Kelly Hastings

Party:

Republican

Incumbent:

Yes

Age:

Previous experience in elected office:

N.C. House member since 2011

Occupation:

Realtor

Description:

Hastings describes himself as a "common sense conservative," and the top issues cited on his website are voter IDs, election integrity and public safety. He is a longtime incumbent in District 110, having served eight terms. He was the primary sponsor of 10 bills in the current session, including several to support veterans. He has one of the highest rates of excused absences for votes among members of the N.C. House (he was not present for 17% of votes to date in the current legislative session and was absent in 20% of the votes in the 2023-24 session). He said on Facebook that these absences were due to a "severe respiratory infection" and having to "help family members during the session."

Other personal:

Hastings served in the U.S. Marine Corps and Reserves. He is married and the father of a daughter (he says on his website, "They are saved!") He said in May 2025 that he wouldn't seek a new term because he wanted to "put a term limit on himself." He then decided to switch his position months later following the shootings of Minnesota state legislators. He said he didn't want to leave "his colleagues during a violent and dangerous time." He is a Realtor and has a bachelor's degree from Appalachian State University.

Candidate Website

Video from Gaston Business Association's Candidate Forum

Questionnaire from the Gaston Business Association

Please provide a short introduction (50 words or less) highlighting your background and achievements.

I am a member of the North Carolina House of Representatives, and I am a REALTOR.

What motivated you to seek this office, and what specific skills, experiences, or perspectives uniquely prepare you to serve effectively in this role?

The primary reason for running for office is to assist constituents. Keeping my promises to constituents helps me serve effectively.

From your perspective, what are the top issues impacting Gaston County’s business climate and economic competitiveness? If elected, what specific actions would you support or pursue to strengthen our local economy?

Lower taxes, less crime, student learning, improved infrastructure, lower energy prices, less red tape, and fiscal conservatism help make North Carolina the No. 1 state for business.

Given the office you are seeking (U.S. House, N.C. House, Sheriff, Commissioner, or School Board), what do you believe is the most pressing issue within the scope of that role, and how would you address it?

Economic security is a top issue, and I will continue to vote for lower taxes, less crime, student learning, improved infrastructure, lower energy prices, less red tape, and fiscal conservatism to help make us the No. 1 state for business.

Effective leadership requires collaboration across sectors. How would you work with local businesses, municipal leaders, and community organizations to advance shared goals?

Listening to the needs of stakeholders is important as we work collaboratively.