The March 3 primaries in Texas are the first round of contests ahead of the all-important midterm elections in November. Your primary ballots include a slate of county, judicial, state and federal races. The winners will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram sent candidate questionnaires to everyone running in challenged races on Tarrant County ballots. Below are their unedited responses. The races include Tarrant County government, the Texas Legislature, Congress and a U.S. Senate seat.
Eleanor (Elly) Dearman is a Texas politics and government reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. She’s based in Austin, covering the Legislature and its impact on North Texas. She grew up in Denton and has been a reporter for more than six years. Support my work with a digital subscription
Rachel Royster is a news and government reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, specifically focused on Tarrant County. She joined the newsroom after interning at the Austin American-Statesman, the Waco Tribune-Herald and Capital Community News in DC. A Houston native and Baylor grad, Rachel enjoys traveling, reading and being outside. She welcomes any and all news tips to her email.
Remember to cast your vote in the November election.
To help voters learn which candidates are on their ballot and where they stand on important policy issues, The News & Observer is publishing candidate questionnaires in all state and federal races in North Carolina on the March 3, 2026, ballot.
Below are the candidates running for NC House District 6 who responded to our questionnaire, in order by the date their responses were received. Some candidates did not provide a photo.
District 6 is located in Harnett County and is currently represented by Rep. Joe Pike, a Republican seeking reelection. W. H. “Bill” Morris is challenging Pike for the Republican nomination.
There is also a Democratic primary for the seat between Joshua Estep and Tony Spears.
Spears, Pike and Morris did not respond to the questionnaire.
Joshua Estep
Joshua Estep is a candidate for NC House District 6 Cristobal Alvarez
Age as of March 3, 2026: 36
Political party: Democratic
Campaign website: joshuaestepfornc.com
Current occupation: Preconstruction and masonry field operations manager for Mante Structural.
Professional experience: 10 years in construction, mostly masonry; 13 years in food service industry with highest position held being kitchen manager.
Education: Associates’ degree in construction management as well as a carpentry certificate from Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement: Election worker in 2020
What is the most important issue in your district and what do you want to do about it? Public school funding. The public schools in my district are full of great teachers. They’re underpaid and need more support from the state while providing our children with an education. I’d call to get a raise for teachers in the state budget that aptly reflects their importance to all North Carolinians but especially our children. Secondly I’d work to get the voucher program wealth cap reduced drastically so that we help the kids who need it the most and give more back to public schools.
The legislature sets teacher base pay. What do you think the salary range should be for teachers, from starting to 30+ experience? Starting with the required degree: $55,000 to $100,000+ with benefits and pension
As of January, North Carolina was the last state not to have passed a new, comprehensive budget. What would you do to help make sure a budget passes? I’d help to introduce measures in the budget that both sides can agree on. That will be a difficult task, but we all know what’s important to our districts. With that knowledge we pass common sense budget measures that most of our constituents would agree with. Also it should be more out in the open to maintain transparency at all times.
North Carolina’s income tax rate for individual taxpayers is 3.99%. Should that be reduced further? I think that should be dependent on income. There should be more well structured brackets with lower rates being paid from working and middle class North Carolinians. After a certain dollar amount (i.e. $5 million) the rate should increase for every dollar over that threshold.
Do you think the state is using taxpayer money efficiently? Why or why not? Yes, but only partially because there are a lot of aspects of their stewardship that need to be changed to help the working class. Things like insanely large tax incentives for big corporations and an uncapped school voucher program only benefit a small group of the wealthiest North Carolinians. That needs to change. We also need to expand Medicare and work to make health care more affordable for all North Carolinians.
Do you support legalizing medical marijuana use? Why or why not? Yes. When it’s properly regulated like alcohol and tobacco, it’s relatively “safe” in moderation. It should be taxed as it is in other states which will bring in a decent amount of income for the state while simultaneously benefiting farmers as a cash crop. The hemp industry in North Carolina is doing fairly well, however, provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will restrict hemp farming immensely starting in November of 2026 and legalization statewide could help keep those farms and producers in business.
What do you see as the biggest barrier to health care access in your district, and what actions would you take to address it? My district is fairly rural, so most folks have to drive to either Raleigh or Fayetteville for their health care. We need to further expand our Medicaid and Medicare to help bring more doctors and hospitals to our quickly growing rural areas. The funds from both the state and federal government could be used to incentivize doctors and other health care providers to start new practices in our growing part of the state. We also need to expand the small business health plans program.
Remember to cast your vote in the November election.
To help voters learn which candidates are on their ballot and where they stand on important policy issues, The News & Observer is publishing candidate questionnaires in all state and federal races in North Carolina on the March 3, 2026, ballot.
There are 15 people vying to be North Carolina’s next senator, replacing second-term Republican Sen. Thom Tillis.
Tillis opted not to run for reelection following a public dispute with President Donald Trump over the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and whether it would impact North Carolina’s Medicaid coverage.
Below are the candidates running for U.S. Senate in contested primaries who responded to our questionnaire, in order by the date their responses were received. Some candidates did not provide a photo.
Republicans Richard Dansie and Michael Whatley and Democrats Daryl Farrow and Marcus Williams did not respond to the questionnaire.
Elizabeth Anne Temple
Age as of March 3, 2026: 55
Political party: Republican
Current occupation: Certified current licensed teacher K-12, North Carolina Department of PubIic Instruction.
Professional experience: Teacher, businesswoman.
Education: Master’s degree in education.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.: I am a member of a Smithfield town board, the Historic Preservation and Properties Commission. (See town website for my name under Boards, Historic Preservation). 911 Responders Event, Salvation Army bell ringer, I ran for N.C. House – District 28 in 2024, and town council twice.
What would be your top priority if elected? Homelessness
Republican and Democratic candidates often explain the state of the economy differently. How do you see it and what, if anything, would you do that you believe would improve it? I believe that the MAGA Republicans are paying off the national debt and deficit, that this is essential to our national security. I think that the economy is doing well under the current administration.
In 2025, Congress caused the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. What should members of Congress do to prevent this in the future and how important is it for Congress to pass a budget? It is important for the U.S. Senate to pass a budget soon and not shut down the government. I am for decreasing the costs of health care itself, and focused more on how we can pay out-of-pocket and pay off our doctor and hospital bills, when necessary, ourselves.
Should the president go before Congress before taking military action in foreign countries? The president makes decisions on national security.
Do you support the tactics that the Trump administration has used in immigration enforcement? Do you believe the immigration crackdown has had collateral effects for residents with legal status? I do support ICE and enforcing the immigration laws.
Do you believe oversight of public education should be left up to individual states? Yes, I support that the federal government send education back to the states and local governments.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? I do not disagree with anything that the MAGA Republicans such as President Trump. I know that Trump is doing what is best for our country.
Current occupation: Father, educator, entrepreneur
Professional experience: 10 years active duty Marine Corps infantry (2003-2012). Business management and advising (2012-2025).
Education: Master of business administration from UNC Charlotte.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.: Military service, public service with UNC Charlotte and N.C. A&T State University and volunteer involvement with local veteran community.
What would be your top priority if elected? Anti-corruption efforts such as taxing billionaires out of existence, punishing corporate greed, busting monopolies and capping CEO pay. Constitutional amendments to 1. End gerrymandering 2. Overturn Citizens United 3. Add term limits to Congress and the Supreme Court.
Republican and Democratic candidates often explain the state of the economy differently. How do you see it and what, if anything, would you do that you believe would improve it? The economy sucks for anyone in the bottom 90% of earners. Affordability measures like these would likely improve the working-class economy = living wages to $30 an hour by 2030. No-cost universal health care. Housing programs that build more inventory, reform negative zoning issues and push corporate landlords out of private residential housing.
In 2025, Congress caused the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. What should members of Congress do to prevent this in the future and how important is it for Congress to pass a budget? To prevent: pass a law that reduces congressional pay by a certain percentage for every day and week that passes without a funded government. Not only is a budget a basic necessity, a balanced budget is also critical. Again, pass laws that disincentivize a lack of compromise. Disagreement is fine, obstruction is not. Health care is a human right. The U.S. is the only developed nation in the world without universal health care and as a result we are living shorter and sicker lives. We need a single-payer system like Medicare for All that covers every American from birth to death. The fact that a profit incentive drives health care and health insurance is a moral and ethical disgrace.
Should the president go before Congress before taking military action in foreign countries? Yes, 100% of the time unless the window to decide/act is so urgent and short it would impede the ability to carry out said action.
Do you support the tactics that the Trump administration has used in immigration enforcement? Do you believe the immigration crackdown has had collateral effects for residents with legal status? No, the Trump administration and ICE tactics continue to give American democracy a black eye. This is a country founded by immigrants, built by immigrants and until recently, celebrated the fact that we were a melting pot. Yes, there is significant economic, physical, mental and emotional collateral damage when people are living in fear. No human is illegal, citizenship and lines on a map only exist and matter because we are told to believe so (tribalism).
Do you believe oversight of public education should be left up to individual states? No, that represents a conflict of interest in my opinion. There should be an external or third party that controls independent oversight.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? As a true independent I support several items that neither Democrats or Republican parties do, those are; open primaries (less extremist candidates), ranked choice voting (increased research of candidates), automatic unaffiliated voter registration at 18 (increased turnout) and alternative party access to ballots without signature gathering (lessens two-party stranglehold).
Current occupation: Founder & CEO, university lecturer
Professional experience: Thomas built Agile Immersive, a multimillion-dollar strategy consulting firm serving Fortune 500 clients including T-Mobile, MetLife and FedEx. He lectures on organizational transformation at institutions for master of business administration in Frankfurt, Germany
Education: Master of science degree in space commercialization from the Air Force Institute of Technology and a bachelor of science in political science from the U.S. Air Force Academy
Please list any notable government or civic involvement: Thomas attended the U.S. Air Force Academy, earning Dean’s List and Commandant’s List honors. The CIA recruited him to study space commercialization and build intelligence satellites at the National Reconnaissance Office. He escaped death at the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, by mere minutes.
What would be your top priority if elected? Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Two weeks ago, I sent letters to Sens. (Chuck) Grassley, (Mike) Lee, (James) Lankford, (Eric) Schmidt and (Josh) Hawley urging them to co-sponsor a day one amendment protecting houses of worship during national emergencies. What happened during COVID — when liquor stores stayed open while churches were shuttered — must never happen again. Government has no authority to declare faith “non-essential.”
Republican and Democratic candidates often explain the state of the economy differently. How do you see it and what, if anything, would you do that you believe would improve it? I have started a conversation with President Trump and (Peter) Navarro, our U.S. trade representative, to grant North Carolina farmers a tariff exemption for our agricultural goods like poultry, pork and produce. I see North Carolina families struggling. I see mothers doing math at the grocery store, choosing between milk and medicine. I see fathers filling up their trucks and watching their paychecks drain away. I see families working harder than ever and falling further behind.
In 2025, Congress caused the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. What should members of Congress do to prevent this in the future and how important is it for Congress to pass a budget? Every American family balances their checkbook. Our federal government should do the same. Today, Congress appropriates money through one set of books while agencies spend through another. The result: failed audits, billions unaccounted for and taxpayers left in the dark. Blockchain technology offers the solution — a single, immutable ledger where every appropriation and expenditure is recorded, traceable and visible in real time. No more conflicting figures. No more accounting shell games.
Lawmakers have been at odds on Capitol Hill over health care coverage for Americans. Where do you stand on Medicaid coverage and Affordable Care Act subsidies? Health care support Medicaid for the truly vulnerable — children, the disabled and those temporarily down on their luck — but we must add work requirements for able-bodied adults. Dependency isn’t compassion. The Affordable Care Act promised affordability but delivered skyrocketing premiums and narrower choices. We need market-based reforms: price transparency so you know costs upfront, insurance sales across state lines and expanded Health Savings Accounts. Empower families; don’t trap them in government programs.
Should the president go before Congress before taking military action in foreign countries? The Constitution divides war powers between branches. Article II, Section 2 designates the president as commander in chief of the Army and Navy, granting executive control over military operations. However, Article I, Section 8 reserves to Congress alone the power to declare war, raise armies and fund military operations. The Senate specifically must ratify treaties by two-thirds vote. The founders intentionally split these powers — the president commands; but Congress authorizes and funds.
Do you support the tactics that the Trump administration has used in immigration enforcement? Do you believe the immigration crackdown has had collateral effects for residents with legal status? I fully support President Trump’s efforts to secure our border. A nation without borders is not a nation. From my service in the intelligence community, I know border security is national security — we cannot know who enters or what threats they pose when the border is open. Secure the border first with barriers, technology and personnel. End catch-and-release, reinstate Remain in Mexico and expedite deportations. Reform legal immigration to prioritize merit-based entry that serves America.
Do you believe oversight of public education should be left up to individual states? No. The Department of Education must pivot from bureaucratic compliance to workforce readiness. Our students and displaced workers need skills for artificial intelligence, biotech and advanced manufacturing — not yesterday’s economy. I support federal incentives for apprenticeships, industry-credentialed training and community college partnerships with growth-sector employers. Cut administrative bloat and redirect funds to STEM education, coding boot camps, and adult upskilling programs.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? Compassion. The Republican Party has lost this value, but compassion is essential to excellent leadership. I am a warrior who has survived terrorist bombings and shotguns pointed at my chest. I am also a father, who knows compassion lets me feel my children’s struggles and comfort them and lead them to a more hopeful moment. Compassion requires vulnerability. Being vulnerable requires self-awareness and deep strength. Knowing that God made you who you are and in his love there is compassion.
Robert Colon
Age as of March 3, 2026: 37
Political party: Democrat
Current occupation: Caretaker
Professional experience: Caretaker
Education: High school equivalency; continuing education
Please list any notable government or civic involvement. Eagle scout
What would be your top priority if elected? Crime
Republican and Democratic candidates often explain the state of the economy differently. How do you see it and what, if anything, would you do that you believe would improve it? I see the U.S. economy getting better, but not the best. I would just try to keep growing.
In 2025, Congress caused the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. What should members of Congress do to prevent this in the future and how important is it for Congress to pass a budget? The Senate should reconsider the rules to prevent this in the future. It is pretty important to try to pass a budget.
Lawmakers have been at odds on Capitol Hill over health care coverage for Americans. Where do you stand on Medicaid coverage and Affordable Care Act subsidies? I think that we have economic considerations to weigh.
Should the president go before Congress before taking military action in foreign countries? Yes, unless we are in imminent danger and there is no time for delay.
Do you support the tactics that the Trump administration has used in immigration enforcement? Do you believe the immigration crackdown has had collateral effects for residents with legal status? For the most part I don’t support what I’m seeing.
Do you believe oversight of public education should be left up to individual states? I believe in states running their own schools.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? I disagree with them on the size of government, which I believe should be smaller.
Professional experience: Community leader, entrepreneur, author and speaker with over a decade of experience in youth development, education and economic empowerment. Founder of Oak Tree Publishing and Quick Capital Ventures, leading literacy programs, small business support and leadership initiatives across North Carolina.
Education: NC State former Division I student-athlete (football). In addition to formal education, I have spent years in leadership development, public speaking, business training and community-based education through real-world experience working directly with families, students and entrepreneurs.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement: Founder of Project 400 and the Kid Author Program: initiatives designed to help hundreds of children become published authors and develop literacy, confidence and leadership skills. Over 13 years of continuous community service through mentoring, youth programs, senior outreach, church leadership and educational initiatives across North Carolina. Active advocate for constitutional rights, civil liberties and community-based solutions to public policy challenges.
What would be your top priority if elected? My top priority is restoring constitutional integrity and economic dignity for everyday Americans. That means protecting civil liberties, ensuring due process under the law and building an economy that actually works for working families — not just corporations and special interests. I will focus on lowering the cost of living, expanding access to capital and education and holding government accountable to the Constitution.
Republican and Democratic candidates often explain the state of the economy differently. How do you see it and what, if anything, would you do that you believe would improve it? The economy looks strong on paper, but families feel squeezed by inflation, housing, health care and debt. I support lowering living costs, expanding access to capital, investing in workforce development and stopping monopolies from hurting workers and small businesses.
In 2025, Congress caused the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. What should members of Congress do to prevent this in the future and how important is it for Congress to pass a budget? Shutdowns are failures of leadership. Congress should pass budgets on time and use automatic continuing resolutions to prevent shutdowns. A stable budget is essential for workers, military families and economic security.
Lawmakers have been at odds on Capitol Hill over health care coverage for Americans. Where do you stand on Medicaid coverage and Affordable Care Act subsidies? I support expanding Medicaid and ACA subsidies. Health care should be affordable and accessible. We must lower drug costs, increase transparency, support mental health and ensure no one goes bankrupt because they got sick.
Should the president go before Congress before taking military action in foreign countries? Yes. Except for immediate self-defense, the president should seek congressional approval before military action. The Constitution gives Congress war powers and endless wars without oversight undermine democracy.
Do you support the tactics that the Trump administration has used in immigration enforcement? Do you believe the immigration crackdown has had collateral effects for residents with legal status? I oppose tactics that violate due process or civil liberties. Enforcement must be firm, fair and constitutional. The crackdown has harmed legal residents and families. We need more judges, lawful processing and humane enforcement.
Do you believe oversight of public education should be left up to individual states? States should lead education, but the federal government must ensure equal opportunity and civil rights. I support local control with federal oversight to prevent discrimination and ensure fair funding.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? I disagree with my party on expanding government power and surveillance. No matter who is in charge, the Constitution comes first. I will oppose any policy that violates due process, privacy, or civil liberties.
Professional experience: Constitutional attorney with extensive experience defending individual liberties and challenging government overreach; former U.S. federal prosecutor, with firsthand experience enforcing federal law and holding offenders accountable; Navy Judge Advocate General officer, served at the Pentagon, advising on military law and national security matters.
Education: A bachelor of arts degree from UNC-Chapel Hill and a juris doctor degree from Campbell University.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.: Former U.S. Navy JAG Officer who served at the Pentagon, advising on military and national security matters. Former U.S. federal prosecutor. Constitutional attorney who has defended civil liberties and challenged government overreach. Successfully represented clients who received presidential pardons and has been a public advocate on constitutional and military justice issues.
What would be your top priority if elected? The national debt must be eliminated. Endless deficit spending weakens the dollar, fuels inflation, and threatens America’s long-term security. Fiscal responsibility is not optional — it is essential to preserving our nation’s strength and sovereignty.
Republican and Democratic candidates often explain the state of the economy differently. How do you see it and what, if anything, would you do that you believe would improve it? The economy is not working for everyday Americans. Inflation, rising costs, and record debt are hurting families despite Washington’s claims. To improve it, I would end reckless spending, work to eliminate the national debt, protect the strength of the dollar, lower energy costs through domestic production and reduce regulations that crush small businesses. Sound money and fiscal discipline are essential to real prosperity.
In 2025, Congress caused the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. What should members of Congress do to prevent this in the future and how important is it for Congress to pass a budget? Congress has a responsibility to pass a responsible budget and keep the government operating. Shutdowns occur when lawmakers use taxpayer dollars as leverage instead of prioritizing core duties. Americans should not be forced to fund programs that put illegal immigrants ahead of citizens. Preventing shutdowns requires fiscal discipline, common-sense leadership and respect for the hard-earned money of the American people.
Lawmakers have been at odds on Capitol Hill over health care coverage for Americans. Where do you stand on Medicaid coverage and Affordable Care Act subsidies? Medicaid should be reserved for those who truly need it — the most vulnerable Americans it was created to serve. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund unsustainable expansions or costly Affordable Care Act subsidies that drive up spending without lowering overall health care costs. We need reforms that promote responsibility, competition and real affordability.
Should the president go before Congress before taking military action in foreign countries? The Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war, while granting the president authority to act swiftly to protect national security. In urgent situations, military action cannot wait for advance notice or congressional approval without risking American lives. Congress should exercise oversight, but the president must retain the ability to respond immediately to serious threats.
Do you support the tactics that the Trump administration has used in immigration enforcement? Do you believe the immigration crackdown has had collateral effects for residents with legal status? I fully support the immigration enforcement tactics of the Trump administration and Secretary (Kristi) Noem. Federal law must be enforced, and ICE must be allowed to do its job without interference. When state and local officials obstruct enforcement, they create lawlessness and put public safety at risk. Laws must be obeyed, and violent protesters who interfere with federal officers must be held accountable.
Do you believe oversight of public education should be left up to individual states? Yes. Oversight of public education should be returned to the states. The federal Department of Education has added bureaucracy without improving outcomes and should be eliminated. States and local communities know their students best and should have full authority over education policy, standards and funding — not Washington bureaucrats.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? I disagree with my party on its failure to meaningfully reduce the national debt. Republicans talk about fiscal responsibility but too often fail to act. There must be a coordinated, serious effort to cut spending — and those cuts must be implemented, including DOGE reductions. Promises without action are unacceptable when the debt threatens our economy and national security.
Current occupation: Nurse – registered nurse, bachelor of science in nursing
Professional experience: Nurse for 32 years, political advocate for 11 years, missionary for eight years, educator for 10 years, legislative liaison for six years (Liberty First Grassroots, Pavement Education Project), citizen advocate for election integrity, medical freedom and education reform for 10 years, NC Council of State Candidate in 2024.
Education: Bachelor of science in nursing
Please list any notable government or civic involvement.: Traveled the state for 11 years advocating for election integrity, border security, medical freedom and education reform. Have spoken at school boards, county commissions, legislative committee hearings and met with congressmen and women regarding multiple legislative issues.
What would be your top priority if elected? As your senator, my top priority will be to bring justice back to America by exposing the fraud and corruption and arresting the criminals from the top tiers of government down to our city streets. When we prosecute the criminals and expose the fraud, waste and abuse, we will strengthen our communities and put more money back into the pockets of hard-working Americans. We must enforce our laws and return blind, balanced justice to our country.
Republican and Democratic candidates often explain the state of the economy differently. How do you see it and what, if anything, would you do that you believe would improve it? The U.S. economy is stressed by millions of illegal immigrants welcomed under Biden, taxing education, health care, our courts and infrastructure. Forty years of unchecked spending, misplaced priorities and ever-increasing entitlement programs demand radical corrections — uncomfortable short-term, but restoring prosperity long-term. The federal government must account for every tax dollar spent and prioritize Americans first.
In 2025, Congress caused the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. What should members of Congress do to prevent this in the future and how important is it for Congress to pass a budget? I am not as concerned with a government “shutdown” as I am passing a budget that harms the American people. I am concerned about the billions of dollars that have been wasted on noncitizens, foreign entities and special interests. Americans deserve an accounting for every dollar and prioritize citizens first. As your senator, I will advocate to end omnibus bills, a continuation of DOGE initiatives and a 75% federal workforce reduction, allowing us to reduce taxes and balance our budget.
Lawmakers have been at odds on Capitol Hill over health care coverage for Americans. Where do you stand on Medicaid coverage and Affordable Care Act subsidies? When the federal government takes over a program it becomes less effective, less efficient and more expensive. As senator, I would end the Affordable Care Act and charge the Department of Health and Human Services in every state to provide quality, local, affordable health care in every county. As a nurse of 33 years, I have practical solutions to this crisis. Every person on Medicaid should have to pay $10/month, insurance should be for crises only and routine/preventative care should be private payer with primary doctors.
Should the president go before Congress before taking military action in foreign countries? That depends on the military action being taken, the need for secrecy and the element of surprise. As commander-in-chief, the president confers with military leaders to act within the confines of the Constitution, the War Powers Resolution of 1973 and the best interests of U.S. citizens and our troops. If military action is indicated before it is discussed with Congress, the president is required to submit a report, in writing, within 48 hours.
Do you support the tactics that the Trump administration has used in immigration enforcement? Do you believe the immigration crackdown has had collateral effects for residents with legal status? This should not be a surprise to anyone. President Trump has been very clear since 2016. If you want to come to the United States, do so legally. It is (President Joe) Biden’s refusal to obey our laws and blatant thievery from U.S. taxpayers that has led to this dangerous and untenable situation. Trump’s administration offered people $3,000, a plane ticket and first in line status to self deport. If anyone is here legally they have nothing to worry about.
Do you believe oversight of public education should be left up to individual states? If states are going to receive federal monies for their public schools, every district should be required to prove that they are in compliance with federal law. As senator, I would propose a national standard for curriculum, based on best practices from around the world. We should be number one in education. Currently, the United States ranks 34th in the world and North Carolina ranks 43rd out of the 50 states. This is abominable.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? I disagree that anyone should be buying their way into an elected position. Elections should not be about parties, it should be about the people. Who is the candidate who will best represent their constituents, respect the Constitution and make every decision based on what is best for America and Americans.
Current occupation: Former governor of North Carolina, candidate for the U.S. Senate
Professional experience: North Carolina’s 75th governor, 2017-2025; attorney general, 2001-2017; state legislator, 1987-2001. Lawyer in private practice, 1982-2001.
Education: I attended Nash County public schools and earned undergraduate and law degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement: I was born in Nash County, where I attended public schools and worked summers on the farm. I represented everyday people while practicing law in Rocky Mount; where I taught Sunday school and raised three daughters with my wife Kristin. As attorney general, I prosecuted thousands of violent criminals, kept them behind bars and protected our state’s families. As governor, I led North Carolina to be one of the nation’s fastest-growing states with more affordable health care and better-paying jobs.
What would be your top priority if elected? I’ll be laser focused on making life more affordable for our people. That means working to lower the cost of health care, housing, groceries, utilities and more. Because for too many people, the middle class feels like a distant dream, and those already in the middle class are barely hanging on. And the chaos in Washington right now is only making it worse. Working people are being left behind while the biggest corporations get more and more. It’s not right.
Republican and Democratic candidates often explain the state of the economy differently. How do you see it and what, if anything, would you do that you believe would improve it? The cost of groceries, rent, utilities, and more are too high for families who are just trying to make ends meet. Washington politicians are making it worse by cutting health care and making it more expensive, imposing indiscriminate tariffs that are jacking up prices and giving more tax breaks to corporations and billionaires at the expense of working people. As senator, I’ll fight to roll back these economic policies that are devastating our state’s farmers, small businesses and working families.
In 2025, Congress caused the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. What should members of Congress do to prevent this in the future and how important is it for Congress to pass a budget? The fact that this shutdown happened is just further evidence that Washington is broken. North Carolinians deserve leaders in Washington who are laser focused on lowering costs and protecting health care. Because while all of this has been happening, North Carolina families have seen their health care premiums, housing costs and everyday expenses skyrocket. Working families need help and Washington needs to come together, find a solution and do its job.
Lawmakers have been at odds on Capitol Hill over health care coverage for Americans. Where do you stand on Medicaid coverage and Affordable Care Act subsidies? As governor, I fought for years to expand Medicaid in our state and make health care more affordable for hundreds of thousands of working North Carolinians. But health care in our state is at risk right now because Medicaid and Medicare are under attack, greedy insurance companies are charging high premiums and ACA subsidies have been gutted. Meanwhile, my opponent, Washington, D.C., insider Michael Whatley, cheered on actions that raised health care costs for so many North Carolinians.
Should the president go before Congress before taking military action in foreign countries? Yes. The Constitution requires it.
Do you support the tactics that the Trump administration has used in immigration enforcement? Do you believe the immigration crackdown has had collateral effects for residents with legal status? This administration has done a good job strengthening the southern border. But instead of focusing on violent criminals, they’re rounding up people just because of what they look like, capturing U.S. citizens and people otherwise here legally. Now they’ve killed American citizens on the street. As attorney general and governor I locked up violent criminals – maintaining trust in law enforcement was key to that success. Americans deserve answers, the administration must stop this chaos and keep people safe.
Do you believe oversight of public education should be left up to individual states? I believe the best decisions are made at the state and local level, but we must use every resource at our disposal to keep our public schools strong and help them provide safe environments for our children. Eliminating the U.S. Department of Education and reducing federal funding for public schools is wrong. I’ve worked my whole career to invest in our public schools and increase teacher salaries and pushed the state legislature to raise teacher pay during my eight years as Governor.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue? There are Democrats who want to provide less funding for law enforcement and who don’t want strong borders. I believe we must do more to fund and support law enforcement and that we must have strong borders and deport violent criminals.
Danielle Battaglia is the D.C. correspondent for The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer, leading coverage of North Carolina’s congressional delegation and elections. She also covers the White House. Her career has spanned three North Carolina newsrooms where she has covered crime, courts and local, state and national politics. She has won two McClatchy President’s awards and numerous national and state awards for her work.
Election Day is Tuesday. In Mecklenburg County, there will be municipal and school board elections as well as a transportation referendum. In this file photo, sample ballots sit on a table for voters at Sharon Presbyterian Church in south Charlotte.
Melissa Melvin-Rodriguez
mrodriguez@charlotteobserver.com
Mecklenburg County voters on Tuesday will decide a series of local elections and the fate of a potentially transformational transportation tax referendum.
Election Day is Tuesday, with polls open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at locations across the county.
Voters will have a mix of municipal and school board races as well as a transportation tax referendum on ballots. What appears on a voter’s ballot depends on where he or she lives.
By the end of early voting on Saturday, 63,427 people cast ballots. That appears to be an early voting record for a municipal or odd-year election, according to Mecklenburg County data. An additional 1,224 mail-in ballots have been approved.
In 2023, the most recent municipal election, a total of 39,432 people cast ballots during early voting, with an additional 1,226 approved mail-in ballots. Mecklenburg County data show that was higher than prior odd-year elections. But it was eclipsed by the even-year elections before and after. With presidential, U.S. Senate, congressional, gubernatorial and statewide races, even year elections produce much higher voter turnout than ones only featuring local contests.
The top performing early voting site was the South Park Library, which saw 1,500 more ballots cast than any other voting site. The second- and third-busiest sites were the South County Library and Matthews Library, respectively.
Friday was the busiest day of early voting, with 10,747 ballots cast. Saturday was another day with more than 10,000 ballots cast.
It’s unclear whether early voting numbers will produce a municipal election turnout record. To beat 2023’s turnout, about the same number of voters would need to cast ballots on Election Day as during early voting.
Here are other things to know before Election Day:
What’s on the ballot
While races on ballots will vary widely, some of the key elections include:
A referendum that asks people to vote “for” or “against” the following: One percent (1%) local sales and use taxes, in addition to the current local sales and use taxes, to be used only for roadway systems and public transportation systems. The tax increase will bring Mecklenburg County’s sales tax to 8.25%. Of the more than $19 billion it’s expected to generate in the next 30 years, 40% will go to trains, 20% will go to buses and 40% will be split between Charlotte and local towns to use on road improvements.
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles faces a challenge from Republican Terrie Donovan and Libertarian Rob Yates. She’s favored to win, and would claim sole possession of the second-longest serving mayor in Charlotte’s history if so. Republican Pat McCrory is Charlotte’s longest serving mayor.
In the Charlotte City Council’s District 6, Republican Krista Bokhari faces Democrat Kimberly Owens. Bokhari is married to Tariq Bokhari, who was the District 6 representative until resigning earlier this year for a short-lived job in the Trump administration. The district is shaped like a triangle in south Charlotte and includes neighborhoods such as Eastover, Myers Park, South Park, Providence and Carmel.
Two incumbents — west Charlotte’s Thelma Byers-Bailey and Summer Nunn, whose district snakes along the county’s southern border — chose not to run for reelection to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education. That guarantees at least two new members of the board. Dee Rankin in District 3, which covers University City and parts of north and east Charlotte, is the only incumbent without competition.
Voters in Huntersville will see two familiar faces back on the ballot for mayor — incumbent Christy Clark and Derek Partee. They were two of the three candidates who battled in the 2023 mayor’s race. The mayor and town board races are officially nonpartisan, but a group of Republicans also have united to try and oust Democrat commissioners in their “No More Than 4” slate.
Cornelius also gets a mayoral rematch with incumbent Woody Washam facing Denis Bilodeau again as well as a third challenger, Kenny Campbell. In 2023, Washam won by just five votes.
Matthews voters will see a major shake-up on their town board this year. All six commissioner seats are on the ballot, and at least three will be filled by newcomers.
To be eligible to vote in any North Carolina municipal election, a voter must live within the city or town limits for at least 30 days before Election Day. With the voter search tool on the State Board of Elections website, people can see what’s on their ballot and which districts they live in under the “YOUR JURISDICTIONS” tab.
But all voters who live in Mecklenburg County will have a school board district election and transportation tax referendum on their ballots. When there’s only one person on the ballot, voters are still able to write in a candidate.
Voters can find their sample ballot, designated district, current elected officials and voting location by filling out their address on the county Board of Elections website at apps.meckboe.org/addressSearch_New.aspx.
What if I’m not registered to vote?
People who are not registered to vote are not eligible to cast a ballot on Election Day.
North Carolina allows same-day registration only during early voting, and Saturday was the last day of early voting.
Voter ID
Voters must bring photo ID to the polls, but “all voters will be allowed to vote with or without photo ID,” according to the NCSBE Voter ID website. Voters who don’t show an ID will need to fill out an exception form. Details regarding acceptable forms of ID including student and government employee IDs can be found on ncsbe.gov/voting/voter-id#acceptable.
For questions about voting on Tuesday, contact the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections at 704-336-2133 or Vote@MeckNC.gov. The Board of Elections is located at 741 Kenilworth Ave., Suite 202.
This story was originally published November 2, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
Josh Bergeron is the government editor at The Charlotte Observer. Previously, he was the editor of the Salisbury Post in Salisbury, N.C. and worked as an editor and reporter at newspapers in North Carolina, Kentucky, Alabama and Mississippi. He’s a proud LSU alumnus — Geaux Tigers.
The curated articles on the 2025 transit tax proposal in Mecklenburg County highlight key things voters should know about a 1% sales tax increase. Common themes include examining the potential economic impact, addressing transit infrastructure needs, and differing views on the proposal’s fairness.
The Charlotte Observer’s reporters have spent the past few months reporting on potential impacts of the referendum, which asks voters whether they support a 1% increase in the local sales tax to fund road, rail, and bus projects.
Supporters argue it addresses congestion and long-term infrastructure needs. Opponents view the tax as regressive and potential accelerant of gentrification risks. Charlotte-area leaders have polarized opinions. Some back the tax, stating it improves transit while others criticize it for increasing costs.
The Charlotte light rail travels atop a mural behind Optimist Hall in Charlotte By TRACY KIMBALL
NO. 1: WILL MECKLENBURG TRANSPORTATION TAX INCREASE FOOD PRICES? HOW PROPOSAL AFFECTS YOU
The proposal could increase Mecklenburg’s sales tax rate from 7.25% to 8.25%, which doesn’t apply universally to all purchased goods. | Published July 21, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
Voters line up early to cast their ballot on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. By TRACY KIMBALL
NO. 2: MECKLENBURG COUNTY NEARING HISTORIC SALES TAX VOTE. HOW HAVE PAST ELECTIONS GONE?
Referendums like the one poised to appear on Mecklenburg County ballots this November faced mixed reactions from voters in recent decades. | Published August 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
The Lynx Blue Line Parkwood Station in Charlotte, N.C., on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. By KHADEJEH NIKOUYEH
NO. 3: WILL CHARLOTTE LIGHT RAIL STABBING HURT TRANSPORTATION REFERENDUM’S CHANCES?
A murder that captured national attention could affect Charlotte’s efforts to overhaul its transportation system because the multibillion-dollar plan is now in voters’ hands, a political expert says. | Published September 16, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
The Blue Line train moves through South End in Charlotte. By Jeff Siner
NO. 4: COULD CHARLOTTE TRANSPORTATION REFERENDUM PRICE PEOPLE OUT OF THEIR HOUSES?
Greg Jarrell says has seen “an enormous wave of money” crash into west Charlotte in recent years. | Published September 22, 2025 | Read Full Story by Nick Sullivan
A plan to revamp the Charlotte region’s transportation system with billions in road, rail and bus projects funded by a sales tax increase hinges on voters’ decisions in the upcoming election. By JEFF SINER
NO. 5: CHARLOTTE AREA ROLLS TOWARD HISTORIC TRANSIT VOTE. IS THERE 2ND CHANCE IF IT FAILS?
A plan to revamp the Charlotte region’s transportation system with billions of dollars for road, rail and bus projects would be in jeopardy if Mecklenburg residents vote down a sales tax increase to fund it this November. | Published October 16, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
No image found A plan to revamp the Charlotte region’s transportation system with billions in road, rail and bus projects funded by a sales tax increase hinges on voters’ decisions in the upcoming election. By JEFF SINER
Charlotte-area leaders and organizations have staked out positions for or against Mecklenburg’s transportation tax referendum. | Published October 28, 2025 | Read Full Story by Mary Ramsey
The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
The Colorado State Capitol building, seen from atop the downtown Sheraton hotel. Dec. 29, 2023.
Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite
It’s time for another primary election, Denver.
There are no presidential candidates on the June ballot. This Election Day is all about your local representatives and decision-makers.
Ballots are in the mail to registered voters now, and Election Day is Tuesday, June 25.
Many races for seats in the state legislature are not competitive this year. In our guide, we’re highlighting two races that are: State House Districts 4 and 6.
Denverites are also choosing the city’s next District Attorney as Beth McCann leaves the post.
We also have more information about how to vote and where to cast your ballot.
Happy voting, Denverites.
🗳️ House District 4
In House District 4, the Democratic primary is a rematch from last year’s vacancy-filling process. Incumbent state Rep. Tim Hernández and Cecelia Espenoza will compete again for a chance at the seat. In the Republican primary, Jack Daus runs unopposed.
District 4 covers northwest and west Denver, going from the top of the Regis neighborhood to the middle of Westwood.
In District 6, incumbent state Rep. Elisabeth Epps faces a challenge from Sean Camacho in the Democratic primary. Kyle Witter runs unopposed in the Republican primary.
District 6 covers parts of Capitol Hill, Congress Park, Montclair and Lowry.
Denver is choosing its next chief law enforcement officer. Voters will choose between Leora Joseph and John Walsh in the Democratic primary. There is no Republican candidate.
The new head of the 2nd Judicial District will oversee the team of lawyers who prosecute — or decide not to prosecute — the city’s biggest crimes, from sexual assault and drug dealing to police who use excessive force.
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