By M.H. Cavanaugh
Christian Action League
November 9, 2023
LUCAMA, N.C. – In a stunning turn of events, the town of Lucama, N.C. has chosen Matthew Creech as its new mayor in a write-in candidacy that garnered an astonishing 63% of the vote, defeating incumbent Mayor Jeff Johnson. The election result follows a series of events that began with residents’ frustrations over skyrocketing electric bills, culminating in a grassroots movement that led to Creech’s candidacy.
The journey to Creech’s mayoral victory started with the anger and exasperation of Lucama’s residents, as reported by WRAL News. Many households witnessed their electric bills more than double, leaving them baffled and concerned. Town leaders were questioned during a public hearing, and Town Administrator Darlene Newsome explained that the rate hike was necessary due to a $670,000 deficit in the town’s electricity fund. The town initially proposed that it would absorb 10% of the increase, while residents would cover the remaining 5%. However, when Lucama faced financial constraints, residents saw another spike in their bills.
Frustrated by the lack of resolution during the public hearing, residents held an impromptu meeting outside, vowing to take their concerns to the state regulatory commission. It was at this gathering that a group of Lucama citizens approached Matthew Creech, urging him to run for mayor. With only six weeks remaining until the election, Creech agreed to run as a write-in candidate, buoyed by the promise of support and grassroots efforts of those who believed in his ability to bring positive change to Lucama.
The election results, as reported by the Wilson Daily Times, showcased Creech’s resounding victory with 102 write-in votes compared to Mayor Johnson’s 60 votes, making him the mayor-elect of Lucama. Creech had actively campaigned on the “Lucama Town’s People’s Business” Facebook page, engaging with residents and sharing his vision for the town’s future.
In response to his unexpected triumph, Matthew Creech expressed gratitude and humility, giving credit to the town’s residents for their unwavering support. He acknowledged that his primary focus would be researching ways to lower utility rates and conducting audits to restore Lucama to its former glory.
Dr. Mark Creech, executive director of the Christian Action League in Raleigh and Matthew Creech’s father, also extended his congratulations and expressed pride in his son’s achievement. He emphasized that Matthew’s victory was a testament to the trust and confidence the people of Lucama had in him and his vision for the town.
“Matthew didn’t seek political office for personal gain but rather in response to the calls of the townspeople who believed Lucama needed a new direction.
“I know Matt very well. I am not only his father but we are best friends. I am confident his passion, dedication, and fresh perspective will serve the town well. I am most grateful for the overwhelming support he received and look forward to witnessing the positive impact he and the citizens of Lucama can make together.
“To all of the people of Lucama, I say, ‘This is my son, in whom I am well pleased.’”
Matthew Creech’s victory as a write-in candidate reflects a remarkable American success story. The town of Lucama now looks forward to a new era under the leadership of Mayor-elect Matthew Creech, who promises to work tirelessly to improve the lives of its residents and revitalize the town.
Please pray for Mayor-Elect Matthew Creech and the town of Lucama.
