other cases that do not fall in the first category.

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: Economic intervention by the government is the main driver of inflation, and raising interest rates drives recession. Stop intervening in the economy. Let free market forces rebalance the economy.

Website: Prister4NCSenate.com

Party: Libertarian

no response from candidate

Party: Republican

Background: Retired from Management of Operations at Exxon Chemical Company. Cattle Farming after retirement, started a Landscape Contracting Company and still work and operate it today. Problem Solving has been my main job at Exxon days and current days.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Wasteful spending and Constitutional Freedom

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: Knowing what it takes to produce the products, used by every single person in this country daily. We have the resources to be self-sufficient in all of the above items. We also can do it cleanly and improve our environment at the same time and make the cost of living cheaper to our families.

Website: JamesPowers4NC.com

Party: Green

Background: Veteran of the antiwar movement since illegal US invasion of Afghanistan in ’01; organizer with the NC Green Party & nat’l GP campaigns for 10 years; book editor with a master’s. (Working-class people are more qualified than Ds & Rs to hold office.)

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
The state isn’t a democracy: two capitalist parties run it, denying the people access to basic social services, as well as to the ballot and the ballot box. I’m running to build an institution – the NC Green Party – to counter the two parties and provide real solutions for and from working-class people.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: NC Statewide Abortion Sanctuary Legislation NOW: DON’T enforce antiabortion laws; DO protect pregnant people, doctors & other care providers facing persecution for abortion; PROHIBIT police from arresting patients & providers or aiding investigations related to antiabortion laws in the U.S.

Website: NCGreenParty.org/michael-trudeau

Party: Libertarian

Background: The best way to solve any problem is to first acquire the relevant information. Then honest people typically agree on the best course of action. If elected, that’s what I hope to bring to the capital.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Funding students, not systems, will help families choose the best education for their children. Educated children are the future. Police accountability and transparency (ex: easier release of body camera footage). Medical Freedom: ending government mandates, creating price transparency.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: I would remove all state sales taxes on these essential goods. The government taking less means people keep more. Tax reduction is the best way to help families.

Website: ElectDeeWatson.org

Party: Democrat

Background: Nurse practitioner of 35 years. 7 years on Cary Town Council. 4 terms in NC House.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Access to health insurance and to healthcare providers. Funding a sound basic public education. Economic opportunity. Good health, an education, and employment opportunities are central to quality of life.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: As a healthcare professional and a legislator, I support the unrestricted right of all individuals to make informed decisions about the healthcare they desire and need. Abortion is a safe medical procedure and the decision to have one is between a woman and her physician.

Website: GaleAdcock.com

Party: Republican

Background: Retired Marine Corps Colonel, veteran of Op. Iraqi Freedom; Successful local business owner for 24 years, 4 times on the “Fast 50” list of the region’s fastest growing privately held companies; Technology expert in complex computer networking systems

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
I’ll work hard for safe neighborhoods, a strong and healthy economy, and the absolute best education opportunities for our children to prepare them for the future.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: Inflation results from excessive gov. spending/lack of fiscal discipline. I’d push for disciplined budgets, attack waste/fraud, eliminate unnecessary regulations, and work for low taxes on families/small businesses. I want a government that is smaller, more efficient, and more accountable.

Website: MarkCavaliero.com

Party: Democrat

Background: Senator Sydney Batch is a family law attorney, child welfare advocate, and social worker.  She was elected to the NC House representing Southern Wake in 2018 and was later appointed to fill a vacant seat in the North Carolina Senate in 2021.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Fighting to lower costs for families in North Carolina; Working to keep families safe; Protecting women’s reproductive rights

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: I have and continue to support universal background checks on firearm purchases, red flag laws to protect victims of domestic abuse, and raising the age to purchase long rifles to 21.

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I have cosponsored a bill in the Senate to codify Roe v Wade and Planned Parenthood v Casey into North Carolina law. The legislation would make access to abortion legal, while preserving rights of the legislature to regulate the procedure after 20 weeks.

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: I voted to lower the state income tax. I also sponsored the following bills while in the NC Senate: Reenact the Child Care Tax Credit; Reinstate Earned Income Tax Credit; Restore Educational Sales Tax Holiday; Individuals and Families Recovery Act; NC Drivers Gas Tax Rebate

Website: SydneyBatch.com

Party: Libertarian

Background: Vice chair of Wake County Libertarian Party

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
More choices in healthcare including medical marijuana. I believe increase in choice of treatment and medication will help to alleviate cost for the consumer in the long run. School Choice allows parents and families to be in control of their children’s education.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I will protect a patient’s right to choose and keep conversation and decisions between the patients and the doctor

Website: no response from candidate

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

Background: I’m a Wake Co. native and Granville Co. resident. As a lawyer, a non-profit executive, and NC Real Estate Commissioner, I know what it takes to work across the aisle to make progress and get things accomplished–that’s what I’ll do as Senator.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Expanding Medicaid will provide health insurance for 500K+ hard-working North Carolinians & allow us to invest in mental health & addiction services. Investing in skills training in high schools & community colleges will increase employment opportunities, recruit new jobs & ease labor shortages.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: This seat will be the deciding vote in the NC Senate as to whether or not reproductive healthcare is legal in our state. I will stand up to extremist politicians who want to ban access to reproductive healthcare, because a woman’s healthcare should be between her & her doctor, not politicians.

Website: Bode4Senate.com

Party: Libertarian

Background: Born and raised in NC, I started college at Wake Tech and finished at App State, where I earned a Computer Science degree. With experience and training in systematic and critical thinking, I can solve problems that everyday North Carolinians face.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Government intervention, in all aspects, is the single biggest issue that nearly everybody will face in their lifetime. Restrictions, regulations, licensing, and outright prohibitions. I will work to remove every single burden that affects us all so that we are free to voluntarily conduct our lives.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: I would not support any new restrictions on gun ownership. I would work to remove or nullify all existing restrictions on gun control. All North Carolinians have the absolute right to make, keep, and bear arms. Gun control is and should be a private property issue.

Website: RyanBrownNC.org

Party: Democrat

Background: This will be my third term and I feel I have been a strong advocate of voting rights and human rights, specifically rights of the LGBTQIA.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Securing people’s voting rights, banning conversion therapy. Voting rights will secure that our democracy is represented by all people, not some.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: My take is that there is no restrictions on gun ownership and we need to make it clear that guns should be bought and sold with universal background checks. I will also work to help pass red flag laws.

Website: AllisonForHouse.com

Party: Republican

Background: 1st Generation American, US Army Veteran, Small Business Owner, Foster Parent, Volunteer Soccer Coach.  Education – US Military Academy, Cornell U, MIT, High Tech Supply Chain corporate career.  23 yr resident of Morrisville.  French fluency

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Direct the NC government and economy toward the prioritization of the family.
2. Off-shore energy development from wind, waves, and currents.
3. Bulwark individual rights such as speech, conscience, personhood, armed self-defense, parental rights in the education of their children.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership:

1. Universal background checks.
2. Work with Social Media corporations to identify those who shouldn’t possess weapons through their public postings.

Website: GerardFalzon.com

Party: Democrat

Background: I have earned a law degree from NCCU, a Ph.D. in Medical Sociology from NCSU, and worked as a faculty member at Duke Law. With my academic background, research and leadership experience, I have the skills to take on many challenges facing our state.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
I am honored to be a strong advocate for business prosperity, careful growth, public transit, senior services, and environmentally friendly policies on the Cary Town Council. I will fight for a stronger economy, better schools & healthcare, cleaner water & air, and prepare our state for the future.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: A healthy economy is essential for North Carolinians to continue enjoying our high quality of life standards. As a small business owner, I understand the struggles of many small business owners and will continue to be a strong advocate for our business community in the region.

Website: YaLiu4nc.com

Party: Libertarian

Background: I have been a resident of Wake County for almost 7 years. I have held many different positions in life as a business owner, a corporate trainer and in process improvement.  These roles have given me the skills needed to serve North Carolina.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
My top priorities are school choice, the dissolution of the ABC system and outdated liquor laws, and to help fix the system in the area of foster care and the transition to adulthood.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: I would find ways to reduce taxes and limit wasteful government spending through financial audits. I would also look to reduce regulations on small businesses to make it easier for people to build something of their own.

Website: JoshMorris4nc.org

Party: Libertarian

Background: I have business and community organizing experience. I am a native of the district.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Fair access to the marketplace for local and small businesses. Especially, areas with historically minority owned businesses.
2. Streamlined access to assistance programs. Taking the Bureaucracy out and more common sense in.
3. Rooting out Cronyism and waste in Government.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: I believe the first step is to get to the root of the problem. Discover the truth behind why this inflation is happening and address it accordingly. For gas prices, alleviating the Gas tax could be a solution.

Website: no response from candidate

Party: Republican

Background: no response from candidate

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Efficiency in government first and foremost. Second is restoring faith in our election process and ensuring elections are secure.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: I would not look to add any restrictions to law abiding gun owners.

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: I would work to decrease the size of government and limit the taxes that are collected at both the state level and if possible federal.

Website: DingeeForNC.com

Party: Democrat

Background: I have worked tirelessly with individuals and organizations to promote legislation that improves the lives of the citizens of our state as an educator, member of the Wake County school board and current member of the NC House of Representatives.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:
Funding of a sound basic education for all children (Leandro’s funding Plan) – prepare the  workforce needed for future jobs. Expansion of Medicaid – reduce the cost of healthcare services; Provide a safe healthy environment by promoting renewable energy.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: Support legislation that provides access to affordable healthcare service that includes reproductive rights;  Advocate for the passage of Medicaid expansion; Oppose any new restriction on abortion access.

Website: RosaGill.com

Party: Democrat

Background: Tim is a lawyer, husband, and native North Carolinian. His career has been devoted to public service, and he has experience in all three branches of state government. Tim currently works as a law clerk on the NC Supreme Court.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Public schools: I will fully fund our public schools to end the teacher shortage and make sure every child has a great education. Working families: I will fight for good jobs, a living wage, and affordable homes. Women’s right to choose: I will defend women’s freedom to get an abortion.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I support a woman’s right to choose abortion. I know abortion is fundamental to women’s freedom to control their own lives. I will fight any Republican effort to ban abortion and I will uphold Governor Cooper’s veto of such bills. I would also vote to pass Roe v. Wade into state law.

Website: TimForNC.com

Party: Libertarian

Background: I graduated from N.C. State with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, I have volunteered for several campaigns, and I ran for North Carolina State Senate District 15 in 2020.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Greater Educational Opportunities, More Consumer Choice, Expand Housing Affordability

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I would draft a bill protecting health care rights and access to abortion in NC. I’d actively reach out to fellow members of Congress & discuss the importance of passing a bill in favor of a woman’s choice. I’d reach out to interest groups & lobbyist to help discuss the importance of this issue.

Website: KatMcDonaldForNC.org

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

no response from candidate

Party: Libertarian

no response from candidate

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

Background: I have been a legislator in the NCGA since 2018, and currently serve as the Co-Chair of the Wake Co. Legislative Delegation. I have been a PTA leader for over a decade and currently work as a substitute teacher when the NCGA is not in session.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My top 3 priorities are increasing education funding so that every child in NC has access to a sound basic education, expanding Medicaid and providing access to affordable healthcare to hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians, and protecting every North Carolinian’s right to reproductive freedom.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I introduced HB 188, which would repeal abortion restrictions in NC – including repealing the biased mandatory counseling requirement and 72 hour waiting period. I was also one of the primary sponsors of HB 1119, which would have codified the protections in Roe v. Wade.

Website: JulieForNC.com

Party: Libertarian

Background: I grew up in Hillsborough, Orange County. I went to North Carolina State University where I earned degrees in Civil Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Statistics. I have worked with and for public agencies throughout my career.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: I have two young sons and I am a strong supporter of school choice. I want all children to have the same choices in education that my family has. We need to end Certificates of Need and many other state regulations that hamstring our ability to provide affordable health care. End the War on Drugs.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I consider myself pro-choice, but would support restrictions after 20 weeks as long as appropriate caveats are in place. The Roe decision balanced the rights of mother and child, and I think different states can now find the balance that best suits their voters.

Website: WardForNC.org

Party: Democrat

Background: I am a wife, mother and 30-year resident of Southern Wake County.  My 4 years of service on  Holly Springs Town Council, decades of community service, and small and large business experience qualifies me to advocate for our district.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Invest in education by fully funding our public education system. Protect and preserve our environment. Provide accessible and affordable healthcare by expanding Medicaid and lowering prescription drugs.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: Our area is a great place to live, work, learn and play and I will work hard to help address economic stresses. I will support programs such as sales tax holidays, expand Medicaid, fund public education and early child-care, and introduce programs for addressing affordable housing options.

Website: ChristineKellyForNC.com

Party: Republican

Background: State Representative, House District 37; Small business owner of Play-It-Again Sports Holly Springs; Federal Regulatory Reform Professional; Military Spouse, FRG Leader; PTA President; Founder of non-profit in youth music education; Community Leader.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Tax and budget reform to lower costs and grow the economy. This will help families struggling with record high inflation on basic needs.
2. Safe and strong NC schools. Students deserve world class education options and a safe learning environment.
3. Funding for roads to improve traffic congestion.
   

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: NC is ranked #1 nationally for economic health due to fiscal conservative policies that lower taxes, take a smart approach to state spending, and save responsibly for the future. I will continue to support policies that keep taxes and costs low, so NC families can recover from record high inflation.

Website: ErinForNC.com

Party: Libertarian

no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

no response from candidate

Party: Libertarian

Background: I have a background as a High School teacher in the NC Public School system. I also have experience in the corporate world in transportation logistics.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My top 3 priorities are expanding housing affordability, reforming the criminal justice system and expanding educational opportunities for families. The issues I am focusing on will help us build stronger communities where people are more free and prosperous.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: We can end restrictive zoning which would allow for more affordable housing options. We can lessen occupational licensing which makes it harder for people to find work. We can also support accessory commercial units which will allow people to work where they live.

Website: ElectMizelle.com

Party: Republican
no response from candidate

Party: Democrat
no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

Background: Over 25 years as NC trial and appellate judge; NCDMV Deputy Commissioner & State Crime Lab Director; 3 terms in NC House – significant experience in every branch of government. Wife Evelyn; married 40 years; parents of 3 and grandparents to 7.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Independent, non-partisan redistricting commission – no gerrymandering. Strong educational system – develop NC children & promote robust economy. Close healthcare coverage gap – medical care for uninsured and preserve rural hospitals. Independent judiciary – fair & equal justice.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: NC parents and all citizens expect tragic gun violence to be addressed by common-sense legislation.  I support and have cosponsored “red flag” laws setting up an early warning judicial procedure for preventative action by relatives, classmates and law enforcement before a tragedy occurs.

Website: JoeJohnNCHouse.com

Party: Libertarian

no response from candidate

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

Background: Currently serve as a Wake County Commissioner. Listening to the community, working for solutions, and successfully getting things done have been essential. My commitment is to continue to advocate for what is most important to you and North Carolina.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Top 3 priorities: – protect individual rights and freedoms including reproductive healthcare, contraception access, marriage equality and same-sex relationships. – access to high-quality physical and behavioral healthcare and expand Medicaid. – fully fund public education: pre-K to higher education.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I support abortion care that does not restrict access, which may lead to unplanned pregnancies, pregnancy complications, and undiagnosed medical conditions. Realistically, in this political environment, we will need to relationship build and find common ground to enact these legislative protections.

Website: MariaForNC.com

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Libertarian

Background: My years of experience have prepared me well for this position researching political parties. Although this is my first time running for office, I plan to engage young people into the campaign as they are more open to change.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: I want to give more access to high quality, affordable healthcare, which is a critical concern in everyone’s life. I want to strengthen economic opportunity for North Carolina’s residents, businesses and entrepreneurs.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: I would remove all restrictions on gun ownership.

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: I would remove all restrictions on abortion access.

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: I’d work to remove regulations that prevent folks from growing and selling their own food. I’d pester Congress to drill for clean oil and natural gas here in our own country. I’d remove restrictive laws that prevent folks from making a living from their own homes.

Website: facebook.com/Elect-Kevin-Terrett-110854271726121

Party: Libertarian

Background: I have been an active member of the Wake County Libertarian Party for years.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: My top two priorities are to reduce the cost of NC housing and to advocate for greater school choice, which will give North Carolinians greater control over their housing and finances and confer greater freedom to raise their children according to their needs.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):
I will support and propose bills which reduce state income taxes and establish a moratorium on fuel excise taxes to leave more money in the pockets of North Carolinians for gas and food.

Website: OakesForNC.org

Party: Republican

no response from candidate

Party: Democrat

Background: With a strong education background, experience and skills, and a commitment to public service, I want to continue serving the people of NC. First elected in 2016, I have worked to focus on policies that will improve the lives of ALL people in NC.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected:

1. Public Education Funding. Our schools need a lot more resources to be able to provide a sound basic education for all. Building the teacher pipeline, which is in serious peril. Increase funds for teacher support and retention.
2. Closing the Healthcare coverage gap.
3. Environmental justice.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 1 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on gun ownership: The majority of North Carolinians support sensible gun control legislation. And I will continue to sponsor legislation and partner with organizations that are working on this.

Website: CynthiaForNC.com

Party: Democrat

Background: I am a working mom and have dedicated my career to service, through my work in the State Senate and as CEO of Tammy Lynn Center for Developmental Disabilities.  In the Senate, I have prioritized funding for public education and access to healthcare.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Education – we must invest in our classrooms, reduce class size and raise teacher pay to ensure that every child in North Carolina receives a world-class education. Healthcare – we must expand Medicaid and ensure that everyone has access to quality, affordable healthcare.

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 2 – What specific steps would you take to address new restrictions on abortion access: The decision to have an abortion is difficult and personal; I trust people to make their own decisions without government interference. I support legislation that guarantees access to abortion care and as a Senator have sponsored legislation to codify Roe in NC.

Website: SarahForNC.com

Party: Libertarian

no response from candidate

Party: Republican

Background: I immigrated to the United States with my American born husband when our daughter was 6 years old. At that time, I became a stay at home mom, and later pursued careers in cosmetology and as an EKG technician.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: School Choice, Safety, and Fiscal Conservatism

Please choose any ONE issue below and answer how you would address that issue (new restrictions on gun ownership; OR new restrictions on abortion access; OR economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods):

Option 3 –  What specific steps would you take to address economic stress from higher prices for gas, groceries and other goods: I would work with our state legislature to create affordable housing, encourage companies to create more employment opportunities for Wake County residents, and reduce taxes to help struggling families in North Carolina.

Website: IvesForNC66.com

Party: Democrat

Background: Superior court judge in Wake County since 2007; chief superior court judge since 2017.  Raised in Raleigh; BS & MPA from NCSU; law degree from Campbell Law School (’86).   Twenty years in Raleigh law practice prior to becoming a judge.

Please share your personal statement about why you want to serve on this court:
Being selected by the citizens to serve as a judge in our courts is not only a privilege, but a great responsibility. Each day, I strive to dispense justice in a fair and impartial manner consistent with our laws and constitutions, and to act with professionalism toward all who appear before me.

What, if anything, should be added to the NC Code of Judicial Conduct regarding recusal and/or political activity of judges?
Public confidence in our courts is essential to the rule of law. Confidence is eroded if judges are perceived to be led by ideology rather than the law. Judges should always act in a way that builds trust by limiting partisanship and recusing when needed, and our Judicial Code should so require.

Website: JudgeRidgeway.com

Party: Republican

candidate is unopposed

Party: Democrat

candidate is unopposed

Party: Democrat

candidate is unopposed

Party: Democrat

candidate is unopposed

Party: Republican

candidate is unopposed

Party: Republican

candidate is unopposed

Party: Democrat

Background: I have 14 years of practical legal experience litigating both criminal and civil cases in Wake County District Courts.  I have practiced law in each courtroom that I will serve the citizens of Wake County. 

Please share your personal statement about why you want to serve on this court:
I want to serve as a Judge in Wake County to enhance diversity on the bench and use the skill and knowledge to ensure that everyone that comes before me gets a fair hearing in court.

What, if anything, should be added to the NC Code of Judicial Conduct regarding recusal and/or political activity of judges?
Cannon 7 of the NC Code of Judicial Conduct speaks to political activity of judges in North Carolina.  At this time I have no opinion if other language should be added.

Website: RhondaGrahamYoungForJudge.com

Party: Democrat
candidate is unopposed

Party: Democrat
candidate is unopposed

Party: Republican

Background: My experience includes representing the United States in civil matters, as an Assistant United States Attorney. I have served in a quasi-judicial capacity with the NC Industrial Commission. Currently, I manage the Court Programs Division with NC AOC.

Please share your personal statement about why you want to serve on this court:
As a native of Wake County, I desire to serve and give back to my community. District Court is where most people will interact with the court system. I believe this is where I can have the greatest impact and use my experience to ensure the scales of justice are balanced for all.

What, if anything, should be added to the NC Code of Judicial Conduct regarding recusal and/or political activity of judges?
The recusal requirements provide for individual accountability, while ensuring a judge is able to be impartial in a matter. Additionally, Cannon 7 rightly addresses the competing needs for an impartial and independent judiciary, while recognizing the requirement that judges run for public office.

Website: PrinceForJudge.com

Party: Democrat

no response from candidate

Party: Republican

Background: I run a mid-sized law firm now that has six attorneys and numerous support staff.  I have personally handled murder cases, rape case, drug trafficking cases, and post-conviction matters (appeals and MARs) in both state and federal court. 

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: Eliminate the massive back log of murder and felony cases. Revise the bond procedures done in Wake County.

What is your view on diversionary programs meant to minimize contact with the criminal justice system and how would you implement them?

A lot of the diversionary programs cost money, but many defendants cannot afford them. I would allow the ADA under my supervision to allow informal deferrals to occur, so that indigent persons are capable of obtaining the same result as those who can afford a private attorney.

Website: DobsonForDA.com

Party: Democrat

Background: Wake County District Attorney since 2015; Wake County Clerk of Court 2006-2014; City of Raleigh’s Human Relation Committee 2005-2011; Chair of the Wake County Democratic Party 2003-2005.

Please describe your top 2 or 3 priorities if elected: As DA, I will continue to implement policies that promote the fair administration of justice and that divert people with substance use or mental health issues away from the legal system. I also will continue to prioritize the prosecution of violent offenders and those who abuse their authority.

What is your view on diversionary programs meant to minimize contact with the criminal justice system and how would you implement them?

Our office currently has more deferral programs than any prosecutor office in the State. Since being elected as District Attorney I have expanded these programs and increased access to them to give people who commit low level non-violent offenses a second chance and to connect them with programs.

Website: FreemanForDA.com