2026 General Election: November 3, 2026. New info launches early October.
Arthur Griffin, Jr.
Party:
Democrat
Incumbent:
Yes
Age:
77
Previous experience in elected office:
Mecklenburg County Commissioner At-Large (2022-present); Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education chair (1997-2002); CMS board member first elected in 1988
Occupation:
Retired executive from McGraw-Hill Education
Description:
Arthur Griffin’s website focuses on education, affordable housing, recreation and economic development in Mecklenburg County. He emphasizes preparing the workforce with both hard and soft skills for 21st-century jobs, collaborating with public institutions, private employers, and community partners to close skills gaps. Affordable housing is a priority, with a focus on ensuring families spend no more than 30% of income on shelter and addressing related social issues like poverty, homelessness, education disparities, and healthcare access. Recreation and parks are highlighted as essential for residents’ physical, mental and social well-being, with equitable access to recreational and leisure assets in all neighborhoods. Griffin is endorsed by the Black Political Caucus of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and The Charlotte Observer.
Other personal:
Griffin was born and raised in Charlotte and attended Second Ward High School. He served in the United States Army, including a tour in Vietnam, and retired as a lieutenant colonel. He was a civil rights activist for years before getting elected to the CMS Board of Education and serving as its chair. He is the father of two adult children and has three grandchildren attending CMS. He has a bachelor's from the State University of New York Albany.
The Election Hub Questionnaire
No response from candidate