Why I’m Running for the North Carolina State House

A Common Sense Approach

I didn’t wake up one morning and decide to run for the North Carolina State House because it sounded like the next political step. I’m running because I care deeply about where we live, the direction we’re headed, and the kind of future we’re building for our kids and for the families who call Pender County and southern Onslow County home. 

My wife and our children are at the center of that decision. Like so many families in District 16, we are raising our kids here because we believe in these communities. We want our children to grow up in safe neighborhoods, be confident in the choices made about school, and surrounded by people who look out for one another, with real opportunities close to home. When I think about the decisions being made in Raleigh, I don’t think about politics. I think about the real impact those decisions have on people across our district, from young families to seniors and everyone in between.

Over the years as a local councilman and community advocate, I’ve spent a lot of time listening. I’ve talked with neighbors at community events, seniors worried about rising property taxes, small business owners trying to stay afloat, and first responders stretched thin as our area grows. What I hear again and again is frustration that common sense too often gets lost in the noise. People want leaders who show up, listen, and actually get things done.

One issue that comes up constantly is property taxes. Families and retirees across District 16 are feeling the squeeze as home values rise and tax bills climb right along with them. No one should be forced out of the home they worked their entire life to afford. Government should live within its means, just like families do, and I believe property tax relief must be part of a responsible, practical approach to governing.

Growth is another reality we’re all living with. Growth can be a positive thing, but only if it’s handled the right way. Too often, development moves forward while roads, schools, water systems, and emergency services lag behind. When that happens, taxpayers end up paying the price. I believe growth should be thoughtful and balanced, protecting our quality of life while planning responsibly for the future.

Education matters deeply to me, both as an educator and as a parent who understands that every child learns differently. I have worked directly with students and families, and that experience has shown me that there is no single approach that works for everyone. I believe in strong public schools, and I also believe families should have access to educational choices that best meet their children’s needs. Supporting teachers, respecting parents, and focusing on real outcomes should not be controversial. Decisions made in Raleigh should strengthen public education while also supporting responsible school choice options, keeping students and families at the center of every policy decision. 

I also believe strongly in our local businesses and our public safety professionals. Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and they deserve a government that supports them instead of standing in their way. And as our population grows, we must make sure our firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement have the resources they need to keep our families safe.

Most of all, I believe representation means being present. I am not interested in being a name on a ballot who disappears after Election Day. I will be active in District 16, attending town meetings, community events, and working alongside local leaders and residents to solve problems. I believe in being accessible, accountable, and engaged. I will be your citizen legislator.

I am challenging the incumbent in the March 3rd Republican primary because I believe District 16 deserves leadership that is grounded, responsive, and focused on results. My approach is simple. Common sense leadership. Listen first. Show up. Do the work.

That’s why I’m running for the North Carolina State House, and I would be honored to earn your support. If you would like to learn more about my campaign, share your concerns, or ask questions, I welcome the conversation. I can be reached directly, and I also invite you to follow along on Facebook to stay informed about upcoming events, community conversations, and where I’ll be across District 16 in the weeks ahead.