All photographs, titles and biographies have been provided to Election Watch or to the League of Women Voters by candidates themselves.
*Indicates data was shared with the News-Times by the League of Women Voters of Carteret County and Vote411
Candidate party affiliations are depicted using the following colors:
Federal Contests
U.S. Senate
The United States Senate is the upper chamber of the federal legislation, which works alongside the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. President to pass laws and create the federal budget. It consists of 100 members who serve six-year terms, with two senators representing all 50 states.
Senators play a critical role in shaping the federal budget and nationwide laws. Because their terms are longer than those of the House of Representatives and the President of the United States, Senators can impact federal policies for decades.
Roy Cooper
Former Governor & Attorney General of North Carolina, Candidate for the United States Senate
About Roy:
I was born and raised in Nash County. My mom was a public school teacher and I attended public schools and worked summers on the farm. I represented everyday people and small businesses while practicing law in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, where I taught Sunday School for decades and raised three beautiful daughters with my wife Kristin. As Attorney General, I prosecuted thousands of violent criminals and kept them behind bars and protected North Carolina families, small businesses, and seniors. As Governor, I worked with Republicans to crack down on fentanyl and other drugs coming over the border. I led North Carolina to be one of the fastest-growing states in the nation with a good quality of life, a strong education system, more affordable health care, and better-paying jobs. I’m running for Senate to lower costs for working families and to be an independent voice for all North Carolinians.
Michael Dublin*
Retired middle school teacher
About Michael:
I’m not a career politician. I’m an educator and a community activist who believes in putting people, planet, and peace over profits. It’s time for a government that works for all of us, not just the wealthy few.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Shannon Bray
Microsoft Certified Master
About Shannon:
Shannon Bray is a technology leader, entrepreneur and U.S. Senate candidate from North Carolina with more than two decades of experience in enterprise systems, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. He has worked across government and industry helping organizations modernize infrastructure, protect sensitive data, and solve complex operational challenges. Bringing a solutions-first mindset to public service, Shannon believes the same principles that make technology succeed should guide government: clarity, accountability, and measurable results. His policy focus includes economic opportunity, innovation, data privacy, and restoring trust in institutions by applying real-world experience instead of career politics. An author and small business owner, Shannon advocates for individual liberty, responsible governance, and practical problem-solving, approaching leadership the way an engineer approaches systems: understand the problem, design with care, and build for the long term.
Michael Whatley
This candidate has not yet submitted data
About Michael:
…
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Michael Dublin’s answer
Retired middle school teacher
Forty-some years of showing up, that’s the short version. I was organizing before a lot of folks reading this were born. Social justice, economic justice, environmental; it’s all connected and I got tired of people pretending it wasn’t. Taught middle school language arts for twenty-four years. Marine before that. Now I’m co-chair of the Black Caucus of the NCGP and the first Black third-party Senate candidate on the ballot in this state. No corporate money, no PACs, no AIPAC. Nobody owns me.
Shannon Bray’s answer
Microsoft Certified Master
I bring experience as a Navy veteran, senior software engineer, AI systems architect, and technical author. My work requires understanding complex systems, solving problems, and explaining technical issues clearly. That background is especially relevant as Congress makes decisions about AI, technology, and privacy. My approach starts with the Constitution: transparency and accountability in government, protection of individual privacy, and respect for constitutional limits.
Roy Cooper’s answer
Former Governor & Attorney General of North Carolina, Candidate for the United States Senate
This candidate has not responded
Michael Whatley’s answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not responded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: What is the most important policy or action you would work to accomplish in your first year?
Michael Dublin’s answer
Retired middle school teacher
Universal healthcare. Single payer. Folks shouldn’t go bankrupt because they got sick. I’d also sign onto Block the Bombs to stop the arms going to Israel, and I’d repeal those 2001 and 2002 war authorizations. Congress gave that power away and we’ve been paying for it ever since. I’d vote to increase IDEA funding to schools. Thirteen percent isn’t a shortfall, it’s a broken promise. I taught twenty-four years. When the feds shortchange IDEA, the district makes up the difference by cutting art and music and library time. We made a deal with these families. Keep it. One policy isn’t more important than another when they all fall under one budget.
Shannon Bray’s answer
Microsoft Certified Master
My first-year focus would be strengthening transparency and accountability in the federal government’s use of technology while protecting individual privacy. As an AI systems architect and software engineer, I understand why these decisions need informed scrutiny. Any policy I support must respect the Constitution. Technology can help make government more accountable, but it must operate within constitutional limits.
Roy Cooper’s answer
Former Governor & Attorney General of North Carolina, Candidate for the United States Senate
This candidate has not responded
Michael Whatley’s answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not responded
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What economic policies will you pursue to help Americans who are worried about their economic prospects in the coming years?
Michael Dublin’s answer
Retired middle school teacher
Raise the corporate tax rate. Tax buybacks. Tax financial transactions. Close carried interest. Raise the top marginal rate. Keep the inheritance tax but exempt family farms and small homes. Working people shouldn’t pay more, billionaires should. And I back sovereign money. The Green Party’s Banking and Monetary Reform Committee has it right. End the Fed’s private banking cartel. Create money through the Treasury. Public banking.
Shannon Bray’s answer
Microsoft Certified Master
I would focus on fiscal accountability, fair competition, and practical ways to make everyday life more affordable. Congress should scrutinize federal spending, make spending decisions easier to track, and review programs for results. I would support removing unnecessary barriers that make it harder to start a business, build housing, or compete with established companies, while preserving safeguards against fraud and harm. Americans deserve more choices and a government that respects their work, property, and constitutional rights. I would evaluate proposals by their costs, tradeoffs, and effects on household budgets.
Roy Cooper’s answer
Former Governor & Attorney General of North Carolina, Candidate for the United States Senate
This candidate has not responded
Michael Whatley’s answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not responded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: What actions will you bring to your role to decrease political polarization and improve the effectiveness of the federal government?
Michael Dublin’s answer
Retired middle school teacher
Overturn Citizens United. Public financing. Small dollar matching so a teacher can run without begging billionaires. Ban corporate PACs and Super PACs. Close the foreign money loopholes. I refuse all of it, so I can say this without blinking. Make the federal government accountable to the people.
Shannon Bray’s answer
Microsoft Certified Master
Reducing polarization starts with a shared constitutional framework and a government people can hold accountable. My focus is transparency, accountability, and individual privacy. My technical background would help me examine how federal systems work and explain their effects in plain language. Clear information about government decisions gives Americans a stronger basis for evaluating results and holding elected officials accountable.
Roy Cooper’s answer
Former Governor & Attorney General of North Carolina, Candidate for the United States Senate
This candidate has not responded
Michael Whatley’s answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not responded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q5: Are there environmental policies that you will prioritize and bring forward legislatively if you are elected?
Michael Dublin’s answer
Retired middle school teacher
As PFAS is in the water of millions of Americans, the polluters should pay. EPA sets limits that mean something, not suggestions. Designate PFAS as hazardous under Superfund so the cleanup gets funded and these companies can’t walk off. Strengthen the Clean Water Act to cover it. You shouldn’t have to wonder if your tap water’s safe.
Shannon Bray’s answer
Microsoft Certified Master
Reducing polarization starts with a shared constitutional framework and a government people can hold accountable. My focus is transparency, accountability, and individual privacy. My technical background would help me examine how federal systems work and explain their effects in plain language. Clear information about government decisions gives Americans a stronger basis for evaluating results and holding elected officials accountable.
Roy Cooper’s answer
Former Governor & Attorney General of North Carolina, Candidate for the United States Senate
This candidate has not responded
Michael Whatley’s answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not responded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q6: Additional Comments
Michael Dublin’s answer
Retired middle school teacher
I taught eighth grade language arts for twenty-four years. I probably graded ten thousand essays. I had a student once who wrote about living in a motel with her mother and two brothers. I could not do anything about that from my classroom. In the Senate I could vote on whether her mother got healthcare. Whether there was housing she could actually afford. Whether the county had money to keep the lights on at the health department. You can’t filibuster someone’s right to see a doctor. You can’t filibuster voting rights. You cannot filibuster civil rights. Going to war should be hard. I want our troops home, no new war authorizations, and that money reinvested here in North Carolina. I lived through Vietnam, I watched Iraq, and I am not going to sit quietly while we do it a third time.
Shannon Bray’s answer
Microsoft Certified Master
This candidate has not responded.
Roy Cooper’s answer
Former Governor & Attorney General of North Carolina, Candidate for the United States Senate
This candidate has not responded.
Michael Whatley’s answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not responded.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Darryl Farrow
Candidate has not yet submitted data
Candidate has not yet submitted data
Marcus Williams
Candidate has not yet submitted data
Candidate has not yet submitted data
Orrick Quick
Pastor, Community Leader, Speaker, Entrepreneur
Orrick Quick is a…
North Carolina pastor, community leader, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur who is running for U.S. Senate to challenge politics as usual and restore trust between government and the people. Raised in a family that overcame deep economic hardship, Orrick learned early the importance of integrity, discipline, and standing up to broken systems. For more than a decade he has served in churches, schools, and outreach programs—mentoring youth, supporting immigrant families, helping children become published authors, and walking with seniors through life transitions. His campaign is built on three pillars: ending government overreach, stopping what he calls “constitutional witchcraft” where laws are twisted to justify injustice, and taking care of the people who pay into the system by ensuring seniors, veterans, and working families receive the care they have earned.
Justin Dues
Working Class Fighter
As a Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur…
and advocate for working families, Justin Dues brings disciplined leadership, real-world business experience, and a systems-level understanding of how policy impacts everyday life. He’s built teams, navigated complex institutions, and speaks plainly about fixing broken systems rather than protecting them. His #1 priority in the U.S. Senate is basic affordability—lowering the cost of housing, moving towards universal healthcare and by taking on monopolies, corruption, and policies that rig the economy against working people.
Robert Colon
Concerned Citizen
I am a caretaker, volunteer, and Eagle…
Scout. I want to do all that I can for the people. I take as my guide the Constitution of the United States. I have lived in North Carolina since 2004, and want to leave it a better place than I found it.
Elizabeth Temple
Public School Teacher
I taught in the public schools until 2019…
then began teaching privately. I graduated at East Carolina University with master’s degree in education. I also worked as choir director and organist at Methodist and Baptist Churches while teaching, I am a current licensed teacher K-12 at NCDPI (see NCDPI.com licensure lookup) then see my name, Elizabeth Anne Temple. I was married once. I have three nieces, Lily, Ahnala, and Willow Temple, and you will see them online, they play sports in public schools,
Don Brown
Constitutional Attorney
As a constitutional attorney, former JAG officer…
and U.S. federal prosecutor, Don Brown has spent his career defending the rule of law, holding criminals accountable, and protecting the rights guaranteed by our Constitution. He has seen firsthand how runaway federal spending, bloated bureaucracy, and weak enforcement have damaged public trust and national security. Don is running to balance the budget, rein in wasteful spending, and shrink a federal government that has grown far beyond its constitutional limits. He believes a smaller, accountable government serves the people — not the other way around. He is committed to protecting constitutional freedoms, including free speech and the Second Amendment, and to restoring lawful, secure immigration that puts American citizens and legal immigrants first. Don Brown isn’t running to manage decline — he’s running to restore accountability, sovereignty, and constitutional government.
Margot Dupre
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not yet submitted data
…
Thomas Johnson
Former Founder & CEO of Agile Immersive Consulting
U.S. leaders who best understand…
the American promise are rarely those born closest to power, but those who travel farthest to reach it. Thomas Johnson is this kind of overcomer. Raised in foster care and adopted at age five, he learned early how institutions can fail or save those entrusted to them. That experience shaped a leadership style grounded in resilience. Johnson earned admission to the United States Air Force Academy, serving as an Air Force officer and later as a CIA Fellow, where foresight mattered more than recognition. At the National Reconnaissance Office, he helped build next-generation intelligence satellites and forecast the commercial space revolution. After government service, Johnson advised institutions at Lockheed Martin, Capital One, and Accenture before founding Agile Immersive, trusted by companies including T-Mobile, MetLife, and FedEx. An annual lecturer on AI in Germany, award-winning screenwriter, and foster-care advocate, Johnson honors God and family.
Michele Morrow
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not yet submitted data
…
Richard Dansie
Sr. Network Security Engineer
Focused on results and not rhetoric..
I want to protect liberty while incentivizing fiscal discipline and using logical consistency with policy. We need to redistribute power back to the people from Congressional leadership and lobbyists. It will not change by continuing to the same things we have been doing, and I’m suggesting different solutions that are capitalist and liberty oriented.
Federal Contests
U.S. House of Representatives District 01
The United States House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the federal legislative, which works alongside the U.S. Senate and the U.S. President to pass laws and create the federal budget. It consists of 435 members who serve two-year terms.
North Carolina’s congressional district map was redrawn in 2025, shifting six counties — including Carteret and a very small portion of Onslow county — from the Third Congressional District to the First Congressional District. This district now extends from the Virginia state border to the eastern side of Swansboro.
Don Davis
Incumbent Congressman (NC-01)
About Don:
Don Davis is a U.S. Air Force veteran, educator, former mayor and six-term state senator who has dedicated his life to serving eastern North Carolina. Raised in a rural community, Davis grew up working in tobacco fields to help pay for clothes and school supplies. Through hard work, Davis earned his way into the U.S. Air Force Academy and served eight years as a commissioned officer. As a first lieutenant he coordinated Air Force One and CODEL operations, in addition to supporting military families as a mortuary officer. As a six-term state senator, Davis passed legislation expanding health care, lowering utility costs, funding rural schools, and increasing broadband access. Now in Congress, he is recognized as one of the most bipartisan members, working across party lines to support our veterans, national security, Social Security and Medicare, and expand access to health care, jobs, infrastructure, and education. Davis is married to Yuvonka, and lives with their three sons.
Tom Bailey
Decorated veteran
About Tom:
A Vietnam veteran and longtime Libertarian, Tom Bailey has spent decades advancing ballot access, election integrity, and limited government in North Carolina. He has managed and supported numerous local and state campaigns, bringing practical experience in grassroots organizing and election law. A former member of the Libertarian Party of North Carolina Executive Committee and former Chairman of the LPNC Legal Action Committee, he helped lead the federal lawsuit McLoughlin v. Marsh, advocating for open and fair elections. His work reflects a consistent commitment to constitutional principles, individual liberty, and transparent governance. Drawing on both military service and political leadership, he offers experience, persistence, and an independent voice dedicated to protecting voter rights and expanding electoral access for all citizens.
Laurie Buckhout
U.S. Army Colonel (Ret.)
About Laurie:
Laurie Buckhout is a retired Army Colonel and decorated combat commander, having earned the Bronze Star, the Combat Action Badge and the Distinguished Service Medal throughout her career. She is also a trained Paratrooper. Laurie most recently served in President Trump’s administration as the Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber Policy. Laurie has led troops in combat, is a very successful small businesswoman, and is running for Congress to stand with President Trump and his America First Agenda, working to lower costs for working families and deporting criminal aliens who have invaded our country. Laurie and her husband Paul, a retired officer who is a West Point graduate and Army Infantry Airborne Ranger who served with Delta Force, recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary. They reside in Edenton, North Carolina where they are very active in supporting Veterans, conservative causes, the local baseball team (Go Steamers!) They have two adult children.
Asa Buck
Carteret County Sheriff
About Asa:
I am a Beaufort native and ECU graduate with a degree in Criminal Justice, entering my 20th year of service as Carteret County’s Sheriff. I want to expand the opportunity to serve the 23 counties of the new First Congressional District.
I will use the citizen-first, common sense approach I have implemented in my time as Sheriff to my service in Congress. This will include what I consider to be the litmus test of Conservatism in any legislative issue I encounter. Lower taxes, Less Government and More Individual Freedom. By sticking to these priorities, I will not only serve my constituents but also empower them. This is important because I believe that the answers to the vast majority of problems facing our area do not lie with more intervention by the Federal Government, but instead by empowering the people by unburdening them from the overreach of Washington D.C.
Bobby Hanig
NC State Senator District 1
About Bobby:
Bobby Hanig is a proven conservative leader who has delivered real results for Eastern North Carolina. A State Senator, small business owner, and U.S. Army veteran, Hanig has spent his career fighting for working families, local businesses, farmers, watermen, veterans, and the values that make our communities strong. In the General Assembly, Bobby Hanig has helped pass President Trump’s agenda by toughening laws on illegal immigration, cutting taxes, keeping boys out of girls’ sports and locker rooms, ending DEI mandates, and standing up to the radical left. He didn’t just talk about conservative principles — he voted for them. Hanig has built a business, balanced real budgets, and understands the challenges families face when government overreaches. After serving his country in uniform, Bobby is once again stepping forward to serve. Eastern North Carolina deserves a conservative fighter who will put America First and never forget where he comes from. That leader is Bobby Hanig.
Eric Rouse
Lenoir County Commissioner
About Eric:
Born & raised in Eastern NC, Eric is a small business owner and job creator. Eric is a Day One supporter of President Trump and the America First Agenda. As a county commissioner Eric has never voted for a tax or fee increase. Eric has his Commercial’s Drivers License (CDL) if he ever needs to deliver his business’ equipment himself. He lives in Eastern North Carolina with his wife, two children, and three dogs. He is a licensed firearms dealer and a lifetime member of the NRA.
Ashley-Nicole Russell
U.S. Congressional Candidate, North Carolina’s 1st District
About Ashley-Nicole:
Ashley Nicole Russell is running for North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District to put families first and fight the Washington swamp head-on. A North Carolina attorney and small business owner, Russell knows the economy comes first. Families are being crushed by higher grocery and healthcare costs while career politicians keep spending trillions and driving inflation.She supports term limits, a Balanced Budget Amendment, and commonsense policies that put working families ahead of Washington insiders. She will fight to stop runaway federal spending, cut red tape for small businesses, and restore accountability in Congress.Russell is a mother of four who is committed to protecting children from radical woke ideology, keeping biological boys out of girls’ sports, banning sex-change procedures for minors, and restoring parents’ rights. She will always defend the Second Amendment without compromise. A committed supporter of President Donald Trump and his America First agenda, Russell will work to secure the border, finish the wall, fully fund Border Patrol and ICE, stop fentanyl, and deport illegal immigrants.Russell brings real-world experience to the race. She is the founder and CEO of AN|R Law, North Carolina’s first collaborative family law firm, which she has grown across Greenville, Raleigh, Beaufort, and Wilmington. Today, Ashley and her team serve families in all 100 North Carolina counties, providing practical guidance to parents navigating life’s toughest moments. She also owns a successful marketing firm and has built multiple small businesses in retail and food service, giving her firsthand experience meeting payroll, managing rising costs, and cutting through government red tape. Her work has been recognized by The Washington Post and Forbes, with appearances on ABC, NBC, and CBS. Ashley has received honors including “Leader in the Law,” North Carolina Super Lawyer, Small Business Leader of the Year from the Greenville–Pitt County Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau Spark Award, and Appalachian State University’s Alumnus of the Year. She has helped advance family-law reforms across seven states and was part of a collaborative-law team recognized for promoting peaceful, family-centered resolutions. Ashley Nicole Russell is running because Eastern North Carolina deserves a representative who will fight unapologetically for faith, family, freedom, and an economy that works for everyday people.
State Contests
N.C. Senate District 02
The North Carolina State Senate is the upper chamber of the state’s legislature, which works alongside the state House of Representatives and the North Carolina Governor to pass laws and create the state budget. It consists of 50 members who serve two-year terms.
North Carolina State Senators play a critical role in creating the state budget, shaping taxes, economic development, education funding, the justice system and more. They also pass laws that can affect your day-to-day life, from the quality of the water you drink to how much you pay in taxes.
Roy Surrett
Carteret County Democratic Party Chair
About Roy:
I am running for NC State Senate (NC2) to provide the ethical, accountable leadership District 2 deserves. A 1985 Wake Forest graduate married to a native North Carolinian, I served as a senior leader for the U.S. Department of Defense, managing global and national security issues. While my career took me worldwide, our family roots remained deeply planted here. My wife and I retired to North Carolina for our deep love of this state, but I cannot stay on the sidelines while our communities and families face significant challenges. Our district is a unique blend of rural tradition and coastal beauty, now on the front lines of climate change. I will champion: Health Care: Ensuring affordable, local access for every family; Education: Fully supporting our teachers and rural schools; Infrastructure: Strengthening shorelines and protecting our heritage against future storms. I am running to protect this State that has given so much to me and my family for over forty years
Norman Sanderson
This candidate has not yet submitted any data
About Norman
This candidate has not yet submitted data
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Roy Surrett’s Answer
Carteret County Democratic Party Chair
My career spans nearly 40 years in public service, including senior executive leadership in law enforcement and national security with the Department of Defense. I bring proven experience managing complex budgets, leading large teams, and navigating tough policy challenges—skills essential for managing NC’s state budget and writing fair laws. As Chair of the Carteret County Democratic Party and an active community volunteer, I stay deeply connected to Eastern NC. Whether volunteering here in my community or supporting local civic groups, I listen to our neighbors. I will bring integrity, fiscal discipline, and practical solutions to Raleigh to fight for strong public schools, coastal protection, and rural healthcare access.
Norman Sanderson’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No answer recorded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: What do you see as your most important priority if you are elected?
Roy Surrett’s* Answer
Carteret County Democratic Party Chair
If elected, I will bring a practical, collaborative, and results-oriented approach to Raleigh, focusing on: Fiscal Integrity & Strategic Investment: Ensuring state tax dollars are used wisely to support local infrastructure, coastal preservation, and rural development without wasteful spending. Strengthening Public Education: Advocating for fully funded public schools, competitive pay for educators, and expanded workforce training programs tailored to our local economy. Healthcare Access & Economic Opportunity: Supporting affordable, accessible healthcare options for rural residents and fostering economic conditions that help local small businesses thrive. District 2 needs a senator who offers immediate readiness, and proven leadership.
Norman Sanderson’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No answer recorded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What are your views and priorities on how education policy and funding issues should be addressed in the coming year?
Roy Surrett’s* Answer
Carteret County Democratic Party Chair
Strong public schools are the backbone of Eastern North Carolina’s economy. North Carolina must fulfill its constitutional duty to fully fund public education by modernizing funding formulas so rural, low-wealth districts are not left behind by reliance on local property taxes. My priorities for the coming year: Fair Pay: Raise teacher compensation above national averages and restore master’s degree pay supplements to recruit and retain top educators. Student Support: Guarantee baseline funding for school nurses and mental health professionals. Protect Public Dollars: Keep taxpayer money in public classrooms and end the expansion of private school vouchers. Our tax dollars belong in public schools that serve every child.
Norman Sanderson’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No answer recorded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: What role do you believe tax policy should play in supporting North Carolina’s economy and addressing the needs of its residents?
Roy Surrett’s* Answer
Carteret County Democratic Party Chair
Tax policy must balance economic growth with responsible investment in our communities. Having spent nearly 40 years managing complex federal budgets, I view tax dollars through a lens of strict fiscal stewardship and public accountability. Corporate tax cuts should not come at the expense of our working families, rural infrastructure, or public schools. Tax policy should: Target Relief: Provide middle- and low-income tax relief to combat inflation and lower household costs. Invest Responsibly: Maintain sustainable revenue to fully fund public education, healthcare access, and resilient coastal infrastructure. Our tax code must reflect our values—supporting local businesses while ensuring every community gets its fair share.
Norman Sanderson’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No answer recorded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q5: What changes to the laws in our state would you promote to improve safety in our communities?
Roy Surrett’s* Answer
Carteret County Democratic Party Chair
Public safety requires a comprehensive approach that targets the root causes of crime before it occurs. Having served nearly 40 years in law enforcement and national security, I know true safety comes from stable, healthy communities. I will promote state law changes that: Expand Crisis Intervention: Fund 24/7 mobile crisis teams and support Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) programs to route mental health and substance cases to care, not jail. Support Community Re-entry: Remove barriers to housing and employment for non-violent former offenders to reduce recidivism. Address Root Drivers: Invest in affordable housing, youth programs, and rural healthcare access to strengthen community stability.
Norman Sanderson’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No answer recorded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q6: Additional Comments
Roy Surrett’s* Answer
Carteret County Democratic Party Chair
Eastern North Carolina deserves a leader who listens first and leads with practical, commonsense solutions—I respectfully ask for your vote so we can build stronger schools, resilient coastal communities, and a thriving economy together.
Norman Sanderson’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No answer recorded
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
State Contests
N.C. House of Representatives District 13
The North Carolina House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the state legislature, which works alongside the state Senate and the North Carolina Governor to pass laws and create the state budget. It consists of 120 members who serve two-year terms. Each member represents roughly 87,000 North Carolinians.
North Carolina State House of Representatives District 13 covers all of Carteret County and the southeast portion of Craven County, including the City of Havelock and Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.
Jason Moore*
Insurance Professional
About Jason
Y’all deserve someone who’ll work for ENC, not DC. Issues: Home Insurance Reform, Education, Military Families & Small Business, incl. fisheries. A lifelong North Carolinian, son of a Veteran, Farmer, & Teacher, driven by Faith to serve my Neighbors.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Celeste Cairns
Incumbent District 13 State Representative
About Celeste
Celeste is a Deputy Majority Whip. She is a Chair of the Alcohol Beverage Control Committee, Vice-Chair of the Commerce and Economic Development Committee, and Vice-Chair of Appropriations (Agriculture, Natural and Economic Resources). She also serves as a member of the Energy and Public Utilities Committee, the Homeland Security, Military and VA Committee, and the newly created Select Committee on Blockchain and Digital Assets. She is a former CPA, as well as a military wife and mom of more than 30 years. Her husband, Rob, is a retired Army Special Forces officer who now works with the Marine Corps at Camp Lejeune. Celeste and Rob have two adult married children: Nate, a police officer, and Kathryn, an Army Captain (Physical Therapist), both of whom are graduates of ECU. She has one grandbaby, Noah, and she is hoping for many more!
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Jason Moore’s Answer
Insurance
The Crystal Coast doesn’t need a politician. It needs a neighbor, one who wants to work for the residents of ENC, not DC. I’ve spent my career at the intersection of business, agriculture, & public policy; counseling small-business owners & homeowners working to protect what they’ve built. I listen, solve problems, & stand behind my word. As a school volunteer & father, I’ve seen what our children need to thrive and I’ll work for it. Coastal families pay double the state average for insurance, and I’ve spent 20 years across the kitchen table, listening to what keeps families up at night — the same posture I’ll bring to Raleigh: showing up, doing the work, & bringing results home to Carteret & Craven.
Celeste Cairns’ Answer
Incumbent District 13 State Representative
I am currently serving in my second term in the NC House. I was appointed as Deputy Majority Whip and was appointed as Chair or Vice-Chair of several committees in my second term which speaks to my capabilities. I hold a BBA from University of Georgia and practiced as a CPA for many years. My husband (Rob) and I have two married adult children and two grandsons (so far). Rob is a retired Army Special Forces Officer currently working for the USMC, so I am well-acquainted with military life in the US and overseas, which is helpful in serving the many veterans and their families in our District.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: What do you see as your most important priority if you are elected?
Jason Moore’s Answer
Insurance
My top priority is to be accessible & transparent to all constituents. I’ll look at every issue through the lens of this district & reach across the aisle, beginning with home insurance reform: coastal families face up to a 32% premium increase over 2 years (highest in NC), & I’ll work to end the rate hikes that are pricing working families off the coast. I’ll push to fully fund schools, expand opportunity for students, support teachers, & champion small businesses, civilian contractors, & the fishing families who’ve worked these waters for generations, support Cherry Point families & our veterans, & bring healthcare closer to home for every family. I’m ready to bring folks to the table & work for you the way you work for the Crystal Coast.
Celeste Cairns’ Answer
Incumbent District 13 State Representative
My overall goals are to maintain or expand the fundamental freedoms of North Carolinians across myriad issues: limiting taxes and regulations as much as possible, protecting our way of life in coastal communities (fishermen, hunters, gun owners, etc). There are three pieces of legislation I have already committed to working on next session including a seafood labeling law, efforts to expand medical options for veterans, and statutory guidance for shellfish leasing in Bogue Sound. Keeping in close contact with our county and town officials and responding to identified needs within the District are my top priorities.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What are your views and priorities on how education policy and funding issues should be addressed in the coming year?
Jason Moore’s Answer
Insurance
Every child in North Carolina deserves a sound, basic, adequately funded education, the promise in our state constitution. I will champion policies to reinvest in schools, raise teacher & support-staff pay, invest in early-childhood learning, & ensure rural & coastal systems like ours in Carteret & Craven get their fair share. Conversations about school choice must include an accessible, fully funded quality public option. After all, in rural communities like ours, the public school is often the only option. I’m the son of a teacher, the husband of an educator, proud graduate of NC public schools, & father to 2 kids in our schools. Let’s work to give kids more, not less, to build thriving communities of character.
Celeste Cairns’ Answer
Incumbent District 13 State Representative
Public education must be adequately funded while also helping parents access the best educational choices for their children. The focus of our schools should be the preparation of our students for workforce readiness and future success, while emphasizing the core basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. We must also support and grow our technical education opportunities with vocational and trade school support. North Carolina’s commitment to our Community Colleges should be maintained and expanded to meet the workforce requirements of our rapidly growing state. Free speech and viewpoint diversity must be protected on our college and university campuses.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: What role do you believe tax policy should play in supporting North Carolina’s economy and addressing the needs of its residents?
Jason Moore’s Answer
Insurance
Tax policy should reward work and investment in our own communities. Taxes should be low and predictable for small businesses, the backbone of this district, and cut the red tape piling costs onto them. Most small businesses pay through personal income taxes, so relief must reach them directly, not just big corporations. Low taxes still require smart spending: our police, teachers, and first responders deserve reliable funding and competitive pay. There should be real property tax relief programs so families aren’t taxed out of their homes. The goal: working families keep more of what they earn while funding the services we all rely on. I’m against the amendment designed to benefit corporations and hurt our rural community.
Celeste Cairns’ Answer
Incumbent District 13 State Representative
Tax policy should not be used to favor certain corporations, organizations or individuals over others. A simple and fair tax structure supports NC’s economy by attracting human and financial capital to our state. In recent years, North Carolina has ranked consistently in the top few states for business and the inflow of investments and population growth. Our state’s tax policy should ensure that the our public infrastructure needs are met and that the funding requirements for our education systems, state agencies and resource management services are adequate. Beyond that, to every extent possible, the resources earned and created by our people and the private sector should remain with them and not be transferred to the state.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q5: What do you perceive as the greatest obstacles to justice and do you think there is a role you should play to address these obstacles?
Jason Moore’s Answer
Insurance
Safe communities are built on relationships, not response times and arrest rates. I’ll partner with our sheriffs and deputies, deputies our families know by name. I’d invest in mental-health resources and professional development for law enforcement officers, and back neighborhood-based community policing. On the law itself, I’d promote stronger penalties for repeat and violent offenders, expand treatment and mental-health courts to break the revolving door of the opioid crisis, and support school-safety laws that keep resource officers in our schools. I will push for policies to keep our first responders staffed and trained for hurricane and tourist seasons.
Celeste Cairns’ Answer
Incumbent District 13 State Representative
Our laws must protect the law-abiding citizens and their ability to live and raise a family in a safe community. There is no greater responsibility of government. We must ensure that our law enforcement agencies are supported and well resourced and that our District Attorneys and Courts are given the tools needed to effectively prosecute and hold offenders responsible for their actions. I have worked closely with our law enforcement community and with our Conference of DA’s to make changes as needed, and I commit to continue these efforts during future sessions.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q6: Additional Comments
Jason Moore’s Answer
Insurance
My family’s roots in NC run deeper than the American Revolution. It isn’t just where I live, it’s who I am. I understand the struggle to avoid being the last generation to farm or fish, and the struggles many families are facing. In NC, an effective legislator must be a good listener, someone comfortable in disagreement, who keeps working with others to find solutions. I don’t pretend to have all the answers. But I know how to listen, how to bring folks to the table, and how to find common ground; skills I’ve practiced in business, in agriculture, and in my community. While the leadership in Raleigh has too often overlooked rural ENC, I’ll bring its voice to the table where decisions are made. This race matters because our district deserves a voice that reflects our needs, not just partisanship. I’m not running to be the loudest voice in the room. I’m running to be the most reliable one. Thank you for the opportunity to earn your vote.
Celeste Cairns’ Answer
Incumbent District 13 State Representative
I have been extraordinarily proud to represent Carteret and Craven counties in the NC General Assembly. We are blessed to live in such a wonderful area of our state. The beauty of our coastal community and the quality of our people are unmatched. I humbly ask for your support as I work to protect what makes our home so special and continue to serve you to the very best of my ability.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Judicial Contests
N.C. Supreme Court Associate Justice Seat 01
The Supreme Court of North Carolina is the state’s highest court, and there is no further appeal from its decisions on matters of state law. It is made up of the Chief Justice, who also serves as head of the Judicial Branch, and six associate justices. Each justice serves an eight-year term. The Supreme Court has no jury and makes no determinations of fact, but it considers whether error occurred at trial or in judicial interpretation of the law. (Text courtesy of the League of Women Voters of Carteret County and Vote411)
Anita Earls
Senior Associate Justice
About Anita
Justice Anita Earls is an experienced jurist and former civil rights attorney. Elected to the Supreme Court in 2018, she is running for reelection. Her values of justice, equality, and fairness for all were born of the struggle she experienced growing up in a mixed-race family at a time when interracial marriages were illegal in most of the country. These values shaped her passion to fight for the rights of ordinary citizens across North Carolina. For over 30 years, she stood alongside people whose right to vote was denied, people who were mistreated at work, and the parents of children being denied equal educational opportunities. Anita’s legal career began at the Ferguson, Stein firm in Charlotte. She served as a Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the U.S. Department of Justice, and then worked at the UNC Center for Civil Rights. In 2007, Anita founded the Southern Coalition for Social Justice.
Sarah Stevens
Candidate has not yet submitted data
About Sarah
Candidate has not submitted any data
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Anita Earl’s Answer*
Senior Associate Justice
I was a civil rights attorney for thirty years before elected to the Court in 2018. I tried numerous civil and criminal cases in state and federal courts, including bench trials and jury trials, and had extensive appellate experience. I am the only candidate in this race with judicial experience and the only one with experience arguing cases in front of the Supreme Court as an attorney. Throughout my work, I have worked to uphold the Constitution and make sure the justice system treats everyone fairly — regardless of how much money or power you have. My commitment is to a fair, impartial and independent court that will hold the legislature and the executive accountable to the State Constitution.
Sarah Stevens’ Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No Response from candidate.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: You are running for a partisan judicial position. What role does the platform of your political party play in your work as a judge on the court?
Anita Earl’s Answer*
Senior Associate Justice
My political affiliation plays no role in my decision-making process as a judge on the court. I operate independently in every decision I make on the bench. My legal opinions, whether for the majority or in dissent, are based on the Constitution and state law, without regard to the political identities of the litigants in the case. When I served on the North Carolina State Board of Elections (2009–2011), I demonstrated my strict commitment to the rule of law by voting to fine former Democratic Governor Mike Easley’s campaign when they unfortunately violated our state’s campaign finance laws. As a justice, my job is to hold the legislative and executive branches accountable to the State Constitution, without fear or favor.
Sarah Stevens’ Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No Response from candidate.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What do you perceive as the greatest obstacles to justice and do you think there is a role you should play to address these obstacles?
Anita Earl’s Answer*
Senior Associate Justice
One of the greatest obstacles to justice in our state is the fact that so many people facing challenging circumstances such as mortgage foreclosure, hurricane recovery or domestic violence, cannot afford to pay an attorney to get the legal advice and representation they need in order to protect their rights. There is a massive, urgent gap between the legal needs of North Carolinians and the resources available to serve them. My opponent made this gap worse by working to divert more than $12 million from legal aid programs this year. The Code of Judicial Conduct is clear that justices have an administrative duty to improve the justice system. I will continue to work to address this obstacle with the Equal Access to Justice Commission.
Sarah Stevens’ Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No Response from candidate.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: Additional Comments
Anita Earl’s Answer*
Senior Associate Justice
I began my career as an associate and then partner at the Ferguson Stein law firm in Charlotte, practicing civil rights, criminal defense, and employment law with legends Julius Chambers and James Ferguson. I later served as Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. Following my federal service, I directed the Voting Rights Project for the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, served as Director of Advocacy at the UNC Center for Civil Rights, and in 2007 founded and directed the Southern Coalition for Social Justice. Since joining the Court I have worked to ensure that the rights in our state constitution are fully protected. In recent years that has meant that I have written dissenting opinions when our Court has failed to protect the rights of children to a sound basic education and the rights of all voters to have their vote count and count equally.
Sarah Stevens’ Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No Response from candidate.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Judicial Contests
N.C. Court of Appeals
The North Carolina Court of Appeals is the state’s intermediate appellate court. Currently 15 judges hear cases in panels of three. The Court of Appeals reviews the proceedings that occurred in the trial courts for errors of law or legal procedure; it decides only questions of law – not questions of fact. The role of the Court of Appeals is to decide if the trial court correctly applied the law, or if there was prejudicial error in the conduct of the trial.
The majority of cases appealed from the Superior and District courts in civil and criminal cases are heard by the Court of Appeals. One major exception is capital murder appeals in which the death penalty was imposed; these appeals go directly to the Supreme Court of North Carolina. In addition, direct appeals from certain of the state’s administrative agencies are heard by the Court of Appeals. (Text courtesy of the League of Women Voters of Carteret County and Vote411)
Judge Seat 01*
John Arrowood*
Judge, N.C. Court of Appeals
About John
I am committed to provide Equal Justice to uphold the Rule of Law, to protect our citizens’ Constitutional Rights and to promoting judicial independence.
View the following tabs to read John’s responses to various questions, provided to the League of Women Voters.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Michael C. Byrne
NC Administrative Law Judge
About Michael
Administrative Law Judge Michael C. Byrne is running for Court of Appeals, a statewide office. After years of trial and appellate practice in NC and Federal courts, Michael restricted his practice in 2008 to representing law enforcement and public employees. He personally litigated more than 20 cases in the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court and assisted on several others. Michael is the only NC Court of Appeals candidate endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), which represents over 140,000 police officers.Michael has been a NC Administrative Law Judge since 2020. Nine of his decisions were reviewed by the Court of Appeals. All were unanimously affirmed. Michael’s judicial philosophy is: “Get the law right.” He is a constitutional conservative who believes in fairness, giving all sides a chance to be heard, and deciding cases strictly based on the law, without fear or favor.
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Michael C. Byrne’s Answer
NC Administrative Law Judge
I have a combined 30 years of trial, appellate, and judicial experience. In almost 6 years as a NC Administrative Law Judge, I’ve authored almost 400 opinions. Ten were reviewed by the Court of Appeals and all were unanimously affirmed. I have never been reversed by the Court of Appeals. As a lawyer I personally did more than 20 cases in the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court and served as an amicus for multiple groups in others. Additionally, I litigated hundreds of trials, including 272 cases alone in the Office of Administrative Hearings, where I am now a judge.
John Arrowood’s Answer
Judge, N.C. Court of Appeals
I have been a Court of Appeals Judge for over 10 years and have written over 400 opinions. Prior to that I served as a Superior Court Judge and for 25 years I wad an attorney in private practice doing civil and commercial litigation. I represented both plaintiffs and defendants in a wide range of civil matters. Early in my career I served as a law clerk, staff attorney and the head of the central staff at the Court of Appeals.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: You are running for a partisan judicial position. What role does the platform of your political party play in your work as a judge on the court?
Michael C. Byrne’s Answer
NC Administrative Law Judge
While I am a lifelong North Carolina Republican, there is no such thing as Democrat or Republican justice. I do not have a “side” when it comes to the law. Judges who take partisanship into account in their work undermine public trust and confidence in the fairness of the legal system. I apply the law equally and without fear or favor.
John Arrowood’s* Answer
Judge, N.C. Court of Appeals
My party’s political platform plays no role in my work as judge.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What do you perceive as the greatest obstacles to justice and do you think there is a role you should play to address these obstacles?
Michael C. Byrne’s Answer
NC Administrative Law Judge
The greatest obstacle to justice is public perception that judges decide cases based on political partisanship. Absolute neutrality and fairness is a baseline requirement of a judge, and I’ve demonstrated that in my own work as a judge for more than six years.
John Arrowood’s* Answer
Judge, N.C. Court of Appeals
The greatest obstacles to equal justice, is the lack of resources at the trial courts by having insufficient personnel to make the courts run efficiently. I addition the fact that many of people are unable to afford attorneys to represent them in legal disputes. Ways I have been working on these issues is thru my service on the IOLTA Board that provided grants to organizations like Legal Aid of North Carolina that provided pro bono legal services. I also serve on the Supreme Court’s Practice Innovation Commission that is studying how to best make additional resources available to areas that do not have sufficient attorneys to meet the needs of our citizens.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: Additional Comments
Michael C. Byrne’s Answer
NC Administrative Law Judge
I am the only Court of Appeals candidate of either party endorsed by the National Association of Police Organizations (350,000 sworn officers and 1,000 police organizations nationwide), the North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police (part of the nation’s largest police fraternal organization) and the North Carolina Police Benevolent Association – NC’s largest law enforcement organization.
John Arrowood’s* Answer
Judge, N.C. Court of Appeals
I would appreciate your vote on November 3rd.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Judge Seat 02
Tobias Hampson*
Judge, North Carolina Court of Appeals
About Tobias:
I’m running for re-election to the Court because we need to keep Judges on the Court of Appeals: with actual Court of Appeals experience; that uphold the Rule of Law and your basic rights; and serve the people not a partisan agenda
George Cooper Bell
This candidate has not yet submitted data
About George:
This candidate has not yet submitted data
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Tobias Hampson’s Answer*
Judge, North Carolina Court of Appeals
I have dedicated my career to the NC Court of Appeals. I began my career in 2002 as a law clerk to Judges on the Court. I entered private practice in 2004, where I was a litigator in trial courts around the state and in our appellate courts. From 2007-2018, I focused on appeals in the NC Court of Appeals and NC Supreme Court. I am certified as a specialist by the NC State Bar in handling appeals. I have served on the NC Bar Association’s Appellate Rules Committee. I have been a Court of Appeals judge since 2019 and authored hundreds of opinions – the vast majority of which are unanimous and bipartisan.
George Cooper Bell’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No Response from candidate.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: You are running for a partisan judicial position. What role does the platform of your political party play in your work as a judge on the court?
Tobias Hampson’s Answer*
Judge, North Carolina Court of Appeals
It reinforces that Judges must be independent and impartial. It reminds me that Judges should serve the people and not partisan agendas. That Judges should treat everyone with respect, dignity, humanity, and ensure everyone is heard and getting a fair shake.
George Cooper Bell’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No Response from candidate.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What do you perceive as the greatest obstacles to justice and do you think there is a role you should play to address these obstacles?
Tobias Hampson’s Answer*
Judge, North Carolina Court of Appeals
The greatest obstacle to justice is the sheer cost: financial, emotional, and time. We should work to treat people with compassion and respect. We should try to decide their cases in a timely fashion. We should follow the rule of law. We should understand our decisions impact real people. We should continue to advocate for funding for legal assistance for those that cannot afford it.
George Cooper Bell’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No Response from candidate.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: Additional Comments
Tobias Hampson’s Answer*
Judge, North Carolina Court of Appeals
It has been an honor to serve you on the NC Court of Appeals for the past 7.5+ years. I hope I have earned your trust to continue you serving you and ask for your vote. Thank you.
George Cooper Bell’s Answer
This candidate has not yet submitted data
No Response from candidate.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Judge Seat 03
Christine Marie Walczyk
District Court Judge, Wake County
About Christine:
Judge Christine Walczyk is one of the longest serving district court judges in our state. She has spent three decades working in the North Carolina legal system. Before joining the court, Judge Walczyk owned and operated her own law firm. For over a decade, she represented employees, small family-run businesses, indigent adults and juveniles charged with crimes. Judge Walczyk is focused on building trust and confidence in the judicial system and safeguarding the individual liberties enshrined in our constitution. Her candidacy brings extensive judicial experience, professionalism, and integrity to a court that makes critical decisions about housing rights, worker’s rights, the right to parent and educate children and the right to vote. Judge Walczyk is the only woman running for a seat on the North Carolina Court of Appeals in 2026. If elected, she will be the only Democratic woman serving on the court.
Craig Collins
Superior Court Judge
About Craig:
Judge Collins spent the first nine years of his career as an Assistant District Attorney followed by nine years running his own law firm. He was then appointed as a District Court Judge, followed by two successful elections as District Court Judge. He was then elected as a Superior Court Judge and is now running for NC Court of Appeals. Judge Collins opposes legislating from the bench, follows the Constitution, and will always protect our God given rights.
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Christina Walczyk’s Answer*
District Court Judge, Wake County
I have been a trial judge for 19 years. I was elected five times and nominated for leadership positions by four chief judges. District Court judges handle the types of cases reviewed by the Court of Appeals, including criminal, juvenile, family, domestic violence, and housing matters. I have issued thousands of opinions and seen firsthand how our laws affect our communities.
Prior to becoming a judge, I co-owned a law firm with Senator Lisa Grafstein. For over a decade, we defended the rule of law and the constitutional liberties of our neighbors. Our clients were employees, small family businesses, and persons charged with crimes.
I worked as an instructor at Wake Technical Community College and Meredith College’s Paralegal Program.
Craig Collins’ Answer*
Superior Court Judge
I spent 9 years as an Assistant District Attorney, 9 years as a private attorney, 9 years as a District Court Judge, and I currently serve as a Superior Court Judge. I am the only candidate in this race who has served as either a prosecutor or a Superior Court Judge. I have handled the exact types of cases heard by the Court of Appeals.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: You are running for a partisan judicial position. What role does the platform of your political party play in your work as a judge on the court?
Christina Walczyk’s Answer
District Court Judge, Wake County
North Carolina is in the minority in embracing partisan judicial races, and this process does not serve the courts or the public. The perception that judges rule along partisan lines weakens the system as a whole. In a state that elects its judges, however, the public must be informed. Judges must be free to explain their values, life experiences, and opinions about how to improve the legal system. My values are more aligned with the Democratic party. If a legal issue before me has a strong partisan divide, my approach will be the same as every other case: I will apply the law consistently and impartially without regard to public pressure or criticism. My integrity and the public’s trust in the judiciary will always remain paramount.
Craig Collins’ Answer
Superior Court Judge
The party affiliation of those appearing in my courtroom is completely irrelevant. I believe the Constitution means what it says, and I will always follow it. I will never re-write the Constitution to fit some political agenda.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What do you perceive as the greatest obstacles to justice and do you think there is a role you should play to address these obstacles?
Christina Walczyk’s Answer*
District Court Judge, Wake County
The greatest barrier to justice for many is the socio-economic disparity they face. Attorneys are no longer affordable, and people face practical hurdles, such as employment obligations or lack of reliable childcare, that keep them from having their day in court. Even when a person is entitled to court-appointed counsel, the funding is inadequate, leaving ‘legal deserts’ in rural parts of the state. Judges have an obligation to ensure equal access to justice. I have worked tirelessly to expand access and level the playing field for self-represented persons by helping to start the Legal Support Center, training pro bono attorneys, and designing and using virtual courtrooms which provide parties with greater flexibility.
Craig Collins’ Answer*
Superior Court Judge
Activist judges who push policy or amend the Constitution to fit their policy preferences destroy the integrity of our Judiciary. The Constitution means what it says, and as a Judge, I will never re-write it to fit some political agenda.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: Additional Comments
Christina Walczyk’s Answer*
District Court Judge, Wake County
Attacks on the judiciary, and the rule of law, are unprecedented. We must stand together to protect this vital institution by electing judges willing to safeguard our constitutional freedoms, like the right to free speech, the right to a free and public education, and the right to vote. We need a balanced court that can keep the other two political branches in check, and we deserve a more diverse court that reflects the people we serve. I am the only woman running for the Court of Appeals this year, and if I win, I will be the only Democratic woman left on the fifteen-member court. Women bring unique life and professional experiences to the court, enriching judicial deliberations and contributing valuable perspectives to the analysis of complex legal issues. I hope to restore some balance and confidence in the system, and I offer voters a candidate with the experience, courage, work ethic, and humility to do the job effectively.
Craig Collins’ Answer*
Superior Court Judge
We must protect the rule of law, keep our communities safe, and protect our fundamental Constitutional rights. I have spent three decades in the legal community fighting to do that, and I ask for the opportunity to continue these efforts on the Court of Appeals.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
NC Court of Appeals Judge Seat 01
Matt Smith
Current NC Superior Court Judge
Elected as a Superior Court Judge and a…
District Court Judge in Union County. Before elected as a Judge, I spent nearly 19 years as a trial lawyer.
NC Court of Appeals Judge Seat 01
James Weldon Whalen
Attorney
James Whalen is an attorney on the front…
lines defending our rights in appellate courts. Last year, he defended Justice Allison Riggs’s win and stopped a dangerous attempt to steal an election. In our Department of Justice, he fought gerrymandering and held domestic abusers acccountable. James has the appropriate experience in the court he is running to join. He’s running for the Court of Appeals to uphold our rights. James lives with his wife and son in Raleigh.
Judicial Contests
District Attorney District 4
District attorneys are the elected representatives of the state in all criminal and some juvenile matters. The primary responsibility of the district attorney, with his or her assistants, is to prosecute all criminal cases filed in the Superior and District Courts. District attorneys also advise local law enforcement and prepare the criminal trial docket. Each of the 44 prosecutorial districts has one district attorney and at least four full-time assistant district attorneys. Each District Attorney is elected to a four-year term by the voters within the district he or she serves.Legislation in 2023 numerically realigned / renumbered the Superior Court and other court districts to align with the Prosecutorial districts. District Attorney District 4 covers the following counties: Carteret, Craven, Pamlico.
(Text courtesy of the League of Women Voters of Carteret County and Vote411)
Matt Wareham
This candidate has not yet submitted data
About Matt:
This candidate has not yet submitted data
Local Contests
Carteret County Board of Commissioners
The 7-member Board sets the policy for the county, determining the strategic vision for the county, appoints a county manager, attorney and others to serve the county, adopts ordinances, including zoning, and establishes an annual budget, which includes setting the tax rate and calling bond referendums.
One commissioner is elected from each district, with the exception of District 3 (Morehead City), which elects two members to the Board of Commissioners.Commissioners are elected in partisan elections to staggered four-year terms. Candidates are elected by specific district during the Primary election (March) but are elected at-large countywide in the November General election. All commissioners must reside within the boundaries of the district they represent.
Text was written by Vote411 and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by The League of Women Voters of Carteret County
District 01: Peletier, Bogue, portions of Cape Carteret and Cedar Point
Steven Overby
Government Affairs Committee Chairman, Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
About Steven:
I’m a community-oriented small business owner who serves as chairman of the Government Affairs Committee for the Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce, representing Western Carteret County. I also volunteer as a youth basketball coach in our county. As a native of District 1, I have a strong understanding of our district’s history and its needs. I’m running to be an effective, conservative voice focused on prioritizing infrastructure, public safety, education, and fiscal responsibility. District 1 and Carteret County as a whole are experiencing inevitable growth, making long-term strategic planning essential to ensure economic stability and future prosperity. The foundation of my campaign is engaging with the people I seek to serve—listening to your concerns and representing your voice. I’m committed to supporting policies that improve quality of life and reflect the will of the people. Call me at 910-554-6924 with any questions. I’d be honored to earn your vote.
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Steven Overby’s Answer
Government Affairs Committee Chairman, Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
I am a lifelong resident of District 1 in Carteret County and the son of a retired law enforcement officer, which instilled in me a strong respect for public service, accountability, and community safety. Growing up in District 1 has given me a deep understanding of our district’s history, values, and the challenges our community faces. I am also a small business owner and a youth basketball coach in Carteret County—roles that keep me closely connected to local families, workers, and young people. Through business ownership, I understand firsthand how government decisions affect jobs, taxes, and economic opportunity. As a coach, I see the importance of safe communities, strong schools, and quality recreation spaces for our children.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: What is the most important issue the County Commission will have to address in the next two years?
Steven Overby’s Answer
Government Affairs Committee Chairman, Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
Schools: White Oak Elementary is overcrowded, and we have no long-term plan to address growth across our schools. We need a new school in District 1 and strategic planning for the future. Infrastructure: The proposed DOT transportation plan could transform our area, but it remains unfunded. We must advocate to fund these projects to promote economic sustainability. Recreation: Western Park thrives, but with new construction and development planned, we must invest in more spaces for our children to play sports and congregate. Public Safety: We must give our first responders the resources to do their jobs efficiently. We should also work with the Sheriff to establish a sub-station in District 1 to maintain and reduce response times.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What is the most effective role the County Commission can play in improving the local schools? What policies or funding will you suggest when elected?
Steven Overby’s Answer
Government Affairs Committee Chairman, Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
The County Commission approves funding for our school system. It’s imperative we work in collaboration with the school board to meet the needs of teachers and students. I would love for the state of North Carolina to give local governments flexibility in spending occupancy tax dollars to ensure the teachers supplement is competitive with neighboring schools systems. We need proactive long-term strategic planning to address the growth in our schools, not just wait until there’s a problem to address it. A multi-million dollar school bond was passed by voters in 2020 which included a multi-purpose gym at White Oak Elementary. I will fight to see this project come into fruition.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: What policies will you propose to improve the economy of your county?
Steven Overby’s Answer
Government Affairs Committee Chairman, Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
County Commissioners have used state-mandated revaluations to incrementally raise property taxes. For residents on fixed incomes, it’s unreasonable to tax unrealized value. As Commissioner, I will always oppose property tax increases and support giving local governments greater flexibility with occupancy tax revenue. Carteret Community College has a focus on workforce development, but we need economic development to provide our locals with the opportunity to be able to afford to work in Carteret County and live comfortably.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q5: What policies would you propose to improve the quantity and quality of social services in your county?
Steven Overby’s Answer
Government Affairs Committee Chairman, Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
There’s many programs within health and human services that are state mandated but the state does not help fund those services. As a Commissioner I would push for collaboration with our state delegation to provide maximum services without continuing to burden local taxpayers.
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q6: Additional Comments
Steven Overby’s Answer
Government Affairs Committee Chairman, Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
I will be a consistent, conservative voice who puts people before politics. I bring real-world experience as a small business owner, a coach, and a lifelong resident who understands both the opportunities and pressures facing District 1. I will fight for sustainable growth, responsible spending, and policies that protect families, strengthen our community, and respect taxpayers—guided by faith, accountability, and a commitment to results. Above all, I understand that if elected, I work for you. I want to be your voice, and the only way I can succeed is by engaging with the people I serve—listening, then taking action. I would be humbled to have your support. If you have any questions you can reach me at 910-554-6924
Response was collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
District 02: Newport, western central Carteret County
Chuck Shinn
This candidate has not yet submitted data
About Chuck:
This candidate has not yet submitted data
District 03: Morehead City (1 of 2 District 03 seats)
Chris Monteleon
Retired farmer and U.S. financial investigator (Washington DC)
About Chris:
As your County Commissioner, I would continue to actively seek out our county’s wonderful people and small businesses. Listen, carefully and thoughtfully. Then, with a seasoned judgement and courage required of our most effective Carteret County Comm
Jimmy Paylor
Real Estate Broker Remax Ocean Properties
About Jimmy:
As a county commissioner, I believe in responsible growth that preserves our local heritage while embracing opportunity. I stand for transparency, supporting our schools, ensuring public safety, and providing quality health care.
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Chris Monteleon’s Answer
Retired farmer and U.S. financial investigator (Washington DC)
President, Morehead City Historical Society * Past Chaplain, Carteret County Military Order of the Purple Heart * Past Commodore, Cape Lookout Yacht Club * President, Carteret County Senior Democrats and Friends * Experienced, successful political-policy advocate. “They said it could not be done.” But in 2025, I led the way: To achieve a long-sought transparency of our Morehead City Council, with expertise, tenacity, and a long-proven people-uniting skill, as a citizen I found a way to lead the Council to a financially sound path of Council-meeting video-recordings. Today, that program is a resounding success.
Jimmy Paylor’s Answer
Incumbent District 13 State Representative
I have spent years in law enforcement with the Carteret County Sheriffs Office followed by service with the Marine Fisheries, giving me firsthand knowledge of public safety, natural recourses and how county government works. I have built a career in real estate with Remax Ocean Properties which gives me insight into property values, responsible growth, housing needs and the local economy. In addition, my time as a professional umpire and a collegiate baseball umpire demonstrates fairness, decision making under pressure and the ability to listen and lead with integrity.
Q2: What is the most important issue the County Commission will have to address in the next two years?
Chris Monteleon’s Answer
Retired farmer and U.S. financial investigator (Washington DC)
The insufficiency of the current County Commission to adequately address the people’s concerns: The opportunities – and challenges – of the coming of I-42; the lack of affordable housing; better-paying jobs; rising sea water; and way-too-high taxes.
Jimmy Paylor’s Answer
Real Estate Broker Remax Ocean Properties
1-Managing Growth and Development 2-Schools and Workforce Pipeline 3-Health Care and Rural Health Access 4-Public Safety and Law Enforcement Resources 5-Property Taxes and Responsible Budgeting
Q3: What is the most effective role the County Commission can play in improving the local schools? What policies or funding will you suggest when elected?
Chris Monteleon’s Answer
Retired farmer and U.S. financial investigator (Washington DC)
*Focus on achieving the best public schools in North Carolina. (With public, tax-payer dollars, public schools come first.) * To compete for the best teachers for our children, ensure a robust, Carteret County ‘Supplemental Funds for Teacher Compensation’ advantage. * Keep partisan politics out of our school policy.
Jimmy Paylor’s Answer
Real Estate Broker Remax Ocean Properties
Provide stable, responsible funding. Invest in safe and modern school facilities. Commissioners can improve education outcomes by ensuring schools are safe and secure. Building are well maintained. Classrooms are modern and functional. Growth is planned for before overcrowding becomes a problem.
Q4: What policies will you propose to improve the economy of your county?
Chris Monteleon’s Answer
Retired farmer and U.S. financial investigator (Washington DC)
Better accountability to the people for fiscal restraint and prudent spending. Operate within a sustainable budget. * Take competitive advantage of the presence of our ideally-located airport. As does Kinston, NC, light industry, such as aerospace-fabricating of military equipment, aircraft and drones. Higher-paying jobs that facilitate supporting commerce and additional higher education. * Affordable housing. Support additional tax-credit and grant opportunities for builders of affordable housing. * Support the idea of Carteret Community College awarding BA and BS degrees. Serving to keep our students local while in college for 4 years. Preparing them for better paying jobs that further our local economy.
Jimmy Paylor’s Answer
Real Estate Broker Remax Ocean Properties
To grow our local economy. we need to support small businesses, invest in workforce development, maintain a competitive tax environment and make smart infrastructure investments. My goal is to create opportunities for families to live, work and succeed right here in our county.
Q5: What policies would you propose to improve the quantity and quality of social services in your county?
Chris Monteleon’s Answer
Retired farmer and U.S. financial investigator (Washington DC)
* Demonstrate to our tax-payers the never-ending need to better fund our already excellent Department of Social Services. * Coordinate our many charitable Carteret County non-profit organizations to a more effective force for the local human good.
Jimmy Paylor’s Answer
Real Estate Broker Remax Ocean Properties
Improving social services starts with strong partnerships and supporting the professional who serve vulnerable families every day. As a commissioner, I want to make sure our social services system is efficient, compassionate, and accountable to the taxpayers who fund it.
Q6: Additional Comments
Chris Monteleon’s Answer
Retired farmer and U.S. financial investigator (Washington DC)
On the November 3, 2026, Carteret County, NC Ballot, there are many, 11, elected offices specific to serve Carteret County. Your vote for Chris Monteleon for Carteret County Board of Commissioners is the only vote on our Ballot for political balance in your, our, County government. My Carteret County Republican Party friends have done an excellent job of presenting their 11 Republicans. I am the only non-Republican, a fiscal-conservative Democrat, running for any of the 11 Carteret County specific offices. My promise to you, to us “Cartericans,” Democrat, Libertarian, Unaffiliated, and old-school Republicans: When elected with your important vote, I shall bring to the Carteret County Commission a balance, a political unifying presence. Sorely needed in these trying times of excessive government partisanship.
Jimmy Paylor’s Answer
Real Estate Broker Remax Ocean Properties
I know this county, I’ve served this county, and I care deeply about its future as 4 of 5 of my kids have returned here to call this home as well. My background in law enforcement. real estate, and public service has taught me how to listen, make fair decisions and work with people to solve problems. I want to help Carteret County grow responsibly while protecting the quality of life that makes this place home. I will greatly appreciate your support for county commissioner.
District 06: Down East and part of Beaufort
Chris Chadwick
Incumbent County Commissioner
About Chris:
I am a Carteret County native and graduate of East Carteret High School and Pitt Community College. I have made my home in Stacy for the past thirty years with my wife, Kathryn. We have two children, William, an NC State grad, and Larrington, currently at NC State. We have built numerous successful businesses Down East and created jobs for our community. I have served as an Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 252, a member of the Crissie Wright Lodge, Sudan Shriners, the NC Fisheries Association, and the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum. I am currently serving on the Carteret County Marine Fisheries Advisory Board, the Harbor Authority Waterways Committee, Partnership for Children, the Chairman of the Airport Authority, the Rural Transportation Advisory Committee, and as Chairman of the Board of Commissioners. I attend Atlantic Missionary Baptist Church. I understand the heritage, tradition, and local values. I will continue to work tirelessly to maintain balance and bring our citizens the resources to keep Carteret County a great place to live and work.
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Chris Chadwick’s Answer
Incumbent County Commissioner
As a life long resident of Carteret County I am fully aware of the needs of our citizens. My 6 years of service on the board, plus my time as Chairman has proven that I put the people first on issues that are important to them.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: What is the most important issue the County Commission will have to address in the next two years?
Chris Chadwick’s Answer
Incumbent County Commissioner
We need more space at the court house, we are busting at the seams and are in need of a new administration building. That will house the sheriff’s office, register of deeds, tax office, 911 center, county manager and emergency management. All while keeping the courts at it’s current location.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What is the most effective role the County Commission can play in improving the local schools? What policies or funding will you suggest when elected?
Chris Chadwick’s Answer
Incumbent County Commissioner
The commissioners only provide the funding, the Board of Education sets the policy. I have been a strong supporter of our great schools and am very proud of the success that they have achieved.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: What policies will you propose to improve the economy of your county?
Chris Chadwick’s Answer
Incumbent County Commissioner
I have kept taxes low & maintained a good quality of life for the citizens of this great county. I believe government should refrain from being involved in the lives of its citizens whenever possible.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q5: What policies will you propose to improve the economy of your county?
Chris Chadwick’s Answer
Incumbent County Commissioner
I have been a champion of mental health services and we are working on a new respite care facility for our elderly citizens, while looking to expand our sports fields for our youth.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q6: Additional Comments
Chris Chadwick’s Answer
Incumbent County Commissioner
“Keep Carteret County Great” Vote Chris Chadwick, the Common Sense Conservative.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Local Contests
Carteret County Board of Education
The Carteret County Board of Education is the local governing body of the County Public School System. Its members are elected in partisan races by districts and serve staggered 4-year terms. Members are elected county-wide, but must reside in the district they represent.
The 7-member school board has 5 primary responsibilities:
- 1. Employ the superintendent
- 2. Establish policy
- 3. Determine annual operating and capital budgets
- 4. Approve student assignment boundaries
- 5. Oversee the management of the school district’s major systems, including budget and finance, curriculum and instruction, personnel and auxiliary services
Text was written by Vote411 and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by The League of Women Voters of Carteret County
District 01: Peletier, portions of Cape Carteret and Cedar Point
Anne Scott
Substitute Teacher
About Anne:
My name is Anne Scott. I’m running to represent District 1 on the Carteret County School Board because I’m committed to helping students and teachers reach their full potentials. Since moving to Carteret County in 2009, I have devoted myself to service in many forms- teaching Sunday School and being Chair of the Childcare Committee at SUMC, member of White Oak Elementary School PTO Board, Parent Advisory Council, Athletics Boosters, and Band Boosters at Croatan High School, and serving on multiple community outreach committees including the Cape Carteret Trail and Carteret Health Care Foundation. I’ve had the joy of substitute teaching locally since 2016 while supporting my husband’s dental practice as an administrative assistant. I believe that raising and educating children requires a true partnership between parents, teachers, and the community. My respect for others, strong work ethic, and collaborative spirit make me well-qualified to serve on the School Board.
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
Anne Scott’s Answer
Substitute Teacher
I have devoted myself to serving our community since moving to Carteret County in 2009. I’ve helped teach Sunday School and served as Chair of the Childcare Committee at Swansboro United Methodist Church, served on the PTO Board at White Oak Elementary School for 9 years, the Parent Advisory Council, Athletics Boosters, and Band Boosters at Croatan High School, and have worked as a substitute teacher in the Carteret County School System since 2016. During this time I have also served on HOA and various community outreach and fundraising committees and supported my husband’s dental practice as an administrative assistant. I’ve worked diligently with families, community groups and businesses to meet the needs of our students and teachers.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: What are the most important responsibilities of a school board member?
Anne Scott’s Answer
Substitute Teacher
School board members must be able to collaborate to determine how best to meet the needs of all students across the county in a fiscally responsible way that keeps our schools safe. They need to approve the annual school budget and advocate for funding from state and local resources to afford necessary staffing, maintenance of existing school facilities and buses while planning for population growth . They must write policies that best serve students and can be clearly implemented while aligning with state requirements. They ensure the instructional programs in our schools match North Carolina standards, evaluate student performance and how well they are prepared for college and careers upon graduation.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What are the critical needs for your school district and how would you prioritize those needs within available state and local funding?
Anne Scott’s Answer
Substitute Teacher
Our school district needs a state budget to be delivered punctually to enable responsible planning and spending. We need increased funding and teacher support at the state level to recruit and retain quality educators and bus drivers.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: What changes would you make in your district to recruit and retain qualified teachers?
Anne Scott’s Answer
Substitute Teacher
I believe by promoting and supporting programs such as the Big Rock Foundation’s teaching fellows scholarship would encourage local students to enter the field of education and return here to teach. I would persistently advocate for higher teacher pay and more teachers to be hired to reduce class size. Additionally, I would support hiring a school nurse for each elementary school to improve safety and reduce stress on classroom teachers.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q5: What is your position on the importance of a Pre-Kindergarten program in your district?
Anne Scott’s Answer
Substitute Teacher
I believe a Pre-Kindergarten program is essential for helping children transition from the home environment to a structured learning environment. Standards for Kindergarten continue to increase and children need a strong foundation be to educationally & emotionally prepared. I would support a state funded Pre-Kindergarten program for all children in our district.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q6: Additional Comments
Anne Scott’s Answer
Substitute Teacher
As a mother of three children who have attended Carteret County Schools and participated in music, athletics, and club activities, I know how hard our teachers work to grow our students into thoughtful, well-rounded, and responsible citizens. That is why I began volunteering and teaching in our schools. I wanted to be part of this positive environment and help make a difference in the lives of students and their families. I’ve realized no teacher or parent can do this alone and our schools need the support from the local community and funding from the state for our teachers and students to have the resources they need to succeed. I hope to earn your vote.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
District 02: Newport
Clark Jenkins
This candidate has not yet submitted data
About Clark:
This candidate has not yet submitted data
District 05: Downtown Beaufort, portions of Morehead City and Newport
Brooke Cash
District 5 Board of Education Candidate
About Brooke:
After graduating from Elon University in 2007, Brooke obtained a Master of Arts in Teaching (P-5) before starting her career in Atlanta. To refine her instructional craft, Brooke received specialized training from Columbia University in developing young readers and writers. Her devotion to her students extends beyond the classroom, with Brooke developing student athletes as a middle and high school coach. Brooke has immersed herself in the community since moving to Carteret County with her husband and three sons, serving as the PTO Co-President at Beaufort Elementary and a board member of the Carteret Education Foundation. She has also taken on leadership roles at Ann Street Preschool, Beaufort Wine and Food, Project Christmas Cheer and the Crystal Coast Economic Development Foundation. Brooke is most guided by her faith in Jesus Christ, her traditional values and a calling to serve children and families in her local community.
District 06: Down East
Kathryn Smith Chadwick
Incumbent School Board Member
About Kathryn:
I am an Atlantic native, graduated from East Carteret High School and attended CCC. I have made my home in Stacy for over 30 years with my husband, Chris. Together, we have built Harkers Island RV, Atlantic RV Resort, and Wild Will’s Revenge Restaurant. We have two children, William, an NC State graduate, and Larrington, a sophomore at NC State. I have served on the Carteret County Board of Education as Chair, Vice Chair, and Member since 2018. I have served the School Foundation board since 2014. I have served on the East Carteret Parent Advisory, the Down East Middle PTO and Advisory, the Atlantic Elementary PTO and Advisory, the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum, the Crystal Coast Republican Women’s & Men’s Club, and the NC Fisheries Association, and attend Atlantic Missionary Baptist Church. I love our school system and am proud to have served the children, families, and staff for the past eight years.
Local Contests
Other Local Offices
Carteret County Sheriff
The Sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer of the county and is elected in partisan elections for a 4-year term. No person is eligible to serve as sheriff if that person has been convicted of a felony, whether or not their rights of citizenship have been restored. Duties of the Sheriff’s office include the operation of the jail, law enforcement, providing security for courts, serving criminal warrants and other writs and summonses, and transporting prisoners.
Text was written by Vote411 and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by The League of Women Voters of Carteret County
John Nyberg
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff, Former Chief Deputy
About John:
I respectfully ask for your support in my campaign for the Office of Sheriff I have served the citizens of North Carolina and Carteret County since 1988 as a law enforcement officer. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from ECU and successfully completed the semester long Administrative Officers Management Program offered by NCSU. I retired from the State Highway Patrol at the rank of Captain and served as the Troop A Commander for the final 7 years of my career. In that role, I was responsible for the leadership of approximately 140 uniformed and civilian personnel, a communication center, radio shop and vehicle garage. For the past 10 years I have worked with Sheriff Buck in several roles. I began as a volunteer and part-time employee processing Concealed Carry Permits, served as an administrator in the Detention Center and for 2 years I have served as Chief Deputy managing multiple divisions and our Office budget. Carteret County has been my home for 21 years.
Franklin Rice
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff
About Franklin:
Franklin Rice is a longtime Carteret County citizen with over two decades of law enforcement experience serving the community he calls home. Throughout his career, he has worked in multiple areas of law enforcement and leadership, always guided by strong standards, accountability, and service to citizens. Franklin is running for Sheriff because he believes the office should be unaffiliated and independent, focused on upholding the law fairly and consistently and without answering to political parties or partisan interests. Public safety and the rule of law should come first, every time. His campaign is built on community policing, clear standards, accountability, crime prevention, youth and family safety, and training and wellness. Franklin believes the Sheriff should be present, approachable, and engaged with the community, working alongside citizens to keep Carteret County safe. http://www.riceforsheriff.org https://www.facebook.com/FranklinRiceforSheriff
Q1: What experience and skills make you the best candidate for this office?
John Nyberg’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff, Former Chief Deputy
I have worked for the Sheriff’s Office for the last 11 years, served as the Chief Deputy for over 2.5 years and now Sheriff. Prior, I worked and retired from the Highway Patrol at the rank of Captain and Troop Commander. I was responsible for 20 counties, 140 uniformed and civilian personnel, a radio communication center, radio repair and installation shop and vehicle garage. I began supervising my co-workers in 1999. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from ECU and successfully completed the semester long Administrative Officers Management Program from NCSU. I successfully completed the Chief Deputies Leadership Institute sponsored by the NC Sheriff’s Association. I have managed the Office budget for the last 3 years.
Franklin Rice’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff
With over 25 years in law enforcement, I bring experience in patrol, K-9, criminal investigations, community policing, and as a School Resource Officer. I hold NC Justice Academy certifications in Criminal Investigations, SRO, and leadership. I completed a 400-hour leadership program, the three-week Leadership Institute, and the year-long Management Development Program, covering budgeting, personnel, management, and critical-incident response. I am also a trained crisis negotiator. I understand law enforcement from the ground up and have the experience, training, passion, and leadership to move the Sheriff’s Office forward while serving and protecting our citizens.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q2: What is the most important or challenging issue for the Sheriff’s office currently?
John Nyberg’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff, Former Chief Deputy
Salaries are a challenge for all law enforcement agencies. They need to be competitive to hire and retain the most professionally qualified staff. We have been successful working with the County Commissioners and the County Manager to address this challenge. Also, our jail is 30 years old and is limited as to the services and housing it can provide for special needs inmates. The capacity for our jail is not meeting the needs of our growing community. It is significantly over capacity at any given time. I am working with County Administration to address needed office and evidence storage space.
Franklin Rice’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff
One of the most challenging issues currently facing the Sheriff’s Office is jail overcrowding. The detention center has raised concerns in state inspections, and the county is considering the significant undertaking of building a new jail. Addressing overcrowding requires more than a new building—it requires proper staffing, strong leadership, sound policies, and responsible planning. Detention officer recruitment and retention must also remain a priority. As Sheriff, I would work with county leaders and staff to address the immediate needs while developing a responsible long-term solution.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q3: What improvements or new programs would you like to implement at the Sheriff’s office?
John Nyberg’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff, Former Chief Deputy
Mental Health care has become a major issue for NC. The NC House of Representatives has created a sub-committee to explore solutions to this problem. Our Office transports Involuntary Commitment Patients all across our state on a daily basis. We connect people in mental health crisis when they enter our jail with the services that can diagnose and treat their needs. The Sheriff’s Office currently has a contract with Correctional Behavioral Health to provide mental health care for individuals while incarcerated. Partnerships with groups like Trillium Health Resources will be a starting point when they are released. We have a new program called ‘Special Needs Occupant’ which provides information to First Responders prior to arrival on scene.
Franklin Rice’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff
I would establish fully functional substations in both eastern and western Carteret County, giving deputies a place to complete reports and other duties without repeatedly traveling back to the main office. This would increase deputy visibility in our communities and help improve response times. I also want deputies to be more engaged in our communities, including increased visibility around churches on Sundays. Finally, I would dedicate two hours each week to training, including defensive tactics and other practical skills, ensuring our deputies remain prepared, confident, and professional.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q4: What services of the Sheriff’s department could be improved with more funding?
John Nyberg’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff, Former Chief Deputy
Every division within the Office is currently performing at a very high level to meet the needs of our citizens. With that being said, more funding would allow for additional deputies to improve calls for service response times in the Patrol division, more narcotics detectives to fight against illegal drug traffickers and better pay for our detention officers for hiring and retention. Currently we are on the cutting edge with technology but the costs to remain there are always increasing.
Franklin Rice’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff
Additional funding could improve several critical areas of the Sheriff’s Office. Jail overcrowding and the detention center’s long-term needs will require significant investment. Additional funding could also help recruit and retain qualified deputies and detention officers, increase staffing where needed, and provide more advanced and specialized training. My goal would be to ensure additional funding is used responsibly putting resources where they have the greatest impact on employee safety, professional development, and the quality of service we provide to our citizens.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q5: What changes will you make to help incarcerated persons after release back into community life?
John Nyberg’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff, Former Chief Deputy
The Detention Division already has informational handouts for services such as help with addiction, medical services and support groups at the time of their release. I have improved this program to have round table discussions with the inmates prior to their release in order for them to have an opportunity to understand what services are available and ask questions. The person released must take personal responsibility to follow through with the treatment recommendations. We also continue to improve the program for low level offenders fighting addiction and we have introduced more than 300 people to treatment opportunities prior to release.
Franklin Rice’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff
I believe rehabilitation and reentry should be based on the individual and the circumstances that brought them into the detention center. We should strengthen educational, treatment, and workforce opportunities while incarcerated and connect individuals with resources before they are released. I would partner with Carteret Community College, the Carteret/Onslow Reentry Council, NCWorks, treatment providers, and local employers to help with education, job training, employment, recovery, and other needs. The goal is accountability while giving people who want to change the tools to successfully return to the community.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Q6: Additional Comments
John Nyberg’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff, Former Chief Deputy
Carteret County has been our home for 22 years. My wife, Ann, is a retired public school teacher and we have been married for 36 years. We raised our 3 children here. We were warmly welcomed by the Beaufort community and I began coaching sports that involved our children, from Upwards basketball to middle school basketball and high school golf. We also supported our daughters’ soccer teams, from the county recreation league to middle and high school. I continued to meet people willing to give their time and wisdom to make our community a better place. Since deciding to seek the Office of Sheriff, I have been humbled by the support of the community. I am dedicated to ensuring our county remains one of the safest in the state and a welcoming place for every resident and visitor. Together, working along side our public safety partners, we are continuing to build a county where families feel safe, businesses can thrive and every resident from Down East to Emerald Isle knows they matter!
Franklin Rice’s Answer
Candidate for Carteret County Sheriff
I’ve called Carteret County home my entire life. I grew up here, attended school here, raised my family here, and spent my law enforcement career serving this community. I’ve watched our county grow and change, and I understand what makes Carteret County special because I’m part of it too. I enjoy interacting with people, and I believe the Sheriff’s Office should be part of the community, not separate from it. As Sheriff, I want deputies visible, involved, and building relationships with the citizens we serve. I also plan to establish a Citizens Advisory Board so people across Carteret County have a voice, can share concerns and ideas, and help us better understand their communities’ needs. I’ll listen to our deputies as well. Good leadership means listening to both the citizens we serve and the men and women doing the job. Carteret County is my home, and I want a Sheriff’s Office that always remembers who it serves.
Responses were collected and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by Vote411
Carteret County Clerk of Superior Court:
The Clerk of Superior Court is elected in partisan elections for a 4-year term and must be a resident of the county. The clerk is responsible for all clerical and record-keeping functions of the superior court and district court.
The clerk also handles the probate of wills and the administration of estates of decedents, minors and incompetents. The clerk also hears a variety of special proceedings such as adoptions, incompetency determinations and partitions of land, is empowered to issue arrest and search warrants, and to exercise the same powers as a magistrate with respect to taking pleas of guilty to minor littering, traffic, wildlife, boating, marine fisheries, alcoholic beverage, state park recreation and worthless-check offenses.
Text was written by Vote411 and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by The League of Women Voters of Carteret County
Ken Raper
Clerk of Superior Court
About Ken:
Born and Raised in Eastern North Carolina with 40 plus years of Law Enforcement Experience. Retired North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in June of 2002 and Retired Chief Deputy for the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office in November 2018. First elected Carteret County Clerk of Superior Court in 2018. I am currently running unopposed for the 2026 Election Cycle for the Office of Carteret County Clerk of Superior Court. The Office of Clerk of Superior Court is a State Constitutional Office which is at the center of all Judicial Proceedings in each of the 100 counties in the State of North Carolina. The Clerk of Superior Court is a vital part to the local administration of justice and is a complex and diverse position which has many important responsibilities for the Office. Unlike Clerks of Court in other States, the Clerk of Superior Court in North Carolina is a Judge. As Judge of Probate, the Clerk hears matters relating to the probate of wills, and the administration of estates, including the appointment of personal representatives, auditing the accounting of those representatives and removing them from office if necessary. The Clerk also presides over adoptions, Incompetency and guardianship proceedings, legitimations, name changes, condemnations of private lands for public use, partitions of property, foreclosures and many other civil matters. The Clerk as Record Keeper is responsible for the security of all official filings, for lawsuits, civil actions, criminal proceedings and other matters brought before the court, with the exception of juvenile files, adoption records, and other confidential records that are kept secure and are only reviewed by court order from a Judge.
Carteret County Register of Deeds:
The Register of Deeds is elected in partisan elections every 4 years. The office is the custodian of documents recorded from the beginning of the county to the present day. It records real estate documents, births and deaths. The office also issues marriage licenses, handles notary commissions, military discharge recordings, and provides certified birth and death certificates, and other documents.
Text was written by Vote411 and shared with the Carteret County News-Times by The League of Women Voters of Carteret County
Karen Hardesty
Carteret County Register of Deeds
About Karen:
Raised in the Down East community of Sea Level, Karen Hardesty is a graduate of East Carteret High School and a lifelong resident of Carteret County. She and her late husband, Jerry Hardesty, owned and operated Hardesty Guns for 25 years, building a successful small business rooted in customer service and fiscal responsibility. After Jerry’s passing in 2017, she completed his term as Carteret County Register of Deeds and has since run unopposed. She has focused on bringing sound business practices and organizational structure to the office, modernizing daily operations while saving taxpayer dollars by completing projects in-house. Her commitment remains centered on efficiency, transparency, and providing exceptional service to the citizens of Carteret County.
Carteret County Sheriff
Shane Guthrie
Retired Sergeant – Pitt County Sheriff’s Office
My reason for running for Sheriff is solely to make it Safer and Better for…
all the citizens who live in Carteret County. I was born and raised in Carteret County; my family lives here. This is my home; I just want to Protect it. My entire 30+ year career in Law Enforcement was working as a Sheriff Deputy, at a larger progressively advanced Sheriff’s Office. I will obtain Federal Grants to fund the many programs I will enact. I want to help save our elderly, save our children from child sex predators, work to prevent domestic violence, save the drug addicts, by getting them the resources to return to society, drug free. These are just a few of the many programs I will enact if elected. I want to advance the Carteret County Sheriff’s Office. I will lead by faith and enforce the laws with compassion. Visit: http://www.ShaneGuthrieforSheriff.Org
County Commissioner District 03
Bryan Nicklow
Patriot
Each County should have a good …
conspiracy-minded Patriot on the Board of Commissioners. I am competent and capable of voting on the typical functions of local government. However, I’ll hit harder on MAGA, MAHA, and DOGE like issues. I strive for a more connected community within our county. This is our Jubilee year, and we must all rededicate ourselves to the American Principles and Values that bore this great nation. It is a great time to be alive during this Golden Age of America. However, we must avoid the trap of subversive propaganda, as better days are ahead. Following my retirement from USMC in 2007, I moved to Carteret County. Over the past 16 years, my wife and I still operate the original three small businesses we started here in the county. I have a BS in Electronic Systems Technology, and I am a member of Tactical Civics.
Board of Education District 01
Stephanie Krzich
Incumbent Carteret County School Board Member
I’m Stephanie Krzich, your District 1 Carteret County School Board member…
I’m running for re-election to keep a strong, conservative voice at the table. I’m a mom of four boys, a wife, and an accountant. I’ve volunteered in our schools and for countless yout sports. I bring both a parent’s and financial perspective to the Board—two viewpoints that matter when decisions affect children and taxpayers.I’m a leader who listens. I don’t walk into decisions with my mind already made up. I seek input from educators, experts, and our parent advisory committees. I listen carefully, ask questions, and vote intentionally. I strongly value discussion and transparency. I believe that weighing pros and cons leads to better decisions.I will continue to advocate for increased supplemental pay for our educators, bus drivers, and coaches, for core academics, not gender ideology, and for meaningful parental involvement. I’m asking for your vote on March 3.
County Commisioner District 01
David Quinn
Incumbent District 1 County Commissioner
My name is David Quinn, and I am seeking re-election…
to continue representing District 1 on the Carteret County Board of Commissioners. I am a native son of Carteret County and a lifelong Conservative Republican. As a small business owner, I bring real-world experience to county government. I’ve signed the front of a paycheck and endorsed the back of one, and I understand that county budgets are made up of real taxpayer dollars. I never forget that those dollars come out of your pocket, and I keep that in mind when deciding how to spend—or not spend—your money. Serving as a county commissioner takes determination and commitment. I’m proud of delivering the Carteret Health Care Emergency Department in Cedar Point, supporting P.O.R.T. that reduced overdose deaths by 77%, and keeping property taxes low. From Broad Creek to Bogue, Ocean, Cape Carteret, Peletier, and Stella, we believe in God, family, service, and common sense. I humbly ask for your vote in the Republican primary
Morehead City Mayor Runoff (Nonpartisan)
Lee Anthony Stiles
Morehead City Councilman
Lee Anthony Stiles is a sitting Morehead City Councilman with…
a professional background rooted in public health, community engagement, and recovery services. He currently serves as a Post Overdose Response Coordinator at CarolinaEast Medical Center and is a Certified Peer Support Specialist with years of experience working in youth development, opioid prevention, reentry services, and community-based program leadership. Lee has worked with local and county health departments, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and faith-based groups to deliver real, on-the-ground solutions for families and individuals across Eastern North Carolina. Lee is running for Mayor of Morehead City because he believes it is time for a new era of leadership focused on transparency in government, investing in youth and families, and strategic growth planning that protects the character of the city while preparing for the future. He is committed to open communication, accountable leadership, and ensuring city decisions reflect the voices of the people. Please vote for Lee A. Stiles for Mayor of Morehead City on March 3rd.
Jerry Jones
This candidate has not yet submitted data
This candidate has not yet submitted data
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