By L.A. Williams, Correspondent
Christian Action League
February 4, 2014
RALEIGH — The number of new faces expected at the North Carolina General Assembly next session is growing as more lawmakers have announced they will not seek re-election at the state level. The announcements come just in advance of Feb. 10, when the new candidate filing period begins.
Democrats Marcus Brandon and Alma Adams, both of Guilford County, have set their sights on the 12th Congressional District seat being vacated by Mel Watt, while Rep. Winkie Wilkins (D-Person) and Rep. Joe Tolson (D-Edgecombe) have both announced this term will be their last.
Named by Governing Magazine as one of the top 12 legislators to watch nationally, Brandon calls himself the “voice for education inequality, poverty, ex-felons/offenders and sustainable economy.” He is serving his second term in the House and was a key supporter of the Opportunity Scholarship Act.
Having served more than 10 House terms, Adams touts her “efforts to improve the lives of women, children and families” in her campaign for Congress. An educator and artist, she began her political career with the Greensboro City School Board.
In announcing his decision not to run again, Wilkins told the media he has an irregular heartbeat and had to miss 16 legislative days last session due to health problems. A retired newspaperman, he is 73 and is in the midst of his fifth House term. Though 10 years younger, Tolson has served nine terms. He is a retired educator from Pinetops.
Other lawmakers who had already announced that they will not seek reelection include: Sen. Thom Goolsby (R-New Hanover), Sen. Michael Walters (D-Robeson), and Rep. Mark Hollo (R-Alexander). Late last year, Sen. Pete Brunstetter (R-Forsyth) resigned to become executive vice president of Novant Health.
You must be logged in to post a comment.