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Key details about Tucker Neal < Back to Candidates Tucker Neal Party: Democrat Incumbent: No Age: 21 Previous experience in elected office: None Occupation: Home care certified nursing assistant and research assistant Description: (UPDATE: Neal has suspended his campaign and supports Veleria Levy .) Neal describes his campaign as "student powered" and says he is a "new generation of leadership." His top issues are "housing affordability and rent control, increasing teacher pay and public education funding, a public safety approach based on mental health support and crime prevention, immigrant rights and protection, and de-gerrymandering to increase voter representation." He also cites protecting the environment and improving urban transport including more sidewalks and bike paths. He says he was inspired to run because “for too long, government officials have been bought out by corporations to make decisions that benefit the wealthy.” Other personal: Neal is from Rockingham County (on the Virginia border north of Greensboro) and "fell in love with the community" while attending UNC Charlotte. He has a bachelor's degree from UNC Charlotte in psychology and sociology. Candidate Website The Election Hub Questionnaire Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live). 21 years old. I received a B.A. in Sociology and a B.S. in Psychology from UNC Charlotte. I am a home-care CNA, research assistant, and Psychology for All intern. I have lived in University City on North Tryon St. for 4 years. I grew up in rural Rockingham County. Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share your previous experience in elected office that would be relevant to voters. I want voters to not only hear about my goals and values, but to see them executed through my actions and involvements. In this statement, I will share my backstory, my motivation for running in this election, and my skills and perspectives I could bring to the table as your representative. As I enter this race, some have questioned my ability to succeed due to my age and lack of political experience. While I may face challenges as a young and first-time candidate, I want to assure constituents that I have the competency, confidence, and knowledgeability to win this race and succeed in the General Assembly. While my competitors bring legislative experience and community organizing work to the table, I want to share my background with voters to showcase the fresh perspectives I can bring to this race. I grew up in the rural towns of Rockingham County, North Carolina. Raised on a farm, I learned the values of hard-work at a young age. My primitive years were spent outdoors and working with my hands, before I began volunteer and food service work at 16. In the “bubble” I was raised in, the world could seem so simple, traditional, and uniform. After moving to University City in district 99 during 2022, I had to quickly adjust to the fast-paced, ever-changing, and growing urban lifestyle. This adjustment was hard, but through those challenges, I have been allowed to understand the complexity and vast differences of the way our society functions. Communities in different parts of our state live completely different and conflicting lifestyles. Through my short, but diverse life experience, I have learned that all of these communities have different functions and strengths. As an elected official at the state level, it would be my duty to bring all of these perspectives to the table. Since my move to this district, I have been molded and impacted by the people of Charlotte. I have discovered my passions and been introduced to people that inspire me daily. I moved to University City to begin studying at UNC Charlotte. I recently obtained my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the university. My studies have given me insight into social structures and institutions that are relevant to work as a representative. During my time attending UNC Charlotte, I fell in love with this community and the unique organizations that are a part of it. Additionally, the connections I have made at the university have allowed me to submerge myself into the community. I have become a part of local missions and organizations that have left a lasting impact on me. Not only have they allowed me to see the beautiful character and vibrancy of district 99, but given me skills and knowledge to properly reflect it and represent the great people of this district in Raleigh. During the entire course of my education, I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in home care and hospital settings. My experiences in patient care have shown me how vital it is that we provide healthcare to vulnerable populations and given me a first-hand perspective of the hardships faced by healthcare employees across the state. I have also served as a senator in the Student Government Association, written news articles for the local NinerTimes, and worked in the Psychology Student Coalition and as a Teaching Assistant. My most impactful experience at the university was working in undergraduate research. As part of a research team, we worked on an initiative to provide training to correction officers to better assist aging inmates and prisoners facing dementia. Because of this research, I have insight into the broken incarceration system and the lack of funding and staffing in correctional facilities across the state. Now is the time to create a safer correctional system that nurtures inmates’ mental health and actually strives towards rehabilitating and helping people. Upon graduating, I have worked with community organizations to learn the economic and social realities of district 99 to better assess the needs of constituents. Currently, I am working with Psychology For All, a local nonprofit, which provides mental health services to low-income residents. My involvement has allowed me to learn so much about this district, its strengths, and above all, its needs. Working in different positions has allowed me to see the diverse issues that face different sectors of the community. My studies, research, and community participation have given me a perspective on the political world that my opponents do not have. My work with empirical research has taught me to question the validity of data and claims presented by others, something all politicians and representatives should be doing. I have learned critical thinking skills that will help me to consider various perspectives on issues facing us today. I have gained empirical research and statistical skills that would allow me to eliminate personal biases as a representative and make decisions based on what will best assist constituents. In addition to sharing my life experiences and skills, I want to prove to residents that my team and I have the confidence and ability to win in the primary election in March and ultimately the general November 2026 election. Since August, we have been working to create a campaign that will inspire constituents and give them hope during such a dark political time. With the GOP currently holding massive power in our state and federal governments, we have all seen the unfortunate consequences of massive disinformation. Hate has once again divided the people and made it hard to see the good in each other. We need to elect Democrats that will stand up to the establishment and join the revolution for progressive change. My inspiration for filing to run in this election was born out of the discomfort North Carolinians are feeling with our current leadership. For too long, government officials have been bought out by corporations to make decisions that benefit the wealthy. Too often, politicians gain their position and become consumed by the pursuit of wealth and power. It is my promise to act with transparency and empathy to serve the people of district 99. Being trusted to represent the voices of over 79,000 district 99 residents is something that should be earned. Over the course of this campaign, it is my hope that voters will not only see, but feel, my dedication and passion for the people on the campaign trail. I am the right candidate for this role because I offer a progressive platform that promises to fight corporations and restructure the system to combat economic inequality. These values, along with progressive social and environmental values, are what the people of district 99 want. We are tired of bureaucracy, establishment democrats, and decades-old solutions to current problems. These are the values I have seen expressed in my district, and they are the ones I plan to uphold if elected. The main five issues in which my campaign focuses were chosen based on the needs of residents in district 99. Those are housing affordability and rent control, increasing teacher pay and public education funding, a public safety approach based on mental health support and crime prevention, immigrant rights and protection, and de-gerrymandering to increase voter representation. Other campaign values include Environmental conservation and sustainability, increased public transportation funding, sidewalks, and bike paths. Additionally, increased taxes on wealthy corporations, reproductive healthcare, affordable healthcare, Medicare and Medicaid expansion. Lastly, livable wages to increase economic mobility, LGBTQ Rights, anti-establishment politics, and aggressive combat against the GOP's agenda. We want this campaign to be a light that shows constituents a new generation of leadership is coming. With leaders that grew up in the modern world, we can create new solutions to modern problems. My job is to prove to voters that I will be a leader that will stay true to the values of this community. I will spend each day of this campaign doing just that. If elected, I will walk into the state capitol with the voices of district 99 residents on my shoulders, a responsibility that is an honor to have. I enter this race not for my own gains, but to constantly work towards a better life for the people of North Carolina, the state I have loved for all my life. Thank you for supporting our mission. I wish you all the best and hope to see you on the campaign trail! Tell us 1-2 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills. Although I do not have much professional experience due to my age, aside from 3 years of CNA experience in home-care, professional social justice internships, and research experience, I believe my community involvements and personal background have prepared me to represent the common people of district 99. As part of a research team under Dr. Megan Smith, I studied the broken incarceration system and its affect on aging inmates and correctional officer culture. I presented my research at two public symposiums. With the local non-profit Psychology for All, I have worked to advocate for mental healthcare access and affordability. I have helped to provide low-income Charlotte residents with free/reduced mental health services. Experiences like these have taught me to be culturally aware, empirical and free of bias, and informed on disparities in my community. Skills like these are (or at least should be) obtained by all members of the General Assembly and other public servants. What endorsements from any notable North Carolina organizations or people have you received? N/A How long have you lived in the region/district where you are running for office? 4 years. Tell us something unexpected about yourself that voters may be interested to know. Although attempting to work in policy and law to represent the great people of North Carolina in government, this has not always been my focus. I started my education planning to work in Psychology or Sociology. After learning the realities of these fields, I learned that important research (that could help improve millions of lives) is often ignored by policymakers. I believe I am a sociological thinker instead of a political thinker, something people want and need in their representatives. Thinking critically, empirically, and sociologically can help politicians see disparities in society and make equitable decisions. I am often asked why I didn't study political science, but I believe my education prepared me for this role better than a degree in politics ever could have. < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >

Key details about Robert Colon < Back to Candidates Robert Colon Party: Democrat Incumbent: No Age: NA Previous experience in elected office: None; ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Senate in 2022 Occupation: NA Description: The top issues listed on Colon's website are crime ("creating a safer America for everyone"), immigration ("immigrants should abide by the law"), peace and tax reform. Other personal: Colon describes himself as a "family caregiver, community volunteer and proud Eagle Scout." His address is in Rocky Point, in the Wilmington area. Candidate Website The Election Hub Questionnaire No response from candidate < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >

Pineville Town Council Pineville Mayor Town of Pineville Mayor The incumbent mayor of Pineville, David Phillips, withdrew from the race. Current council member Amelia Stinson-Wesley is therefore running unopposed. Pineville Mayoral Candidates

Key details about Kristel Swayze < Back to Candidates Kristel Swayze Party: Republican Incumbent: No Age: 50 Previous experience in elected office: None Occupation: Business owner, KS Image Solutions Description: On her campaign Facebook page, Swayze states that community public safety is one of her top priorities and that she will work to ensure that the Sheriff's Office and the Cabarrus County EMS are paid benefits and a competitive wage. Other personal: According to the Cabarrus Compass, Swayze has been involved in politics for about 25 years, beginning with a neighborhood battle over proposed roads. Swayze is owner and proprietor of KS Image Solutions LLC in Concord, a manufacturer of promotional items for companies. She graduated from A.L. Brown High School in Cabarrus County and is a Boy Scout leader. She is married and has two children. She has a bachelor’s degree from UNC Chapel Hill. Candidate Social Media Video Interview of Candidate Questionnaire from The Chamber, Leading Business in Cabarrus Note: The following responses are verbatim from the candidate and have not been edited. Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live) . I am a lifelong resident of Cabarrus County where I went to school at Shady Brook Elementary, Kannapolis Middle School and graduated from A.L. Brown High School. After graduation, I went to college at UNC-Chapel Hill where I graduated with a degree in Sociology with a Minor in History. After returning back to Cabarrus County, I met my husband, Ken, and we started our family in Concord. We are blessed to have 2 amazing children, Mary and William. Professionally, I own KS Image Solutions, a Promotional Products and Printing Company. We specialize in assisting our clients with their branding needs, ensuring we provide useful products that make them stand out at economical pricing. This year, we will celebrate our 24th year of providing quality products and services to clients here in Cabarrus County and throughout the US. Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share any experience in an elected role that would be relevant to voters. About 25 years ago, I dipped my toe in politics to fight for my neighborhood when the builder behind us wanted to connect to our last two cul-de-sacs. It would have brought down home values and increased vehicle traffic between our neighborhood and another. Logically, it didn’t make sense. So I researched, I worked with planning and zoning, and I did home studies of our neighboring communities. That is how I met my dear friends, Scott Padgett, Dave Phillips, and our beloved Jim Ramseur. Later, Scott would tell me, " You came up there with facts, and you would sit down and smile at us." I knew that to be effective, I needed to be informed first and professional and friendly second. That’s what we need more of in this world. Passionate people who care about Cabarrus County and are willing to fight for it! I am a fighter, and I am more than willing to ensure I do what is right for every resident of Cabarrus County. Tell us about 2-3 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills. First, I am a business owner of 24 years, which means I have survived the 2008 economic downturn and the COVID pandemic. I am a hard worker, and I take pride in my work. When I look at what I do for a living, it's not about making money off of my clients; it is about taking care of them and having pride in my work and my team. It is the same way I look at Cabarrus County, my clients, and employees are like family to me. I was raised to take care of those around me in my private, professional, and personal life. Secondly, as a business owner, I was blessed to be recognized by Business Today as one of their Top Women in Business in 2012. My business leadership and my ability to advocate for not only my business, but also other businesses in Cabarrus County have been something I am incredibly proud of. Third, one of my greatest joys and life achievements, even over owning my business, has been to be a Boy Scout Leader. I believe that the time I have spent over the last 11 years cultivating and leading our future generation has been among the most valuable commitments I have made as an adult. As my son completes his Eagle Scout in the next few months, I will have watched little boys become grown men. When you have an opportunity to help a young man soar, there is no greater joy! What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected? For the past year, Cabarrus County has been in political turmoil. Especially regarding our County Commission, where we had a board that played political games with people's livelihoods, creating not one but two lawsuits. One of my primary goals in my first six months will be to help bring stability, calm to our employee moral and work to rebuild a workplace that is employee focused. Cabarrus County includes both fast-growing communities and areas facing economic challenges. How would you guide county policy and investment decisions to support balanced growth and opportunity across the entire county? One of the most inspiring things about Cabarrus County has been the uniqueness that we hold and embrace. As a five-municipality county with five very diverse communities, it is important to have a deep conversation and collaborate to understand each community's unique needs and understand how we can support their growth and opportunities. As a county commissioner, I will work collaboratively to support each municipality and community in ways that best meet their needs. All residents and communities in Cabarrus County need equal representation and a voice. What works well in Concord may not work the best in Midland. Concord has easy access to I-85, while Midland has easy access to the railroad. We need to examine the benefits of each community and assess how they envision their growth, as well as how we can best serve them. As a county commissioner, I would support continued funding of the EDC and collaborative efforts between county leadership and each municipality. County government plays a central role in funding public school facilities and long-term capital needs. How would you approach decisions related to school capital investment to ensure facilities keep pace with growth, support student success, and remain fiscally responsible for taxpayers? As a product of the Kannapolis City School system and the daughter of a 30-year educator in Cabarrus County Schools, I know the value of a quality education for every child. As your county commissioner, I will work to ensure our students have a safe place to learn and that our teachers are paid a competitive supplement. We can’t keep losing teachers to border counties that pay more. Regarding our Capital needs, we have been fighting an uphill battle for school construction for decades in both new builds and maintenance. I believe in collaboration, and I have already sat down to discuss with Dr. Kopicki and his team to ensure I am aware of their needs and how we can work better together to build a 10-year-plus plan, if possible. Growth and education are truly a multilayer process, and we all need to work better to ensure we are working on the same page if possible. When it comes to growth, many of those impacts stem from municipalities when developments are approved at their level. Then it cycles back to the school system, which experiences an influx of students, making it a Cabarrus County issue to fund schools for school buildings, teacher supplements, and other needs. We will all have greater success if we collaborate on what the future looks like and how best to set ourselves up for success. The facts are simple: we need new schools and must retain good staff for our students. As a business owner and community advocate for 30-plus years, I feel that I would be a perfect fit on the commission, to ensure all decisions are based on fiscal responsibility and smart growth. A strong workforce depends on more than jobs alone. It is shaped by access to education, child care, and community resources. How would you use the county’s role to support workforce participation and quality of life for Cabarrus County residents? One of the things that I find crucial in life is remembering your past, so you aren't bound to repeat it. When Pillowtex shut down in June of 2003, Kannapolis and Cabarrus County learned a very hard lesson that one would hope we would never experience again. Yet in July 2009, we were still there reeling from that when Philip Morris shut down. With the Pillowtex shutdown, 4,800 Cabarrus County employees lost their jobs, and with the Philip Morris shutdown, 1,000 Cabarrus County employees lost their jobs. In the span of six years, nearly 6,000 Cabarrus County employees lost their jobs. It was a ripple effect for many when you can't pay your bills, you lose your home, and you have to start over. When 6,000 people become unemployed overnight, where do you go to work when there are no other businesses hiring in your skill set? Thankfully, Rowan Cabarrus Community College, county leadership, the municipalities, workforce agencies, and business leaders pivoted in a collaborative effort to help retrain these employees. This time period showed the resilience of the people of Cabarrus County with a full hands-on effort. The story for many of those impacted employees and their families changed their financial lives and trajectory forever. But by witnessing my childhood friends' families go through that, I was forever changed. I am a stronger business owner and community advocate because of it. I believe every resident of Cabarrus County should be able to make a livable wage with a job in Cabarrus County if they choose. I am fully in support of the wonderful collaborative work initiated during those tough years, which has now become workforce development within existing businesses and new corporations moving in to this day. A strong workforce enables families to provide for themselves, bringing generational change and a better future. I would fully support the continued work of the EDC, our school systems, and RCCC as they continue their workforce development programs. Last year, our community leaders did a Community Needs Assessment. It is collaborative projects and studies like this that are imperative for serving as a guiding force as we look at the present and future of Cabarrus County. I am grateful for past and current leaders who have set the tone and had the foresight to ensure we are planning for the future. I will use that Community Needs Assessment as I make decisions for every resident of Cabarrus County. Economic growth is essential to maintaining a strong tax base, supporting public services, and creating opportunity for residents. How would you approach county-level policies and investments to ensure Cabarrus County remains competitive in attracting and retaining businesses while managing growth responsibly? I believe Cabarrus County, our Chamber, and EDC have done a wonderful job of connecting current businesses and new growth opportunities here in Cabarrus County. As we can see from the past, corporate and business economic growth can be a driving force for our county and community. If you look at Eli Lilly, for example, that parcel was previously slated for a 4,000-home development, but the water and sewer access was a problem. Thankfully, for our forward-thinking economic development plan, we were able to incentivize Eli Lilly to come to Cabarrus County, bringing jobs and a brighter future for so many of our residents. Had that same parcel been developed as a residential area, we would have had to build elementary, middle, and high schools at the taxpayers' expense. While Eli Lilly brought high-paying jobs, it increased our commercial tax base, reducing the burden on our residential taxpayers and reducing our long-term infrastructure burden. The tax dollars brought in from companies like will help pay for schools and infrastructure, and help Cabarrus County lessen the burden on our residents' tax bills. As a county commissioner, I would fully support continued efforts to bring jobs and economic prosperity to our residents. Our residents deserve to work, play, and stay in Cabarrus County without having to seek jobs elsewhere. While counties do not regulate businesses in the same way as the state or municipalities, county policies can still influence the cost and ease of doing business. How would you consider the impact of county decisions on the business community? Back in 2013, we had three county commissioners who basically said, "Cabarrus County is Closed for Business." We had businesses looking to expand here, and they voted NO on their growth-expansion incentive requests. Those votes sent a statewide and national message that Cabarrus County was closed to business. Our current 3-2 commission board is sitting on that same cusp and mentality. The decisions made by our commissioners cycle down to our municipalities and the entire community. We need to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars while maintaining professionalism in our manner and decision-making. After looking back over the last 20 years, our residents deserve to go to work in the place they call home. I don't want any of them to be me at 21 years old, thinking, "There are no jobs for me in Cabarrus County," or the father of my classmate who lost his job at 60 years old. It is imperative that we look out for all residents and set our future up for success. As your county commissioner, I will ensure I am looking at all decisions, looking out for the best interests of all. < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >

At-Large District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 Charlotte City Council District 5 District 5 is in east Charlotte and stretches from Independence Boulevard to the 485, just north of Mint Hill. Forty-eight percent of its registered voters are Democrats, 38% are unaffiliated, and 13% are Republican . Newcomer J.D. Mazuera Arias is running uncontested after defeating incumbent Marjorie Molina in a close race in the primary. Only voters in a given district can vote for their district representative. Each member of the Charlotte City Council serves a two year term. Key issues for the council now include public safety, following the August murder of a Ukrainian woman on a light rail train; affordable housing; and land use decisions related to the city’s growth. The city also runs departments including the airport, police and fire, transportation, garbage/recycling, water, planning, neighborhood services and others. The city oversees the Charlotte Area Transit System. If the transit tax referendum passes, a new regional transit authority will be in charge of the transit system, and the City Council’s role will be limited to appointing people to a portion of the new authority. City Council District 5 Candidates

Key details about Addul Ali < Back to Candidates Addul Ali Party: Republican Incumbent: No Age: 47 Previous experience in elected office: None; ran unsuccessfully for the same role in 2024 Occupation: Founder, TUC Media Description: Ali says that his top issues are to make "public safety my top priority, fight to lower the cost of living, and champion education and early childhood literacy so every child has a fair shot at success." He also wants to make healthcare affordable and support veterans. Other personal: Ali describes himself as a Christian, conservative and veteran. He operates a conservative podcast with his twin brother and was the former chair of the Cabarrus County Republican Party. He is married and a father. Several years ago, he faced misdemeanor charges related to driving with a revoked license and resisting arrest. Candidate Website Video Interview with The Charlotte Ledger The Election Hub Questionnaire Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live). 47 years of age, small business owner and have lived in the Charlotte area for 25 years Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share your previous experience in elected office that would be relevant to voters. I am running to ensure that the working families of the district have a representative that will prioritize the safety and affordability of the 12th district. I have served on the boards of directors of multiple non profits such as Positive Youth Transformation and Prosperity Unlimited. I served as Chairman of the Kannapolis Community Development Commission for two terms. I have also been a leader in the GOP serving as a county chairman and a district chairman. Tell us 1-2 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills. I was elected chairman of the Kannapolis community development commission by Democrat and Republican members. I believe in leading from the front. I never ask anyone to do anything I myself am not willing to do. I also believe in leadership that is accountable and accessible. I was honored to have earned over 90,000 votes in 2024 and I believe that is due to my message of common sense leadership that prioritizes the safety and affordability of the district. What endorsements from any notable North Carolina organizations or people have you received? Representative Grant Campbell, Congressman Tim Moore, and I was endorsed by the Log Cabin Republicans the largest LGBTQ GOP organization in the country in 2024. How long have you lived in the region/district where you are running for office? 25 years. Tell us something unexpected about yourself that voters may be interested to know. I believe that there are people of both parties that want common sense representation. I am willing to have a conversation with anyone! < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >

Key details about Bill Baggs < Back to Candidates Bill Baggs Party: Republican Incumbent: Yes Age: 81 Previous experience in elected office: Cabarrus County Clerk of Superior Court since 2010; former magistrate Occupation: Cabarrus County Clerk of Superior Court Description: Baggs says voters should pick him because, “My experience ensures the office is managed efficiently, transparently, and in accordance with the law.” He also says he led the clerk’s office through the transition to eCourts. Baggs has been clerk since 2010 and was a magistrate prior to that. In his role as clerk, Baggs was recently called upon to appoint a Cabarrus County commissioner to office in 2025 when the county commission was unable to come to consensus following the resignation of then Commissioner Chris Measmer. (Baggs selected attorney Jeff Jones for the seat.) Baggs believes a petition to remove him was motivated by that appointment. Other personal: Baggs is widowed and his son Bill Baggs is a magistrate in Concord, North Carolina and he has two grandchildren. He graduated from UNC Charlotte. Candidate Social Media Questionnaire from The Chamber, Leading Business in Cabarrus Note that candidate responses are verbatim and have not been edited. Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live). Clerk of Court and Concord, NC Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share any experience in an elected role that would be relevant to voters. I am running for Clerk of Court to continue providing experienced, reliable leadership in an office that depends on accuracy and public trust. Having served as Clerk of Court since 2010, I have a strong working knowledge of the court system and its responsibilities to the public. My experience ensures the office is managed efficiently, transparently, and in accordance with the law. Tell us about 2-3 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills. One key professional accomplishment was leading the Clerk's office during the implementation of eCourts, a paperless filing system that allows the public to file court documents electronically and provides real-time access to records. This improved efficiency, transparency, and public accessibility. I also oversaw the Clerk's office during the implementation of the Court Funds system, which streamlined juror compensation by issuing payments through debit cards rather than mailed checks, allowing juror to be paid more quickly and efficiently. Additionally, I lead an office committed to excellent customer service for the public while consistently achieving strong audit results through accurate records management and sound internal controls. What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected? In the first six months, my priority would be to continue providing an open-door policy and excellent customer service while utilizing an eCourts system that is constantly improving. As the state enhances the system now that all 100 counties are live, I will ensure our county fully leverages these improvements to deliver even greater efficiency, accessibility, and reliability within the court system while maintaining strong compliance and service standards. < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >

Key details about Rodney M. Collins < Back to Candidates Rodney M. Collins Party: Democrat Incumbent: No Age: 58 Previous experience in elected office: None Occupation: Retired Chief Deputy Sheriff Description: Collins worked in the sheriff's office for 30 years. His website identifies his top issues as public safety, community collaboration and equitable and transparent leadership within the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office. His campaign website states that he will ensure the Sheriff’s Office is professionally managed and properly equipped, focus on creating safe and constructive environments within detention facilities, transform incarceration into opportunities for personal development and reintegration, build partnerships with community organizations and restore accountability through transparent communication and fair hiring practices. Other personal: Collins is a graduate of CMS, having attended Nations Ford Elementary School, Kennedy Middle School and Olympic High School. He is married and is the father of four children. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Pfeiffer University and is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command. Candidate Website The Election Hub Questionnaire Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live). I am 58 years old and have lived in Mecklenburg County since I was a child. Currently, I call Charlotte home, residing in the University City area. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA), both from Pfeiffer University. In addition, I am a distinguished graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (Class #138), which is recognized as one of the nation’s leading public safety management programs. Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share your previous experience in elected office that would be relevant to voters. My commitment to public service has been the driving force throughout my adult life. I believe deeply in the honor and responsibility that comes with serving others, and I continue to have the passion, determination, and capability to serve our community. My journey began with my service to our country as a military policeman in the United States Air Force and continued with a 30-year career at the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office. What truly distinguishes me from the other candidates for Sheriff is my extensive, direct experience within the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office. I am the only candidate with three decades of service in this very agency. I started as an entry-level deputy sheriff and worked my way up through the ranks, ultimately retiring as Chief Deputy—the second highest position within the department. Over the course of my career, I have worked in every major division of the Sheriff’s Office, gaining invaluable insights and making significant contributions along the way. My experience includes authoring policies, procedures, and operational plans that continue to shape the office today. I have overseen major projects and managed large-scale public safety events, drawing on my deep institutional knowledge of both the operational and business aspects of the Sheriff’s Office. These experiences have uniquely prepared me to lead the organization effectively from day one. Tell us 1-2 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills. One of my most significant professional accomplishments that highlights my leadership style is the creation and implementation of operational plans for several major events in Mecklenburg County. I was responsible for coordinating the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office’s response to high-profile occasions such as the Democratic National Convention in 2012, Reverend Billy Graham’s funeral in 2018, and a comprehensive live Active Shooter Exercise at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse. In all of these instances, I led teams through demanding, high-stakes situations that required accountability, professionalism, and mutual trust. My approach to leadership involved actively seeking input from personnel, ensuring that decisions reflected the strengths and perspectives of the entire team. I maintained top-down accountability while fostering an environment where performance, morale, discipline, and respect were in balance, creating a synergy that allowed my teams to excel even under pressure. One of my proudest accomplishments is the creation and implementation of the Sheriff’s Office on-site counseling program. In collaboration with Mecklenburg County and ComPsych, I helped establish this initiative to provide vital mental health services directly at the workplace for Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office employees. Personnel in the Sheriff’s Office encounter numerous challenges, both on the job and in their personal lives. By ensuring that this much-needed resource was available, we fostered an environment where staff felt supported and valued. Ultimately, this initiative has contributed to enhanced service for the citizens of Mecklenburg County by promoting the well-being of those who serve them. What endorsements from any notable North Carolina organizations or people have you received? I am honored to have received endorsements from three esteemed former Sheriffs of Mecklenburg County: James “Jim” Pendergraph, Daniel “Chipp” Bailey, and Irwin Carmichael. Their support reflects their confidence in my leadership and dedication to the community. In addition to these distinguished individuals, I am also endorsed by former Chief Deputy Felicia McAdoo, who made history as the first African American female to serve as Chief Deputy in our department. These endorsements represent a broad base of respect and trust from those who have served at the highest levels within the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, and I am deeply grateful for their support. How long have you lived in the region/district where you are running for office? I have been a resident of Mecklenburg County since my childhood. With the exception of a six-year period during which I served in the United States Air Force, I have continuously called Mecklenburg County my home. Tell us something unexpected about yourself that voters may be interested to know. One thing that may surprise voters is that I am a natural introvert. Rather than seeking attention or being the most outspoken person in the room, I choose to listen and observe. This approach allows me to learn from others and understand different perspectives. I am committed to quietly serving those around me, focusing on making a positive impact through my actions rather than seeking recognition. My dedication to service is rooted in a genuine desire to help others, and I prefer to work diligently behind the scenes, driven by a deep commitment to the responsibilities I have taken on. < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >

Key details about James N. Bailey < Back to Candidates James N. Bailey Party: Republican Incumbent: No Age: 53 Previous experience in elected office: None Occupation: Retired Chief Deputy, Cabarrus County Sheriff's office; employee at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Description: On his campaign Facebook , Bailey said he will provide all necessary resources to law enforcement and courts. Other personal: Bailey is a retired Cabarrus County Chief Sheriff's Deputy and serves as Assistant Director of Health, Safety, and Security at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. He has two adult children and is married to Anna Bailey. He earned a B.S. in Criminal Justice and Police Science from Western Carolina University and an M.S. in Criminal Justice Administration from Eastern Carolina University. Candidate Social Media Video Interview of Candidate Questionnaire from The Chamber, Leading Business in Cabarrus Note: The following responses are verbatim from the candidate and have not been edited. Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live) . I am 53 years old. I hold a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice from East Carolina University. I am currently the Assistant Director of Campus Health, Safety, and Security at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC). I have held that position since June 2024. Prior to working at RCCC, I retired in May 2023 as the Chief Deputy of the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office. I reside on Emanuel Road in Rockwell, N.C. (Cabarrus County). Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share any experience in an elected role that would be relevant to voters. I am running for this office to preserve the qualities and lifestyle that we currently have in Cabarrus County. I want to restore confidence in the Board. I have extensive knowledge of the County budget process having managed the budget of the Sheriff's Office. I was educated in the Cabarrus County School System and I have raised my family here. As I now have grandchildren, I want to leave them with the best County possible. Tell us about 2-3 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills. Appointed Chief Deputy managing all operations of the Sheriff's Office, including the budget; 2022 Robert Eury Award Winner (Given to a 20 yr or more veteran in law enforcement who exemplifies leadership skill and public service); Graduate of the UNCC Public/Non-Profit Leadership Academy What is one thing you would like to accomplish in the first six months if elected? Confidence. I want the citizens in Cabarrus County to have confidence in their elected representatives again. I hear from so many people that the County Commissioners and other elected officials vote politics over people. I want people to hear my comments and look at my voting record after six months and say, "James may not have voted the way I wanted him to but I know he did what he thought was best for everyone, not just doing what the party wanted". Cabarrus County includes both fast-growing communities and areas facing economic challenges. How would you guide county policy and investment decisions to support balanced growth and opportunity across the entire county? I think most people would agree that residential growth has spiked over the last decade. Overcoming economic challenges, while facing high inflation, is based on providing opportunities for economic investment in our County. Inflation is outside of the County's control but what we can do is increase economic development through incentive grants and deregulation. Economic growth provides higher wages which offsets inflation. Better jobs mean higher wages and a better quality of life. County government plays a central role in funding public school facilities and long-term capital needs. How would you approach decisions related to school capital investment to ensure facilities keep pace with growth, support student success, and remain fiscally responsible for taxpayers? There is a crisis in this County in the financing of capital projects due to the tremendous growth we have incurred over the last 15-20 years. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, and technologically sound classroom for our children. One problem that needs to be corrected is that the County Commission and the municipalities need to have very direct conversations about the permitting of houses in specific areas. Currently, the County Commissioners have no discernible input on residential growth in the municipalities. This has to stop. Since the County is responsible for school funding, they need to have a seat at the table. Another idea is utilizing the same design for multiple schools to cut down on tax dollars being spent on design. Finally, the longer maintenance and construction costs are pushed out, the more expensive they become. As a taxpayer, I would like to see these projects pushed forward as quickly as feasible. The school system also needs to work through cutting their expenses as much as possible to ensure every tax dollar goes to the classroom, not administrative overhead. A strong workforce depends on more than jobs alone. It is shaped by access to education, child care, and community resources. How would you use the county’s role to support workforce participation and quality of life for Cabarrus County residents? Workforces require varying levels of support. If taxes are used to provide assistance to a working parent in providing childcare, those taxes are being used responsibly as opposed to taking that parent out of the workforce altogether. Our local community college provides a tremendous amount of workforce development, some of it tailored to the needs of a specific industry. The Cabarrus Health Alliance utilizes various funding streams to provide a variety of healthcare services to our citizens. All of these are supported in various ways by county tax dollars. While some may deem these services unnecessary or frivolous, they are, in reality, better uses of tax dollars than the alternative. The alternative being less worker participation, diminished health outcomes, and a poorly trained workforce. These alternatives inevitably lead to higher dependency on government assistance which leads to higher taxes. Economic growth is essential to maintaining a strong tax base, supporting public services, and creating opportunity for residents. How would you approach county-level policies and investments to ensure Cabarrus County remains competitive in attracting and retaining businesses while managing growth responsibly? I am a proponent of Economic Development for businesses that bring high-quality, great paying jobs to Cabarrus County. The concept of Economic Development is directly proportional to managing growth. Land can either be used for building high density subdivisions or for commercial growth. Promoting economic growth equates to less housing growth. Property owners of large tracts of land in Cabarrus County are faced with an impossible situation....opposition to economic development and opposition to large housing development. Economic growth, over time, leads to a lessened tax burden on individual property owners. While counties do not regulate businesses in the same way as the state or municipalities, county policies can still influence the cost and ease of doing business. How would you consider the impact of county decisions on the business community? Commission decisions can have a huge influence on business development. So much focus is put on economic development, but that is not the sole factor businesses use to relocate and/or thrive here. Great schools, great parks, great roads, great healthcare, and great community support for our aging population are key factors I believe businesses look for to develop and grow. All of these require a dedication to funding them adequately. Cabarrus County should strive to provide jobs for it's citizens right here in Cabarrus County. Great paying jobs which keep our citizens working and living here in Cabarrus County. < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >

Key details about Felicia R. Thompkins < Back to Candidates Felicia R. Thompkins Party: Democrat Incumbent: No Age: 65 Previous experience in elected office: None; ran unsuccessfully for the District 3 Commissioner seat in 2024 Occupation: Talent Acquisition Consultant at UNC Charlotte Description: Thompkins’ top issues include healthcare and mental health access, senior affordability and support, foster youth and family stability, education and youth services, transit access, and public safety. She emphasizes prioritizing budget decisions that expand access to care, supporting community-based mental health and crisis response options and insisting on measurable outcomes for programs. On seniors and affordability, she advocates for “aging-in-place” support, smart tax and budget choices and service-delivery approaches that reduce pressure on fixed incomes. She also focuses on improving foster youth outcomes, building partnerships between schools and County services and ensuring reliable, safe transit that connects people to jobs and essential services. Thompkins supports collaborative strategies to enhance public safety and community trust, advocating for policies that strengthen confidence in institutions. Other personal: Thompkins was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, where she was one of eight children. She has been married to William Thompkins for 31 years. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Alabama State University. Candidate Website The Election Hub Questionnaire No response from candidate < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >

Charlotte Mayor The Charlotte Mayor serves a two-year term and presides over City Council meetings. The mayor casts tie-breaking votes and represents the city at events and ceremonies such as Meck Dec Day . The incumbent, Vi Lyles, is running for her fifth term. Charlotte Mayoral Candidates

Key details about Veleria M. Levy < Back to Candidates Veleria M. Levy Party: Democrat Incumbent: No Age: 57 Previous experience in elected office: None Occupation: Founder of HerHealth Consulting Description: Levy’s top issues focus on increasing funding for public education, including expanded childcare access and higher teacher pay, addressing affordable housing and manageable energy costs, and ensuring comprehensive healthcare for women, including Medicaid and preventative care. She was a former organizer in North Carolina for Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign and was the 2nd vice chair of the N.C. Democratic Party. Other personal: Levy has lived in Charlotte for two decades. She has spent many years as a healthcare and HIV advocacy leader, serving as Interim executive director and former board chair of the North Carolina AIDS Action Network. She is the mother of a son with epilepsy. She holds a bachelor’s from North Carolina A&T State University and a master's degree from Wake Forest University School of Law. Candidate Website The Election Hub Questionnaire Please provide demographic information about yourself to help voters (age, education, current occupation, where you live). I am 50-plus (and as a Black woman and an Auntie, we say 50-plus with pride because asking for exact ages is a little disrespectful LOL). I am a healthcare advocate who works at the intersection of healthcare, policy and community advocacy. I am a nonprofit leader, and health equity consultant. I live in House District 99 and have spent more than two decades working alongside communities across North and South Carolina that are most impacted by policy decisions. I am the founder of HerHealth Consulting, where I focus on health equity, healthcare disparities, reproductive health, and equity for Black and Brown women. My work has centered on healthcare access, HIV care and prevention, and community-driven solutions that protect reduce stigma, educate and provide dignity, safety, and opportunity for all. Why are you running for this role and why should voters pick you? Please share your previous experience in elected office that would be relevant to voters. I am running because too many families in District 99 are working hard but falling behind while decisions are made in Raleigh and DC, that don’t reflect their everyday realities. Housing, healthcare, energy costs, and wages are out of balance, and people want leadership that listens and responds. I care deeply about protecting our environment and our future, and I believe elected officials must be independent from corporate interests they are responsible for regulating. That is why I will not take corporate PAC money that conflicts with the values and priorities of this district. While I have not held elected office, I bring decades of experience working with legislators across North and South Carolina and in Washington DC, serving in Democratic Party leadership, and advocating for policies that strengthen healthcare access, environmental responsibility, bodily autonomy, and economic stability. Voters should pick me because I lead with passion, with grit, accountability, constituent care, and a commitment to putting people first. Tell us 1-2 professional accomplishments you have achieved in your work experience (not limited to public service) that give voters a sense of your leadership style or skills. I founded HerHealth Consulting LLC to address healthcare disparities impacting Black and Brown women, particularly in reproductive and preventive care, after seeing firsthand how systems fail the people most in need. I also previously led statewide advocacy efforts in HIV care and prevention, building coalitions, educating lawmakers, and advancing policies rooted in evidence and compassion. My leadership style is collaborative, data-informed, and grounded in community voice. What endorsements from any notable North Carolina organizations or people have you received? I am proud to be endorsed by the Sierra Club, the Sunrise Movement, Carolina Forward and more to come. How long have you lived in the region/district where you are running for office? I have lived in Charlotte for over 20 years, and North Charlotte was the first area I called home when I moved here. This community helped shape who I am, and it remains the place I care deeply about. My connection to this area is personal, long-standing, and rooted in relationships, not politics. I love this part of Charlotte and am committed to protecting its people, neighborhoods, and future Tell us something unexpected about yourself that voters may be interested to know. As a progressive, I believe deeply in balance, care, and guardrails. I do not believe in “defunding the police,” and I do not believe in eliminating the Second Amendment. I believe in responsibility, training, and working together so that rights, safety, and dignity are protected for everyone. Community safety is not about choosing sides. It is about building trust and making sure the right response meets the right situation. This is personal for me. My son has epilepsy, and I have lived with the fear many families carry when a medical condition, disability, or difference could be misunderstood in a moment of stress. A non-response, confusion, or delay can look like defiance when it is actually a health crisis. That reality shapes how I think about safety, training, and accountability. Law enforcement officers deserve better tools, better preparation, and access to support professionals like case managers and mental health responders who can meet them on calls when appropriate. In 2022, after the death of Trayvon Martin, my son completed a school project that became something much bigger. He created a program called SKIN, a concept for diversity and safety training for law enforcement. SKIN stands for Sensitivity, Kindness, Inner Peace, and Necessary. His idea was simple but profound: that officers carry this reminder with them and pause before each interaction to ground themselves in humanity, calm, and care. He wanted it to make encounters safer for civilians and officers alike. What broke my heart is that he was afraid to present this idea directly to local police departments because he feared how he would be seen or remembered later in life. That fear did not stop him. It pushed him forward. Today, he is a double major in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security at VCU, committed to improving the systems that once frightened him. That is the kind of leadership I believe in. Supporting law enforcement while demanding accountability and better training are not opposites; they are how trust and safety are built. When officers, communities, healthcare professionals, and families work together, everyone is safer. That is the future I am fighting for. < Previous Candidate Next Candidate >