For MECKLENBURG COUNTY - NC-Voter...Common Cause NC. The Guide provides vital infor-maon about the...

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For MECKLENBURG COUNTY (see page 31)

Transcript of For MECKLENBURG COUNTY - NC-Voter...Common Cause NC. The Guide provides vital infor-maon about the...

Page 1: For MECKLENBURG COUNTY - NC-Voter...Common Cause NC. The Guide provides vital infor-maon about the rules for vong and answers to quesons sent to candidates. For quesons about this

For MECKLENBURG COUNTY

(see page 31)

Page 2: For MECKLENBURG COUNTY - NC-Voter...Common Cause NC. The Guide provides vital infor-maon about the rules for vong and answers to quesons sent to candidates. For quesons about this

About This Guide This Guide features candidates for federal, state and local elec ons in Mecklenburg County. It is sponsored by two non-profit groups that are not affiliated with any poli cal party: Democracy North Carolina and Common Cause NC. The Guide provides vital infor-ma on about the rules for vo ng and answers to ques ons sent to candidates.

For ques ons about this Guide, call 919-286-6000. A PDF copy is at NCVoter.org. Learn more about the candidates at NCVoterGuide.org and vote411.org.

Have Your Say The ballot box is the one place where we are all equal, regardless of race, income or geography: one person, one vote. People ac ng together have changed government policies to improve their lives and stop threats to their community. Use your power!

The candidates who win will make crucial decisions affec ng every aspect of your life – but YOU help decide who wins! Proposed Amendments to the NC Cons tu on will also impact your future (see p. 31).

Preview Your Ballot You can go online to see your ballot before you vote; go to demnc.co/distr and follow the instruc ons. You can also see your Elec on Day polling place at this link. And you can use it to see if you are registered at your current address. If not, use “same-day registra on” during Early Vo ng to update or register anew. See the box on page 6.

What’s Inside

Supreme Court, Court of Appeals .……... pages 3-6 Superior and District Courts….……………. pages 7-9 U.S. House of Representa ves.…….…….. pps 10-11 North Carolina General Assembly .……… pps 12-24 Candidates in Local Elec ons.....………….pps 25-29 Early Vo ng Loca ons & Hours ………….. page 30 CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS …...... page 31 How to Vote by Mail ……….……………….…page 4

Do I Need an ID to Vote?

Because of a court ruling, you do not need to show an ID to vote except in 2 situa ons:

(1) If you use Same-Day Registra on, you’ll need to show a document listed in the box on page 6.

(2) If there was a problem with verifying the informa on on your registra on form, you’ll need to show either a document listed in the box on page 6 or any current photo ID.

Why I’m voting . . .

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. . . because a judge will be elected to the NC Supreme Court this year and I want somebody who cares about equal rights for all! - Becky Carver . . . because too many of my ancestors died for me not to be using my right to vote! - Kristen Marion . . . because I didn’t have an ID to vote in 2016 and now there’s an amendment on the ballot to bring back a strict photo ID. No! - Janice Franklin . . . because I see vo ng isn’t just about who goes to the White House. Who goes to Raleigh affects my college tui on! - Aus n Padilla

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NC SUPREME COURT - Vote for 1 of 3 Candidates

BARBARA JACKSON Party: Republican

Experience: Jus ce, NC Supreme Court; Judge, NC Court of Appeals; General Counsel, NC Labor Depart-ment; Associate, Private Prac ce; Associate General Counsel, Governor’s Advocacy Council (GACPD); Associate General Counsel, Governor Jim Mar n; Research Assistant, Jus ce Burley Mitchell

Occupa on: Associate Jus ce, Supreme Court of North Carolina

Favorite endorsements: Chief Jus ce (ret.) Burley Mitchell; Commissioner of Labor Cherie Berry; NCGOP

Personal statement: Fairness, impar ality, integrity, and a commitment to the rule of law all are essen al characteris cs of a good judge. I’ve worked hard to live up to each of these principles, gaining invaluable first-hand experience, which is why I’m seeking re-elec on. As the only candidate in this race with judicial experi-ence, I understand that this is not an entry level job.

More info: Jus ceJackson.com

CHRISTOPHER (CHRIS) ANGLIN Party: Republican

Experience: Graduate of Wake Forest University and Elon University Law School. A small business owner in solo prac ce at all levels of civil, criminal and family trial courts in both state and federal courts for 7 years.

Occupa on: A orney

Favorite endorsements: I am running to stand up for an Independent Judiciary, so I am not seeking any endorsements.

Personal statement: I’m running as a Republican to give a voice to the many Cons tu onal Republicans who are appalled at the assault on the rule of law, and the checks and balances of our Cons tu onal Republic that is happening every day. Secondly, to point out the mistake of being the only state in 100 years to make our judicial elec ons par san.

More info: Anglin4Jus ce.com

ANITA EARLS

Party: Democrat

Experience: Execu ve Director, Southern Coali on for Social Jus ce, 2007-2017; UNC Center for Civil Rights, 2003-2007; Lawyers’ Commi ee for Civil Rights, 2000-2003; Deputy Assistant A orney General, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Jus ce Department 1998-2000; Ferguson, Stein firm, 1988-1998.

Occupa on: A orney

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina AFL-CIO; Equality NC; North Carolina Advocates for Jus ce

Personal statement: I have been a civil rights a orney for thirty years, figh ng for equal jus ce and fair representa on. As a mother and grandmother, I understand challenges families face and have worked to protect the rights of hard-working people. We must have a fair court that protects everyone no ma er their race, gender or how much money they have in their pockets.

More info: Earls4Jus ce.com

Judges are powerful! They’re first in this Guide to make that point! They decide everything from the cost of electricity to who gets the death penalty.

One of the 7 seats on the State’s top court is up for election in 2018.

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ANDREW T. HEATH Party: Republican

Experience: Husband, father, and public servant; Superior Court Judge; Served as Chair of the NC Industrial Commission; As State Budget Director, led the Office of State Budget and Management.

Occupa on: Superior Court Judge

Favorite endorsements: Former Supreme Court Jus ce and Chairman of North Carolina State Ethics Commission George L. Wainwright, Jr.; Former North Carolina Lt. Governor Jim Gardner; NC Republican Party

Personal statement: I am a fair and impar al judge who respects the Cons tu on and the law, and who values access to jus ce and equality under the law. It has been an honor to serve North Carolina as a Superior Court Judge, and I look forward to serving on the Court of Appeals.

More info: HeathForJus ce.com

JOHN S. ARROWOOD Party: Democrat

Experience: NC Court of Appeals, Judge, 2007-2008, 2017-present; NC Court of Appeals, Research Assis-tant/Staff A orney/Senior Staff A orney, 1983-1989; Private Prac ce A orney, 1982-1983,1989-2007, 2009-2017;

Occupa on: NC Court of Appeals Judge

Favorite endorsements: NC Advocates for Jus ce; Equality NC; Sierra Club

Personal statement: I pledge to administer jus ce equally and without favori sm to any li gant or to the State. My experience on the Court of Appeals, as a Superior Court Judge, together with my over 26 years in private prac ce, and prior work as a research assistant and staff a orney at the Court of Appeals, makes me uniquely qualified to remain on the Court.

More info: KeepJudgeArrowood.org

How to Vote by Mail (Absentee Voting)

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NC COURT OF APPEALS - 3 SEATS ON THE BALLOT

Judges on the NC Court of Appeals hear appeals of criminal and civil cases heard in local District and Superior Courts. Three of the 15 seats are up for

election. Candidates below are in the order they appear on the ballot.

Court of Appeals - SEAT 1 - Vote for 1

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JEFFERSON G. GRIFFIN Party: Republican

Experience: District Court Judge, Wake County; JAG Officer (CPT), NC Army Na onal Guard; Assistant District A orney, Wake County District A orney’s Office; Private Prac ce, Criminal defense and Civil li ga on; NC Central University School of Law; UNC

Occupa on: Wake County District Court Judge & JAG Officer (CPT), North Carolina Army Na onal Guard

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Republican Party; Former North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Jus ce Burley B. Mitchell Jr.

Personal statement: North Carolina deserves a Judge who is dedicated to upholding the Rule of Law and our Cons tu on. My diverse experiences as a Judge, Soldier, prosecutor, and prac cing a orney provide a perspec ve that will benefit all North Carolina ci zens when I am on the Court of Appeals.

More info: JeffersonGriffin.com

TOBIAS (TOBY) HAMPSON Party: Democrat

Experience: Wyrick, Robbins, Yates & Ponton, LLP, (2007-present) Appellate A orney; NC State Bar Appellate Specialist since 2011; Pa erson, Dilthey, Clay & Bryson, LLP (2004-2007) A orney; NC Court of Appeals (2002-2004) Law Clerk

Occupa on: A orney

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Democra c Party; NC AFL-CIO; Former Supreme Court Jus ce Patricia Timmons-Goodson

Personal statement: The Court of Appeals needs a judge with the right experience — an appellate specialist. I have 16 years of experience in our

appellate courts, star ng as a law clerk at the Court of Appeals then strengthening my experience by handling hundreds of appeals in private prac ce. I will bring a strong work ethic, integrity and appellate exper se to the Court.

More Info: TobyHampsonForJudge.com

SANDRA ALICE RAY Party: Republican

Experience: I’ve got 27 years legal experience including 14 years judicial experience. I have more judicial experience than every NC Court of Appeals candidate combined. I’m a former Assistant District A orney and a orney in private prac ce.

Occupa on: District Court Judge

Favorite endorsements: NC Troopers Associa on; NC Fraternal Order of Police

Personal statement: When any Judge talks to you, they should tell you of their love and trust in our United States and North Carolina Cons tu ons. I believe, as our Cons tu on says, in the Sovereignty of the People – not the poli cians and bureaucrats. I want to serve on your Court of Appeals to preserve the self-evident rights our Cons tu on guarantees.

More Info: SandraAliceRay.com

Court of Appeals - SEAT 2 - Vote for 1

VOTER ASSISTANCE Anyone may receive help to vote from a “family member,” defined as parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, sibling, spouse or in-law (parent, sister or brother).

A voter with a physical or reading disability (in- cluding language difficulty) may receive help from anyone except their employer’s or union’s agent.

A voter who a ests that they’d need “physical assistance” to reach the vo ng room may vote at the polling site in a vehicle (curbside vo ng).

Page 6: For MECKLENBURG COUNTY - NC-Voter...Common Cause NC. The Guide provides vital infor-maon about the rules for vong and answers to quesons sent to candidates. For quesons about this

CHUCK KITCHEN Party: Republican

Experience: Licensed as a orney in North Carolina for 38 years, including 30 years as a county a orney. I am currently in private prac ce represen ng par es in State and Federal trial and appellate courts.

Occupa on: Private A orney

Favorite endorsements: NC Republican Party; Alamance Sheriff Terry Johnson; NC Federa on of Republican Men

Personal statement: In order to make a good appellate judge, you must have extensive experience both trying cases and handling appeals. I am the only candidate who has both, including successfully defending Sheriff Terry Johnson against the US Department of Jus ce. I have also filed more than 100 briefs and pe ons in the appellate courts.

More info: KitchenForCourtOfAppeals.com

MICHAEL MONACO, SR. Party: Libertarian

Experience: 2000-15 Monaco & Roberts, PLLC: A general service law prac ce that handled a wide spectrum of legal issues for clients.

Occupa on: A orney

Favorite Endorsement: None submi ed

Personal statement: The purpose of the court is to be objec ve and independent; especially in disputes between the branches of government. These good governance cases can present conflicts to the other candidates who are associated with the dominant par es in NC poli cs. These dominant par es have engaged in par sanship in recent years and we need to be vigilant to keep judiciary independent.

More info: nc-monaco-2018.com

ALLEGRA KATHERINE COLLINS Party: Democrat

Experience: Campbell Law Professor of Judicial Wri ng and Appellate Advocacy; Appellate advocate in NC Court of Appeals & Supreme Court; Appellate Reporter at NC Supreme Court; Clerk on the Court of Appeals to Judge Linda Stephens

Occupa on: Law Professor and Appellate A orney

Favorite endorsements: NC Democra c Party; NC AFL-CIO

Personal statement: I have focused my career on appellate law and judicial process in our appellate courts. With my experience, exper se, and dedica on to the law, I will be a judge who renders fair and accurate decisions. My experience and exper se mean I will do this job well; my passion for this work means I will con nuously strive to do it be er.

More info: AllegraCollins.com

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Court of Appeals - SEAT 3 - Vote for 1

Last-Minute Rescue: Same-Day Registration

If you miss the October 12 deadline to register, you may use “same-day registra on” during Early Vo ng at an Early Vo ng loca on. See sites/hours in the box on page 30. Ask the elec on official for a registra on form, show an iden fying document listed below, and vote – all on the same day.

You cannot use this procedure on Elec on Day.

The iden fying document you show must be one of these with your name and current address:

• a NC driver’s license;

• any other government photo ID;

• student photo ID along with a school document showing the student’s address (e.g., a campus housing list, invoice, or le er);

• a u lity bill (cell phone, electric, cable, etc.);

• bank statement; or payroll stub; or

• a document from any government agency (a bill, permit, le er, etc.)

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REGGIE E. McKNIGHT

Party: Democrat

Experience: Over 20 years of trial court experience in superior and district court. Capital (murder) defender trained as well as federal complex li ga-

on.

Occupa on: A orney

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: I have over 20 years of trial court room experience. I will approach si ng on the bench the same way I’ve approached my long legal career with three important concepts; competence, professional-ism and integrity. I pride myself on these core concepts and one basic rule; “always be prepared.”

More info: reggiemcknigh orsuperiorcourt.com

GEORGE BELL

Party: Republican

No response from candidate

HOWARD L. CLARK III

Party: Democrat

Experience: I have been a Pub-lic Defender for seven years. I have extensive trial experience in both District and Superior Court. I have handled thou-sands of cases in these Courts.

Occupa on: Assistant Public Defender

Favorite endorsements: Kevin Tully, Mecklenburg Public Defender; Missy Owen, Tin Fulton Walker & Owen; Marc Towler, Assistant Public Defender

Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: My whole career I have served my community both as a teacher and now as an Assistant Public Defender. I am dedicated to posi vely impac ng my community. My experience, dedica on and com-mitment to fairness will serve me well should I be elected to serve as a Superior Court Judge.

More info: howardclarkforjudge.com

DONNIE HOOVER - District 26E

KAREN EADY-WILLIAMS - District 26F

LOU TROSCH - District 26H

Superior Court, Unopposed

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District Courts handle misdemeanors, juvenile and family disputes, and civil litigation involving less than $25,000. The judge decides cases. Superior Courts

handle criminal cases and larger civil disputes; juries hear some cases.

Voters elect these judges in new districts for 2018. See demnc.co/meckdist for your district. Several judges are unopposed; four court seats are contested.

Because the General Assembly blocked a primary for judicial contests, candidates from the same party may face each other in the general election.

The candidates below are in the order they appear on the ballot.

NC SUPERIOR & DISTRICT COURTS

Superior Court - District 26C, Seat 1

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MICHAEL J. STADING

Party: Republican

No response from candidate

ALICIA D. BROOKS

Party: Democrat

Experience: I have over 26 years of legal experience and was an Assistant District A orney and a defense a orney. As a judge, I preside over family, civil, and criminal court. I am also a treatment court judge.

Occupa on: District Court Judge

Favorite endorsements: Lee Myers, former Mayor of Ma hews; Tom Bush, a orney; Representa ve Mary Belk, NC State Representa ve

Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: As a judge, I understand that jus ce should be accessible to everyone and should not be about poli cs. In court, clients must be held accounta-ble but judges have a responsibility to carry out that consequence with fairness. Our ac ons must be meas-ured and though ul and should not be about exhor ng power.

More info: aliciabrooksforjudge.com

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PAULINA N. HAVELKA

Party: Republican

Experience: I have spent over twenty years in the legal system, as a courtroom clerk, legal assis-tant, and as an a orney. I run my own prac ce and also serve as a farm-out a orney for the public defender's office of Mecklenburg County.

Occupa on: A orney

Favorite endorsements: Rep. Bill Brawley; Mecklen-burg County GOP; Mecklenburg Evening Republican Women's Club

Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: Beginning in 1997 as a courtroom clerk, jus ce and the legal system have been my passion. I received my JD in 2004 and have run my own legal prac ce, focusing on family and criminal law, and have volunteered for the Council for Children's Rights and Women's Commission since 2006.

More info: paulinaforjudge.com

DONALD CURETON, JR.

Party: Democrat

Experience: I became an a or-ney in 2004. I was elected to the bench in 2010. I am a NC Juvenile Court cer fied judge. Previously, I was an Assistant Public Defender and an a or-ney for Bush & Powers.

Occupa on: District Court Judge

Favorite endorsements: Dianne Chipps Bailey; Richard Vinroot; Mecklenburg County Democra c Party

Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: I am fair and impar al, I protect ci -zens’ rights by upholding our cons tu ons and laws, and I represent the profession with the highest integri-ty. Through children, I posi vely impact our community so that it is safer but also more compassionate towards each ci zen despite their backgrounds.

More info: judgecureton.com

District Court - District 26A, Seat 1

District Court - District 26A, Seat 2

Vote on the bonds for Charlotte neighborhoods: see p. 29

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District Court - District 26A, Seat 3

District Court - District 26F, Seat 2

SEAN SMITHParty: Republican

Experience: 2011-present District Court Judge, Meck-lenburg County. Currently presiding in family court. Previously presided in crimi-nal court, domes c violence court, and general civil court. 2004-10 Assistant Dis-trict A orney, Mecklenburg County

Occupa on: District Court Judge

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: It has been my great honor to serve the county in which I grew up as District Court Judge and prosecutor. I have spent my en re legal career in support of the rule of law and the achievement of jus ce in our Mecklenburg County courtrooms. I ask for your vote.

More info: judgeseansmith.com

SABRINA BLAINParty: Democrat

Experience: Sabrina has been prac cing law for over 20 years. Has served the public interest in the Legal Aid Socie-ty for many years. Sabrina will bring fairness and compassion to the bench.

Occupa on: A orney

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: I am dedicated to bringing fairness, compassion and understanding to the bench. Family Court can be very stressful to those it is meant to serve. I vow to serve Mecklenburg County residents by listening with empathy. Lady Jus ce is blind, she is not heartless. We can do be er.

More info: crowdpac.com/campaigns/381503/sabrina-blain

District Court, Unopposed

KAREN D. MCCALLUMParty: Democrat

No response from candidate

KHALIF RHODESParty: Democrat

Experience: Graduate of Pennsylvania State University. Law Degree and Legal Law of Masters (LL.M.) from Thomas M. Cooley School. FormerAdjunct Professor at Charlo eSchool of Law. Currently Mecklenburg County’s ChiefMagistrate and Truancy Court Judge.

Occupa on: Chief Magistrate

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: It is my desire to serve all of the ci zens of Mecklenburg County. “All Rhodes Lead to Jus ce!” is no mere campaign slogan – it is my judicial philoso-phy. I honestly believe that every ci zen of this coun-ty, regardless of race, gender, and sexual orienta on deserves jus ce.

More info: rhodes4districtcourt.com

MATT OSMAN - District 26B PAIGE McTHENIA - District 26E, Seat 1 REGAN A. MILLER - District 26E, Seat 2 TRACY HANNA HEWETT - District 26F, Seat 1 RICKYE MCKOY-MITCHELL - District 26G

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MARK HARRIS Party: Republican

No response from the candidate

DAN MCCREADY

Party: Democrat

Experience: I’m a Marine Corps veteran, father, and small business owner. I led a platoon of 65 Marines in Iraq and built a solar energy busi-ness which helped bring hun-dreds of jobs to North Carolina.

Occupa on: Solar energy entrepreneur

Favorite endorsements: Former Gov. Jim Hunt (D) and NC Supreme Court Jus ce Bob Orr (R)

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in Congress? First, to put country over party and help end the par -san gridlock in Washington. Second, to represent those who Washington poli cians have le behind by figh ng for affordable healthcare, be er jobs, and the promise of social security.

What will you do to make college affordable? Afforda-ble educa on is key for ge ng ahead. I support expand-ing job training and community college programs, mak-ing Pell Grants year-round, and ensuring the govern-ment doesn’t profit off of student loans.

What specific ac ons do you support to address school shoo ngs? As a Marine who carried an M-16 and a father, I support comprehensive background checks and closing the gun show/online loopholes that let guns

get into the wrong hands.

What top 2 or 3 changes are needed for federal immi-gra on policy? Our broken immigra on system is just another example of Washington failing. I support a comprehensive and bipar san immigra on reform that respects our laws, secures our border, and upholds our values.

Should government take ac on to raise the minimum wage and promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job? I’m for raising the minimum wage and support equal pay for equal work

Should the federal Vo ng Rights Act be restored? I fully support restoring the Vo ng Rights Act because it’s the right thing to do.

More info: DanMcCready.com

JEFF SCOTT

Party: Libertarian

Experience: 30 years as a financial markets and banking professional, mul ple roles at major banks, involved in edu-ca on and career counseling, wri en and published widely.

Occupa on: Financial Consultant

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

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The U.S. House adopts laws with the U.S. Senate and President. The 435 House members are elected by District across the U.S. Vote for 1 candidate

depending on the District you live in: Congressional District 9 or 12.

To find your District, go to demnc.co/meckdist

Most of Mecklenburg Co. is in the Congressional District 12, but the eastern part is in District 9

U.S. House - District 9

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Favorite endorsements: Chris an Cano, 2016 Demo-cra c District 9 Nominee; Nic Haag, Republican Candi-date for NC House District 97; Tim Harris, Libertarian Candidate for NC Senate District 2

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in Congress? Presidents work with Congress. When our military acts, accountability is cri cal to keep peace. I will reduce tensions by expanding our trade rela ons without favori sm and subsidies. Taxpayers get a fiscally sound, pro-peace candidate who preserves freedom and eco-nomic dynamism.

What will you do to make college affordable? A stu-dent finance system must fix both rising debt and costs. Teacher pensions can hold a stake in student debt to align their financial interests with long term educa onal success.

What specific policies do you support to address school shoo ngs? Teachers can opt for be er train-ing, schools for security, parents for monitoring of troubled youth, doctors for treatment regimens, police for tracking real threats. Banning weapons is a losing strategy.

What top 2 or 3 changes are needed for federal immi-gra on policy? I support family preserva on, expand-ed trade and worker mobility. The path to ci zenship should be fair, clear and strictly enforced. ICE unfortu-nately abuses its power and subverts our cons tu onal protec ons.

Should government take ac on to raise the minimum wage and promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job? Government cannot determine prices or wages. Pay equity can be adopted unilaterally by fair businesses.

Should the federal Vo ng Rights Act be restored? I oppose intrusion into states’ electoral processes, though federal review was necessary 50 years ago.

More info: lpmeck.org/jeff-sco

PAUL WRIGHT Party: Republican

No response from the candidate

ALMA ADAMS

Party: Democrat

Experience: I have served in the U.S. Con-gress for nearly four years. I was elected in 2014 and came to Con-gress immediately to complete Mel Wa ’s unexpired term. Prior to Congress, I served in the NC State House for 20 years.

Occupa on: Member of Congress

Favorite endorsements: Congressional Black Caucus Founda on; Southern Piedmont Labor Council; NARAL

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in Congress? Higher Educa on and addressing barriers to access. Hunger and homelessness.

What will you do to make college affordable? As a Member on House Educa on and the Workforce Com-mi ee, I am fiercely commi ed to this issue. I support student loan refinancing and an expansion of loan forgiveness programs.

What specific ac ons do you support to address school shoo ngs? I support an assault weapons ban, closing the gun show loophole, expanded background checks, and an increase of mental health and counsel-ing services in schools.

What top 2 or 3 changes are needed for federal immi-gra on policy? 1. A path to ci zenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants. 2. Addressing the factors that force immigrants to come to the United States.

Should government take ac on to raise the minimum wage and promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job? Government should raise the mini-mum wage and enact/enforce civil rights laws regard-ing pay equity.

Should federal review of changes to NC’s elec on law under a restored Vo ng Rights Act? Yes; the federal government should ensure access to the ballot is not impaired.

More info: AlmaAdamsForCongress.com

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U.S. House - District 12

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JEFF JACKSON Party: Democrat

Experience: U.S. Army Re-serve / Army Na onal Guard: 15 years; A orney: 9 years; State Senate: 4 years

Occupa on: A orney

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? We need to end gerrymandering. Progress begins with ensuring a fair poli cal process for all. Inves ng in early childhood educa on is the key to giving every child a be er chance at a successful future.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? Yes - North Carolina needs to protect workers and the stagnant 7 dollar minimum wage simply isn't enough.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? An independent redis-tric ng commission will take poli cs out of the process and ensure voters pick their representa ves - not the other way around.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? Raise teacher pay and give schools the supplies and support they need. North Carolina has built its reputa on on public educa on and it's me to revive that legacy.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create

police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes, it's an important part of building trust between police depart-ments and communi es they serve.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I'm with Governor Cooper - not off our coast.

More info: JeffJacksonNC.com

NORA TROTMAN Party: Republican

No response from candidate

STUART ANDREW COLLINS Party: Cons tu on

No response from candidate

MUJTABA A. MOHAMMED

Party: Democrat

Experience: Mohammed has a proven record of advoca ng for children and families through his work as an a or-ney and child advocate at Council for Children’s Rights and a fighter for underprivi-leged at the Public Defender’s Office.

Occupa on: Public Interest A orney

NC GENERAL ASSEMBLY

The General Assembly has 50 Senate and 120 House members who adopt laws and the state budget, make or approve appointments, and

oversee local governments. They all represent Districts for 2-year terms.

Look up your District at demnc.co/meckdist or demnc.co/distr

NC Senate - District 37

NC Senate - District 38

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Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Associa on of Educators; NC AFL-CIO; Planned Parenthood

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Mohammed is commi ed to improv-ing outcomes and that starts with restoring NC's Public Schools to their righ ul place as a beacon of hope in North Carolina and figh ng for policies that seek to expand our economy and diversify our workforce.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? Yes. We need to restore our economy from the ground up and increase eco-nomic mobility amongst all of our families. It starts with a livable wage, restoring the middle-class tax deduc on, and closing the gender pay gap.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? We must create an inde-pendent redistric ng commission and amendment process through NC Supreme Court. In addi on, allow ci zen input through legislated mandatory public com-ment periods with the Boards of Elec ons.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? 1) Increase funding to Smart Start to first and eliminate the wait list. 2) Reform: Increase teacher pay, reduce tes ng, expand advance learning opportuni es to Title One Schools.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes. I believe in the local power and community review boards in-crease transparency and trust.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I am against off-shore drilling and fracking. I will oppose any effort to poison our drinking water and fragile ecosystems.

More info: mohammednc.com

RICHARD RIVETTE

Party: Republican

No response from candidate

CHAD STACHOWICZ

Party: Democrat

Experience: I am the founder and CEO of Cloverhound, a technology company head-quartered in Charlo e. I start-ed the company in part to create jobs and opportunity in Charlo e, and three years later we employ 14 people across North Carolina, Colorado and Ohio.

Occupa on: CEO, Cloverhound Inc.

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Associa on of Educators (NCAE); Equality NC; Charlo e-Mecklenburg Associa on of Educators (CMAE)

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Public educa on should always be the first priority in the General Assembly. We must work to improve our schools and our children’s fu-tures. Also, we must expand Medicaid to create jobs and make healthcare more affordable for North Caroli-na families.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? I am a strong supporter of increasing the minimum wage and pay equity. I think these are the best ways to level the playing field.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? We must remove poli cal meddling from our maps and move to independent redistric ng so our elec ons are fair and compe ve, and all voters have a voice in the electoral process.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? We need to improve training for career and technical educa on (CTE) and college alter-na ves in areas like trades, programming and IT sup-port. Also, approve a statewide bond to fix our deterio-ra ng and underu lized facili es.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena,

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NC Senate - District 39

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inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Environment, gun laws, zoning, county land-use & school safety are just some areas I support moving power back to local governments.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I don’t support off-shore drilling. As a na on we need to speed our transi on to renewable energy.

More info: chadfornc.com

DAN BISHOP Party: Republican

No response from candidate

BOBBIE SHIELDS

Party: Republican

Experience: Small Business Owner, Former Interim County Manager, Former County Asses-sor, Former County Engineer, Licensed Engineer, husband, father of three, long- me resident in NC Senate District 40.

Occupa on: Professional Engineer/Consultant

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Economic Development (including jobs, capital investments and infrastructure invest-ments) and Educa on (including the rela onship be-tween educa on deficiencies and the criminal jus ce system) are my two top priori es.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? The legislature has a role in assuring compe ve wages for State employ-ees. The private sector has the responsibility and market incen ve to assure fair and equitable wages

for its employees.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? Abide by the "government of the people, by the people and for the people" ideal. Seek mutual trust and a common vision.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? We must more effec vely en-gage parents in the educa on of their children. If pa-rental involvement is nonexistent or lacking, we must employ effec ve mentoring in addi on to cultural awareness.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? No, unless there is a clear need for such authority and no conflict with exis ng administra ve and judicial processes.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I believe the technology is available to support off-shore drilling without irreparable damage to the environ-ment.

More info: VoteBobbieShields.com

JOYCE WADDELL

Party: Democrat

Experience: In 2009, I was elected to the Charlo e-Mecklenburg Board of Educa-

on, District 3. I was re-elected in 2013 but decided to run for Senate to make a difference in the Charlo e community and state.

Occupa on: Educa on Consultant for Early Child Programs

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Associa on of Educators; Lillian’s List; NC League of Conserva on Voters

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? 1. I support funding for public schools, increasing teacher and principal pay, and pre-k availability for all eligible students in the state. 2. North Carolina needs a strong, sound economy that pro-

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NC Senate District 40

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motes widespread growth to benefit families across the state.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? Every worker deserves a fair, liva-ble wage. I co-sponsored legisla on to raise the mini-mum wage and ensure that women and men are paid equally for performing the same work.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? North Carolina ci zens should vote in an elec on that does not violate or in-fringe on the rights of voters. I support the crea on of a nonpar san, independent redistric ng commission.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? The state must provide adequate funding for public educa on and expand pre-k access for students. We must con nue to raise teacher and administrator pay to a ract and retain employees.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, in-ves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Ci es may need to implement oversight laws to establish a balance of jus ce.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I don't support off-shore drilling, because the oil spill or seismic tes ng may harm coastal tourism and fishing industries.

More info: joycewaddell.com

NATASHA MARCUS

Party: Democrat

Experience: I have worked as a li ga on a orney, a judicial clerk, a full- me mother, a school volunteer, a town advisory board member, and a grassroots campaign volun-teer. I currently work at a non-profit community service center.

Occupa on: Assistant Director of Development for the Ada Jenkins Center

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina League of Con-serva on Voters; Lillian's List; North Carolina Associa-

on of Educators

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the General Assembly? 1) Support pre-K and K-12 public educa on by inves ng in it and respec ng teachers. 2) Create tax and economic policy that is fair for small businesses and working families, not just the wealthiest few and biggest corpora ons.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? Yes, the NCGA should promote pay

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THE LAW & YOUR VOTE You do NOT lose your right to vote if you have a traffic cket or outstanding civil fine, or if you are convicted of a misdemeanor.

If you are convicted of a felony, you temporarily lose your ci zenship rights, including your right to vote. But you automa cally get your right to vote back in North Carolina a er you finish your sentence, including proba on or parole. It doesn’t ma er where the felony convic on occurred, in this state or elsewhere.

No court document is needed to “restore” your right to vote. Just finish your sentence and register like any other ci zen. Failure to pay res tu on does not block your right to vote, unless you are s ll on proba on.

NC Senate District 41

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equity and a fair, updated minimum wage that tracks with infla on.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? We need to remove poli cians from the process of drawing district lines. If elected, I would support an independent, nonpar san redistric ng process that would be fair and democra c.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? Increase per-pupil spending to pre-recession levels and teacher pay to the na onal average. Respect educators to know how to reach students, without unfunded mandates from Raleigh and with fewer high-stakes tests.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes to crea ng ci zen boards with access to all necessary informa on. Undecided on disciplinary power.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? Off-shore drilling is an unnecessary risk. Instead, we should expand renewable energy produc on.

More info: natashamarcus.com

JEFF TARTE

Party: Republican

Experience: - Started and sold several companies - Served as Mayor of Cor-nelius; 5 years - Served on Mecklenburg County Park and Rec Board. - Served on North Mecklenburg SLT

Occupa on: Management Consultant

Favorite endorsements: - My Wife - My Family - My Friends

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? 1. To con nue to make North Caroli-na the leading state in the na on in educa on. 2. To make North Carolina the leading state for technology innova on and effec veness.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the

state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? NC has already raised the minimum wage for all state employees to $15 an hour. Businesses should make that decision for themselves, however, the market should drive wages up across all sectors.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? See full answer at h ps://goo.gl/fVqT7D

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? See full answer at h ps://goo.gl/fVqT7D

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? No.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? Follow the boy scout rule: If we drill, the environment should be le be er than we found it.

More info: JeffTarte.com

TY TURNER

Party: Republican

Experience: • Member of the Mecklenburg GOP 2014-Present • Black Poli cal Cau-cus of Charlo e NC, Execu ve Commi ee Member 2015-2017 • Mecklenburg County Domes c Violence Advisory Board Member 2014-Present • Events Chair for the Mayors Mentoring Alliance 2015-Present

Occupa on: Business Consultant

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Two priori es - 1: Reforming our Criminal Jus ce System/The repeal of Civil Asset Forfeiture. 2: Expanding “Op onal” Educa onal

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NC House District 88

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Opportuni es for Children in the District.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? I believe in a "Living Wage" that is conducive to the cost of living among the ci zens of all 100 coun es. This comes as a micro plan which takes into account the cost of living and upward mobility.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? I believe the party in power should have the majority say in redistric ng which includes advisement and consulta on of inde-pendent bodies to ensure that fairness is included into the overall redistric ng.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? Removing the GED programs from the Community College System into partnerships with churches and community centers for 2nd chance students. Expansion Public Private Partnered Voca on-al School opportuni es.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? I do believe so as long as those review boards do not impede on the police inves ga on itself.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? As long as it has been deemed safe, regulated and will not affect crucial wildlife habitats.

More info: tyforhouse.com

MARY G. BELK

Party: Democrat

Experience: I am a commu-nity volunteer and advocate, a small business owner, and a legislator who has worked

relessly in the General As-sembly to restore our reputa-

on as the beacon of the South.

Occupa on: State House Representa ve

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina and Mecklen-

burg County Associa on of Educators; Lillian's List; NC League of Conserva on Voters

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Healthcare: Expand Medicaid, be er funding for mental health resources, and treat the opioid crisis as a healthcare emergency. Educa on: Comprehensive solu ons to fund smaller classes, raise teacher pay, and priori ze mental health treatment, giving students space to manage these issues.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? It is cri cal that we end wage discrimina on and have a living wage. Paying workers what they deserve is good for our economy.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? We need to draw district maps in a way that allows voters to choose their repre-senta ves not the other way around. Fairer represen-ta on leads to more though ul, less par san dialogue.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? As a legislator, I have been an outspoken supporter of our public educa on system, advoca ng for a comprehensive plan to fund smaller classes and raise teacher pay.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes. If the community does not hold elected officials and police accountable, who will?

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I support inves ng in renewable/sustainable energy and not risking our tourism industry or environment.

More info: MaryBelk.com

Think Voting Doesn’t Matter?

In 2008, the biggest group using Early Vo ng in NC was African-American female Democrats. The next year, elected officials focused on K-12 educa on, childcare support, and the NC Racial Jus ce Act.

In 2014, the biggest group using Early Vo ng in NC was white male Republicans. The next year, elected officials cut corporate taxes, cut funding for women’s health programs, and cut pollu on regula ons.

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DEBBIE WARE

Party: Republican

No response from candidate

CHAZ BEASLEY

Party: Democrat

Experience: AB, Harvard; JD, Georgetown; Representa-

ve, NC House District 92; Finance A orney

Occupa on: State Repre-senta ve and A orney

Favorite endorsements: NCAE; PPSAT; NCLCV

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? In the General Assembly I will con n-ue to fight for an educa on system that increases opportunity for all and an economy that works for everyone.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? North Carolina’s workers deserve more money in their pockets. Our General Assembly should raise the minimum wage and ensure equal pay for equal work.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? We must create an inde-pendent, nonpar san redistric ng commission. It’s

me that voters pick their poli cians, not vice-versa.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? We must significantly increase teacher pay and provide the resources for every child to succeed - regardless of background.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes - commu-ni es should be able to ensure public safety in ways

that work best for them.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? Improperly sited, designed, or managed pla orms have no place off our coast.

More info: ChazBeasley.com

JOHN R. BRADFORD III

Party: Republican

No response from candidate

CHRISTY CLARK

Party: Democrat

Experience: For the past five years, I have advocated for gun violence preven on, serv-ing as the North Carolina Chapter Leader of Moms De-mand Ac on. As a Cer fied Paralegal, I work with small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Occupa on: Paralegal

Favorite endorsements: Lillian's List; NC League of Conserva on Voters; Equality NC

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? My two top priori es for the cam-paign are: 1. Common sense gun legisla on including universal background checks for all gun sales. 2. Sup-por ng and valuing public educa on and teachers, including increasing per-pupil spending and teacher pay.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? We can not rely on busi-nesses to assure equity for all. I support raising the minimum wage and assuring that all qualified individu-als are being treated and paid fairly.

NC House - District 92

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NC House - District 98

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What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? Districts should be drawn fairly, in a nonpar san manner. I support an impar al commission which will use the revised census to design districts according to popula on and not party affilia-

on.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? 1. Increase per-pupil spending from 39th in the country to provide textbooks and other necessary supplies. 2. Pay teachers what they are worth rather than almost $10,000 below the na onal average.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Communi es should have the authority to create an independent review board.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? Off-shore drilling threatens the industry, the environ-ment, and our pris ne coastal beauty. I am against it.

More info:ChristyClarkNC.com

NASIF MAJEED

Party: Democrat

Experience: Charlo e City Council (8 yrs), Charlo e-Mecklenburg Planning Comm., Charlo e Housing Authority, NC Commission on Educa on for Economic Growth, Burger King Franchisee, Decorated B-52 Air Force Combat Pilot, Airline Pilot

Occupa on: Businessman

Favorite endorsements: NC Associa on of Educators

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Raise Teacher Pay, Equal Pay for Equal Work

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the

state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? The NC Legislature should take ac on and raise the state minimum wage to a living wage. Pay equity is a must regardless of race, gender, religion or sexual orienta on.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? Place the process under the authority of neutral arbitrators like the Special Master that recently made decisions on redistric ng.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? NC ranks 37th na onally in teacher pay/39th in per-pupil spending. NC ranks third highest na onally (25%) in the number of teachers working second jobs. Float State Ed. Bonds/Increase teacher pay.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes, subpoena power is needed for more effec ve Ci zens Review Boards.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I don't support off shore drilling/fracking. The poten al eco system damage is massive.

More info:MajeedForNCHouse99.com

JOSHUA NIDAY

Party: Republican

Experience: This is my first a empt at running for public office. I currently serve on the Transit Services advisory com-mi ee where I served as co-chair in 2016.

Occupa on: Warehouse worker

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Educa on and improving upward mobility. My plan includes con nuing teacher pay raises and voca onal/ job training programs.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the

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NC House - District 99

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state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? Raising the minimum wage above what the market allows will cause job losses and price increases. Instead I believe in crea ng be er paying jobs. I fully support the 1963 EPA.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? I believe having an inde-pendent panel with an equal number of Democrats & Republicans to draw the lines will be the most fair way to redistrict.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? Improved funding for text-books/classroom materials & funding for school infra-structure.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? I support strengthening police-community boards in an effort to improve rela ons & trust between the community & police.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I support off-shore drilling because of the jobs & in-creased independence from foreign oil.

More info: joshuaniday.com

JOHN AUTRY

Party: Democrat

Experience: US Navy 1972-76, Elected to 2 terms Mecklen-burg Soil & Water Supervisor, 3 terms Charlo e City Council. Theatre Major, Cal State Fullerton

Occupa on: Media Produc on

Favorite endorsements: Conserva on Voters; Equality NC; Charlo e Mecklenburg Associa on of Educators

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Protect our natural environment for our grandchildren and their children. The NCGA vio-lates Ar cle 14 Sec on 5 of the NC State Cons tu on on almost a daily basis. End Gerrymandering.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? It should be State policy that no one working a full me job, no ma er what their ethnicity or gender is, should be subjected to living in poverty.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? An independent panel should draw districts without any considera on of poli cal party affilia on.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? Fund public educa on in NC to be the best in the US. Reduce the amount of mandated tes ng.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes. I co-sponsored HB-350, a bill to authorize subpoena power to CRBs.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I am opposed to off-shore drilling. We can't afford the future if we only invest in the past.

More info: JohnAutry.com

NC House - District 100

Voting Tips for Students WHERE’S HOME: You may call your college community your home if you do not have a clear “intent to return” to another address. If you do, register at that address as home. Register at just 1 address; update your registra on when you move. REGISTER: You cannot register to vote online. Download a form at demnc.co/rform. Write in your name as it appears on your Social Security card or NC driver’s license; use that ID number on the form. For on-campus residents in Mecklenburg Co., go to demnc.co/meckcoll for proper address. Mail the form to the board, at demnc.co/myboard. TOO LATE?: If you miss the October 12 regular deadline to register, use Same-Day Registra on (see page 6 for details).

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NANCY CAMPBELL Party: Republican

No response from candidate

CAROLYN LOGAN

Party: Democrat

Experience: I am a re red NC State Trooper, serving NC for 31 years. I served three terms as president for the Black Women's Caucus and as vice-chair of Mecklenburg County Ci zens Criminal Jus ce Advisory Commi ee.

Occupa on: Regional Incident Management Coordi-nator, Atkins North America

Favorite endorsements: Planned Parenthood-South Atlan c; Equality NC

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? 1. Even though the General Assembly increased the average salaries of teachers and law enforcement, I think we can do be er. 2. We need to help ci es and municipali es with affordable housing, and increase mental health services for veterans.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? We should increase the minimum wage and promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job. The government must act as a watchdog on behalf of the average worker.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? We must put the task of redrawing lines into the hands of a non-par san com-mission, no ma er which party controls the General Assembly.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? 1-We need to decrease class sizes. Teachers cannot teach effec vely and manage a class of 35-40 students. 2-Increase pay for our teach-

ers, a rac ng and retaining the best and the brightest.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Municipali es should create police-community review boards, and then present their findings to the proper authori es.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I am completely against offshore drilling for NC. We have far too much to lose economically–tourism–and environmentally.

More info: carolynlogannc.com

STEVE MAUNEY

Party: Republican

Experience: Public Service/ Public Safety Re red a er being a Paramedic for 30 years. 22 years at MEDIC, Re red as Chief of Opera-

ons at Iredell County EMS.

Occupa on: Re red Paramedic

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Coming from an EMS background, I will address the legisla ve needs of a long overlooked but vital en ty of Public Safety. From Health and Safety needs of our first responders to re rement equity. Crea ng a more efficient work and financial outlook. Term Limits across the board.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? YES of course. All of our ci zens should earn a true living wage, and without discrimina on.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? Unbiased bi-par san commi ee with General Assembly oversight.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? I really don't know enough about the details of the problems, but it really both-

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NC House - District 101

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ered me when teacher assistants were cut. I go into the discussions with an open mind.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? Not a Fan. I worked during the Deep Water Horizon clean up.

More info: MauneyNC101.com

TYLER NORRIS Party: Republican

No response from candidate

BECKY CARNEY Party: Democrat

No response from candidate

RACHEL HUNT

Party: Democrat

Experience: I am a lawyer, small business owner and small business advocate. I currently run a small-business that helps children and their parents choose the right edu-ca on op ons for them.

Occupa on: Lawyer and Small Business Owner

Favorite endorsements: Emily's List, League of Conser-va on Voters and Equality NC

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? My top two priori es are educa on and health care. We must increase our investment in educa on across all grades including teacher pay and per-pupil spending and access to affordable health care for everyone.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? Yes, our minimum wage has failed to keep up with infla on over the years. I support raising the minimum wage and indexing it to infla on.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? We must form an inde-pendent commission in charge of our redistric ng process. Our people and democracy will be be er served with fair district drawing.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? 1. Raising teacher pay to the na onal average. 2. Increasing per-pupil spending to the na onal average.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? No response from candidate

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I am against off-shore drilling. We should invest in ener-gy that doesn't put our environment at risk.

More info: hun orhousenc.com

BILL BRAWLEY

Party: Republican

No response from candidate

You can take a list inside the poll to help you remember your choices. It can be on paper or a cell phone.

Try to vote the whole ballot, top to bottom.

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NC House District 102

NC House District 103

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BRANDON LOFTON

Party: Democrat

Experience: I have served our community in a number of ca-paci es, including chairing the board for the Council for Chil-dren’s Rights, serving on the Housing Advisory Board and chairing the city’s Disparity Study Advisory Commi ee.

Occupa on: Lawyer

Favorite endorsements: Charlo e-Mecklenburg Asso-cia on of Educators; Planned Parenthood South Atlan-

c; NC Sierra Club

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? The legislature is taking our state in the wrong direc on. Instead of making investments to help us compete, it is a emp ng to reshape our de-mocracy. I will increase support for public schools and fight to protect our democra c ins tu ons.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? I support increasing the minimum wage to help increase financial stability for more families. I also support promo ng fair and equita-ble pay across race and gender for the same job.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? I support crea ng an independent redistric ng commission. Elec ons should be conducted in fair, impar al districts. Gerrymander-ing by both par es created a dysfunc onal state legis-lature. We need a func oning democracy.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? We must increase support for our teachers, support staff and school facili es. We must increase per pupil spending with an eye toward innova on to close the gap in low performing schools.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? We should empower municipali es to create or strengthen boards

to promote transparency, accountability and trust.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I do not support off-shore drilling for North Carolina.

More info: lo onfornc.com

ANDY DULIN Party: Republican

No response from candidate

WESLEY HARRIS

Party: Democrat

Experience: PhD Economist working as an Economic Con-sultant with Ernst & Young, Adjunct Economics Professor at UNCC, Steering Commi ee Arts and Science Council Young Donors Society

Occupa on: Economic Consultant and Adjunct Professor of Economics

Favorite endorsements: League of Conserva on Voters; North Carolina Associa on of Educators; Equality NC

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? Increasing teacher pay and access to pre-K educa on to a ract the best teachers in the na on, and ensure our children can compete for jobs of the future. Inves ng in public transporta on infra-structure, so our ci es can con nue to grow.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? People should get equal pay for equal work. Local municipali es need the abil-ity to ensure everyone who wants to work can earn a livable wage and support their families.

What is the best way to handle redistric ng a er the 2020 Census? Redistric ng must be non-par san and

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NC House District 104

NC House District 105

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independent. The goal is to maximize compe ve districts with geographic compactness. This is the only way to hold elected officials accountable.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? We must improve Teacher pay and treatment so we can begin to recruit the best teachers in our state. Inves ng in Pre-K and A er-school programs, ge ng kids engaged early is cri cal to their development and success in the future.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes. It is vital that our government is held accountable and subject to review.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? Offshore drilling would hurt our tourism industry, harm our environment, and escalate climate change.

More info: harrisfornc.com

SCOTT STONE Party: Republican

No response from candidate

GEOVANI OPRY SHEROW Party: Republican

No response from candidate

CARLA CUNNINGHAM

Party: Democrat

Experience: Served 3 terms in the NC State house. Served on numerous Health Commi ees both in the state and on na onal level. Over 35 years of experience in the Healthcare Profession.

Occupa on: RN, BSN

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Associa on of Educators; NC Na onal Organiza on of Women: NC Chapter; American Federa on of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organiza ons: Southern Piedmont Central Labor Council

What are your top 2 priori es for ac on in the Gen-eral Assembly? 1. Crea ng good paying job opportu-ni es and elimina ng pay equity issues in North Caroli-na. 2. Improving healthcare accessibility and school support staff in North Carolina.

Should the NC legislature take ac on to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? NC legislature should take ac on to raise the state minimum wage. Elimi-na ng pay equity issues would assist with li ing fami-lies out of poverty, especially for women heading sin-gle family households.

What is the best way to handle the redistric ng pro-cess a er the 2020 Census? Establishing an Independ-ent Redistric ng Commission that provides fair repre-senta on, ends gerrymandering, enhances Voter choice, and people of color representa on.

What are 2 priority ac ons for the state to improve K-12 public educa on? Improving school support staff such as psychologists, nurses, counselors, and social workers. Bringing teacher pay up to the na onal level and returning masters pay.

Should NC municipali es have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, inves ga ve and disciplinary powers? Yes, municipal-i es are responsible for Community Safety, ci es have liability in regards to Police Departments.

Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I do not support explora on that will cause harm to human beings or the environment.

More info: CarlaCunninghamNCHouse.com

KELLY ALEXANDER Party: Democrat

Candidate is unopposed 24

NC House District 106

NC House District 107

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TREVOR M. FULLER

Party: Democrat

Experience: County Commis-sioner At Large since 2012; A orney at Law for 26 years; Served on board of directors for several community organi-za ons

Occupa on: County Commissioner/A orney

Favorite endorsements: Charlo e-Mecklenburg Asso-cia on of Educators

What are your top 2 or 3 priori es for ac on on the Commission? (1) Ensuring economic opportunity for all; (2) Educa on, especially early childhood educa on; and (3) Affordable Housing

What policies should the county pursue to improve the affordability of housing? We should con nue to incorporate into our development plans affordable housing components, just like we've done with the Brooklyn Village project. Also, we need to expand housing assistance to the homeless.

What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportuni es? We need to ensure that people who complete work-force training programs are able to get and keep per-manent jobs. The county should provide wraparound services to support these workers in remaining em-ployed.

What is your stance on the county’s current or future

collabora on with federal immigra on enforcement? I oppose the 287g program, and I do not believe the county should facilitate indiscriminate enforcement that tears families apart.

How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The Sheriff is an elected official directly answerable to the people. By virtue of the county's fiscal rela onship with the Sheriff's Office, we can ensure monetary transpar-ency and accountability.

More info: votetrevorfuller.com

ELLA SCARBOROUGH Party: Democrat

No response from candidate

JEREMY BRASCH Party: Republican

No response from candidate

PATRICIA (PAT) COTHAM

Party: Democrat

Experience: Mo vated to run for County Commission a er working for a non-profit that helped people with a criminal record find employment. Ac ve Democrat with decades of leadership experience.

Occupa on: Work full- me as county commissioner since 2012

County Commission - At Large You may vote for 3

The County Commission adopts the budget for schools and other agencies, and sets priorities for land use, health care, and other services. Three

members are elected at-large (countywide) and six are elected by District.

Find your County Commission District at demnc.co/meckdist

MECKLENBURG COUNTY COMMISSION

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Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

What are your top 2 or 3 priori es for ac on on the Commission? a. Work with the city and towns to pro-vide housing for our lowest income neighbors earning 30% AMI. b. Work to improve rela onship with CMS.

What policies should the county pursue to improve the affordability of housing? I advocated for 30% AMI housing when the county recently hired a developer for land that we own near the government center. The vote was 8 to 1, so it failed.

What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportuni es? We support companies moving here with incen ves. We set an example with a diverse staff and compe ve pay.

What is your stance on the county’s current or future collabora on with federal immigra on enforcement? The county does not collaborate with federal immigra-

on.

How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? This is up to the legislature as they have made the Sheriff (not a department of the County) report directly to the voters.

More info: patcotham.org

ELAINE POWELL

Party: Democrat

Experience: 29 years of com-munity service in Mecklenburg County. Most recent, Chair of Mecklenburg County Park Com-mission and Chair of Steward-ship Advisory Council, 2010-2018. Please see my website.

Occupa on: Office Manager & Community Servant

Favorite endorsements: CMAE - Charlo e Mecklen-burg Associa on of Educators

What are your top 2 or 3 priori es for ac on on the Commission? Number 1: Advisory Board input includ-ed on BOCC Agenda. I want to bring community voices to the decision-making process. I believe this is the core of our democracy and the responsibility of elected leaders. Number 2: I want to bring back the Environ-ment Commi ee.

What policies should the county pursue to improve the affordability of housing? We need to embrace a solu on-oriented approach. We have to work together to come up with innova ve policies and the courage to implement them.

What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportuni es? We can work to foster partnerships between CMS and businesses to provide appren ceships and internships. I look forward to listening to community input on other ways we can increase opportuni es.

What is your stance on the county’s current or future collabora on with federal immigra on enforcement? I want to listen to and consider all points of view.

How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The Sheriff-Elect seems commi ed to transparency and accountability. I will respond to community concerns as I receive them.

More info: ElectElainePowell.com

Resources for Voters NCVoter.org - For informa on about registering to vote, look up your registra on status, review your own ballot, learn about ways of vo ng, Early Vo ng loca ons, and Elec on Day polls.

NCSBE.gov - Same informa on, from the State Board of Elec ons’ official website. The Board’s toll-free phone is 866-522-4723.

NCVoterGuide.org - Online voter guides with candidate profiles and info for voters.

Vote411.org - League of Women Voters resource; also includes responses from candidates to addi onal ques ons.

888-OUR-VOTE (888-687-8683) - Call this VoterProtec on Hotline if you have trouble vo ng orneed a ques on answered.

26

Co. Commission - District 1

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JIM PUCKETT

Party: Republican

Experience: Char/Meck Board of Educa on; 5 terms Mecklenburg County Com-mission; Past Chair Centralina Economic Development Com-mission; Co-chair LKN Charter School Board; President Long Creek Industrial Services; Vice Chair Historic Rural Hill; Presbyterian Elder; married 30+ year, father of 2 girls

Occupa on: Small Business owner

Favorite endorsements: I do not seek endorsements, run on MY record not others.

What are your top 2 or 3 priori es for ac on on the Commission? I believe in Osborne and Hutchinson's the Price of Government method of budge ng and the Balanced Scorecard method of management and over-sight and I work these theories into my oversight of county budgets/services. This forces priori za on and data-based review.

What policies should the county pursue to improve the affordability of housing? Cut arbitrary overlays on the building industry that run up cost and extend me required to build. Max the use of county assets for greatest u liza on of the funds. Workforce use of mass transit not econ dev.

What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportuni es? Lowest reasonable tax rates, ban the box, focus on edu- ca on delivery ed to community development and core service delivery not on social driven parameters.

What is your stance on the county’s current or future collabora on with federal immigra on enforcement? I believe we have to be a country that controls our borders and strongly support a legal immigra on process that is equal and fair to all.

How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The sheriff is an elected official and the public is the ul -mate manager of that office. As a county commissioner I can and should only concern myself with the jus fica-

on of his/her budget request same as court.

More info: jim-pucke .com

VILMA LEAKE - DISTRICT 2 Party: Democrat Candidate is unopposed

GEORGE DUNLAP - DISTRICT 3 Party: Democrat Candidate is unopposed

MARK JERRELL - DISTRICT 4 Party: Democrat Candidate is unopposed

SUSAN B. HARDEN Party: Democrat

Occupa on: Associate Professor of Educa on

Favorite endorsements: Char-lo e-Mecklenburg Associa on of Educators; MeckPAC

More info: susanbharden.com

No further response from candidate

MATTHEW RIDENHOUR Party: Republican

Experience: I served for 11 years in the Marine Corps, and am a risk manager in the financial industry, focusing on third party risk. Currently serving my third term as a County Commissioner.

Occupa on: Risk Manager

Favorite endorsements: The Honorable Tariq Bokhari; the Honorable Ed Driggs; the

27

Co. Commission District 2, District 3 and District 4

are Uncontested

Co. Commission - District 5

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Honorable Kenny Smith

What are your top 2 or 3 priori es for ac on on the Commission? Foremost, I believe we need to tackle the affordability of Mecklenburg--this encompasses housing, tax rate, and cost of living. Addi onally, I would like us to accelerate greenway construc on. This benefits the community's health, and provides transit op ons.

What policies should the county pursue to improve the affordability of housing? The tax rate affects housing affordability for everyone, including renters ─ the rate needs to be affordable. Also, we can ensure that proper es we develop are aggressive in the per-cent of affordable units included.

What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportuni es? As Chair of the Economic Development Commi ee, we have implemented a small biz concierge service to mentor & grow small biz. We are exploring a small biz loan fund. We now have tools to recruit and retain biz.

What is your stance on the county’s current or future collabora on with federal immigra on enforcement? The county does not collaborate with federal immigra-

on enforcement. The Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Dept. does, and that organiza on is managed by its own elected official, the Mecklenburg County Sheriff.

How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The county does not have any authority in the opera ons of the Sheriff's Department. The Sheriff's Department is a separate en ty from the county, and is managed by the elected Mecklenburg County Sheriff.

More info: voteridenhour.com

COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY

SPENCER MERRIWEATHER

CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT

ELISA CHINN GARY

COUNTY SHERIFF GARRY L. MCFADDEN

BILL JAMES Party: Republican

Experience: 15 years of ‘big 4’ CPA experience in their audit division and na onal Financial Services prac ce (plus a few years as a County Commis-sioner and chair of Mecklen-burg County’s Audit Review Commi ee).

Occupa on: re red CPA

Favorite endorsements: none submi ed

What are your top 2 or 3 priori es for ac on on the Commission? 1. Managing the Revalua on process that will start 1-1-2019 2. Trying to insure that the rate set during revalua on is no higher than ‘revenue neu-tral.’ Without a Revenue Neutral rate, taxes will go up significantly for most homeowners, which I oppose.

What policies should the county pursue to improve the affordability of housing? The County isn’t in the ‘housing business,’ the City is. Affordable Housing has been tradi onally handled by The City of Charlo e and the Charlo e Housing Authority. Mecklenburg County has never had a direct role.

What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportuni es? We have approved a variety of ED agreements. Most I disagree with. Some have value such as the Amazon Center which will supply over 1,000 entry level jobs (about $28K) in West Charlo e.

What is your stance on the county’s current or future collabora on with federal immigra on enforcement? I agree with current agreement with ICE & the Sheriff’s Department, though the Commission doesn’t decide about this (the Sheriff does). Without that agreement, ICE would be doing Courthouse and other raids.

How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? I find the Sheriff’s department accountability transparent enough. Whether the Commission does or not, it is the Sheriff that gets to decide what he alone decides is disclosable under State law.

More info: billjames.org 28

UNCONTESTED CANDIDATES

Co. Commission - District 6

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SUSAN RODRIGUEZ McDOWELL

Party: Democrat

Experience: I am a former opera ons manager with a master's degree, mom of 3, wife, sister, daughter, small business owner, first me candidate who believes we can do be er.

Occupa on: Entrepreneur

Favorite endorsements: CMAE - Charlo e Mecklen-burg Assoc. of Educators; Equality NC; MeckPAC

What are your top 2 or 3 priori es for ac on on the Commission? Building a coopera ve team, the cur-rent commission is dysfunc onal. Always priori zing integra on will lead to progress in areas like public educa on and upward mobility. Focusing on moving people not cars around future growth while protec ng green spaces.

What policies should the county pursue to improve the affordability of housing? Preserving vulnerable neighborhoods is one key priority. Requiring all hous-ing bond projects to set aside 30% of the units for those earning under 30% of median income would be another. Raising the minimum wage.

What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportuni es? Reducing hurdles (cost) for post high school educa on and internet access for all should be two of our priori-

es. An educated work force a racts businesses to our community and promotes a progressive economy.

What is your stance on the county’s current or future collabora on with federal immigra on enforcement? The immigrant community should not be subjected to ICE when engaging with the county and with law en-forcement - this prac ce makes us all less safe. I am very thankful our sheriff-elect does not support 287g.

How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The commission’s leverage lies in its control of the budget. There should be an ac ve and robust ci zens advisory board with adequate access to the department. Safety for all must be the number one goal.

More info: mcdowell4meck.com

Six candidates are running for two seats on the nonpar san Soil & Water Conserva on District board, which focuses on natural resources (soil loss, erosion control, agricultural concerns, etc.) You may vote for up to two candidates:

TIGRESS SYDNEY ACUTE McDANIEL DAVID MICHAEL RICE DUNCAN DAVID ST CLAIR III LILLY TAYLOR BARBARA BLEIWEIS NANCY CARTER

At the end of their ballots, voters in Charlo e, Cornelius and Mint Hill will be asked to authorize their City to borrow money through the sale of bonds. The money will pay for various improvements.

3 BONDS IN CHARLOTTE TRANSPORTATION BONDS: $118 million to pay for construc ng or improving roads, bridges, crossings, traffic signals, bicycle lanes, and pedestrian paths.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING BONDS: $50 million to buy property and build affordable housing for residents with limited incomes.

NEIGHBORHOOD BONDS: $55 million to improve open space, sidewalks, drainage, ligh ng, and other features for Charlo e neighborhoods.

1 BOND IN CORNELIUS TRANSPORTATION BONDS: $24 million to match NC funds and pay for road extensions, intersec on up-grades, and bicycle and pedestrian accommoda ons.

2 BONDS IN MINT HILL CIVIC CENTER BONDS: $3 million to repair and re-purpose Bain Academy into a civic & cultural center.

PARKS BONDS: $15 million for a park on Brief Road and a baseball stadium at Veterans Memorial Park.

BONDS ON YOUR BALLOT?

29

SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT SUPERVISOR

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30

ELECTION DAY is Tues., Nov. 6 at 6:30 am - 7:30 pm

Go to your own precinct’s polling place on Election Day. Find your polling place at demnc.co/distr or demnc.co/meckdist

EARLY VOTING is Oct. 17 to Nov. 3

Mecklenburg Co. ci zens may go to any loca on below. (You may register* at an Early Vo ng site but not on Elec on Day.

18 SITES OPEN OCTOBER 17. Hours at all 18 loca ons: Weekdays (M-F), Oct. 17-Nov. 2, 7am-7pm; Saturday, Oct. 27, 10am-5pm; Sunday, Oct. 28, 1pm-4pm; and Saturday, Nov. 3, 8am-1pm:

The 18 loca ons are: Ballantyne Area, address to be announced, Charlo e Bea es Ford Library, 2412 Bea es Ford Rd, Charlo e Be e Rae Thomas Recrea on Center, 2921 Tuckaseegee Rd, Charlo e Cornelius Town Hall, 21445 Catawba Ave, Cornelius Hal Marshall Annex, 618 N College St, Charlo e Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Rd, Charlo e Hornets Nest Pavilion, 6301 Bea es Ford Rd, Charlo e Huntersville Town Hall, 101 Huntersville-Concord Rd, Huntersville Independence Library, 6000 Conference Dr, Charlo e Main Branch Library, 310 N Tryon St, Charlo e Marion Diehl Center, 2219 Tyvola Rd, Charlo e Ma hews Library, 230 Ma hews Sta on St, Ma hews Mint Hill Library, 6840 Ma hews-Mint Hill Rd, Charlo e Morrison Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd, Charlo e South County Reg. Library, 5801 Rea Rd, Charlo e Sugar Creek Library, 4045 N Tryon St, Charlo e Steele Creek Area, address to be announced, Charlo e University City, Old Pier 1, 8802 JW Clay Blvd, Charlo e West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd, Charlo e

For ques ons, call Mecklenburg Co. Board of Elec ons 704-336-2133 *See box on page 6 for how to register during Early Vo ng

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A Threat You Can Stop!

Fill Judicial Vacancies “Constitutional amendment to change the process for filling judicial vacancies that occur between judicial elections from a process in which the Governor has sole appointment power to a process in which the people of the State nominate individuals to fill vacancies by way of a commission comprised of appointees made by the judi-cial, executive, and legislative branches charged with making recommendations to the legis-lature as to which nominees are deemed qualified; then the legislature will recommend at least two nominees to the Governor via legislative action not subject to gubernatorial veto; and the Governor will appoint judges from among these nominees.”

For Against

Board of Elections “Constitutional amendment to establish an eight-member Bipartisan Board of Ethics and Elections Enforcement in the Constitution to administer ethics and elections law.”

For Against

Right to Hunt and Fish “Constitutional amendment protecting the right of the people to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife.”

For Against

Rights of Victims “Constitutional amendment to strengthen protections for victims of crime; to establish certain absolute basic rights for victims; and to ensure the enforcement of these rights.

For Against

Income Tax “Constitutional amendment to reduce the income tax rate in N.C. to a maximum allowable rate of seven percent (7%).”

For Against

Photo ID to Vote “Constitutional amendment to require voters to provide photo identification before voting in person.”

For Against

“CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS”

(The descriptions below leave out key parts of the

actual Amendments)

“AMENDMENTS” (cont.)

NC governors, judges, and civil rights leaders urge you to

vote against the Amendments

REFERENDUM

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Democracy North Carolina Not affiliated with any party 1821 Green Street Durham, NC 27705

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID Permit No. 1011

Durham, NC

Independent Voter Guide, Special for

Mecklenburg Co.

3 WAYS TO VOTE IN MECKLENBURG COUNTY

Voters in Mecklenburg County will elect judges, lawmakers, and other officials who will make decisions that affect virtually every part of your life – but you decide who wins! Read the candidates’ views in this Guide, then make your choices.

NO PHOTO ID NEEDED TO VOTE You’ll be asked to state your name

and address and sign in.

1. EARLY VOTING: Oct. 17-Nov. 3 Vo ng early in person is the best op on. Definitely use Early Vo ng if you have moved or need to up-date your voter registra on. See page 30 inside to find Early Vo ng mes and places for Mecklenburg County.

2. IN PERSON ON ELECTION DAY On Elec on Day, Tuesday, November 6, go to your own precinct’s polling place. Polls are open from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm. If you’re in line by 7:30 pm, you will be able to vote. If you go to the wrong polling place and don’t have me to get to the right place, ask about using a provisional ballot. To find your precinct’s poll, go to demnc.co/distr or call the Board of Elec ons at 704-336-2133.

3. MAIL-IN ABSENTEE VOTING Any registered voter may use this method; no special reason is needed. See the box on page 4 of this Voter Guide or go to demnc.co/mail for details for how to vote by mail.

Questions? Call the hotline!

1-888-OUR-VOTE

At the end of the ballot, you are asked to vote FOR or AGAINST several controversial Amendments to the NC Cons tu on. The

descrip ons on the ballot are NOT the same as the Amendments. Be sure to read about

them on page 31. Your vote is crucial!