For MECKLENBURG COUNTY

(see page 31)

About This Guide Why I’m voting . . . This Guide features candidates for federal, state and local elecons in Mecklenburg County. It is sponsored by two non-proﬁt groups that are not aﬃliated with any polical party: Democracy North Carolina and Common Cause NC. The Guide provides vital infor- . . . because a judge will be elected maon about the rules for vong and answers to to the NC Supreme Court this quesons sent to candidates. year and I want somebody who cares about equal rights for all! For quesons about this Guide, call 919-286-6000. A - Becky Carver PDF copy is at NCVoter.org. Learn more about the candidates at NCVoterGuide.org and vote411.org.

Have Your Say . . . because too many of my The ballot box is the one place where we are all equal, ancestors died for me not to be regardless of race, income or geography: one person, using my right to vote! one vote. People acng together have changed - Kristen Marion government policies to improve their lives and stop threats to their community. Use your power!

The candidates who win will make crucial decisions aﬀecng every aspect of your life – but YOU help . . . because I didn’t have an ID decide who wins! Proposed Amendments to the NC to vote in 2016 and now there’s Constuon will also impact your future (see p. 31). an amendment on the ballot to bring back a strict photo ID. No! - Janice Franklin Preview Your Ballot

You can go online to see your ballot before you vote; go to demnc.co/distr and follow the instrucons. You can also see your Elecon Day polling place at this link. . . . because I see vong isn’t just And you can use it to see if you are registered at your about who goes to the White current address. If not, use “same-day registraon” House. Who goes to Raleigh during Early Vong to update or register anew. See aﬀects my college tuion! the box on page 6. - Ausn Padilla

What’s Inside Do I Need an ID to Vote?

Supreme Court, Court of Appeals .……... p a g e s 3 - 6 Because of a court ruling, you do not need to show an ID to vote except in 2 situaons: Superior and District Courts….……………. p a g e s 7 - 9 U.S. House of Representaves.…….…….. pps 10-11 (1) If you use Same-Day Registraon, you’ll need to show a document listed in the box on page 6. North Carolina General Assembly .……… pps 12-24 Candidates in Local Elecons.....………….pps 25-29 (2) If there was a problem with verifying the informaon on your registraon form, you’ll need Early Vong Locaons & Hours ………….. p a g e 3 0 to show either a document listed in the box on CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS …...... page 31 page 6 or any current photo ID. How to Vote by Mail ……….……………….…page 4

NC SUPREME COURT - Vote for 1 of 3 Candidates

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.

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

Experience: Jusce, NC Personal statement: I’m running as a Republican to Supreme Court; Judge, NC give a voice to the many Constuonal Republicans Court of Appeals; General who are appalled at the assault on the rule of law, and Counsel, NC Labor Depart- the checks and balances of our Constuonal Republic ment; Associate, Private that is happening every day. Secondly, to point out the Pracce; Associate General mistake of being the only state in 100 years to make Counsel, Governor’s Advocacy Council (GACPD); our judicial elecons parsan. Associate General Counsel, Governor Jim Marn; More info: Anglin4Jusce.com Research Assistant, Jusce Burley Mitchell

Occupaon: Associate Jusce, Supreme Court of North Carolina ANITA EARLS Favorite endorsements: Chief Jusce (ret.) Burley Mitchell; Commissioner of Labor Cherie Berry; NCGOP Party: Democrat

Personal statement: Fairness, imparality, integrity, Experience: Execuve and a commitment to the rule of law all are essenal Director, Southern Coalion characteriscs of a good judge. I’ve worked hard to live for Social Jusce, 2007-2017; up to each of these principles, gaining invaluable ﬁrst- UNC Center for Civil Rights, hand experience, which is why I’m seeking re-elecon. 2003-2007; Lawyers’ As the only candidate in this race with judicial experi- Commiee for Civil Rights, ence, I understand that this is not an entry level job. 2000-2003; Deputy Assistant Aorney General, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Jusce Department 1998-2000; More info: JusceJackson.com Ferguson, Stein ﬁrm, 1988-1998.

Occupaon: Aorney

CHRISTOPHER (CHRIS) ANGLIN Favorite endorsements: North Carolina AFL-CIO; Equality NC; North Carolina Advocates for Jusce Party: Republican

Experience: Graduate of Personal statement: I have been a civil rights aorney Wake Forest University and for thirty years, ﬁghng for equal jusce and fair Elon University Law School. representaon. As a mother and grandmother, I A small business owner in understand challenges families face and have worked solo pracce at all levels of to protect the rights of hard-working people. We must civil, criminal and family trial have a fair court that protects everyone no maer courts in both state and their race, gender or how much money they have in federal courts for 7 years. their pockets.

Occupaon: Aorney More info: Earls4Jusce.com

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

ANDREW T. HEATH JOHN S. ARROWOOD

Party: Republican Party: Democrat

Experience: Husband, father, Experience: NC Court of and public servant; Superior Appeals, Judge, 2007-2008, Court Judge; Served as Chair of 2017-present; NC Court of the NC Industrial Commission; Appeals, Research Assis- As State Budget Director, led tant/Staff Aorney/Senior the Office of State Budget and Staff Aorney, 1983-1989; Management. Private Pracce Aorney, 1982-1983,1989-2007, Occupaon: Superior Court Judge 2009-2017;

Favorite endorsements: Former Supreme Court Occupaon: NC Court of Appeals Judge Jusce and Chairman of North Carolina State Ethics Commission George L. Wainwright, Jr.; Former North Favorite endorsements: NC Advocates for Jusce; Carolina Lt. Governor Jim Gardner; NC Republican Equality NC; Sierra Club Party Personal statement: I pledge to administer jusce Personal statement: I am a fair and imparal judge equally and without favorism to any ligant or to the who respects the Constuon and the law, and who State. My experience on the Court of Appeals, as a values access to jusce and equality under the law. It Superior Court Judge, together with my over 26 years has been an honor to serve North Carolina as a in private pracce, and prior work as a research Superior Court Judge, and I look forward to serving on assistant and staﬀ aorney at the Court of Appeals, the Court of Appeals. makes me uniquely qualiﬁed to remain on the Court.

More info: HeathForJusce.com More info: KeepJudgeArrowood.org

How to Vote by Mail (Absentee Voting)

Court of Appeals - SEAT 2 - Vote for 1

appellate courts, starng as a law clerk at the Court of JEFFERSON G. GRIFFIN Appeals then strengthening my experience by handling Party: Republican hundreds of appeals in private pracce. I will bring a strong work ethic, integrity and appellate experse to Experience: District Court Judge, the Court. Wake County; JAG Officer (CPT), NC Army Naonal Guard; More Info: TobyHampsonForJudge.com Assistant District Aorney, Wake County District Aorney’s Office; Private Pracce, Criminal defense SANDRA ALICE RAY and Civil ligaon; NC Central Party: Republican University School of Law; UNC Experience: I’ve got 27 years Occupaon: Wake County District Court Judge & JAG legal experience including 14 Officer (CPT), North Carolina Army Naonal Guard years judicial experience. I Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Republican have more judicial experience Party; Former North Carolina Supreme Court Chief than every NC Court of Jusce Burley B. Mitchell Jr. Appeals candidate combined. I’m a former Assistant District Personal statement: North Carolina deserves a Judge Aorney and aorney in private pracce. who is dedicated to upholding the Rule of Law and our Constuon. My diverse experiences as a Judge, Occupaon: District Court Judge Soldier, prosecutor, and praccing aorney provide a Favorite endorsements: NC Troopers Associaon; NC perspecve that will benefit all North Carolina cizens Fraternal Order of Police when I am on the Court of Appeals. Personal statement: When any Judge talks to you, More info: JeffersonGriffin.com they should tell you of their love and trust in our United States and North Carolina Constuons. I believe, as our Constuon says, in the Sovereignty of TOBIAS (TOBY) HAMPSON the People – not the policians and bureaucrats. I want to serve on your Court of Appeals to preserve the self- Party: Democrat evident rights our Constuon guarantees. Experience: Wyrick, Robbins, More Info: SandraAliceRay.com Yates & Ponton, LLP, (2007-

present) Appellate Aorney; NC State Bar Appellate Specialist since 2011; Paerson, Dilthey, VOTER ASSISTANCE Clay & Bryson, LLP (2004-2007) h Anyone may receive help to vote from a “family Aorney; NC Court of Appeals member,” deﬁned as parent, grandparent, child, (2002-2004) Law Clerk grandchild, sibling, spouse or in-law (parent, sister or brother). Occupaon: Aorney h A voter with a physical or reading disability (in- Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Democrac cluding language diﬃculty) may receive help from Party; NC AFL-CIO; Former Supreme Court Jusce anyone except their employer’s or union’s agent. Patricia Timmons-Goodson h A voter who aests that they’d need “physical Personal statement: The Court of Appeals needs a assistance” to reach the vong room may vote at judge with the right experience — an appellate the polling site in a vehicle (curbside vong). specialist. I have 16 years of experience in our

Court of Appeals - SEAT 3 - Vote for 1

CHUCK KITCHEN MICHAEL MONACO, SR. Party: Republican Party: Libertarian Experience: Licensed as Experience: 2000-15 Monaco aorney in North Carolina for & Roberts, PLLC: A general 38 years, including 30 years as a service law pracce that county aorney. I am currently handled a wide spectrum of in private pracce represenng legal issues for clients. pares in State and Federal trial Occupaon: Aorney and appellate courts. Favorite Endorsement: Occupaon: Private Aorney None submied Favorite endorsements: NC Republican Party; Personal statement: The purpose of the court is to be Alamance Sheriff Terry Johnson; NC Federaon of objecve and independent; especially in disputes Republican Men between the branches of government. These good Personal statement: In order to make a good governance cases can present conflicts to the other appellate judge, you must have extensive experience candidates who are associated with the dominant both trying cases and handling appeals. I am the only pares in NC polics. These dominant pares have candidate who has both, including successfully engaged in parsanship in recent years and we need to defending Sheriff Terry Johnson against the US be vigilant to keep judiciary independent. Department of Jusce. I have also filed more than 100 More info: nc-monaco-2018.com briefs and peons in the appellate courts.

More info: KitchenForCourtOfAppeals.com ALLEGRA KATHERINE COLLINS

Last-Minute Rescue: Party: Democrat Same-Day Registration Experience: Campbell Law Professor of Judicial Wring If you miss the October 12 deadline to register, and Appellate Advocacy; you may use “same-day registraon” during Early Appellate advocate in NC Vong at an Early Vong locaon. See sites/hours Court of Appeals & Supreme in the box on page 30. Ask the elecon oﬃcial for a Court; Appellate Reporter at registraon form, show an idenfying document NC Supreme Court; Clerk on listed below, and vote – all on the same day. the Court of Appeals to Judge You cannot use this procedure on Elecon Day. Linda Stephens

The idenfying document you show must be one Occupaon: Law Professor and Appellate Aorney of these with your name and current address: Favorite endorsements: NC Democrac Party; NC • a NC driver’s license; AFL-CIO • any other government photo ID; Personal statement: I have focused my career on • student photo ID along with a school document appellate law and judicial process in our appellate showing the student’s address (e.g., a campus courts. With my experience, experse, and dedicaon housing list, invoice, or leer); to the law, I will be a judge who renders fair and • a ulity bill (cell phone, electric, cable, etc.); accurate decisions. My experience and experse mean • bank statement; or payroll stub; or I will do this job well; my passion for this work means I • a document from any government agency will connuously strive to do it beer. (a bill, permit, leer, etc.) More info: AllegraCollins.com

NC SUPERIOR & DISTRICT COURTS

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.

Superior Court - District 26C, Seat 1

REGGIE E. McKNIGHT HOWARD L. CLARK III

Party: Democrat Party: Democrat Experience: I have been a Pub- Experience: Over 20 years of lic Defender for seven years. I trial court experience in superior have extensive trial experience and district court. Capital in both District and Superior (murder) defender trained as Court. I have handled thou- well as federal complex liga- sands of cases in these Courts. on. Occupaon: Assistant Public Occupaon: Aorney Defender Favorite endorsements: none submied Favorite endorsements: Kevin Tully, Mecklenburg Public Defender; Missy Owen, Tin Fulton Walker & Please share your personal statement about serving Owen; Marc Towler, Assistant Public Defender on this court: I have over 20 years of trial court room experience. I will approach sing on the bench the Please share your personal statement about serving same way I’ve approached my long legal career with on this court: My whole career I have served my three important concepts; competence, professional- community both as a teacher and now as an Assistant ism and integrity. I pride myself on these core concepts Public Defender. I am dedicated to posively impacng and one basic rule; “always be prepared.” my community. My experience, dedicaon and commitment to fairness will serve me well should I be More info: elected to serve as a Superior Court Judge. reggiemcknighorsuperiorcourt.com More info: howardclarkforjudge.com

Superior Court, Unopposed GEORGE BELL

Party: Republican DONNIE HOOVER - District 26E KAREN EADY-WILLIAMS - District 26F No response from candidate LOU TROSCH - District 26H

7 District Court - District 26A, Seat 1

MICHAEL J. STADING Occupaon: District Court Judge Party: Republican Favorite endorsements: Lee Myers, former Mayor of Mahews; Tom Bush, aorney; Representave Mary No response from candidate Belk, NC State Representave

Please share your personal statement about serving ALICIA D. BROOKS on this court: As a judge, I understand that jusce Party: Democrat should be accessible to everyone and should not be about polics. In court, clients must be held accounta- Experience: I have over 26 years ble but judges have a responsibility to carry out that of legal experience and was an consequence with fairness. Our acons must be meas- Assistant District Aorney and a ured and thoughul and should not be about exhorng defense aorney. As a judge, I power. preside over family, civil, and criminal court. I am also a treatment court judge. More info: aliciabrooksforjudge.com

District Court - District 26A, Seat 2

PAULINA N. HAVELKA DONALD CURETON, JR.

Party: Republican Party: Democrat

Experience: I have spent over Experience: I became an aor- twenty years in the legal system, ney in 2004. I was elected to as a courtroom clerk, legal assis- the bench in 2010. I am a NC tant, and as an aorney. I run Juvenile Court cerﬁed judge. my own pracce and also serve as Previously, I was an Assistant a farm-out aorney for the public Public Defender and an aor- defender's oﬃce of Mecklenburg County. ney for Bush & Powers.

Occupaon: Aorney Occupaon: District Court Judge

Favorite endorsements: Rep. Bill Brawley; Mecklen- Favorite endorsements: Dianne Chipps Bailey; burg County GOP; Mecklenburg Evening Republican Richard Vinroot; Mecklenburg County Democrac Women's Club Party

Please share your personal statement about serving Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: Beginning in 1997 as a courtroom clerk, on this court: I am fair and imparal, I protect ci- jusce and the legal system have been my passion. I zens’ rights by upholding our constuons and laws, received my JD in 2004 and have run my own legal and I represent the profession with the highest integri- pracce, focusing on family and criminal law, and have ty. Through children, I posively impact our community volunteered for the Council for Children's Rights and so that it is safer but also more compassionate towards Women's Commission since 2006. each cizen despite their backgrounds.

More info: paulinaforjudge.com More info: judgecureton.com

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

8 District Court - District 26A, Seat 3

SEAN SMITH SABRINA BLAIN

Party: Republican Party: Democrat

Experience: 2011-present Experience: Sabrina has been District Court Judge, Meck- praccing law for over 20 lenburg County. Currently years. Has served the public presiding in family court. interest in the Legal Aid Socie- Previously presided in crimi- ty for many years. Sabrina will nal court, domesc violence bring fairness and compassion court, and general civil court. 2004-10 Assistant Dis- to the bench. trict Aorney, Mecklenburg County Occupaon: Aorney Occupaon: District Court Judge Favorite endorsements: none submied Favorite endorsements: none submied Please share your personal statement about serving Please share your personal statement about serving on this court: I am dedicated to bringing fairness, on this court: It has been my great honor to serve the compassion and understanding to the bench. Family county in which I grew up as District Court Judge and Court can be very stressful to those it is meant to prosecutor. I have spent my enre legal career in serve. I vow to serve Mecklenburg County residents by support of the rule of law and the achievement of listening with empathy. Lady Jusce is blind, she is not jusce in our Mecklenburg County courtrooms. I ask heartless. We can do beer. for your vote. More info: More info: judgeseansmith.com crowdpac.com/campaigns/381503/sabrina-blain

District Court - District 26F, Seat 2

KAREN D. MCCALLUM Favorite endorsements: none submied Please share your personal statement about serving Party: Democrat on this court: It is my desire to serve all of the cizens No response from candidate of Mecklenburg County. “All Rhodes Lead to Jusce!” is no mere campaign slogan – it is my judicial philoso- phy. I honestly believe that every cizen of this coun- KHALIF RHODES ty, regardless of race, gender, and sexual orientaon deserves jusce. Party: Democrat More info: rhodes4districtcourt.com Experience: Graduate of Pennsylvania State University. Law Degree and Legal Law of District Court, Unopposed Masters (LL.M.) from Thomas M. Cooley School. Former MATT OSMAN - District 26B Adjunct Professor at Charloe PAIGE McTHENIA - District 26E, Seat 1 School of Law. Currently Mecklenburg County’s Chief REGAN A. MILLER - District 26E, Seat 2 Magistrate and Truancy Court Judge. TRACY HANNA HEWETT - District 26F, Seat 1 Occupaon: Chief Magistrate RICKYE MCKOY-MITCHELL - District 26G

9 U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

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

U.S. House - District 9 Most of Mecklenburg Co. is in the Congressional MARK HARRIS District 12, but the eastern part is in District 9 Party: Republican 9 No response from the candidate

DAN MCCREADY get into the wrong hands.

Party: Democrat What top 2 or 3 changes are needed for federal immigraon policy? Our broken immigraon system is just Experience: I’m a Marine another example of Washington failing. I support a Corps veteran, father, and comprehensive and biparsan immigraon reform that small business owner. I led a respects our laws, secures our border, and upholds our platoon of 65 Marines in Iraq values. and built a solar energy business which helped bring hun- Should government take acon to raise the minimum dreds of jobs to North Carolina. wage and promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job? I’m for raising the minimum wage Occupaon: Solar energy entrepreneur and support equal pay for equal work

Favorite endorsements: Former Gov. Jim Hunt (D) and Should the federal Vong Rights Act be restored? I NC Supreme Court Jusce Bob Orr (R) fully support restoring the Vong Rights Act because it’s What are your top 2 priories for acon in Congress? the right thing to do. First, to put country over party and help end the par- More info: DanMcCready.com san gridlock in Washington. Second, to represent those who Washington policians have le behind by ﬁghng for aﬀordable healthcare, beer jobs, and the promise of social security. JEFF SCOTT

What will you do to make college affordable? Afforda- Party: Libertarian ble educaon is key for geng ahead. I support expanding job training and community college programs, mak- Experience: 30 years as a ing Pell Grants year-round, and ensuring the govern- financial markets and banking ment doesn’t profit off of student loans. professional, mulple roles at major banks, involved in edu- What specific acons do you support to address school caon and career counseling, shoongs? As a Marine who carried an M-16 and a wrien and published widely. father, I support comprehensive background checks and closing the gun show/online loopholes that let guns Occupaon: Financial Consultant

10 Favorite endorsements: Chrisan Cano, 2016 Demo- ALMA ADAMS crac District 9 Nominee; Nic Haag, Republican Candi- date for NC House District 97; Tim Harris, Libertarian Party: Candidate for NC Senate District 2 Democrat

What are your top 2 priories for acon in Congress? Experience: I have Presidents work with Congress. When our military acts, served in the U.S. Con- accountability is crical to keep peace. I will reduce gress for nearly four tensions by expanding our trade relaons without years. I was elected in favorism and subsidies. Taxpayers get a fiscally sound, 2014 and came to Con- pro-peace candidate who preserves freedom and eco- gress immediately to nomic dynamism. complete Mel Wa’s unexpired term. Prior to Congress, I served in the NC What will you do to make college affordable? A stu- State House for 20 years. dent finance system must fix both rising debt and costs. Teacher pensions can hold a stake in student Occupaon: Member of Congress debt to align their financial interests with long term educaonal success. Favorite endorsements: Congressional Black Caucus Foundaon; Southern Piedmont Labor Council; NARAL What specific policies do you support to address school shoongs? Teachers can opt for beer train- What are your top 2 priories for acon in Congress? ing, schools for security, parents for monitoring of Higher Educaon and addressing barriers to access. troubled youth, doctors for treatment regimens, police Hunger and homelessness. for tracking real threats. Banning weapons is a losing strategy. What will you do to make college affordable? As a Member on House Educaon and the Workforce Com- What top 2 or 3 changes are needed for federal immi- miee, I am fiercely commied to this issue. I support graon policy? I support family preservaon, expand- student loan refinancing and an expansion of loan ed trade and worker mobility. The path to cizenship forgiveness programs. should be fair, clear and strictly enforced. ICE unfortu- nately abuses its power and subverts our constuonal What specific acons do you support to address protecons. school shoongs? I support an assault weapons ban, closing the gun show loophole, expanded background Should government take acon to raise the minimum checks, and an increase of mental health and counsel- wage and promote pay equity across race and gender ing services in schools. for the same job? Government cannot determine prices or wages. Pay equity can be adopted unilaterally What top 2 or 3 changes are needed for federal immi- by fair businesses. graon policy? 1. A path to cizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants. 2. Addressing the factors Should the federal Vong Rights Act be restored? I that force immigrants to come to the United States. oppose intrusion into states’ electoral processes, though federal review was necessary 50 years ago. Should government take acon to raise the minimum wage and promote pay equity across race and gender More info: lpmeck.org/jeff-sco for the same job? Government should raise the mini-

mum wage and enact/enforce civil rights laws regard- ing pay equity. U.S. House - District 12 Should federal review of changes to NC’s elecon law

under a restored Vong Rights Act? Yes; the federal PAUL WRIGHT government should ensure access to the ballot is not impaired. Party: Republican No response from the candidate More info: AlmaAdamsForCongress.com

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 police-community review boards with subpoena, invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes, it's an important part of building trust between police depart- JEFF JACKSON ments and communies they serve.

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

Experience: U.S. Army Re- More info: JeﬀJacksonNC.com serve / Army Naonal Guard: 15 years; Aorney: 9 years; State Senate: 4 years NORA TROTMAN Occupaon: Aorney Party: Republican Favorite endorsements: none submied No response from candidate

What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- eral Assembly? We need to end gerrymandering. Progress begins with ensuring a fair polical process STUART ANDREW COLLINS for all. Invesng in early childhood educaon is the key Party: Constuon to giving every child a beer chance at a successful future. No response from candidate

Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should NC Senate - District 38 these be le to businesses? Yes - North Carolina needs to protect workers and the stagnant 7 dollar minimum wage simply isn't enough. MUJTABA A. MOHAMMED

What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- Party: Democrat cess aer the 2020 Census? An independent redistricng commission will take polics out of the process Experience: Mohammed has and ensure voters pick their representaves - not the a proven record of advocang other way around. for children and families through his work as an aor- What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- ney and child advocate at 12 public educaon? Raise teacher pay and give Council for Children’s Rights schools the supplies and support they need. North and a ﬁghter for underprivi- Carolina has built its reputaon on public educaon leged at the Public Defender’s and it's me to revive that legacy. Oﬃce.

Should NC municipalies have the authority to create Occupaon: Public Interest Aorney

12 Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Associaon of NC Senate - District 39 Educators; NC AFL-CIO; Planned Parenthood

What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- eral Assembly? Mohammed is commied to improv- CHAD STACHOWICZ ing outcomes and that starts with restoring NC's Public Party: Democrat Schools to their righul place as a beacon of hope in North Carolina and fighng for policies that seek to Experience: I am the founder expand our economy and diversify our workforce. and CEO of Cloverhound, a technology company head- Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the quartered in Charloe. I start- state minimum wage and also promote pay equity ed the company in part to across race and gender for the same job – or should create jobs and opportunity in these be le to businesses? Yes. We need to restore Charloe, and three years later we employ 14 people our economy from the ground up and increase eco- across North Carolina, Colorado and Ohio. nomic mobility amongst all of our families. It starts with a livable wage, restoring the middle-class tax Occupaon: CEO, Cloverhound Inc. deducon, and closing the gender pay gap. Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Associaon of What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- Educators (NCAE); Equality NC; Charloe-Mecklenburg cess aer the 2020 Census? We must create an inde- Associaon of Educators (CMAE) pendent redistricng commission and amendment process through NC Supreme Court. In addion, allow What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- cizen input through legislated mandatory public com- eral Assembly? Public educaon should always be ment periods with the Boards of Elecons. the first priority in the General Assembly. We must work to improve our schools and our children’s fu- What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- tures. Also, we must expand Medicaid to create jobs 12 public educaon? 1) Increase funding to Smart and make healthcare more affordable for North Caroli- Start to first and eliminate the wait list. 2) Reform: na families. Increase teacher pay, reduce tesng, expand advance learning opportunies to Title One Schools. Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity Should NC municipalies have the authority to create across race and gender for the same job – or should police-community review boards with subpoena, these be le to businesses? I am a strong supporter invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes. I believe of increasing the minimum wage and pay equity. I think in the local power and community review boards in- these are the best ways to level the playing field. crease transparency and trust. What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I cess aer the 2020 Census? We must remove polical am against off-shore drilling and fracking. I will oppose meddling from our maps and move to independent any effort to poison our drinking water and fragile redistricng so our elecons are fair and compeve, ecosystems. and all voters have a voice in the electoral process.

More info: mohammednc.com What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- 12 public educaon? We need to improve training for career and technical educaon (CTE) and college alter- naves in areas like trades, programming and IT sup- RICHARD RIVETTE port. Also, approve a statewide bond to ﬁx our deterio- rang and underulized facilies. Party: Republican Should NC municipalies have the authority to create No response from candidate police-community review boards with subpoena,

13 invesgave and disciplinary powers? Environment, for its employees. gun laws, zoning, county land-use & school safety are just some areas I support moving power back to local What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- governments. cess aer the 2020 Census? Abide by the "government of the people, by the people and for the Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I people" ideal. Seek mutual trust and a common vision. don’t support off-shore drilling. As a naon we need to speed our transion to renewable energy. What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- 12 public educaon? We must more effecvely en- More info: chadfornc.com gage parents in the educaon of their children. If pa- rental involvement is nonexistent or lacking, we must

employ eﬀecve mentoring in addion to cultural DAN BISHOP awareness. Party: Republican Should NC municipalies have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, No response from candidate invesgave and disciplinary powers? No, unless there is a clear need for such authority and no conﬂict

with exisng administrave and judicial processes.

NC Senate District 40 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- BOBBIE SHIELDS ment. More info: VoteBobbieShields.com Party: Republican

Experience: Small Business Owner, Former Interim County Manager, Former County Asses- JOYCE WADDELL sor, Former County Engineer, Party: Democrat Licensed Engineer, husband, father of three, long-me Experience: In 2009, I was resident in NC Senate District 40. elected to the Charloe- Occupaon: Professional Engineer/Consultant Mecklenburg Board of Educa- on, District 3. I was re- Favorite endorsements: none submied elected in 2013 but decided to run for Senate to make a What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- diﬀerence in the Charloe community and state. eral Assembly? Economic Development (including jobs, capital investments and infrastructure invest- Occupaon: Educaon Consultant for Early Child ments) and Educaon (including the relaonship be- Programs tween educaon deﬁciencies and the criminal jusce system) are my two top priories. Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Associaon of Educators; Lillian’s List; NC League of Conservaon Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the Voters state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- these be le to businesses? The legislature has a eral Assembly? 1. I support funding for public role in assuring compeve wages for State employ- schools, increasing teacher and principal pay, and pre-k ees. The private sector has the responsibility and availability for all eligible students in the state. 2. North market incenve to assure fair and equitable wages Carolina needs a strong, sound economy that pro-

14 motes widespread growth to beneﬁt families across the state. NC Senate District 41

Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across NATASHA MARCUS race and gender for the same job – or should these be Party: Democrat le to businesses? Every worker deserves a fair, livable wage. I co-sponsored legislaon to raise the mini- Experience: I have worked as mum wage and ensure that women and men are paid a ligaon aorney, a judicial equally for performing the same work. clerk, a full-me mother, a What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- school volunteer, a town cess aer the 2020 Census? North Carolina cizens advisory board member, and should vote in an elecon that does not violate or in- a grassroots campaign volun- fringe on the rights of voters. I support the creaon of a teer. I currently work at a non-proﬁt community service nonparsan, independent redistricng commission. center.

What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- Occupaon: Assistant Director of Development for the 12 public educaon? The state must provide adequate Ada Jenkins Center funding for public educaon and expand pre-k access Favorite endorsements: North Carolina League of Con- for students. We must connue to raise teacher and servaon Voters; Lillian's List; North Carolina Associa- administrator pay to aract and retain employees. on of Educators Should NC municipalies have the authority to create What are your top 2 priories for acon in the General police-community review boards with subpoena, in- Assembly? 1) Support pre-K and K-12 public educaon vesgave and disciplinary powers? Cies may need by invesng in it and respecng teachers. 2) Create tax to implement oversight laws to establish a balance of and economic policy that is fair for small businesses and jusce. working families, not just the wealthiest few and biggest Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I corporaons. don't support off-shore drilling, because the oil spill or seismic tesng may harm coastal tourism and fishing Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the state industries. minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should these be More info: joycewaddell.com le to businesses? Yes, the NCGA should promote pay

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 cizenship rights, including your right to vote. But you automacally get your right to vote back in North Carolina aer you finish your sentence, including probaon or parole. It doesn’t maer where the felony convicon 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 cizen. Failure to pay restuon does not block your right to vote, unless you are sll on probaon.

15 equity and a fair, updated minimum wage that tracks state minimum wage and also promote pay equity with inﬂaon. across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? NC has already raised the What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- minimum wage for all state employees to $15 an hour. cess aer the 2020 Census? We need to remove Businesses should make that decision for themselves, policians from the process of drawing district lines. If however, the market should drive wages up across all elected, I would support an independent, nonparsan sectors. redistricng process that would be fair and democrac. What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- cess aer the 2020 Census? See full answer at 12 public educaon? Increase per-pupil spending to hps://goo.gl/fVqT7D pre-recession levels and teacher pay to the naonal average. Respect educators to know how to reach What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- students, without unfunded mandates from Raleigh 12 public educaon? See full answer at hps:// and with fewer high-stakes tests. goo.gl/fVqT7D

Should NC municipalies have the authority to create Should NC municipalies have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, police-community review boards with subpoena, invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes to creang invesgave and disciplinary powers? No. cizen boards with access to all necessary informaon. Undecided on disciplinary power. Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? Follow the boy scout rule: If we drill, the environment Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? should be le beer than we found it. Off-shore drilling is an unnecessary risk. Instead, we should expand renewable energy producon. More info: JeffTarte.com

More info: natashamarcus.com

NC House District 88

JEFF TARTE TY TURNER Party: Republican Party: Republican Experience: - Started and sold several companies - Experience: • Member of the Served as Mayor of Cor- Mecklenburg GOP 2014- nelius; 5 years - Served on Present • Black Polical Cau- Mecklenburg County Park cus of Charloe NC, Execuve and Rec Board. - Served on Commiee Member 2015- North Mecklenburg SLT 2017 • Mecklenburg County Domesc Violence Advisory Board Member 2014- Occupaon: Management Consultant Present • Events Chair for the Mayors Mentoring Favorite endorsements: - My Wife - My Family - My Alliance 2015-Present Friends Occupaon: Business Consultant What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- eral Assembly? 1. To connue to make North Caroli- Favorite endorsements: none submied na the leading state in the naon in educaon. 2. To make North Carolina the leading state for technology What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- innovaon and eﬀecveness. eral Assembly? Two priories - 1: Reforming our Criminal Jusce System/The repeal of Civil Asset Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the Forfeiture. 2: Expanding “Oponal” Educaonal

16 Opportunies for Children in the District. Think Voting Doesn’t Matter?

Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the h In 2008, the biggest group using Early Vong in NC state minimum wage and also promote pay equity was African-American female Democrats. The next across race and gender for the same job – or should year, elected officials focused on K-12 educaon, these be le to businesses? I believe in a "Living childcare support, and the NC Racial Jusce Act. Wage" that is conducive to the cost of living among the h In 2014, the biggest group using Early Vong in NC cizens of all 100 counes. This comes as a micro plan was white male Republicans. The next year, elected which takes into account the cost of living and upward officials cut corporate taxes, cut funding for women’s mobility. health programs, and cut polluon regulaons. What is the best way to handle the redistricng process aer the 2020 Census? I believe the party in burg County Associaon of Educators; Lillian's List; NC power should have the majority say in redistricng League of Conservaon Voters which includes advisement and consultaon of independent bodies to ensure that fairness is included into What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- the overall redistricng. eral Assembly? Healthcare: Expand Medicaid, beer funding for mental health resources, and treat the What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- opioid crisis as a healthcare emergency. Educaon: 12 public educaon? Removing the GED programs Comprehensive soluons to fund smaller classes, raise from the Community College System into partnerships teacher pay, and priorize mental health treatment, with churches and community centers for 2nd chance giving students space to manage these issues. students. Expansion Public Private Partnered Vocaon- al School opportunies. Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity Should NC municipalies have the authority to create across race and gender for the same job – or should police-community review boards with subpoena, these be le to businesses? It is crical that we end invesgave and disciplinary powers? I do believe so wage discriminaon and have a living wage. Paying as long as those review boards do not impede on the workers what they deserve is good for our economy. police invesgaon itself. What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? As cess aer the 2020 Census? We need to draw district long as it has been deemed safe, regulated and will not maps in a way that allows voters to choose their repre- affect crucial wildlife habitats. sentaves not the other way around. Fairer representaon leads to more thoughul, less parsan dialogue. More info: tyforhouse.com

What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- 12 public educaon? As a legislator, I have been an MARY G. BELK outspoken supporter of our public educaon system, advocang for a comprehensive plan to fund smaller Party: Democrat classes and raise teacher pay.

Experience: I am a commu- Should NC municipalies have the authority to create nity volunteer and advocate, police-community review boards with subpoena, a small business owner, and a invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes. If the legislator who has worked community does not hold elected oﬃcials and police relessly in the General As- accountable, who will? sembly to restore our reputaon as the beacon of the South. Do you support or oppose oﬀ-shore drilling for NC? I support invesng in renewable/sustainable energy and Occupaon: State House Representave not risking our tourism industry or environment.

Favorite endorsements: North Carolina and Mecklen- More info: MaryBelk.com

NC House - District 92 that work best for them. Do you support or oppose oﬀ-shore drilling for NC? Improperly sited, designed, or managed plaorms have DEBBIE WARE no place oﬀ our coast.

Party: Republican More info: ChazBeasley.com

No response from candidate

NC House - District 98 CHAZ BEASLEY JOHN R. BRADFORD III Party: Democrat Party: Republican Experience: AB, Harvard; JD, Georgetown; Representa- No response from candidate ve, NC House District 92; Finance Aorney

Occupaon: State Repre- CHRISTY CLARK sentave and Aorney Party: Democrat Favorite endorsements: NCAE; PPSAT; NCLCV Experience: For the past five What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- years, I have advocated for eral Assembly? In the General Assembly I will conn- gun violence prevenon, serv- ue to fight for an educaon system that increases ing as the North Carolina opportunity for all and an economy that works for Chapter Leader of Moms De- everyone. mand Acon. As a Cerfied Paralegal, I work with small Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the business owners and entrepreneurs. state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should Occupaon: Paralegal these be le to businesses? North Carolina’s workers deserve more money in their pockets. Our General Favorite endorsements: Lillian's List; NC League of Assembly should raise the minimum wage and ensure Conservaon Voters; Equality NC equal pay for equal work. What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- eral Assembly? My two top priories for the cam- cess aer the 2020 Census? We must create an inde- paign are: 1. Common sense gun legislaon including pendent, nonparsan redistricng commission. It’s universal background checks for all gun sales. 2. Sup- me that voters pick their policians, not vice-versa. porng and valuing public educaon and teachers, including increasing per-pupil spending and teacher What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- pay. 12 public educaon? We must significantly increase teacher pay and provide the resources for every child Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the to succeed - regardless of background. state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should Should NC municipalies have the authority to create these be le to businesses? We can not rely on busi- police-community review boards with subpoena, nesses to assure equity for all. I support raising the invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes - commu- minimum wage and assuring that all qualified individu- nies should be able to ensure public safety in ways als are being treated and paid fairly.

18 What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- state minimum wage and also promote pay equity cess aer the 2020 Census? Districts should be drawn across race and gender for the same job – or should fairly, in a nonparsan manner. I support an imparal these be le to businesses? The NC Legislature commission which will use the revised census to design should take acon and raise the state minimum wage districts according to populaon and not party aﬃlia- to a living wage. Pay equity is a must regardless of on. race, gender, religion or sexual orientaon.

What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- 12 public educaon? 1. Increase per-pupil spending cess aer the 2020 Census? Place the process under from 39th in the country to provide textbooks and the authority of neutral arbitrators like the Special other necessary supplies. 2. Pay teachers what they are Master that recently made decisions on redistricng. worth rather than almost $10,000 below the naonal average. What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- 12 public educaon? NC ranks 37th naonally in Should NC municipalies have the authority to create teacher pay/39th in per-pupil spending. NC ranks third police-community review boards with subpoena, highest naonally (25%) in the number of teachers invesgave and disciplinary powers? Communies working second jobs. Float State Ed. Bonds/Increase should have the authority to create an independent teacher pay. review board. Should NC municipalies have the authority to create Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? police-community review boards with subpoena, Off-shore drilling threatens the industry, the environ- invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes, subpoena ment, and our prisne coastal beauty. I am against it. power is needed for more effecve Cizens Review Boards. More info:ChristyClarkNC.com

Do you support or oppose oﬀ-shore drilling for NC? I

don't support oﬀ shore drilling/fracking. The potenal eco system damage is massive. NC House - District 99 More info:MajeedForNCHouse99.com

NASIF MAJEED JOSHUA NIDAY Party: Democrat Party: Republican Experience: Charloe City Council (8 yrs), Charloe- Experience: This is my ﬁrst Mecklenburg Planning Comm., aempt at running for public Charloe Housing Authority, oﬃce. I currently serve on the NC Commission on Educaon Transit Services advisory com- for Economic Growth, Burger miee where I served as co- King Franchisee, Decorated B-52 Air Force Combat chair in 2016. Pilot, Airline Pilot Occupaon: Warehouse worker Occupaon: Businessman Favorite endorsements: none submied Favorite endorsements: NC Associaon of Educators What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- eral Assembly? Educaon and improving upward eral Assembly? Raise Teacher Pay, Equal Pay for mobility. My plan includes connuing teacher pay Equal Work raises and vocaonal/ job training programs.

Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the

19 state minimum wage and also promote pay equity NC House - District 100 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 JOHN AUTRY losses and price increases. Instead I believe in creang beer paying jobs. I fully support the 1963 EPA. Party: Democrat

What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- Experience: US Navy 1972-76, cess aer the 2020 Census? I believe having an inde- Elected to 2 terms Mecklen- pendent panel with an equal number of Democrats & burg Soil & Water Supervisor, Republicans to draw the lines will be the most fair way 3 terms Charloe City Council. to redistrict. Theatre Major, Cal State Fullerton What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- 12 public educaon? Improved funding for text- Occupaon: Media Producon books/classroom materials & funding for school infrastructure. Favorite endorsements: Conservaon Voters; Equality NC; Charloe Mecklenburg Associaon of Educators Should NC municipalies have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- invesgave and disciplinary powers? I support eral Assembly? Protect our natural environment for strengthening police-community boards in an eﬀort to our grandchildren and their children. The NCGA vio- improve relaons & trust between the community & lates Arcle 14 Secon 5 of the NC State Constuon police. on almost a daily basis. End Gerrymandering.

Do you support or oppose oﬀ-shore drilling for NC? I Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the support oﬀ-shore drilling because of the jobs & in- state minimum wage and also promote pay equity creased independence from foreign oil. across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? It should be State policy More info: joshuaniday.com that no one working a full me job, no maer what their ethnicity or gender is, should be subjected to living in poverty.

Voting Tips for Students What is the best way to handle the redistricng process aer the 2020 Census? An independent panel WHERE’S HOME: You may call your college should draw districts without any consideraon of community your home if you do not have a clear polical party aﬃliaon. “intent to return” to another address. If you do, register at that address as home. Register at just 1 What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- address; update your registraon when you move. 12 public educaon? Fund public educaon in NC to be the best in the US. Reduce the amount of mandated REGISTER: You cannot register to vote online. tesng. Download a form at demnc.co/rform. Write in your name as it appears on your Social Security Should NC municipalies have the authority to create card or NC driver’s license; use that ID number on police-community review boards with subpoena, the form. For on-campus residents in Mecklenburg invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes. I co- Co., go to demnc.co/meckcoll for proper address. sponsored HB-350, a bill to authorize subpoena power Mail the form to the board, at demnc.co/myboard. to CRBs.

TOO LATE?: If you miss the October 12 regular Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? I deadline to register, use Same-Day Registraon am opposed to off-shore drilling. We can't afford the (see page 6 for details). future if we only invest in the past. More info: JohnAutry.com

20 NANCY CAMPBELL ers, aracng and retaining the best and the brightest. Party: Republican Should NC municipalies have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, No response from candidate invesgave and disciplinary powers? Municipalies should create police-community review boards, and then present their ﬁndings to the proper authories. NC House - District 101 Do you support or oppose oﬀ-shore drilling for NC? I

am completely against oﬀshore drilling for NC. We CAROLYN LOGAN have far too much to lose economically–tourism–and environmentally. Party: Democrat More info: carolynlogannc.com Experience: I am a rered NC

State Trooper, serving NC for 31 years. I served three terms as president for the Black STEVE MAUNEY Women's Caucus and as vice- Party: Republican chair of Mecklenburg County Cizens Criminal Jusce Advisory Commiee. Experience: Public Service/ Public Safety Rered aer Occupaon: Regional Incident Management Coordi- being a Paramedic for 30 nator, Atkins North America years. 22 years at MEDIC, Rered as Chief of Opera- Favorite endorsements: Planned Parenthood-South ons at Iredell County EMS. Atlanc; Equality NC Occupaon: Rered Paramedic What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- eral Assembly? 1. Even though the General Assembly Favorite endorsements: none submied increased the average salaries of teachers and law enforcement, I think we can do beer. 2. We need to What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- help cies and municipalies with affordable housing, eral Assembly? Coming from an EMS background, I and increase mental health services for veterans. will address the legislave needs of a long overlooked but vital enty of Public Safety. From Health and Safety Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the needs of our first responders to rerement equity. state minimum wage and also promote pay equity Creang a more efficient work and financial outlook. across race and gender for the same job – or should Term Limits across the board. these be le to businesses? We should increase the minimum wage and promote pay equity across race Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the and gender for the same job. The government must act state minimum wage and also promote pay equity as a watchdog on behalf of the average worker. across race and gender for the same job – or should these be le to businesses? YES of course. All of our What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- cizens should earn a true living wage, and without cess aer the 2020 Census? We must put the task of discriminaon. redrawing lines into the hands of a non-parsan commission, no maer which party controls the General What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- Assembly. cess aer the 2020 Census? Unbiased bi-parsan commiee with General Assembly oversight. What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- 12 public educaon? 1-We need to decrease class What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- sizes. Teachers cannot teach effecvely and manage a 12 public educaon? I really don't know enough class of 35-40 students. 2-Increase pay for our teach- about the details of the problems, but it really both-

21 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. ered me when teacher assistants were cut. I go into Occupaon: Lawyer and Small Business Owner the discussions with an open mind. Favorite endorsements: Emily's List, League of Conser- Should NC municipalies have the authority to create vaon Voters and Equality NC police-community review boards with subpoena, invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- eral Assembly? My top two priories are educaon Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? and health care. We must increase our investment in Not a Fan. I worked during the Deep Water Horizon educaon across all grades including teacher pay and clean up. per-pupil spending and access to affordable health care for everyone. More info: MauneyNC101.com Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity across race and gender for the same job – or should NC House District 102 these be le to businesses? Yes, our minimum wage has failed to keep up with inflaon over the years. I support raising the minimum wage and indexing it to TYLER NORRIS inflaon. Party: Republican What is the best way to handle the redistricng process aer the 2020 Census? We must form an inde- No response from candidate pendent commission in charge of our redistricng process. Our people and democracy will be beer

served with fair district drawing.

BECKY CARNEY What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- Party: Democrat 12 public educaon? 1. Raising teacher pay to the naonal average. 2. Increasing per-pupil spending to No response from candidate the naonal average.

Should NC municipalies have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, NC House District 103 invesgave and disciplinary powers? No response from candidate Do you support or oppose oﬀ-shore drilling for NC? I RACHEL HUNT am against oﬀ-shore drilling. We should invest in ener- Party: Democrat gy that doesn't put our environment at risk.

Experience: I am a lawyer, More info: hunorhousenc.com small business owner and small business advocate. I currently run a small-business BILL BRAWLEY that helps children and their parents choose the right edu- Party: Republican caon opons for them. No response from candidate

22 NC House District 104 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. BRANDON LOFTON More info: loonfornc.com Party: Democrat

Experience: I have served our community in a number of ca- ANDY DULIN pacies, including chairing the Party: Republican board for the Council for Chil- No response from candidate dren’s Rights, serving on the Housing Advisory Board and chairing the city’s Disparity Study Advisory Commiee. NC House District 105 Occupaon: Lawyer Favorite endorsements: Charloe-Mecklenburg Asso- WESLEY HARRIS ciaon of Educators; Planned Parenthood South Atlan- c; NC Sierra Club Party: Democrat

What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- Experience: PhD Economist eral Assembly? The legislature is taking our state in working as an Economic Con- the wrong direcon. Instead of making investments to sultant with Ernst & Young, help us compete, it is aempng to reshape our de- Adjunct Economics Professor mocracy. I will increase support for public schools and at UNCC, Steering Commiee ﬁght to protect our democrac instuons. Arts and Science Council Young Donors Society Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the state minimum wage and also promote pay equity Occupaon: Economic Consultant and Adjunct across race and gender for the same job – or should Professor of Economics these be le to businesses? I support increasing the minimum wage to help increase ﬁnancial stability for Favorite endorsements: League of Conservaon more families. I also support promong fair and equita- Voters; North Carolina Associaon of Educators; ble pay across race and gender for the same job. Equality NC

What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro- What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- cess aer the 2020 Census? I support creang an eral Assembly? Increasing teacher pay and access to independent redistricng commission. Elecons should pre-K educaon to aract the best teachers in the be conducted in fair, imparal districts. Gerrymander- naon, and ensure our children can compete for jobs ing by both pares created a dysfunconal state legis- of the future. Invesng in public transportaon infra- lature. We need a funconing democracy. structure, so our cies can connue to grow.

What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the 12 public educaon? We must increase support for state minimum wage and also promote pay equity our teachers, support staﬀ and school facilies. We across race and gender for the same job – or should must increase per pupil spending with an eye toward these be le to businesses? People should get equal innovaon to close the gap in low performing schools. pay for equal work. Local municipalies need the abil- ity to ensure everyone who wants to work can earn a Should NC municipalies have the authority to create livable wage and support their families. police-community review boards with subpoena, invesgave and disciplinary powers? We should What is the best way to handle redistricng aer the empower municipalies to create or strengthen boards 2020 Census? Redistricng must be non-parsan and

23 independent. The goal is to maximize compeve Favorite endorsements: North Carolina Associaon of districts with geographic compactness. This is the only Educators; NC Naonal Organizaon of Women: NC way to hold elected officials accountable. Chapter; American Federaon of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizaons: Southern Piedmont Central What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- Labor Council 12 public educaon? We must improve Teacher pay and treatment so we can begin to recruit the best What are your top 2 priories for acon in the Gen- teachers in our state. Invesng in Pre-K and Aer- eral Assembly? 1. Creang good paying job opportu- school programs, geng kids engaged early is crical nies and eliminang pay equity issues in North Caroli- to their development and success in the future. na. 2. Improving healthcare accessibility and school support staff in North Carolina. Should NC municipalies have the authority to create police-community review boards with subpoena, Should the NC legislature take acon to raise the invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes. It is vital state minimum wage and also promote pay equity that our government is held accountable and subject across race and gender for the same job – or should to review. these be le to businesses? NC legislature should take acon to raise the state minimum wage. Elimi- Do you support or oppose off-shore drilling for NC? nang pay equity issues would assist with liing fami- Offshore drilling would hurt our tourism industry, harm lies out of poverty, especially for women heading sin- our environment, and escalate climate change. gle family households.

More info: harrisfornc.com What is the best way to handle the redistricng pro-

cess aer the 2020 Census? Establishing an Independ- ent Redistricng Commission that provides fair repre- SCOTT STONE sentaon, ends gerrymandering, enhances Voter Party: Republican choice, and people of color representaon. No response from candidate What are 2 priority acons for the state to improve K- 12 public educaon? Improving school support staﬀ such as psychologists, nurses, counselors, and social workers. Bringing teacher pay up to the naonal level NC House District 106 and returning masters pay.

Should NC municipalies have the authority to create GEOVANI OPRY SHEROW police-community review boards with subpoena, invesgave and disciplinary powers? Yes, municipal- Party: Republican ies are responsible for Community Safety, cies have No response from candidate liability in regards to Police Departments.

Do you support or oppose oﬀ-shore drilling for NC? I CARLA CUNNINGHAM do not support exploraon that will cause harm to human beings or the environment. Party: Democrat More info: CarlaCunninghamNCHouse.com Experience: Served 3 terms in the NC State house. Served on NC House District 107 numerous Health Commiees both in the state and on naonal level. Over 35 years of experience in the Healthcare KELLY ALEXANDER Profession. Party: Democrat Occupaon: RN, BSN Candidate is unopposed

MECKLENBURG COUNTY COMMISSION

The County Commission adopts the budge t 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

County Commission - At Large collaboraon with federal immigraon enforcement? I oppose the 287g program, and I do not believe the You may vote for 3 county should facilitate indiscriminate enforcement that tears families apart. TREVOR M. FULLER How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The Party: Democrat Sheriff is an elected official directly answerable to the people. By virtue of the county's fiscal relaonship with Experience: County Commis- the Sheriff's Office, we can ensure monetary transpar- sioner At Large since 2012; ency and accountability. Aorney at Law for 26 years; Served on board of directors More info: votetrevorfuller.com for several community organizaons ELLA SCARBOROUGH Occupaon: County Commissioner/Aorney Party: Democrat Favorite endorsements: Charloe-Mecklenburg Asso- ciaon of Educators No response from candidate

What are your top 2 or 3 priories for acon on the Commission? (1) Ensuring economic opportunity for JEREMY BRASCH all; (2) Educaon, especially early childhood educaon; Party: Republican and (3) Aﬀordable Housing No response from candidate

What policies should the county pursue to improve the affordability of housing? We should connue to incorporate into our development plans affordable PATRICIA (PAT) COTHAM housing components, just like we've done with the Brooklyn Village project. Also, we need to expand Party: Democrat housing assistance to the homeless. Experience: Movated to run What policies should be pursued to promote job for County Commission aer development and equal employment opportunies? working for a non-profit that We need to ensure that people who complete work- helped people with a criminal force training programs are able to get and keep per- record find employment. manent jobs. The county should provide wraparound Acve Democrat with decades services to support these workers in remaining em- of leadership experience. ployed. Occupaon: Work full-me as county commissioner What is your stance on the county’s current or future since 2012

25 Co. Commission - District 1 Resources for Voters NCVoter.org - For informaon about registering to vote, look up your registraon status, review ELAINE POWELL your own ballot, learn about ways of vong, Early Vong locaons, and Elecon Day polls. Party: Democrat - Same informaon, from the State NCSBE.gov Experience: 29 years of com- Board of Elecons’ official website. The Board’s munity service in Mecklenburg toll-free phone is 866-522-4723. County. Most recent, Chair of NCVoterGuide.org - Online voter guides with Mecklenburg County Park Com- candidate profiles and info for voters. mission and Chair of Steward- ship Advisory Council, 2010- Vote411.org - League of Women Voters 2018. Please see my website. resource; also includes responses from candidates to addional quesons. Occupaon: Office Manager & Community Servant 888-OUR-VOTE (888-687-8683) - Call this Voter Favorite endorsements: CMAE - Charloe Mecklen- Protecon Hotline if you have trouble vong or burg Associaon of Educators need a queson answered. What are your top 2 or 3 priories for acon on the Commission? Number 1: Advisory Board input includ- Favorite endorsements: none submied ed on BOCC Agenda. I want to bring community voices to the decision-making process. I believe this is the What are your top 2 or 3 priories for acon on the core of our democracy and the responsibility of elected Commission? a. Work with the city and towns to pro- leaders. Number 2: I want to bring back the Environ- vide housing for our lowest income neighbors earning ment Commiee. 30% AMI. b. Work to improve relaonship with CMS.

What policies should the county pursue to improve What policies should the county pursue to improve the aﬀordability of housing? I advocated for 30% AMI the aﬀordability of housing? We need to embrace a housing when the county recently hired a developer soluon-oriented approach. We have to work together for land that we own near the government center. The to come up with innovave policies and the courage to vote was 8 to 1, so it failed. implement them.

What policies should be pursued to promote job What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportunies? development and equal employment opportunies? We support companies moving here with incenves. We can work to foster partnerships between CMS and We set an example with a diverse staﬀ and compeve businesses to provide apprenceships and internships. pay. I look forward to listening to community input on other ways we can increase opportunies. What is your stance on the county’s current or future collaboraon with federal immigraon enforcement? What is your stance on the county’s current or future The county does not collaborate with federal immigra- collaboraon with federal immigraon enforcement? on. I want to listen to and consider all points of view.

How will you ensure community transparency and How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? This is accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The up to the legislature as they have made the Sheriff (not Sheriff-Elect seems commied to transparency and a department of the County) report directly to the accountability. I will respond to community concerns voters. as I receive them.

More info: patcotham.org More info: ElectElainePowell.com

JIM PUCKETT Co. Commission District 2, Party: Republican District 3 and District 4 Experience: Char/Meck are Uncontested Board of Educaon; 5 terms Mecklenburg County Com- mission; Past Chair Centralina VILMA LEAKE - DISTRICT 2 Economic Development Com- Party: Democrat Candidate is unopposed mission; Co-chair LKN Charter School Board; President Long Creek Industrial Services; Vice Chair Historic Rural Hill; GEORGE DUNLAP - DISTRICT 3 Presbyterian Elder; married 30+ year, father of 2 girls Party: Democrat Candidate is unopposed Occupaon: Small Business owner

Favorite endorsements: I do not seek endorsements, MARK JERRELL - DISTRICT 4 run on MY record not others. Party: Democrat Candidate is unopposed What are your top 2 or 3 priories for acon on the Commission? I believe in Osborne and Hutchinson's the Price of Government method of budgeng and the Co. Commission - District 5

Balanced Scorecard method of management and oversight and I work these theories into my oversight of SUSAN B. HARDEN county budgets/services. This forces priorizaon and data-based review. Party: Democrat What policies should the county pursue to improve Occupaon: Associate the aﬀordability of housing? Cut arbitrary overlays on Professor of Educaon the building industry that run up cost and extend me required to build. Max the use of county assets for Favorite endorsements: Char- greatest ulizaon of the funds. Workforce use of mass loe-Mecklenburg Associaon transit not econ dev. of Educators; MeckPAC More info: susanbharden.com What policies should be pursued to promote job development and equal employment opportunies? No further response from candidate

Lowest reasonable tax rates, ban the box, focus on educaon delivery ed to community development and core service delivery not on social driven parameters. MATTHEW RIDENHOUR What is your stance on the county’s current or future collaboraon with federal immigraon enforcement? Party: Republican I believe we have to be a country that controls our Experience: I served for 11 borders and strongly support a legal immigraon years in the Marine Corps, process that is equal and fair to all. and am a risk manager in the How will you ensure community transparency and financial industry, focusing accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The on third party risk. Currently sheriff is an elected official and the public is the ul- serving my third term as a mate manager of that office. As a county commissioner County Commissioner. I can and should only concern myself with the jusfica- Occupaon: Risk Manager on of his/her budget request same as court. Favorite endorsements: The More info: jim-pucke.com Honorable Tariq Bokhari; the Honorable Ed Driggs; the

27 Honorable Kenny Smith Co. Commission - District 6 What are your top 2 or 3 priories for acon on the Commission? Foremost, I believe we need to tackle BILL JAMES the affordability of Mecklenburg--this encompasses housing, tax rate, and cost of living. Addionally, I Party: Republican would like us to accelerate greenway construcon. This benefits the community's health, and provides transit Experience: 15 years of ‘big 4’ opons. CPA experience in their audit division and naonal Financial What policies should the county pursue to improve Services pracce (plus a few the affordability of housing? The tax rate affects years as a County Commis- housing affordability for everyone, including renters ─ sioner and chair of Mecklen- the rate needs to be affordable. Also, we can ensure burg County’s Audit Review Commiee). that properes we develop are aggressive in the percent of affordable units included. Occupaon: rered CPA What policies should be pursued to promote job Favorite endorsements: none submied development and equal employment opportunies? What are your top 2 or 3 priories for acon on the As Chair of the Economic Development Commiee, we Commission? 1. Managing the Revaluaon process have implemented a small biz concierge service to that will start 1-1-2019 2. Trying to insure that the rate mentor & grow small biz. We are exploring a small biz set during revaluaon is no higher than ‘revenue neu- loan fund. We now have tools to recruit and retain biz. tral.’ Without a Revenue Neutral rate, taxes will go up What is your stance on the county’s current or future significantly for most homeowners, which I oppose. collaboraon with federal immigraon enforcement? What policies should the county pursue to improve The county does not collaborate with federal immigra- the affordability of housing? The County isn’t in the on enforcement. The Mecklenburg County Sheriff's ‘housing business,’ the City is. Affordable Housing has Dept. does, and that organizaon is managed by its been tradionally handled by The City of Charloe and own elected official, the Mecklenburg County Sheriff. the Charloe Housing Authority. Mecklenburg County How will you ensure community transparency and has never had a direct role. accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The What policies should be pursued to promote job county does not have any authority in the operaons development and equal employment opportunies? of the Sheriff's Department. The Sheriff's Department We have approved a variety of ED agreements. Most I is a separate enty from the county, and is managed disagree with. Some have value such as the Amazon by the elected Mecklenburg County Sheriff. Center which will supply over 1,000 entry level jobs More info: voteridenhour.com (about $28K) in West Charloe. What is your stance on the county’s current or future UNCONTESTED CANDIDATES collaboraon with federal immigraon enforcement? I agree with current agreement with ICE & the Sheriff’s Department, though the Commission doesn’t decide COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY about this (the Sheriff does). Without that agreement, SPENCER MERRIWEATHER ICE would be doing Courthouse and other raids. How will you ensure community transparency and CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT accountability for the Sheriff's Department? I find the Sheriff’s department accountability transparent ELISA CHINN GARY enough. Whether the Commission does or not, it is the Sheriff that gets to decide what he alone decides is COUNTY SHERIFF disclosable under State law. GARRY L. MCFADDEN More info: billjames.org

28 SUSAN RODRIGUEZ McDOWELL SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION Party: Democrat DISTRICT SUPERVISOR Experience: I am a former operaons manager with a Six candidates are running for two seats on the master's degree, mom of 3, nonparsan Soil & Water Conservaon District wife, sister, daughter, small board, which focuses on natural resources (soil business owner, first me loss, erosion control, agricultural concerns, etc.) candidate who believes we You may vote for up to two candidates: can do beer. TIGRESS SYDNEY ACUTE McDANIEL Occupaon: Entrepreneur DAVID MICHAEL RICE Favorite endorsements: CMAE - Charloe Mecklen- DUNCAN DAVID ST CLAIR III burg Assoc. of Educators; Equality NC; MeckPAC LILLY TAYLOR What are your top 2 or 3 priories for acon on the BARBARA BLEIWEIS Commission? Building a cooperave team, the cur- NANCY CARTER rent commission is dysfunconal. Always priorizing integraon will lead to progress in areas like public educaon and upward mobility. Focusing on moving BONDS ON YOUR BALLOT? people not cars around future growth while protecng green spaces. At the end of their ballots, voters in Charloe, Cornelius and Mint Hill will be asked to authorize their What policies should the county pursue to improve City to borrow money through the sale of bonds. The the affordability of housing? Preserving vulnerable money will pay for various improvements. neighborhoods is one key priority. Requiring all housing bond projects to set aside 30% of the units for 3 BONDS IN CHARLOTTE those earning under 30% of median income would be another. Raising the minimum wage. TRANSPORTATION BONDS: $118 million to pay for construcng or improving roads, bridges, crossings, What policies should be pursued to promote job traffic signals, bicycle lanes, and pedestrian paths. development and equal employment opportunies? AFFORDABLE HOUSING BONDS: $50 million to buy Reducing hurdles (cost) for post high school educaon property and build affordable housing for residents and internet access for all should be two of our priori- with limited incomes. es. An educated work force aracts businesses to our community and promotes a progressive economy. NEIGHBORHOOD BONDS: $55 million to improve open space, sidewalks, drainage, lighng, and other What is your stance on the county’s current or future features for Charloe neighborhoods. collaboraon with federal immigraon enforcement? The immigrant community should not be subjected to 1 BOND IN CORNELIUS ICE when engaging with the county and with law enforcement - this pracce makes us all less safe. I am TRANSPORTATION BONDS: $24 million to match NC very thankful our sheriff-elect does not support 287g. funds and pay for road extensions, intersecon up- grades, and bicycle and pedestrian accommodaons. How will you ensure community transparency and accountability for the Sheriff's Department? The 2 BONDS IN MINT HILL commission’s leverage lies in its control of the budget. CIVIC CENTER BONDS: $3 million to repair and re- There should be an acve and robust cizens advisory purpose Bain Academy into a civic & cultural center. board with adequate access to the department. Safety for all must be the number one goal. PARKS BONDS: $15 million for a park on Brief Road and a baseball stadium at Veterans Memorial Park. More info: mcdowell4meck.com

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. cizens may go to any locaon below. (You may register* at an Early Vong site but not on Elecon Day.

18 SITES OPEN OCTOBER 17. Hours at all 18 locaons: 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 locaons are: y Ballantyne Area, address to be announced, Charloe y Beaes Ford Library, 2412 Beaes Ford Rd, Charloe y Bee Rae Thomas Recreaon Center, 2921 Tuckaseegee Rd, Charloe y Cornelius Town Hall, 21445 Catawba Ave, Cornelius y Hal Marshall Annex, 618 N College St, Charloe y Hickory Grove Library, 5935 Hickory Grove Rd, Charloe y Hornets Nest Pavilion, 6301 Beaes Ford Rd, Charloe y Huntersville Town Hall, 101 Huntersville-Concord Rd, Huntersville y Independence Library, 6000 Conference Dr, Charloe y Main Branch Library, 310 N Tryon St, Charloe y Marion Diehl Center, 2219 Tyvola Rd, Charloe y Mahews Library, 230 Mahews Staon St, Mahews y Mint Hill Library, 6840 Mahews-Mint Hill Rd, Charloe y Morrison Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd, Charloe y South County Reg. Library, 5801 Rea Rd, Charloe y Sugar Creek Library, 4045 N Tryon St, Charloe y Steele Creek Area, address to be announced, Charloe y University City, Old Pier 1, 8802 JW Clay Blvd, Charloe y West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd, Charloe

For quesons, call Mecklenburg Co. Board of Elecons 704-336-2133 *See box on page 6 for how to register during Early Vong

30 A Threat You Can Stop!

NC governors, judges, and civil rights leaders urge you to vote against the Amendments

REFERENDUM “AMENDMENTS” (cont.)

“CONSTITUTIONAL Fill Judicial Vacancies AMENDMENTS” “Constitutional amendment to (The descriptions below change the process for filling leave out key parts of the judicial vacancies that occur actual Amendments) between judicial elections from a process in which the Governor Right to Hunt and Fish has sole appointment power to “Constitutional amendment a process in which the people of protecting the right of the the State nominate individuals people to hunt, fish, and to fill vacancies by way of a harvest wildlife.” commission comprised of For Against appointees made by the judi- Rights of Victims cial, executive, and legislative “Constitutional amendment branches charged with making to strengthen protections for recommendations to the legis- victims of crime; to establish lature as to which nominees certain absolute basic rights are deemed qualified; then the for victims; and to ensure the legislature will recommend at enforcement of these rights. least two nominees to the Governor via legislative action For Against not subject to gubernatorial Income Tax veto; and the Governor will “Constitutional amendment to appoint judges from among reduce the income tax rate in these nominees.” N.C. to a maximum allowable For Against rate of seven percent (7%).” For Against Board of Elections “Constitutional amendment to Photo ID to Vote establish an eight-member “Constitutional amendment Bipartisan Board of Ethics and to require voters to provide Elections Enforcement in the photo identification before Constitution to administer voting in person.” ethics and elections law.” For Against For Against Democracy North Carolina Non-Proﬁt Org. Not affiliated with any party U.S. Postage PAID 1821 Green Street Permit No. 1011 Durham, NC 27705 Durham, NC

Independent Voter Guide, Special for Mecklenburg Co.

3 WAYS TO VOTE IN MECKLENBURG COUNTY

Voters in Mecklenburg County will elect 1. EARLY VOTING: Oct. 17-Nov. 3 judges, lawmakers, and other officials who Vong early in person is the best opon. Definitely will make decisions that affect virtually use Early Vong if you have moved or need to up- every part of your life – but you decide who date your voter registraon. See page 30 inside to wins! Read the candidates’ views in this find Early Vong mes and places for Mecklenburg Guide, then make your choices. County.

At the end of the ballot, you are asked to 2. IN PERSON ON ELECTION DAY vote FOR or AGAINST several controversial On Elecon Day, Tuesday, November 6, go to your Amendments to the NC Constuon. The own precinct’s polling place. Polls are open from descripons on the ballot are NOT the same 6:30 am to 7:30 pm. If you’re in line by 7:30 pm, as the Amendments. Be sure to read about you will be able to vote. If you go to the wrong polling place and don’t have me to get to the them on page 31. Your vote is crucial! right place, ask about using a provisional ballot. To NO PHOTO ID NEEDED TO VOTE ﬁnd your precinct’s poll, go to demnc.co/distr or call the Board of Elecons at 704-336-2133. You’ll be asked to state your name

and address and sign in. 3. MAIL-IN ABSENTEE VOTING Any registered voter may use this method; no Questions? Call the hotline! special reason is needed. See the box on page 4 of this Voter Guide or go to demnc.co/mail for details 1-888-OUR-VOTE for how to vote by mail.