One of NCHE’s missions is to protect the rights of NC citizens to homeschool. Our homeschool laws are primarily affected by the NC General Assembly. The judicial system can also have a great affect on the freedom to homeschool. With the election coming up, it is important that we know what the candidates think about homeschooling and our homeschool law. In order to help us decide, NCHE asked candidates for the NC House of Representatives, the NC Senate, the NC Court of Appeals and the NC Supreme Court three questions related to home education. Click on the appropriate tab below to see the responses from the NC House of Representatives candidates, the NC Senate candidates or the judicial candidates.

To view a sample ballot, click here, launch the Voter Search, enter your voter information and click the “Search” button. Click your name in the search results. When the results show, scroll down to find the “YOUR SAMPLE BALLOT” heading. Under that heading, you will see a link to your sample ballot.

NC House of Representatives Candidates Survey

Responses are ordered by NC House of Representatives district numbers.

Follow this link to find out what districts you are in, Representation – North Carolina General Assembly (ncleg.gov).

NC House of Representatives District 5
Candidate: Bill Ward                      Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website:https://electbillward.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     All parents should have the right to determine the choice and source of their children’s education.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I have found that homeschooled students are better prepared for further education, i.e. college or universities and are more prepared to enter the work force than those of our public education system. Those students that I am familiar with have outscored their peers in all standardized testing that is required under the current law.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     No, the current law is sufficient to outline the requirements for homeschooling and meets the basic requirements for establishment and operation of a homeschool.


NC House of Representatives District 6
Candidate: Kiara Johnson                      Political Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: https://Iamkiarajohnson.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer: In my opinion school choice is awesome. I love the fact that parents get to choose other alternatives for learning environments for their children.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    I support home education. There are a lot of great things that comes along with home education for our children. One of the things is that you get to provide a safe haven for your children at all times. Another great thing that comes to my mind concerning home education is that parents get to have hands on in every aspect of their children’s education because it is provided by them. I had my first experience with homeschooling during the Covid and I felt it was a great experience.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    No, I don’t think that any changes need to be made to the home school laws in North Carolina. In my opinion, the law is really simple, easy to read, understand and abide by. According to the law you must Notify the Department of Administration, Division of Non-Public Education of your intent to operate a home school, Maintain attendance and immunization records, Operate on a regular schedule, and Administer a nationally standardized test. When I read the laws my first thought was “is that it?” There’s not really a lot that comes along with homeschooling your child and it appears to be very simple to operate a home school after I read the nc homeschool laws.


NC House of Representatives District 17
Candidate: Frank Iler              Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: http://ilerforhouse.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    100% for parental and student choice. Have voted many times for charter school expansion and voucher bills.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    It should be a viable choice and supported. Some of the smartest young people I know were home schooled.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    Yes. They should be supported by vouchers to pay homeschool operators in an fair way compared to government schools.

NC House of Representatives District 17
Candidate: Eric Terashima              Political Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: https://terashimafornc.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Maximum school choice to include home schooling should be allowed for parents.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:  Several of my friends have home schooled their children, and I will support their choice.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:  People who home school their children should be granted a subsidy to assist with the cost.


NC House of Representatives District 18
Candidate: John Hinnant               Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://electjohnhinnant.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    I support parental choice 100% and I believe the per pupil spending should follow the student. Families that hone school should receive a tax credit equal to the funding per pupil.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    My wife and I home schooled my son for a year and half. We are big supporters of home schooling and it is evidence that we have a problem in our public school system. In New Hanover County, EOG scores for 3rd Graders in the 2020-21 academic year, 52% of all students were Not Proficient in reading. 49% were Not Proficient in Math. 81% of black students were Not Proficient in Biology. We have a crisis situation on our hands.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    We had a good experience and don’t know of any immediate needs right now. Perhaps allow home school kids to play sports at the schools they are districted to.


NC House of Representatives District 19
Candidate: Charlie Miller               Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://charliemillernc.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     100% Support. If the last year of at-home learning has taught us anything, it’s that parents have a significant interest in their children’s education. Why shouldn’t parents have a say in the education choices available to their children? Education is not one-size-fits-all. School choice is all about empowering families to seek out the learning environment that leads to the greatest success in their child’s educational performance and outcomes.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     100% Support. I would like to support home school families through legislation that encourages choice and supports families with the resources needed to educate their children. There’s no reason why a family should be paying taxes towards a school system that their children do not attend. Home school families should be able to retain these resources for the education of their own children.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     We need to take a serious look into implementing money-follow-the-child programs, as have been implemented with great success in Kansas. This may look like a tax credit for parents that homeschool or pursue online learning programs for their students, or public funds transferred between jurisdictions of public education. Ensuring that money follows the child simply means that per-student spending moves with the student, regardless of their education outlet of choice. I also believe that home school students should have more opportunity to participate in school district athletic programs.


NC House of Representatives District 21
Candidate: Gerard Falzon             Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://gerardfalzon.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     LOVE IT!  It lowers cost for the state and for the family.  It raised competition, service, and quality for all.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     It’s great for some and horrible for others.  The COVID-19 pandemic helped to identify both camps.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     No.  It seems adequate to me at this time.

NC House of Representatives District 21
Candidate: Joshua Morris             Political Party: Libertarian
Campaign Website: https://www.joshmorris4nc.org

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    School choice is mandatory in todays world. We need to allow parents the final say over their children and remove the government from the equation.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    I think home education is individualized. For some kids it is a great option and for other kids it doesn’t work as well.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    I would remove the requirement for attendance and immunization records as well as the requirement to operate during regular hours. Some children can accelerate very fast and others take more time. There shouldn’t be a requirement on these issues


NC House of Representatives District 24
Candidate: Kenneth Fontenot                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: HTTPS://www.fontenotforhouse.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     100% pro school choice.  I’d eventually love to see the money follow the child.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:  We homeschool!!!

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I don’t know the homeschool laws, but I will do whatever it takes to protect the parents right to educate their child the way they see fit with tax dollars.


NC House of Representatives District 26
Candidate: Donna MCDowell White                   Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://wew.donnawhitenc26.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I am in favor of parents being able to choose the type of school that their children attend.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I believe that home education produces very confident and mature students.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     No, I do not believe that changes need to be made. I have not seen any evidence that the home school model is not producing educated and qualified graduates of the secondary system.


NC House of Representatives District 28
Candidate: Wendy Ella May                     Political Party: Democratic
Campaign Website: HTTP://WWW.WENDYELLAMAY.COM

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I support the right of free choice. Proponents argue that school choice programs improve educational outcomes by expanding opportunity and access for historically disadvantaged students

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I think homeschool works for some students

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     This law really needs to be reviewed because the wording that was added by former governor Pat McCrory, and the state house and senate restrictions , I feel that homeschooling laws does not support the right of families to teach their children as they see fit.  I think many get confused by the following words, School choice is a term for pre-college public education options that describes an array of programs offering students and their families voluntary alternatives to publicly provided schools, to which students are generally assigned by the location of their family residence.  School vouchers are certificates of government funding. It allows a student to attend a school that is chosen by their family instead of being required to go to an assigned public school.


NC House of Representatives District 30
Candidate: Guy Meilleur                Political Party: Libertarian
Campaign Website: https://www.guyfornc.org

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Parents have an absolute right and responsibility to choose the schooling that is best for the child. And the child’s feelings should be on the record. Annual testing and other minimal oversight by the state is all that should be required. The state should lift the cap On charter schools. The money should follow the student.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    See above. I have seen students thrive in a home school environment while teaching them science classes. Those families can link them selves to other homeschooling families for group activities. Some children need more socialization than others, but they all benefit from interacting with their cohort. The more that different schools and their students interact, the better it is for all.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    At first glance, the current requirements do not look too unreasonable. I don’t understand the cap on families to just two families comprising a homeschool. Why would a third family not be able to join? The rest of the requirements look reasonable to me. There seems to be a good balance between the rights of the parent and the needs of the student and keeping state control limited. But my perspective is also limited, so I’d be happy to learn more from the perspective of other parents. I have taught in homeschool groups and private and public schools. But lately I work with adult learners. As a student, transferring from Catholic school to public school (as I did in grades 4-5, 10-11) was like flunking a grade, each time. State control of education should be minimized.


NC House of Representatives District 31
Candidate: Sean Haugh                Political Party: Libertarian
Campaign Website: https://seanhaugh.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Parents and students should have as much school choice as possible. I am for expanding school choice in every direction.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     Home education is a choice parents should be able to make freely and without state restriction. As an educational option, home education is as legitimate as any other kind of school.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     Many changes should be made to free parents from state restrictions that serve no purpose beyond maintaining state control of education. More than two families should be free to pool their resources to provide all the academic instruction to their children as they desire. The certification requirements for teachers should be eliminated. The recordkeeping and administrative requirements should be simply limited to informing the state of the students receiving home education. Scheduling, testing, and curriculum should be entirely up to parents. Beyond amending the Homeschool Law, state education funding should be oriented towards students, not systems.


NC House of Representatives District 32
Candidate: John Franklin Sossamon                Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: (11) Frank Sossamon for NC House of Representatives District 32 | Facebook

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I think it’s a parents right to chose what school or type of educational system or style is best for their child/children. So I support school choice.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I certainly think it has a place and some children that would have failed in public school excelled in home school education. There should be a realistic standard for home schooling to ensure a quality education. I support Article 39 of Chapter 115C along with Senate Bill 189 modifying the definition of homeschool in the law.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     As I understand it and from the conversations I’ve had with homeschoolers they aren’t pushing for any changes but I would be open to listening to anything that would improve what we have for the betterment of the children involved across the state.


NC House of Representatives District 36
Candidate: Kyle Ward                    Political Party: Libertarian
Campaign Website: http://wardfornc.org

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I believe school choice is critical to improving education outcomes in our state. I have two young boys, and school choice is one of the primary reasons I’m running. Our current system traps too many children in failing schools that are often violent. Only people with means can afford school choice. I want to extend that choice to all North Carolinians by attaching education dollars to individual students.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I support home education. Not only do I trust parents to educate their children, but I also do not recognize any right to tell them how to do it. Furthermore, if we are able to pass a school voucher program, I would fight to make sure homeschooling parents are able to use that cash to educate their children.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I’m not an expert in this area and would be thrilled to learn more, but in general, I support drastically lowering the requirements to homeschool your children. You do not owe the state an explanation. Education is important, but so is feeding your children. We would not tolerate regular reporting on nutrition and health outcomes to the state. I trust parents.


NC House of Representatives District 37
Candidate: Erin Paré                     Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://Erinfornc.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    I am a staunch supporter of school choice and have supported school choice legislation as a member of the NC House do Representatives.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    Home Schools have been a God-send to children, especially during COVID. Every family has the right to educate their child the way they believe is best for them. Home education has had outstanding results. We must continue to support home education.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    No.


NC House of Representatives District 41
Candidate: Bruce Forster                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.ForsterForHouse.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    It is a fundamental right.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    Outstanding option, especially for certain kids and/or families.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    Standardize testing should test only proficiencies in subjects such as english, math, history, etc…. Subjects that reflect preparedness for a successful career.


NC House of Representatives District 43
Candidate: Diane Wheatley                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: http://www.DianeWheatleyNC.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    In today’s educational environment, I believe giving parents choices as to how and where their children are educated is crucial to the survival of our society.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    Given proper resources and motivation, the data shows that home schooled student can be highly successful.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    Although the present regulations seem generally appropriate, I would want to do more research after having discussions with home-school families. One area I would like to consider is the limit on the number of families that can join together in a home school.


NC House of Representatives District 48
Candidate: Melissa Swarbrick                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.swarbrickforhouse48.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     School choice gives children the opportunity to thrive and excel in the educational setting that their parents feel is best for them. School choice also allows parents to be more involved in the curriculum.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     Like school choice, it is one option that many parents feel is best for their child. I am all for allowing parents to make that decision. Not all children can thrive in the traditional school setting.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     The requirements look pretty clear and comprehensive.


NC House of Representatives District 49
Candidate: Michael Oakes                        Political Party: Libertarian
Campaign Website: https://www.oakesfornc.org

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     School choice is a fundamental right for parents. Nobody on Earth cares about a child’s education more than their parents.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I believe that all education options should be available. Parents should have the right to choose education methods that work best for them.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I believe that imposing family requirements, as well as immunization records for students, is government overreach. Homeschool law should not require these details, to allow micro-schools by trusted educators outside of the family (or families) and maintain medical privacy for children.


NC House of Representatives District 50
Candidate: Charles Lopez                        Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.lopezfornc.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I have been a long-term advocate for school choice. I have been a Charter School Board President in Florida for an at-risk school. In North Carolina, I was elected as a Board Member at a local charter school in Hillsborough, NC before we chose to home school. As a participant in public, charter, and homeschool options,  I can attest that the best opportunity came from the parent having choices.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     This question hits close to home. We have been homeschooling for about 2 years now. We love our homeschool community and have seen our grow exponentially in STEM projects, music and arts, and even more so enjoying learning to read about history, politics of today, and technology. This has also allowed us to be intentional about instilling the conservative values of fiscal, spiritual, and moral attributes that make us productive and empathetic citizens of society.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I do not believe we should add any more government regulations towards what currently exists.

NC House of Representatives District 50
Candidate: Renée Price                        Political Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: https://reneeprice4nc.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Parents and legal guardians should be able to choose the educational setting and format that they deem are best for their child or children.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    I am fine with home education, as long as students are provided with a curriculum that aligns with the courses of study in traditional public schools. Additional topics often are taught, such as religious studies, and I am fine with that, as well.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    Improvements should be made based on student outcomes, and that data should be collected and analyzed annually.


NC House of Representatives District 54
Candidate: Walter Petty                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: HTTPS://Electpetty.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Parents should have a choice where their children attend school

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I believe that should be an option. I also believe that our schools should provide a quality education and a safe environment that encourages parents to feel comfortable with public education as an option.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I believe the tax dollars for a home schooled child should follow that child as with any school choice.


NC House of Representatives District 55
Candidate: Mark Brody                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: http://markbrody.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     It is the best thing that can happen to education. Competition makes education better.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     Home education is one of many viable options that are available to parents in determining what is the best direction for their children. I am one of the members of the GA that produced the NC Homeschool Law so I feel it is very important.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     At this time the system is working well. One of the areas of concern is the vaccination requirement. The individual parent should determine the vaccines required for their children. I also believe the home school students should have access to extra activities that are currently provided to the traditional public schools and paid for by the tax dollars of the residents of the county where the home school ( and the students are residents of that same county ) is located such as sports or extracurricular activities not part of the regular school day. Home school parents should be required to pay the same fees charged to all students participating in those activities if a fee is required to participate.


NC House of Representatives District 59
Candidate: Jon Hardister                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://jonhardister.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    School choice enriches our education system by providing families with the ability to choose the best option for their children.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    Families should retain the right to homeschool if they believe this is the best fit for their children.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    I do not have any immediate ideas for changes, but I am open to hear from families as to what, if any, adjustments should be made to state law.


NC House of Representatives District 64
Candidate: Dennis Riddell                        Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.riddell4nchouse64.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Strongly support.  Parents should at least have as much choice in where their children go to school as they do when selecting an ISP.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     Strongly support.  My wife (and I to a lesser extent) have homeschooled all 8 of our children K-12 and up thru some online college.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     No changes. Leave well enough alone.


NC House of Representatives District 65
Candidate: Reece Pyrtle                        Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://ReeceForNC.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    I support school choice 100%. Parents know what is best when it comes to educating their children.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    I support parents’ rights to homeschool their children. This is a critical aspect of school choice and we must fight to maintain and advance this freedom in North Carolina.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    I would like to look into policies where money follows the child, or where homeschool students can participate in sports teams of their school district. After all, the parents are paying the taxes for their child to be in school, they deserve the same benefits.


NC House of Representatives District 71
Candidate: Kanika Brown             Political Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: https://www.facebook.com/kanika.brown.984

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I believe school choice is an excellent opportunity for a lot of our youth. This gives our parents and students a choice in education so they can be exposed to more opportunities, safer environments, and an increase in their social skills.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     Home education is a great opportunity for a lot of our kids. We have so much bullying and violence in our schools. It’s a challenge for a lot of our youth to learn when they are fearful for their life and their friend’s life. With home education, our youth can learn at their own pace in which they’ll see improvement in their grades, become more creative, and can volunteer for community service for organizations.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I believe at this time, according to research, there is no need for changes and everything is going according to the state guidelines. However, if the state changes or parents raise concerns about a particular issue we must have a conversation about how we can come up with a solution to the problem.


NC House of Representatives District 73
Candidate: Brian Echevarria                    Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://brianechevarria.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Schooling our children the way we choose is our right as parents. Above that, there is no way we should be paying for an education our children are not getting; the money must follow the student to whatever school the parent chooses. Including the cost associated with homeschooling.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     With the wide availability of high-quality curriculum that exceeds state standards, homeschooling has proven the most effective and heart protecting way to educate a child. While all family dynamics do not permit all families to homeschool, those who do should be able to without any interference from any government.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     Yes. Parents choosing to educate their children at home should NOT be expected to maintain or share attendance, immunization, or relocation with the state. As a student progresses, the transcript and testing will reflect all that needs to be known.


NC House of Representatives District 74
Candidate: Jeff Zenger                    Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://jeffzenger.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:      I think everyone show have a choice

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:      We homeschooled all 4 of our kids.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:      No, I do not think we need any changes.


NC House of Representatives District 78
Candidate: Jeff Zenger                    Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.nealjackson4nc.org

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Education is one of the most important issues North Carolina faces. The key to a child’s success is access to quality education. I, therefore, support school choice for parents.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    As a home school parent, I fully support home education.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:      No.


NC House of Representatives District 79
Candidate: Keith Kidwell                   Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://keithkidwell.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:  Parents should always have the choice of where and how their children are educated.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:  As a 2nd generation home school family I fully support home education.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    No. More government control is not necessary. I have personally met hundreds of home-schoolers and home-educated children and they are some of the best-educated children in the country.


NC House of Representatives District 90
Candidate: Sarah Stevens                        Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: Sarah Stevens (Speaker Pro Tempore) – North Carolina House Republican Caucus (nchouserepublicans.com)

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Parents should have options. It is the parent’s duty to get the best education according to their child’s needs

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     Parents have a right to educate their children.  Almost all of then do it for the right reason.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     There’s always room for improvement.  Why only two households?   Many people have the ability to share in knowledge.


NC House of Representatives District 102
Candidate: Cynthia Clementi                               Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://ballotpedia.org/Cynthia_Eleanor_Clementi

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:      Whatever parents think is best for their children. Is the best choice.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:      Fabulous!!

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:      If it works for the parents it works for me.


NC House of Representatives District 103
Candidate: Bill Brawley                               Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://brawleyforhouse.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Strong supporter of home schooling. Have appeared a meeting of patents and have held education sessions for home school students on the NC Legislature including a mock session with the students as legislators

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    It is the exercise of parental school choice and has it’s roots in American education going back to colonial days.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    No. If the home school community is satisfied leave it alone. We already know the students perform at a higher level than LEA students


NC House of Representatives District 105
Candidate: Joshua Niday             Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://electniday.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I fully support school choice. I believe a child’s educational options should not be limited to their zip code, and studies show students who are allowed to partake in school choice tend to have higher exam scores.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I think every child learns differently, and for some children, homeschooling is best. Ultimately I believe it is up to the parents. Given the increased desire of some to indoctrinate our children and oversexualize education, I see homeschooling becoming more and more relevant.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     At this time I am not aware of any immediate changes that need to be made. However, I can say that when elected, I will oppose any proposed legislation that would require parents to teach topics such as critical race theory, leftist or communist indoctrination, and/ or age-inappropriate discussions within the classroom, and I will also oppose legislation that imposes undue burdens on parents wishing to homeschool.


NC House of Representatives District 109
Candidate: Donnie Loftis              Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.donniefornc.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Parents should have all educational options to provide their child high quality programs to receive a fully functioning education. Whether that may be through public school with options to move their child to a high performing school or through vouchers to assist in attending private, Christian, homeschool or Opportunity Scholarships. As a current member of the NC House, I voted to give Parents more educational choices including making masks optional.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     The quality of home education has improved greatly over the past ten years. And because of the one-on-one attention those students receive, the critical thinking skills has also improved as reflected through national testing. Institutions of higher learning have finally realized they were missing out on some high-quality students and now have begun to open their programs to those who completed a home education.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     Unless there are changes that have been identified by the home education network, current law is acceptable. I would be available to assisting home educators in the future if additional changes are identified.


NC House of Representatives District 114
Candidate: Everett D. Pittillo                    Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.electeverettdpittillo.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I believe that parents should have a choice.  I would actually like to write legislation that would have the money follow the student whether it be public education, private education, or home school.  Parents that would like to spend more time with their children due to the excess of cost when homeschooling.  So if the money follows the parent they will then have that choice.  Covid has exposed a raw nerve and parents need the ability to make the choice they want for their children.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I believe in home education if that suits the parents.  Many parents have college degrees and have the ability to further their childrens’ education themselves.  I believe every parent should be able to make the choice to insure their children get the education they deserve.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I actually think the state should support the homeschool process more.  Parents should have full participation in any extra curricular activities such as sports at no cost.  The legislation needs to pass a bill to have the money follow the child wherever they choose to receive their education.  Legislation must also distance themselves with the immunization records.  Many individuals are choosing homeschool for freedom of medical choice also (Covid has exposed this).  As far as the homeschool process, I am aquainted with this having many family members and friends choosing this route for their children.  The State must support the parents freedom of choice with programs and financial aide and must become involved with this freedom of choice.


NC House of Representatives District 116
Candidate: Mollie Rose                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://buncombe.nc.gop/mollie_rose

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    We need the expand school choice to end government monopoly which will improve quality of education for everyone.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    Those who choose to educate their children at home deserve a refund of taxes they have paid for public education.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    No, however I would like the opinion of families that home school regarding any needed changes.


NC House of Representatives District 117
Candidate: Jennifer Capps Balkcom                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://VoteBalkcom.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I support school choice 100%.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     If more children were homeschooled, I would not worry as much for our future.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I believe that the current statutory requirements are appropriate and I appreciate NCHE’s position on cooperating with the law. I would always be open to entertaining changes to the law, however, should the regulations become too onerous or outmoded.

 

NC Senate Candidates Survey

Responses are ordered by NC Senate district numbers.

Follow this link to find out what districts you are in, Representation – North Carolina General Assembly (ncleg.gov).

NC Senate District 4
Candidate: Buck Newton                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.ibackbuck.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Parents have the final say and responsibility for their children’s education. School choice is essential. If parents do not have the freedom to choose what is best for their child or have no (good) options, they and their children are denied their opportunities and full potential. That is wrong.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    My view of home education is very positive. Home education is the best choice for many children and families. Parents should have choices and not be forced to turn their children’s education over to a failing public school or circumstances where values are contradicted. My wife (primarily) and I homeschooled one of our children for a period. It was of tremendous benefit to him and to us. As I stated above, parents have the final say about their children’s education.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    No, I don’t know of any reasons to change the law. When I was in the NC Senate before (2011-2016) I was a co-sponsor of SB 189, which became law 2013, and changed the definition of “homeschool”. I believe that with that change NC has one of if not the best homeschool laws in the country and homeschooling should continue to be regulated by DNPE. I would strongly oppose any efforts to further regulate homeschooling in NC as parents should have control of their children’s education and the positive results of homeschooling is undisputed.


NC Senate District 14
Candidate: Matthew Laszacs                   Political Party: Libertarian
Campaign Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079335191181

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Parents, not politicians, should determine what type of schooling best meets the educational needs of their individual children. For that reason, I fully support expanding school choice options in NC through initiatives such as educational savings accounts, vouchers, and scholarships. I want to give NC parents their hard earned educational tax dollars and let them determine where to spend them, whether that’s a home school, public school, or even a micro school. Fund Students, not systems.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I fully support the parental right to educate children at home and I will do everything I can to block any legislation or regulation that restricts parents’ freedom to educate their children in the manner that they see fit. The COVID pandemic exposed the inflexibility of our public education system in an extremely obvious and public manner. Home schooling showed consistency of educational outcomes where our public schools failed. I will fight hard to support home schooling parents.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I would loosen two of the requirements and remove the two-household stipulation from the definition. First, why restrict home schooling to two households? It may be beneficial to move children between homeschools in a community for a number of reasons and this language may restrict that. Second, I see no reason for homeschooling parents to maintain immunization records. Not all parents feel that their children should receive all of the state mandated school-age immunizations and this seems to force them to even if they elect to home school.  Lastly, I see no reason for homeschooled children to be forced to operate on a nine month schedule. If the kids can pass the standardized test and meet the learning requirements, it is irrelevant how long they are “in class.”


NC Senate District 16
Candidate: James Powers                Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: http://JamesPowers4NC.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    I am definitely for school choice.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    I think home school is an excellent program, where students are taught and are receiving a quality education without the cancel culture and critical race theory. Education is the purpose of school, not gender identity nor pronouns.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:    I would like to see some skills training, that would prepare those students not wanting to go to college with skills to enter the work for and become assets to our economy and not be a burden or receiving federal or state funds to survive.

NC Senate District 16
Candidate: Dee Watson                Political Party: Libertarian
Campaign Website: https://electdeewatson.org/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I am a proponent of funding students not systems. All money State, Federal and Local money should follow the child.  In a homeschooling setting every student should be given a funded account where materials, curriculum, tutoring, classes etc. can be expensed.  If the student does not utilize all the funds, the funds should rollover to the next year in a 529 plan.  Funds that are not utilized during K-12 education should be available for collage.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I homeschooled 2 of my children for a year, and I wish that I had quit working when Covid began and homeschooled my youngest. It is difficult if both parents work (my situation), so I think it isn’t feasible for all families, but I know many fantastic homeschool families. I think it is a wonderful option for many people.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     The regulations for homeschool families in NC are very reasonable.  Right now, homeschool families are required to administer a standardized test once a year.  The NC EOGs not accepted for this purpose since they are not a national test.  I would like to make them an option and make them available to all homeschool and private schooled families. I do NOT think they should be required, but I do think they should be a free option.


NC Senate District 17
Candidate: Mark Cavaliero                       Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://markcavaliero.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Providing families with the opportunity to choose the school that best meets their family’s needs is the right thing to do. I’d like to see an expansion of the current opportunity scholarships so that more families can choose the option that works best for them. School choice is also good for public education as it introduces competition into the system. Charter, private, and home schools also act as innovation laboratories to try out strategies on a small scale that could later be expanded.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     Home education is another option for families that would like control over the curriculum and instruction of their children. I think home schools are a critical component of the educational system.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I’m not aware of any changes that should be made.


NC Senate District 20
Candidate: Alvin Reed                   Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://alvinreed.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I have home schooled all off my children and have personal experience that it is a superior means of schooling. I am running on a platform of vouchers for all NC parents including home school parents.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     Home education allows the parents to fine tune their children’s education to specifically what makes their children the smartest. They are not just a number in a classroom.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     The law gives the parent the flexibility to run their school as they see fit. I do agree with the two requirements of attendance and yearly testing.


NC Senate District 22
Candidate: Larry Coleman                       Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.colemanforncsenate.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I believe that parents should be able to choose how to educate their children.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I believe that home education is a great way to educate children if you desire and have resources available.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     No.


NC Senate District 27
Candidate: Richard (Josh) Sessoms                  Political Party: Republican

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I am very much for school choice which gives parents the option what school to send their children to.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     If a parent or parents chooses to home school their children then having that option is a good thing for families. I know more than a few families that went this route to help their children during tough times to ensure that their children get a sound education.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     No.


NC Senate District 30
Candidate: Steve Jarvis                Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: Https://www.ElectJarvis.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     It should always be the Choice of the Parent.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     It should always be the Choice of the Parent.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     No


NC Senate District 34
Candidate: Paul Newton               Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://Newton4Senate.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I am a school choice advocate.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     My wife and I homeschooled all 4 of our children through high school.  I have defended home educators against attacks from the state Democratic party alleging that home educators “are not educators”.  (Reference my debate with Gladys Robinson on the Senate Floor).

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I will defeat changes being suggested in the media by Democrats.  I am not aware that NCHE is advocating for any changes.


NC Senate District 36
Candidate: Eddie Settle                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: HTTPS://Settleforsenate.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I think every American should have a choice of school whether home , public , charter .

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     My children went to public education but with the environment today we would home educate.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I believe tax dollars should follow the education with home school certification getting stronger.


NC Senate District 44
Candidate: Ted Alexander                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://Www.tedforsenate.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    I am fully in favor of school choice.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    I am fully in favor of home education.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:  I am open to considering legislation that would assist homeschoolers in NC.


NC Senate District 46
Candidate: Billy S. Martin              Political Party: Democrat

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I am a retired public educator.  However, I have no problem with parents choosing to educate their children at home or wherever else they feel best suits their child’s education.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I feel if a parent feels equipped to instruct their child at home then that their choice.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     I don’t see any aspects of the laws I could disagree with.


NC Senate District 49
Candidate: John Anderson                        Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.JohnAnderson4NCSenate.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Parents know what’s best for their children and should have the power to decide which school option fits their children.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    Home education allows parents to choose the curriculum which fits their children, and at which level. A child could be in third grade math, but fifth grade English, and this flexibility allows students to grow at their own pace. Parents have told me that this school option is also about family, not just education. The home school community in North Carolina is dynamic and thriving, offering classes, sports, testing, proms, and even hybrid home schools.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     No.


NC Senate District 50
Candidate: Karen Burnette McCracken                        Political Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: https://twitter.com/ABB4WNC

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Each child is unique. They have unique learning styles and abilities. Where one child thrives, another may flounder. Parents have a responsibility to decide what educational option is best for their children.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     My sisters-in-law homeschool their children. Both are capable teachers with resources and supports. Home schooling works with their lifestyles, and the children do well academically and socially. In some situations, home education is the best option.

Question:   Do you believe any changes need to be made to the homeschool law in NC? Explain your answer.
Answer:     There is always room for improvement. I am open to advice from those directly involved in home education.

 

 

NC Judicial Candidates Survey

Responses are ordered by NC Court of Appeals seat number and NC Supreme Court seat number.

NC Court of Appeals Candidates

NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 08

Candidate: Julee Tate Flood                    Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: http://JuleeFlood.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I believe parents have a fundamental right to control the upbringing of their children, including choosing educational options best suited for their children.  School choice respects learning and social needs for each individual child.  Parents are best equipped to identify which educational option best meets their child’s needs and nurtures their child’s potential.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     A mother of four now-adult sons who were homeschooled through high school, I unequivocally support education in which teaching and learning are entwined with family relationships and activities.  Parental responsibility, a moral compass, educational excellence, citizenship, learning how to learn, and safety are key among countless benefits of home schooling–where home is life’s center.  It was a blessing and joy to homeschool my sons; I support all who choose this path.

Question:   What beliefs or ideals guide your decisions when you adjudicate a case that comes before you?
Answer:     A Christian, constitutional conservative, I would adhere to an originalist, textualist judicial philosophy in adjudicating any case.  Having drafted hundreds of judicial opinions for appellate jurists, my approach has not wavered:  the law says what it says and means what it says and does not mean what it does not say.  Adhering to stare decisis—the doctrine of honoring legal precedent—furthers predictability and stability.  I apply analytical rigor in discerning nuanced distinctions.  I oppose judicial activism and will not use the law to advance a political agenda; rather, I respect the separation of powers and believe the role of a judge is to follow the law.  I will treat each person with dignity; for each, their case is the most important case before the Court.


NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 09

Candidate: Donna Stroud             Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://JudgeStroud.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     I believe parents should be free to choose the educational option that works best for their family and children.  School is not one size fits all, and every parent who has more than one child knows that each child may have different needs.  Parents must also consider the schools available in their area and whether those schools will provide what their children need. My own two sons, who are now ages 26 and 29, attended private Christian schools from kindergarten through high school graduation.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I have known many home-schooled children and parents who home-school.  My own experience has been that these children tend to excel, and they are generally more mature and better-behaved than most children in public schools and most private schools.  For example, a few months ago, a group of home-school students visited the Court of Appeals, and those children – even the very young ones – asked such excellent questions!

Question:   What beliefs or ideals guide your decisions when you adjudicate a case that comes before you.
Answer:     I believe each case must be considered fully, fairly, and impartially and in accord with the controlling law.  Every case is important and deserves full consideration of the evidence and arguments presented.  The Court of Appeals is an error-correcting court, and it does not make law.  We must decide according to the law as it has been set out by the General Assembly or any controlling cases, particularly from the Supreme Court of North Carolina.  Next, since judges on the Court of Appeals must write opinions explaining the decision on cases presented to the Court based on an appeal of a trial court’s judgment or order, I write opinions clearly explaining the ruling and the rationale in a way that will be helpful for the parties, lawyers, and the public.


NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 10
Candidate: John M. Tyson                       Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.judgejohntyson.com/

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Children should have the opportunity to obtain the best education available to them, without regard to the source. Public schools do not have a monopoly over our children’s education. Charter, parochial. and private schools all provide alternative opportunities and choices. Parents have the primary right to the care custody and control of their children. Their goals and desires for their children’s futures must be protected. All children are entitled to a free, sound, and basic education.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    My wife and I obtained a home school license and certificate and taught 2 of our four children. I taught middle school and high school English prior to law school. Our daughter is teaching her four children in a university/home school model, where they attend class 3 days per week and study at home the other 2 days. The COVID pandemic brought into glaring focus deficiencies and curriculums previously hidden from parents and forced parents to become more involved in their children’s education.

Question:   What beliefs or ideals guide your decisions when you adjudicate a case that comes before you?
Answer:    My judicial philosophy is consistent with the mission & goals of North Carolina’s Judicial Branch, which requires Judges: “To protect and preserve the rights and liberties of all the people, as guaranteed by the Constitutions and laws of the United States and North Carolina, by providing a fair, independent and accessible forum for the just, timely and economical resolution of their legal affairs.”

I believe in and have put into practice judicial accountability and efficiency, which demands a life-long commitment to continuing education, training, and experience. This philosophy has developed over many years of experience, study, and practical application of the law as a practitioner. law professor, and as a trial and appellate judge.


NC COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE SEAT 11
Candidate: Michael J. Stading                 Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://www.michaelstading.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    Drawing from personal experience as a parent over the years, my wife and I appreciate and value the school choice options available to us in North Carolina. We have experience with parochial, public & homeschool options. Currently, we choose to homeschool our children as this option has proven to be a wonderful fit for our family as it is for many North Carolina families. Of particular importance to our family is that the homeschool option has allowed us to individualize education for our kids.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    As a homeschool dad of 3 children, I believe home education is an excellent way to instruct. As a child’s most important teacher, I believe that all parents should be informed and actively engaged in the education of their children. Home education allows children to work at a pace and academic level that is appropriate for their age and developmental ability. Home education gives parents the opportunity to integrate faith and values into the education of their children & shape their worldview.

Question:   What beliefs or ideals guide your decisions when you adjudicate a case that comes before you?
Answer:    A judge should always take the particularized facts of a specific case and apply the appropriate law to reach a decision. My oath as a sitting judge is to support and maintain the constitutions and laws of the United States and North Carolina. Our federal and state constitutions are enshrined with our values and should be paid the appropriate deference by a court. Accordingly, my judicial philosophy is to adhere to textualism and original intent, that is to attribute the meaning of those carefully chosen words intended at the time of ratification of the constitution or statute. Additionally, I am certainly guided daily by my worldview and faith as a Christian.

 

NC Supreme Court Candidates

NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE SEAT 03
Candidate: Richard Dietz              Political Party: Republican
Campaign Website: https://judgedietz.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:     Every child is unique and students and their parents are in the best position to know what approach ensures they can enjoy the privilege of a quality education.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:     I have partnered with homeschool groups on many programs in the courts, including a “moot court” field trip program to the Court of Appeals. Justice Phil Berger, Jr. and I also created the “North Carolina Constitutional Academy,” a series of online lectures about the Bill of Rights available to students on the court website. We created the program during the pandemic but, after feedback from homeschool groups, have plans to revamp and expand it as a permanent offering going forward.

Question:   What beliefs or ideals guide your decisions when you adjudicate a case that comes before you?
Answer:     I am a judicial conservative with a splash of law & economics. In constitutional interpretation, I focus on the key idea that “We the People” ratified our fundamental rights. I reject the notion of judges rewriting what the people ratified as part of so-called living constitutionalism. With laws enacted by the legislature, I am a textualist and follow the language chosen by lawmakers. In areas of common law, where judicial decisions create the law, I focus on how common law can create incentives to keep us safe, encourage people to peacefully resolve disputes, and help our society prosper.


NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE SEAT 05
Candidate: Sam J. Ervin, IV               Political Party: Democrat
Campaign Website: https://judgedietz.com

Question:   What is your opinion of school choice?
Answer:    North Carolina laws concerning school choice are enacted by the legislature. Judges should not decide cases based upon their own policy views. If a judge were to comment upon the merits of a law that the legislature passed and a case involving that law later came before the judge, someone might think that that judge could not fairly and impartially decide that case. As a result, I generally decline to comment upon public policy issues in my campaigns for judicial office.

Question:   What is your view of home education?
Answer:    North Carolina laws concerning home education are enacted by the legislature. Judges should not decide cases based upon their own policy views. If a judge were to comment upon the merits of a law that the legislature passed and a case involving that law later came before the judge, someone might think that that judge could not fairly and impartially decide that case. As a result, I generally decline to comment upon public policy issues in my campaigns for judicial office.

Question:   What beliefs or ideals guide your decisions when you adjudicate a case that comes before you?
Answer:      Courts exist to make sure that people receive the remedies to which they are entitled, that the rights of all people are protected, and that each branch of government, including the courts, remains within proper constitutional bounds. I believe that judges should base their decisions upon the existing law and the facts and that partisan politics has no place in our courtrooms. I also believe that everyone is entitled to be fairly heard, that no one is above the law, and that all persons should be treated equally under the law. Finally, I believe that judges should remember that each case that they decide has real impact on real people and take their responsibilities very seriously for that reason. These principles have guided every decision that I have made at the Supreme Court

 

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