Hello friends, thanks for joining me in the NC Deep Dive. I'm your host, Amanda Benbow Lunn, and we are in the thick of the 2026 primary election season. Early voting starts in less than a week on Thursday, February 12th, with election day being Tuesday, March 3rd. When you go to vote, you will be handed a ballot based on your address and your party affiliation. If you are unaffiliated, sometimes also referred here as independent, then you will have your choice of which party's ballot you would like to vote. Please note that you are only able to cast one ballot, and that there are no primary ballots for the Libertarian, Green, or No Labels parties. Moreover, candidates for the general election in November who do not have a primary challenger will not appear on your primary ballot. They get a pass directly to the general election. Due to time constraints and the plethora of candidates, and my belief that having as much information as possible is of vast importance, this primary election segment will consist of me covering one race at a time and going over each candidate's website and what I can find in a simple Google search in case it's easier for you to take the information in this way. I'll also be reading over the answers they gave if they submitted any responses to our 2026 Voters Guide questionnaire. If you are short on time, you can check out our NC Deep Dive Voter Guide for the 2026 primary election found pinned to our Facebook page or in this episode's show notes at www.ncdeepdive.com. It will be an easy way to access each candidate's website and research the candidates on your own if that is a better use of your time. Without further ado, friends, let's dive in. This episode will feature the District Attorney District 10 race on the Democratic primary ballot. There are three candidates running in this race. They are Sherita Walton, Melanie Shekita, and Wiley Nickel. You will be eligible to vote for one of these candidates. And just as a disclaimer, there is no Republican candidate that will be on the ballot in November. So whoever wins this primary will move forth still into the November general election, but they will not have an opponent. So they will become the elected district attorney for District 10 come November automatically. We will start with Sherita Walton. Sherita Walton for Wake District Attorney. There's a donate link along with an Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube link. Says Lorrin Freeman, current Wake County DA, endorses Sherita Walton's campaign. See more below. Meet Sherita. Every experience has led me here to step up, to serve, to listen, and to build a justice system that reflects the best of who we are. Join me in building a system we can all trust, one that serves and strengthens our entire community. Sherita Walton. Sherita is a seasoned attorney with over 20 years of legal experience. She began her career at a prestigious New York law firm handling complex litigation, white-collar, criminal defense, and securities enforcement matters. Her experience includes more than a decade prosecuting serious crimes in two of the nation's most demanding prosecutorial jurisdictions. She spent eight years as an assistant district attorney in the Manhattan DA's office and nearly five years in the Wake County DA's office. In both offices, she prosecuted cases at various levels, including homicides, serious assaults, financial crimes, and property offenses. Sherita currently serves as a senior associate city attorney advising the Raleigh Police Department. After the events of 2020, she saw an opportunity to support accountability and help rebuild trust between law enforcement and the community they serve. In this role, she trains officers in constitutional policing and provides legal guidance that ensures accountability and community safety. She understands what it takes to build strong cases and ensure fairness at every stage of the process. As a first-generation college and law school graduate, Sherita earned her degrees with honors from Binghamton University and Pace University School of Law. Born and raised in New York, she chose Wake County as a home over a decade ago, raising her family here while serving this community. She is a proud daughter of a mother who instilled in her the values of faith, hard work, and resilience. She leads with both empathy and courage, believing that true justice means ensuring fairness for all. Sherita is running for Wake County District Attorney because this moment demands a leader with broad perspective and principled judgment to ensure that the justice system works for everyone. Her vision is to lead an office that the public can trust, an office that reflects our shared values and helps ensure Wake County remains a desirable place to live, work, and raise families. When elected, Sherita will make history as Wake County's first African American district attorney, bringing both milestone achievement and proven excellence to the role our community deserves. Join the team. There are links to donate and get updates from Sherita. There is a video of Sherita Walton telling you why she is running. Clear, consistent, and focused priorities. 1. Promote public safety. I will prioritize the prosecution of violent crimes, including gun violence, sexual assault, and domestic abuse, to safeguard our communities, ensuring the safety of Wake County residents will always remain at the core of my work. 2. Administer justice with integrity and compassion. Every person who enters the justice system, whether victim, defendant, attorney, or community member, deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. I'm committed to a system where everyone feels heard and no one is invisible. 3. Foster transparency in prosecutorial decisions. Building trust starts with openness. I will implement transparent policies such as public case outcome reporting, accessible information about office guidelines and policies, and regular community listening sessions to ensure the public understands how and why decisions are made. 4. Pursue effective criminal justice reform. I will expand access to diversion and prevention programs that reduce recidivism and support long-term success, including mental health diversion and youth intervention programs. Five, strengthen and support the office. Wake County is the largest and one of the fastest growing communities in North Carolina. I will work to expand staffing, invest in professional development, and secure the resources our assistant DAs need to deliver timely and effective justice for all. Key initiatives as district attorney. Create violent crime unit, expand special victims unit, designate law enforcement DA liaisons, establish a DA Advisory Council, establish a youth advisory council. Career accomplishments, with over two decades of legal experience across both public and private sectors, Sherita has built a career grounded in justice, public safety, and service. Each chapter of her journey has deepened her understanding of the law and strengthened her commitment to serving people with integrity and compassion. She worked as a legal advisor for the Raleigh Police Department from 2021 to present. Since 2021, as a senior associate city attorney, Sherita has provided daily legal guidance to the Raleigh Police Department. Her work includes advising during critical incidents and use of force events. She assists with policy recommendations, responds to requests for release and disclosure of law enforcement agency recordings, and ensures legal compliance and transparency in public records responses. She worked in the Wake County District Attorney's Office from 2016 to 2021. When Sherita moved to Wake County, she continued her public service as a prosecutor. For nearly five years, she handled some of the county's violent and complex cases, including homicides, shootings, assaults, and financial crimes. She worked for the Manhattan District Attorney's Office from 2008 to 2016. In 2008, Sherita pursued her passion to serve the public directly. She joined the Manhattan District Attorney's Office as an assistant district attorney in the trial division. There she prosecuted some of the most serious violent felonies, including ones connected to gang activity, requiring close collaboration with law enforcement and sensitivity to community impact. In 2013, Sherita received their Grace Under Pressure Award for maintaining professionalism and composure in high-stakes situations. And then from 2002 to 2008, she worked at Fride, Frank, Harris, Shriver, and Jacobson LLP. Sherita's legal career began in the private sector, where she represented a wide range of clients from those facing investigations or challenges before the Securities and Exchange Commission or United States Attorney's Office to working families navigating family court without the means to afford legal representation. For education, she holds a JD from Pace University School of Law in 2002 and a Bachelor's of Arts from Binghamton University in 1999. Her licensure, she's a licensed attorney in North Carolina since 2015 and licensed in New York and New Jersey from 2003 to 2016. Her memberships are the North Carolina State Bar, the North Carolina Bar Association, the Wake County Bar Association, Capital City Lawyers Association, and North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers. Lorrin Freeman, current Wake County DA, endorses Sherita Walton's campaign. The people of Wake County will have the opportunity to choose the next DA starting with a primary in just a few months. Before deciding to leave at the end of my term, it was important to me to support someone I believed would serve our community well and who understood the importance of building trust through responsiveness, transparency, and accountability. I am grateful Sherita accepted this challenge. As district attorney, one of my greatest honors has been leading and building a team of attorneys committed to serving our community. I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing prosecutors who have dedicated their lives to fighting for victims. I am grateful for them. After working in the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, Sherita joined our office for several years where she prosecuted cases in both Superior and District Court. Over the last few years, she has served as a part of the executive level team of the Raleigh Police Department as a city attorney where she has helped shepherd our community through some of our most challenging moments. She has been a voice for transparency and repairing community trust during these times. It is her diversity of experience during her more than 20-year career that I believe aligns most closely with the responsibilities of being the elected DA, and that will allow Sherita to elevate our office to meet the demands of one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation. Sherita is hardworking, principled, and humble. Her integrity is unwavering. She holds a number of endorsements from Jason Armstrong, retired police chief of Apex, NC and Ferguson MO, Corey Branch, Raleigh City Council, Laura Fahnestock, former Chief of Police of Fuquay Varina, North Carolina, Franklin Freeman, former NC Supreme Court Associate Justice, Gerald Givens, CEO of Raleigh Boots on the Ground, Abe Jones, NC State Representative of District 38, Tupe Omike, Planning Commissioner of the City of Raleigh, Rhonda Rainey, Executive Director of Interact, Progressive Dems, Progressive Democrats of Wake County, Mary Ann Baldwin, the former City of Raleigh Mayor, Grady Bussey, Knightdale Town Council, Stormy Fort, Raleigh City Council Mayor Pro Tem. Lorrin Freeman, current Wake County District Attorney, Lisa Grafstein, NC State Senator for District 13, Nancy McFarlane, former City Raleigh Mayor. Estella Patterson, retired police chief of the Raleigh Police, James Roberson, NC State Representative for District 38, RWCA, the Raleigh Wake Citizens Association, Cynthia Ball, NC State Representative for District 49, Amber Davis, Zebulon Commissioner, Dr. Cara Foster, Holly Springs Town Council, Jacques Gilbert, Mayor of Apex, North Carolina, Jessica Harris, Mayor of Zebulon, North Carolina, Quentin Miles, Zebulon Commissioner, Mayor Pro Tem, Tru Pettigrew, True Access, Missy Wright of Raleigh Community Outreach Organizer, College Dems at NC State. There are buttons where you can donate and volunteer to her campaign, and that is the entirety of Sherita Walton's website. Doing the Google search, I found her on Ballotpedia. Sherita Walton of the Democratic Party is running for election for the North Carolina 10th Prosecutorial District Attorney. Walton is on the ballot in the Democratic primary on March 3rd, 2026. She did complete some of the Ballotpedia survey responses. Who are you? Tell us about yourself. I'm Sherita Walton, and I'm running for Wake County District Attorney because this moment demands a leader who has seen justice from every angle. I am the proud daughter of a Harnett County native who raised me to believe that doing the right thing matters, especially when it's hard. That foundation, combined with 20 years of legal experience spanning defense, prosecution, and law enforcement counsel, has prepared me for this moment. I began at a New York law firm handling complex litigation and white-collar defense. I then prosecuted serious crimes, including homicides, financial crimes, and assaults, in both the Manhattan and Wake County DA's offices. Today, I advise the Raleigh Police Department, training officers in constitutional policing and ensuring accountability. This office demands principled leadership, the willingness to pursue accountability without exception, protect the vulnerable without hesitation, and make calls that aren't always popular but are always fair and balanced. My vision is to lead an office that is transparent, fair, and is trusted by the community it serves. Every experience has led me here to step up, to serve, to listen, and to build a justice system that reflects the best of us. Please list below three key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? One, my diversity of experience matters because justice is not one-dimensional. I have served as a defense attorney, a prosecutor, and legal advisor to officers who protect our community. I have navigated complex systems throughout my career as a first-generation college graduate and lawyer. That breadth of experience means I understand how decisions in the DA's office ripples outward into real lives and futures. It also means I understand what works and areas in which we can do better to meet the needs of our growing county. Wake County deserves a district attorney who has seen justice from multiple lenses because that is exactly what it takes to ensure the system works for everyone. Two, public safety requires public trust, and I have spent 20 years building both. I have defended individuals whose rights were at stake. I have prosecuted those who threatened our community. I have sat across the table from officers navigating the hardest calls of their careers. That full arc of experience means I understand what accountability looks like from every side. As district attorney, I will lead a value-driven office grounded in transparency, establish community and youth advisory councils so residents shape priorities and measure outcomes, and build an office defined by consistency, fairness, and resolve, because one without the other is never enough. 3. Responsible justice demands both reform and safety, and I have spent 20 years building the experience to deliver both. My lived and professional experience has shown me what happens when incarceration becomes the only answer. Substance abuse and mental health crises cannot be prosecuted away. A conviction that costs someone their job, housing, or family without serving a genuine public safety purpose doesn't deliver justice. It deepens harm. As district attorney, I will use risk assessments and evidence-based alternatives to ensure accountability while preserving pathways for those whose rehabilitation makes our community safer. That is responsible justice. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? She responded, vulnerable populations. Justice must speak loudest for those without a voice. I am passionate about protecting our most vulnerable. The survival of our youth is of the utmost importance to me. When it comes to juveniles, we need to be part of prevention, not just prosecution. I plan to establish a youth advisory council to give young people a meaningful voice in decisions affecting them. We also need committed resources for our senior population. Seniors targeted by elder abuse and exploitation deserve fierce advocacy and urgent attention. As district attorney, I will expand our special victims unit to include victims of elder abuse, ensuring these cases receive the focused expertise and compassion they demand. She did answer the question what organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign, and I just went over that for you. And I don't see any information on campaign finance summaries. She was featured in an IndyWeek.com article entitled Wake County District Attorney Sherita Walton, written February 6th of this year. Her name is Sherita Walton. Her age is 48, Party Affiliation Democrat, Occupation and Employer, the Senior Associate City Attorney of the City of Raleigh. The question number one: What do you believe are the most important issues facing the District Attorney's Office? What are your top three priorities in addressing these issues? She said the most important issue facing the Wake County District Attorney's Office is protecting public safety in a fast-growing, evolving, and diverse community while building public trust in a justice system in which the district attorney plays a critical role. Rapid growth brings increased demand on limited resources, more complex and serious cases, and communities with differing experiences and expectations of the justice system. Public safety and public trust are inseparable. When trust is lacking, the system cannot function effectively, and our state's promise of justice for all falls short. My top three priorities to address this important issue are promoting public safety. Public safety begins with a focus on violent crime. I will prioritize the prosecution of violent offenses, including through the creation of a dedicated violent crime unit, while deprioritizing nonviolent offenses that do not threaten community safety. This allows the office to deploy resources where they are needed most, avoid unnecessary system involvement, and ensure prosecutorial decisions are guided by safety, fairness, and accountability. Two, pursuing effective criminal justice reform. Reform must be practical, evidence-based, and responsive to evolving community needs. Effective reform includes expanding diversion and treatment-based alternatives that address mental health needs, substance abuse, and youth intervention have demonstrated success in promoting accountability, reducing recidivism, and creating lasting positive outcomes that enhance long-term public safety. Reform requires a willingness to reassess practices that undermine confidence in the system. And three, strengthening and supporting the office. A values-driven and well-resourced DA's office is essential to public safety and public trust. I will invest in training, professional development, and clear, consistent policies to support assistant district attorneys and staff. I also plan to establish community advisory councils and designated DA law enforcement liaisons to improve communication, strengthen partnerships, and ensure the office remains accountable and responsive to the communities it serves. Two, what in your record as a public official or other experience demonstrates your ability to be an effective district attorney? This might include career or community service. Be specific about its relevance to this office. She says I bring more than 20 years of legal experience across both the public and private sectors that has afforded me the opportunity to view the criminal justice system through different lenses. I have served as a prosecutor, a defense attorney, and as a legal advisor to law enforcement, experience that is directly relevant to leading a forward-focused district attorney office committed to serving the diverse needs of many. For more than a decade, I prosecuted cases in two large complex jurisdictions, Wake County and Manhattan, handling matters ranging from traffic violations to homicides. The breadth of experience has given me a clear understanding of how different offices operate, what practices effectively promote public safety, and where change is necessary. That unique perspective allows me to assess what is working well in Wake County DA's office and where improvements are needed to better serve the community. I'm also the only candidate who has served as a legal advisor to a law enforcement agency. The district attorney serves as the people's attorney and the county's chief law enforcement officer. In my current role as legal advisor to the Raleigh Police Department, I have guided law enforcement leaders and officers through complex legal challenges, critical incidents, and moments of crises, while also working to strengthen accountability and rebuild trust between police and the communities they serve. I sought out this role after events in 2020 when trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve was especially strained. My experience advising on constitutional policing, charging decisions, and investigations informs how justice is carried out not only in the courtroom, but also on the street and strengthens partnerships grounded in accountability and public safety. Earlier in my career, I practiced as a defense attorney in a private law firm, which gave me a deep appreciation for the constitutional rights of defendants and the importance of fairness in prosecutorial decision making. That experience continues to ground me, shape my approach to justice, and commitment to act with unwavering integrity and equity. As a first generation college graduate and lawyer in my family, I understand how systems can feel inaccessible and intimidating to People without inherited roadmaps. That perspective matters because the district attorney's decisions carry life-altering consequences and must be grounded in fairness, humility, and awareness of how power is experienced by the public. It informs how I approach discretion, communication, and accountability, and it strengthens my commitment to ensuring the justice system works for everyone, not just those who know how to navigate it. As a person of color, I also recognize the importance of representation in positions of authority within the justice system. If elected, I would be the first African American to serve as Wake County's district attorney. Representation matters not as symbolism, but because it brings a broader perspective to an office that must serve a diverse community. Being an effective district attorney requires more than trial experience. It requires leadership, sound judgment, broad perspective, and the ability to meet the judicial needs of our growing community through difficult moments. My experience demonstrates that I am prepared to lead the office, support its staff, and ensure that prosecutorial decisions and policies serve both public safety and public trust. 3. Violent crime rates in Wake County are below the state average, but gun violence, particularly among young people, remains a concern. What do you believe the DA's office's role is in reducing violence, including juvenile crimes? If you're an incumbent, how have you worked to achieve that? If you're a challenger, what would you do if elected? The District Attorney's Office plays a critical role in reducing violence by focusing its resources on the individuals and conduct that pose the greatest risk to public safety, while also working to prevent future harm, especially among young people. While Wake County's overall violent crime rate is below the state average, gun violence, particularly involving youth, is a serious concern that demands a focused and balanced response. As DA, I would take a direct approach to violent crime. That starts with accountability for serious violent offenses. I will establish a dedicated violent crime unit within the DA's office to ensure that cases stemming from gun violence and repeat violent offenders are handled promptly, consistently, equitably, and by experienced prosecutors. A specialized unit strengthens coordination with law enforcement, expands opportunities for multidisciplinary responses, improves case preparation, and reduces disparities in case outcomes. Reducing violence, especially juvenile violence, requires intervention before young people become entrenched in the justice system. The survival of our youth is of the utmost importance to me. The DA's office must be part of prevention, not just prosecution. I will create a DA Youth Advisory Council to give young people a meaningful voice in identifying risks, gaps in service, and effective solutions. Listening to youth helps ensure policies reflect real experiences and can prevent harm before it occurs. For juvenile cases, I will prioritize diversion, restorative practices, and services that address underlying issues such as trauma, mental health needs, and substance use, while reserving prosecution for cases where public safety requires it. Pulling young people unnecessarily deeper into the system often increases rather than reduces the likelihood of future violence. Public safety will always remain a priority, and serious violent offenses, including gun violence, will be addressed through the court system. Lasting reductions in violence, especially among young people, require a balanced approach that combines accountability, prevention, and trust. My approach reflects my diversity of experience in our justice system. Public safety is strongest when accountability, prevention, and public trust work together. Number four, what kinds of diversion programs do you support using in the DA's office? What kinds of cases do you believe should be exempted from diversion programs? I support the use of evidence-based diversion programs that focus on reducing recidivism while protecting public safety. When used appropriately, diversion allows the District Attorney's Office to hold people accountable without unnecessarily pulling them deeper into the justice system while also addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. I support expanding the office's use of diversion programs for minor nonviolent offenses stemming from mental health needs and substance use disorders, as well as cases involving youth and first-time offenders. Programs that include treatment, counseling, education, and restorative practices paired with clear expectations and accountability can reduce repeat involvement, improve long-term outcomes, and allow prosecutors to focus resources on serious crime. In my current role advising the Raleigh Police Department, I provide legal support for the department's Acorns Unit, a referral-based initiative that allows law enforcement to connect individuals to services when referral is more effective than enforcement action alone. Programs like Acorns reduce repeat law enforcement contact, stabilize individuals, and allow officers and prosecutors to focus resources on serious and violent crime. At the same time, diversion is not appropriate for every case. Serious offenses, including acts of violence, sexual offense, domestic violence, and offenses involving firearms and other dangerous weapons, should generally be exempt from diversion. In these matters, public safety, victim protection, and accountability must remain the priority. Even where diversion is considered, victim input and safety risk assessment should guide decisions. Diversion programs that reduce unnecessary system involvement and remove barriers to employment, housing, and treatment lower recidivism, strengthen community trust, and improve outcomes for both communities and officers. As DA, I will ensure diversion is used thoughtfully as a tool to enhance public safety and public trust, not as a one-size-fits-all solution, while maintaining a firm commitment to prosecuting violent crime. Number five, the recently passed IRYNA's's law eliminates the option for judges to release people pre-trial with only a written promise to appear in court and requires that they set secured bonds for defendants charged with violent offenses or with more than two prior convictions. Do you support these changes? Why or why not? I support the public safety goals behind IRYNA's's law, but I do not support eliminating judicial discretion through mandatory secured bonds. Protecting the community, especially from violent offenses, is essential, and there are cases where secured bonds may be appropriate. However, public safety is best served when pretrial decisions are based on individualized evidence-based risk assessments rather than automatic outcomes tied to the type of offense or criminal history. Mandatory secured bonds risk increasing unnecessary pretrial detention for people who may not pose a significant danger or flight risk, and penalize people simply because of their economic status. Pretrial detention can have serious consequences, including loss of employment, housing, and family stability, which can actually increase the likelihood of future involvement in the justice system and undermine long-term public safety. I will work closely with judicial officials, law enforcement, and pretrial services to promote risk-based assessments and advocate for meaningful release conditions that do not create income disparities and address appropriate non-monetary factors, including the seriousness of the offense, the weight of the evidence, risk of flight, and public safety. Justice with integrity and compassion means being tough where needed, but also fair. Our pretrial release system should reflect both. Number six, no one on North Carolina's death row has been executed since 2006. Provisions of IRYNA's law open the door for executions to resume. In what circumstances, if any, do you support using the death penalty? In what circumstances do you support life sentences and de facto life sentences? Decisions about life and death are among the most serious responsibilities of the district attorney, and they demand thoughtfulness, restraint, and sound judgment. While the death penalty remains lawful in North Carolina, I believe it should be considered, if at all, only in the most heinous circumstances. Given the irreversible nature of the death penalty, I do not believe it should be used routinely. Any consideration of the death penalty must involve the most aggravated cases where the harm is extraordinary, the evidence of guilt is overwhelming, and there is no reasonable alternative that adequately protects public safety. Even then, the decision must account for fairness, consistency, victim-family impact, and the long-term integrity of the justice system. In most cases involving the most serious crimes, life imprisonment provides accountability while avoiding the irreversible risks associated with executions. Life sentences can ensure public safety, honor the gravity of the harm, and provide certainty for victims and their families without prolonging decades of litigation that often re-traumatizes those involved. De facto life sentences, where the potential for release is unrealistic, particularly for young people or those with diminished capacity, must be approached carefully. Sentencing should allow for individualized consideration, equity, and fairness, and where appropriate, the possibility of review based on demonstrated rehabilitation and growth. As DA, my approach would be guided by integrity, fairness, and public safety, not politics. The goal must always be to seek justice that is firm and worthy of the public's trust. Number seven, prosecutors routinely make decisions about which cases to pursue, especially with offices across the state understaffed. What kinds of cases would you prioritize for prosecution? Which would you deprioritize? Please explain your answer. Prosecutorial discretion is one of the most powerful tools a district attorney has, particularly because resources are not limitless. Discretionary decision making must be guided by public safety, fairness, and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars. I would prioritize cases that pose the greatest threat to community safety and require firm accountability. I will prioritize the prosecution of serious and violent offenses, including gun violence, sexual assault, domestic violence, and the crimes that result in significant physical harm. These cases demand focused attention, careful preparation, and a victim-centered approach to prosecution. I will also prioritize cases involving repeat, violent conduct, and offenses that undermine public safety and community stability. At the same time, I will deprioritize the prosecution of low-level nonviolent offenses that do not meaningfully advance public safety, particularly where enforcement will not address root causes or reduce recidivism. This includes minor marijuana possession and similar low-level conduct. In these cases, I support non-punitive alternatives such as diversion, substance use education, treatment-based programs, and other resolutions that avoid unnecessary convictions and reduce long-term barriers to employment, housing, and economic opportunity. My experience as a prosecutor, defense attorney, and legal advisor to law enforcement has reinforced that overenforcement of minor offenses can drain resources, strain community trust, and distract from serious crime. Thoughtful, evidence-based prioritization allows prosecutors and law enforcement to focus on the cases that matter most, improves outcome for victims, and enhances overall public safety. Number eight, how should the DA's office take immigration status into consideration? Public safety depends on trust. It is important that all victims and witnesses, including those who are undocumented, feel safe coming forward to report crime and cooperate with law enforcement without fear that doing so will trigger immigration consequences. I will use my prosecutorial discretion to protect all victims, promote accountability, and ensure the justice system is accessible to all. This means holding people accountable when necessary, diverting cases when appropriate, and avoiding outcomes that undermine public trust or exacerbate inequities in the system. As DA, I will always strive to strike the right balance. It is important to note that the District Attorney's role is not to enforce federal immigration law, but to enforce state or local criminal offenses. Immigration status should not be a barrier to seeking justice, nor should it drive charging decisions in our state courts. My focus will remain on public safety, the facts of each case, and the fair administration of North Carolina state and local law. Charging, plea, and sentencing recommendations will be made based on public safety and fairness, not immigration status. At the same time, minor offenses should not result in life-altering unintended consequences that destabilize families or deter individuals from reporting crime. Accountability and compassion are not mutually exclusive. This approach reflects my core priorities, promoting public safety, administering justice with integrity and compassion, and ensuring that our justice system works for everyone who lives in and contributes to our community. 9. How would you characterize the incumbent DA's record on dealing with use of force by local law enforcement officers? How would you differ in handling such cases, if at all? I respect the service District Attorney Freeman has given over more than a decade, leading the DA's office. In use of force cases, charges have generally been brought in the most serious and clear-cut circumstances. I also recognize that I do not have access to all the information considered in those decisions. Where I will differ is in how these cases are evaluated and explained to the public. Use of force cases require a thorough, independent review grounded in law and the evidence. Where the use of force results in death or serious injury, I will continue the use of state-level investigators independent of local law enforcement. I would also consult independent use of force subject matter experts to inform charging decisions based on constitutional standards, training, and best practices. Charging decisions must apply the constitutional burden appropriate to the charging stage. The law requires probable cause, not proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Applying a trial-level standard too early risks limiting accountability and undermining public trust. My experience evaluating use of force incidents from a legal and policy standpoint informs this approach. I am well versed in the law governing use of force and have real-time experience assessing incidents with an understanding of officer training and decision making. Fairness also means ensuring that officers, like any other person under investigation, have the opportunity to provide information relevant to the charging decision. A complete review strengthens the integrity of the process and the legitimacy of the outcome, whether charges are pursued or not. Transparency is essential regardless of the outcome. When charges are brought, the public should understand why. When they are not, the public still deserves a clear explanation of what evidence was reviewed, what legal standards applied, and how the decision was reached. In serious cases, I will also consider petitioning for the release of recordings when the law allows. My approach is how we strengthen public trust and ensure the justice system works for everyone. Number 10. The state legislature determines how many prosecutor positions it will fund in each DA's office. Wake County is the largest county in the state, yet has far fewer prosecutors than the next largest county, Mecklenburg. How do you propose closing cases more efficiently given the shortage of staff? How would you advocate for more resources for the DA's office? The DA's office is operating with staffing levels that do not reflect the county's size and rapid growth, including complexities that come with both. Addressing this challenge requires both immediate operational changes and advocacy for additional resources. I will begin with an audit of office practices to identify what is working, what is not, and how resources can be better aligned. To operate more efficiently, I will use data to manage the office more effectively by tracking caseloads, time to disposition, and outcomes to identify bottlenecks and adjust staffing and priorities in real time. I will implement office-wide charging and early case screening guidelines so low-level nonviolent cases are identified and resolved through diversion or alternative dispositions when appropriate. This ensures prosecutors can focus their time on serious and violent offenses. I will strengthen early case assessment by improving coordination with law enforcement to ensure cases are trial ready sooner, reducing continuances and delays. I will also promote more training, enhance supervision and workload management to reduce turnover and identify retention strategies, which are major contributors to inefficiency. My experience prosecuting cases in another large district with different case management structures enables me to identify practical efficiencies that can be adapted to Wake County. My work with the Raleigh Police Department, one of the largest agencies in the county, coincided with periods of staffing shortages where prioritization, clear guidance, and coordination were essential to maintaining public safety. These experiences inform how I will manage limited resources while maintaining accountability and case quality. To advocate for more resources, I will work with a conference of district attorneys to present data-driven information to the General Assembly, comparing Wake County's caseloads and population to prosecutor staffing levels in similarly sized counties. I will work with judges, law enforcement leaders, county and local officials, and community stakeholders to demonstrate how understaffing delays justice, affects victims, and strains public safety in our county. Transparency with the public about staffing needs and outcomes would be central to building support for additional funding. 11. Give an example of an opinion, policy, vote, or action you changed based on constituent feedback. If you have not yet held elected office, describe a time when you changed your position on an issue after listening to those affected by it. My views on cash bail have evolved over time. Earlier in my career as a prosecutor, I saw bail primarily as a tool to ensure a defendant's appearance in court without fully considering whether detention was necessary in every case to achieve that goal. Listening to community members, advocates, and individuals directly impacted by pretrial detention, including in my own extended family, I understand how unnecessary pretrial detention can destabilize families, disrupt employment, and threaten housing, even when a person poses no threat to public safety. The research supports these concerns. There is limited evidence the cash bail improves court appearance or reduces recidivism, while its disparate impact on low-income individuals is clear. That perspective now guides my approach. The purpose of pretrial detention should be to protect public safety and ensure a defendant's appearance in court not to impose additional harm based on financial circumstances. Within the limits of the law, I support reducing unnecessary pretrial detention and advocating for alternatives to cash bonds in nonviolent cases where there is no threat to public safety, while still holding defendants accountable through appropriate conditions of release. This evolution reveals how I lead by listening, weighing evidence, and adjusting my approach to ensure the justice system is fair, effective, and focused on public safety. Number 12. Are there any issues this questionnaire has not addressed that you would like to address? She said the district attorney holds one of the most powerful and consequential roles in our criminal justice system. With broad discretion and limited oversight, the DA's decisions shape outcomes far beyond the courtroom. In Wake County, that responsibility is even greater because the DA also has jurisdiction over criminal matters involving state government officials. That authority demands independence, sound judgment, and a firm commitment to accountability, especially when those in positions of power are involved. Beyond prosecuting cases, the DA must lead an office of attorneys responsible for administering justice, build strong relationships with community stakeholders, and guide law enforcement at the state and local levels. Given the scope and weight of these responsibilities, the experience of the DA is particularly important. What prepares me to lead this office is the diversity of relevant experience I bring to the role. I've seen our justice system from just about every angle that matters. I began my career defending individuals facing criminal exposure. This grounded me in the real consequences of prosecutorial decisions for individuals and their families. I then served more than a decade as a prosecutor, nearly five years in the Wake County DA's office, and eight years in the Manhattan DA's office, one of the largest offices in the country. In my current role as a legal advisor to law enforcement, I provide guidance to officers at every rank, including the chief of police and executive staff, during critical incidents and public safety challenges. I also assist their efforts to maintain public trust through transparency and accountability. Together, these experiences give me the sound judgment to protect public policy, the perspective to pursue fair and effective criminal justice reform, the courage to hold the powerful accountable, and the discernment to strengthen the office from within so it can better serve the demands and needs of our growing county. She also answered our North Carolina Deep Dive Voters Guide. Question number one: experience in preparation. What experience best prepares you to lead this office? Now, since I've already gone over the Indy Week and Ballotpedia questions, I'm not going to read all of this because some of it is more of the same. So for that question, it is repeated. Number two, top priority. What is the top priority you would focus on in your first year and why? The top priority I would focus on in the first year is strengthening public safety in a way that is effective, fair, and sustainable. Public safety is the core responsibility of the district attorney, but safety is not achieved through enforcement alone. It requires effective prosecution, strong community partnerships, and evidence based decision making. To reduce recidivism, that means focusing resources on serious and violent crimes, while expanding alternatives for cases driven by untreated mental illness, substance use, and behavioral health disorders, because those are public safety issues too. At the same time, public safety depends on trust. People are more willing to report crime, serve as witnesses, and work with law enforcement when they believe the system is fair and transparent. In my first year, I will strengthen and formalize internal practices, improve consistency in decision making, and expand communication with a community so people understand how and why decisions are made. By pairing accountability with treatment and enforcement with trust building, we can make Wake County safer and ensure the justice system works for everyone. Number three, decision making. How do you balance public safety, fairness, and discretion when deciding which cases to prosecute? She said balancing public safety, fairness, and discretion is the core of a prosecutor's job, and it is work I did every day for more than a decade as a prosecutor in Wake County and Manhattan. Each decision began with public safety, assessing the seriousness of the offense, the risk of harm, and the impact on victims and the community. Fairness mattered just as much, requiring careful evaluation of the evidence and the individual circumstances, and a decision about what would make the community safer. My time representing individuals facing criminal exposure grounded my decision making. It gave me a clear understanding of how charging choices affect people, families, and communities. As a prosecutor in both the Wake County DA's office and the Manhattan DA's office, I made these judgments daily in high-volume environments. That experience taught me that discretion is not about being lenient or harsh, but about what is just and effective. When prosecution was necessary to protect public safety, it was pursued. When treatment, diversions, or alternative resolutions better served safety, I used them. That balanced approach is how justice is administered fairly and how communities are kept safe. 4. Limits and discretion. Are there types of cases where you believe prosecution should be limited or avoided? Prosecutorial decision making, including when to limit or avoid prosecution, should be guided by whether it actually makes the communities safer. There are certain cases, particularly low-level nonviolent offenses driven by untreated mental illness, substance use, or behavioral health needs, where prosecution alone is often not the most effective response. In those situations, limiting or avoiding prosecution in favor of diversion, treatment, or services can reduce recidivism and improve public safety. My diverse professional experience has allowed me to see this approach in practice. As a prosecutor, I exercise discretion where appropriate in recommending alternatives to traditional prosecution when they better serve public safety. In my current role, I have worked with officers using alternatives to arrest, including referral-based programs that connect individuals to services before cases ever reach the courthouse. This does not mean ignoring harm or accountability. Serious and violent offenses must be addressed with due consideration to the offense, the circumstances of the case, harm caused, and public safety. Fair administration of justice through prosecutorial discretion means choosing the response that best protects safety and strengthens trust in the justice system. Appropriate use of prosecutorial discretion means making choices that makes Wake County safer, not just making the easy choice. Number five, integrity under pressure. How would you handle political or public pressure in a high-profile case? She said high-profile cases often come with intense public pressure, and I have significant experience navigating that environment. As a legal advisor to one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the state serving the capital city, I routinely assist with crisis management, including officer-involved shootings and other high-profile incidents. I have also handled high-profile matters as a prosecutor, and my name has appeared in media coverage in both North Carolina and New York. I was recognized in 2013 as a Grace Under Pressure Award recipient in my role as Manhattan prosecutor, given to an assistant DA who demonstrates the ability to maintain composure under the most intense pressure of the job. In every role, my approach has been the same. Decisions must be grounded in Decisions must be grounded in the law, the facts, and the specific circumstances of each case. This is the approach whether the pressure is political or otherwise. We cannot and should not play politics with people's lives. The goal is to ensure that justice is served. At the same time, high-profile cases require transparency and accountability to the extent possible. While protecting the integrity of investigations, it is essential to communicate clearly so that the public understands how and why decisions are made. That independence, integrity, and transparency are critical to maintaining public trust in the justice system. Number six, concrete example. Can you give a specific criminal justice or public safety challenge in your jurisdiction and how you would approach and how your approach would differ from current practices? One of the most pressing public safety challenges in Wake County is the recent uptick in juvenile gun violence. Too often, the district attorney's office response comes only after a young person is already deep in the system. Current practice is largely reactive, focused on prosecution after harm has occurred. My approach would intervene much earlier, before violence escalates and lives are permanently altered. That means using data to identify patterns and hotspots, strengthening partnerships with schools, community organizations, and service providers, and connecting at-risk youth to mentorship within the district attorney's office. It also means holding young people accountable in developmentally appropriate ways that reduce re-offending rather than defaulting to responses that increase the likelihood of future violence. As district attorney, I would create a youth advisory council so young people have a voice in shaping policies that affect them and to help the office stay responsive to emerging trends. I would also strengthen coordination between prosecutors, law enforcement, and community partners to ensure cases involving firearms, including unlawful access, receive swift, consistent attention. Public safety is not achieved by enforcement alone. By shifting from a reactive model to one that emphasizes prevention, accountability, and trust, we can reduce juvenile gun violence and commit to the survival of our youth. 7. Accountability. How should voters hold you accountable if they feel your office is not acting in the public interest? She said, as the people's attorney, the district attorney has an obligation to act in the public's interest, not political interest or personal agendas. Voters should expect transparency, accessibility, and principled decision making. Importantly, they should hold the DA accountable when those standards aren't met. Accountability starts with openness. I believe in explaining decisions to the extent the law allows and being honest about the values and considerations that guide them. If people have concerns, they should be able to raise them directly. As district attorney, I will hold regular community listening sessions, participate in neighborhood and civic group meetings, and make myself accessible, not just during an election, but throughout my term. I also plan to establish a DA advisory council comprised of various stakeholders, including community members, to provide input on the office's policies and practices. Voters can also hold me accountable through public engagement, asking questions, attending community forums, reviewing data and outcomes, and demanding consistency between stated priorities and actual practices. Internally, accountability means setting clear standards and expectations for the office and ensuring decisions reflect fairness, public safety, and integrity. Ultimately, the strongest accountability is trust earned over time. If I'm not acting in the public's interest, the public should speak up and I will listen. Number eight, learn more. How can voters learn more about you, your approach to justice, and how you would lead this office? Voters can learn more about me, my approach to justice, and how I would lead this office by visiting my campaign website and following me on social media, where I share my background and priorities. Voters can also learn more about my position on important issues by accessing publicly posted candidate questionnaire responses. I want voters to have the information they need to make an informed decision. I have participated in numerous public forums, making myself available to answer questions, and will continue to do so as groups host them. If someone has a specific question that isn't addressed on my public-facing sites, they are welcome to email me directly. I am committed to accessibility and will make every effort to respond in a timely and thoughtful manner. The public deserves nothing less. She lists her email as Sherita at WaltonForWake.com. Her social media, Facebook is Sherita Walton for Wake District Attorney, and Instagram is Walton for Wake. I did find an article on the North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers, ncABL.org. Member Spotlight, Sherita Walton makes historic bid for Wake County District Attorney. It says, We are proud to spotlight one of our own NCABL member Sherita Walton has announced her candidacy for Wake County District Attorney, making history this week as the first black candidate ever to file for this office. Sherita brings over 20 years of legal experience to this historic run. Her background includes more than a decade of prosecutorial experience in Manhattan and Wake County, service as a legal advisor to the Raleigh Police Department, prior legal work in the private sector on the defense side, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the justice system, longstanding commitment to public safety, transparency, and fairness. We are always proud to highlight the accomplishments and leadership of our members, and Sherita's candidacy represents an important moment for Wake County and our legal community. Sherita has invited NCABL members to connect and learn more about her platform and campaign. And you may do so through the following links that I've already mentioned. And that brings us to the second candidate running for Wake County's district attorney for District 10, Melanie Shekita. Her website is shekitaforwake.com. Please keep in mind that first candidate, Sherita Walton, and the second candidate is Melanie Shekita with a K. So Melanie's website is ShekitaForWake.com and it says Melanie Shekita for District Attorney. There's a button to join us. A courtroom prosecutor, a community district attorney. She says, I will be a working district attorney. The people need to know that they will have an advocate working for them in our courtrooms. Victims of crime deserve justice. And I have spent my entire career as a courtroom prosecutor holding criminals accountable. I also realize that the district attorney needs to be a champion for common sense, practical law enforcement. I will focus on making Wake County safer. I will work in a coordinated effort to bring together all the voices of our community to ensure that we have equal justice under the law. Proven track record. Having joined the Wake County District Attorney's Office in 1998 after graduating from Campbell University's Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law, I have dedicated my entire career to serving this community. My experience prosecuting the most serious crimes from child victims' cases to capital murder has prepared me to lead an office that handles cases across the full spectrum of criminal law, supporting law enforcement. I understand that effective prosecution requires strong collaboration between the District Attorney's Office and our law enforcement partners. I am committed to maintaining open lines of communication, providing timely case consultation, and ensuring officers have the support they need to do their jobs effectively. I can promise you that I will be working in the courtrooms, managing cases and standing up for the victims of crime. Prioritizing public safety. My approach will focus on holding violent offenders accountable while implementing evidence-based strategies that reduce recidivism and make our communities safer. I will work to ensure that cases are prosecuted efficiently and that victims receive the justice they deserve. Enhance training and resources. I will advocate for enhanced training programs and resources that benefit both prosecutors and law enforcement officers, ensuring we stay current with the best practices and emerging challenges in criminal justice. Addressing current challenges. I recognize the unique challenges facing Wake County, including managing a heavy caseload in our growing county of over 1 million residents, addressing the ongoing effects of the COVID-related case backlog, and ensuring our criminal justice system keeps pace with our community's rapid growth and evolving needs. I am prepared to tackle these issues head on with innovative solutions and collaborative approaches. Meet Melanie. Wake County needs a district attorney who will work in our courtrooms and community prosecuting criminals and fighting for the victims of crime. Meet Melanie Shekita. With 27 years of experience working Wake County courtrooms, Melanie knows the district attorney office isn't about political promises. It's about performance. It's about results. Melanie is a seasoned courtroom prosecutor leading the Special Victims Unit, taking on the toughest of cases and making sure victims of these terrible crimes get justice. Melanie knows the District Attorney's Office needs to be responsive to our changing times and believes she can be an agent of change, bringing positive energy with an open door and a commitment for a safer Wake County. She lists that she's a seasoned prosecutor with 27 years of courtroom experience at the Wake County District Attorney's Office, handling complex and sensitive cases including sex crimes against children, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and homicidal violence. She has a proven track record standing up for the victims of crime. She's an advocate for the justice system improvement, making sure that there is equal justice under the law, and she's a Campbell Law School graduate, UNC Chapel Hill graduate. Melanie's priorities. Melanie will put community priorities first as district attorney. Melanie knows that real justice starts with listening. As district attorney, she'll be committed to putting the community's priorities at the heart of every decision, from reducing gun violence and protecting victims to expanding access to diverse programs and holding all actors in the system accountable. Melanie will work side by side with residents, community leaders, and law enforcement to build trust, improve safety, and deliver equitable, transparent outcomes. Because for Melanie, justice isn't about politics, it's about people. Recruit and retain experienced prosecutors to ensure offenders are held accountable and justice is served effectively. We'll be in the courtroom and personally prosecute violent felonies. We'll work with community partners to create an innovative program to address youth gun violence. Work collaboratively with law enforcement to curtail violent crime. Build coalition across the county to address concerns about equity and justice and law enforcement in Wake County. Endorsements. She does have a number of them. I will go ahead and quickly read through. Don Stevens, former Wake County Superior Court Judge. Narley Cashwell, John Jolly, Becky Holt are all former Wake County Superior Court judges. Reuben Young, a former Special Superior Court Judge. Osmond Smith, former Person County Superior Court Judge. Ripley Rand, former Special Superior Court Judge. Jane Gray, former Wake County District Court Judge, Don Overby and Fred Moorlock, both former Wake County District Court Judges, Ned Mangum, former County District Court Judge and District Attorney. Shelley Desfugis, former Wake County District Court Judge, Colin Willoughby, former District Attorney for District 10. Jeff Cruden, District Attorney for District 1, Travis Page, District Attorney for Gaston County. Deborah Sasser, former Wake County District Court Judge, Howard Manning Jr., former Wake County Superior Court Judge, and Lucy Inman, former Wake County Superior Court Judge. It says, get involved, sign me up. I want to volunteer on your campaign for Wake County District Attorney. Please contact me so I can help get you elected. And it does have spots where you can sign up as a volunteer to knock on doors, make phone calls, place yard signs, write postcards, or other. It says donate. Supporting Melanie's campaign is essential to ensuring we have a dedicated community advocate in the courtroom. Melanie is committed to justice, fairness, and transparency, advocating for those who may otherwise go unheard. Your donation helps her continue fighting for equitable treatment, protecting our most vulnerable, and ensuring that the voices of the community are represented in the pursuit of justice. Together, we can build a brighter, more compassionate future for everyone. Chip in today with links where you can donate. She also has links to both Facebook and Instagram. Doing a Google search, I found her ballotpedia. Melanie Shekita, Democratic Party, is running for election for North Carolina 10th Prosecutorial District Attorney. Shekita is on the ballot in the Democratic primary on March 3, 2026. Melanie Shekita earned a high school diploma from Needham Broughton High School, a bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina in 1993, and a law degree from the Campbell University School of Law in 1998. Shekita's career experience includes working as an assistant district attorney. She did answer some of Ballotpedia's survey questions. Who are you? Tell us about yourself. She says, for 27 years I have proudly served the citizens of Wake County as a dedicated public servant, both inside and outside the courthouse. Having worked under two long-serving district attorneys, I bring deep institutional knowledge and experience that uniquely prepare me to lead this office into the future and meet the needs of our diverse and growing community. My commitment to public service extends beyond the courtroom. As a volunteer firefighter with Western Wake Fire Rescue for 10 years, current president of the Board of Directors, and a member of the Wake County Fire Commission, I understand firsthand the challenges facing our first responders. As head of the Special Victims Unit in Wake County District Attorney's Office, I have been a zealous advocate for victims. I know that justice requires more than prosecution. It requires trust, transparency, and clear communication during the most difficult moments in people's lives. I am committed to delivering results with compassion, integrity, and accountability, and to ensuring equal justice for all. Please list below three key messages of your campaign. What are your main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? 1. Gun violence is overwhelming our emergency rooms. At Wake Med's Level 1 Trauma Center alone, roughly 20% of trauma cases are penetrating injuries, mostly caused by gunshot wounds. My approach focuses on holding violent offenders accountable while implementing evidence-based strategies proven to reduce recidivism and improve public safety. I will ensure cases are identified and prosecuted in a timely manner and that victims receive the justice they deserve by establishing a dangerous offenders task force. 2. Wake County is experiencing a troubling rise in juvenile violence, underscoring the need for strong collaboration among law enforcement, schools, community partners, faith-based organizations, and the juvenile justice system to ensure accountability and prevention. These cases highlight the urgent need for early intervention. We must work together to identify and support at-risk youth before violence occurs. I am committed to investigating and holding accountable those who unlawfully provide firearms to minors. Strengthening teen court, restorative circles, and expanding diversion programs will help keep nonviolent youth out of juvenile court and reduce future incarceration. Number three, the Wake County District Attorney's Office is understaffed and has experienced significant turnover in recent years. While I will advocate for increased staffing at both legislative and county levels, my immediate priority is recruiting and retaining experienced prosecutors. I will implement a leadership model that recognizes initiative, rewards excellence, and holds prosecutors to high professional standards. Public praise, professional respect, and meaningful acknowledgement of hard work improve morale, strengthen retention, and ultimately lead to better outcomes for the community. By building a strong representative team, we enhance public safety and ensure all citizens feel protected. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Expanding access to mental health reform to create a mental health court for nonviolent offenders. I would work with partnerships with the legislature to expand the district attorney's office and work on early intervention programs for juvenile offenders. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? She says I have been endorsed by 15 judges, four district attorneys, and over 135 law enforcement officers, including 10 chiefs or deputy chiefs of police with whom I have worked in my 27-year career. She did fill out our NC Deep Dive Voters Guide. Number one, experience in preparation. What experience best prepares you to lead this office? She said, for 27 years, I have proudly served the citizens of Wake County as a dedicated public servant, both inside and outside the courthouse. Having worked under two long serving district attorneys and lived in this community for 48 years, I bring a lifelong connection and deep institutional knowledge that uniquely prepares. Me to lead the office into the future and meet the evolving needs of our diverse and growing county. As a former volunteer firefighter for 10 years, current president of Western Wake Fire Rescue, and a member of the Wake County Fire Commission, I understand firsthand the demands placed on Wake County's first responders and the critical role they play in protecting our community. I currently serve as the head of the Special Victims Unit in the Wake County District Attorney's Office, where I supervise a team of nine. I have been a zealous advocate for victims and understand that justice requires more than prosecution. It requires trust, transparency, and a clear communication, especially during the most difficult moments in people's lives. Along with a colleague in the Special Victims Unit, I was the first prosecutor in North Carolina to secure a conviction for a domestic violence homicide under Britney's law. Over the course of my career, I have tried more than 250 cases, most involving crimes against children or violent crime. Beyond the courtroom, I have mentored dozens of new prosecutors and trained prosecutors across North Carolina, as well as nationally and internationally. I am committed to delivering results with compassion, integrity, and accountability. My experience, proven leadership, and vision make me the most qualified candidate to move the Wake County District Attorney's Office forward and ensure equal justice for all of the Wake County citizens. Number two, top priority. What is the top priority you would focus on in your first year and why? My top priority is reducing gun violence. I intend to develop a task force to identify the most dangerous offenders and prioritize their prosecution in a timely and efficient manner. I am committed to reducing the rise in violent crimes committed by juveniles. This will require strong collaboration with law enforcement, community partners, including faith-based organizations, and the school system to develop early intervention programs aimed at reducing juvenile violence. I am committed to investigating individuals who unlawfully provide firearms to minors and take appropriate legal action when necessary. Number three, decision making. How do you balance public safety, fairness, and discretion when deciding which cases to prosecute? She said fairness also requires careful consideration of multiple factors, including a defendant's record and background, the risk posed to the community, and the wishes of the victim. All of these must be weighed when making charging and resolution decisions. I will continue to support and expand first offender programs for misdemeanors and low-level felony cases, ensuring accountability while offering appropriate opportunities for rehabilitation. I will also expand and strengthen a fully operational mental health court. The Wake County Justice Center has effectively become the county's largest residential mental health facility. Yet it is not designed or equipped to serve that role. A robust mental health court is essential to addressing these challenges responsibly, improving outcomes for individuals in crisis, and enhancing public safety for the entire community. Limits and discretion. Are there types of cases where you believe prosecution should be limited or avoided? As a district attorney, it would be my responsibility to enforce the laws of the state of North Carolina. I have highlighted some of my priorities above and would not prioritize prosecution of the simple possession of marijuana. Number five, integrity under pressure. How would you handle political corruption or public pressure in a high-profile case? She said, decisions about public safety should never be driven by partisan politics. The role of the district attorney is to serve the public. While the district attorney should consult with fellow district attorneys and senior assistants on difficult cases, the responsibility ultimately rests with her to make decisions that are transparent, fair, and guided by the interest of justice. Number six, concrete examples. Can you describe a specific criminal justice or public safety challenge in your jurisdiction and how your approach would differ from current practices? She said, in addition to concerns about the rise in juvenile violence, as seen in the news and often reported, the Wake County District Attorney's Office is understaffed. I would advocate for increased staffing at both the legislative and county levels. In the meantime, my priority would be to recruit and retain experienced prosecutors. I would implement a leadership model that recognizes initiative, rewards excellence, and holds prosecutors to high professional standards. Public praise, professional respect, and meaningful acknowledgement of hard work go a long way toward motivating prosecutors, improving morale, and strengthening the office. Number seven, accountability. How should voters hold you accountable if they feel your office is not acting in the public interest? She said, as district attorney, I would require dual accountability, both inside and outside the office. Prosecutors, including the district attorney, must be accountable for their work and caseloads, and the office must be accountable to the public it serves. I would welcome the use of clear metrics to evaluate how cases are handled from start to finish, allowing stakeholders to see our results, identify areas for improvement, and ensure the fair and efficient administration of justice. Number eight, learn more. How can voters learn more about you, your approach to justice, and how you would lead this office? She says you can visit my website and social media options below. My approach to justice is simple. The citizens of the Wake County deserve to be safe. I will create an office dedicated to recruiting and retaining dedicated staff that reflect our diverse and growing community while instilling trust both inside and outside the office, just as I have for 27 years as an assistant district attorney. She lists her website, ShekitaForWake.com, Instagram Shekita for Wake, and Facebook Melanie Shekita for District Attorney. IndyWeek did an article entitled Wake County District Attorney Melanie Shekita, published on February 6, 2026. Her name is Melanie Shekita, her age is 53, Party Affiliation Democrat, ShekitaForWake.com, her website, Occupation and Employer Assistant District Attorney for Wake County District Attorney's Office. What do you believe, if there are recurring themes that I've already mentioned in the other questionnaires, I'll go ahead and leave those out for now, but you can always go back to the article to read it thoroughly. Number one, what do you believe are the most important issues facing the district attorney's office? What are your top three priorities in addressing these issues? Most important issues. The three most pressing issues facing Wake County District Attorney's Office are reducing violent crime, particularly gun violence, recruiting and retaining experienced prosecutors, and establishing meaningful dual accountability within the office and to the public. Reducing violent crime. My top priority is reducing violence in Wake County. I will develop a focused task force to identify the most dangerous offenders and prioritize their prosecution in a timely and efficient manner. This effort will concentrate on gun offenses, sexual assaults, drug trafficking, and other violent crimes. We are also seeing a troubling rise in juvenile violence, which will require strong collaboration with law enforcement, schools, community partners, and the juvenile justice system to address both accountability and prevention. Recruiting and retaining prosecutors. The Wake County District Attorney's Office is understaffed and has experienced significant turnover in recent years. She will advocate for increased staffing at both the legislative and county levels, and her immediate priority is recruiting and retaining experienced prosecutors. She talked about some of the other before. And then she does talk about the dual accountability that she answered in our survey as well. Number two, what in your record as public official or other experience demonstrates your ability to be an effective district attorney? This might include career or community service. Be specific about its relevance to the office. She said for 27 years I have proudly served the citizens of Wake County as a dedicated public servant, both inside and outside the courthouse. Having worked under two long district attorneys and lived in this community for 48 years, I bring a lifelong connection and deep institutional knowledge that uniquely prepares me to lead the office into the future and meet the evolving needs of our diverse and growing county. The rest of her response matches what she shared in our NC Voters Deep Dive. Number three, violent crime rates in Wake County are below the state average, but gun violence, particularly among young people, remains a concern. What do you believe the DA's office's role is in reducing violence, including juvenile crimes? If you're an incumbent, how have you worked to achieve that? If you're a challenger, what would you do if elected? As noted above, Wake County is experiencing a troubling rise in juvenile violence, which demands strong collaboration among local law enforcement, along collaboration among law enforcement, schools, community partners, and the judicial and the juvenile justice system to ensure both accountability and prevention. In recent years, the District Attorney's Office has seen an increase in serious cases involving juveniles, including a 13-year-old charged with murder. These cases underscore the urgent need for early intervention. We must work together as a community to identify at-risk youth before violence occurs. I am committed to investigating individuals who unlawfully provide firearms to minors and taking appropriate legal action when necessary to prevent further tragedy. Early intervention will be key to reducing future incarceration, strengthening our existing teen court and restorative circle programs, along with expanding other diversion initiatives, will also help keep nonviolent offenders out of juvenile court. Number four, what kinds of diversion programs do you support using in the DA's office? What kinds of cases do you believe should be exempted from diversion programs? She said I would continue to support the current diversionary programs, misdemeanor first offenders, felony first offenders both for drug offenses and non-drug offenses, and conditional discharges. I am open to expanding other possible diversion programs for nonviolent offenses. Violent offenses and sexual assaults should be exempt from diversion programs. Number five, the recently passed IRYNA's Law eliminates the option for judges to release people pretrial with only a written promise to appear in court and requires that they set secured bonds for defendants charged with violent offenses or with more than two prior convictions. Do you support these changes? Why or why not? The murder of Iryna Zarutska was a horrific crime. In response, the General Assembly enacted IRYNA's Law, imposing significant new requirements without providing the resources needed for full implementation. As president of the Board of Criminal Justice Alternatives, I have worked with Wake County Partners since 2022 to strengthen pretrial justice while prioritizing public safety. Wake County adopted an individualized evidence-based pretrial services assessment for all individuals processed through the detention center, giving judges better information to make informed release decisions. We also expanded pretrial supervision, quadrupling capacity in the community, and added an assistant public defender for first appearance hearings. Prior to this horrible tragedy, Wake County, through collaborative efforts, have worked to provide judges with more effective tools and options, allowing less restrictive conditions for nonviolent offenders while promoting court appearance, accountability, and public safety. Number six, no one on North Carolina's death row has been executed since 2006. Provisions of Arena's law open the door for executions to resume. In what circumstances, if any, do you support using the death penalty? In what circumstances do you support life sentences and de facto life sentences? She said statistically, over the last decade, the number of cases in which district attorneys have exercised their discretion to proceed capitally has declined across North Carolina and in Wake County. As district attorney, I cannot pick and choose which laws to enforce. There are certain homicides so egregious that the citizens of Wake County through a jury should determine the appropriate punishment. That decision requires careful and responsible balancing of the facts of the case, the interests of justice, and the effective use of resources, while ensuring accountability for the most atrocious crimes. As a founding member of the Special Victims Unit for over 20 years, I believe sexual assaults against children also warrant lengthy sentences. I support the General Assembly's decision in 2009 to increase mandatory minimums for sexual assaults against minors under the age of 13. 7. Prosecutors routinely make decisions about which cases to pursue, especially with offices across the state understaffed. What kinds of cases would you prioritize for prosecution? Which would you deprioritize? Please explain your answer. She said, as outlined above, I would prioritize prosecution of violent crimes. Additionally, I would prioritize habitual offenders. I would not prioritize the simple possession or I would not prioritize the simple possession of marijuana. I support expanding efforts for those with non-impaired driving offenses to be able to participate in alternatives to restoring driver's licenses. Number eight, how should the DA's office take immigration status into consideration? She said, as a general rule, immigration status should never be considered when deciding whether to bring criminal charges. The law must be applied equally, regardless of whether, regardless of where a person is born, whether that is a zip code, a state, or a country. There are limited exceptions. If an individual is targeted or victimized because of their immigration status or nationality, that fact may serve as an aggravating factor in charging a crime or at sentencing. Likewise, when an undocumented person is the victim of a crime, the district attorney must ensure that the person feels safe coming forward to report the crime and participate in its prosecution. Equal justice requires both fairness in charging decisions and trust from the communities we serve. Number 9. How would you characterize the incumbent DA's record on dealing with the use of force by local law enforcement officers? How would you differ in handling such cases, if at all? She said, I cannot comment on my current boss and district attorney's handling of use of force cases. As district attorney, however, the law will be applied equally to everyone in Wake County, civilians and law enforcement alike. After 27 years working closely with law enforcement, I can say without hesitation that no one is more angered by a bad cop than the officers who uphold the badge with integrity. It is important to distinguish between criminal conduct and violations of internal police policy, and each use of force incident must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. I support increased training and awareness around use of force decision making with a strong emphasis on de-escalation, particularly in situations involving mental health crises. Number 10. The state legislature determines how many prosecutor positions it will fund in each DA's office. Wake County is the largest county in the state, yet has far fewer prosecutors than the next largest county, Mecklenburg. How do you propose closing cases more efficiently given the shortage of staff? How would you advocate for more resources for the DA's office? As discussed above, recruiting and retaining experienced prosecutors is essential because public safety cannot wait on training new attorneys. As district attorney of Wake County, I would actively advocate for increased staffing at both the county and state levels. Given Wake County's size and its proximity to the General Assembly, the District Attorney has both the responsibility and the ability to push for additional resources. At the same time, there are opportunities to improve efficiency within the existing structure of the office. I would streamline operations and evaluate how responsibilities are assigned to ensure prosecutors are used effectively and cases are handled promptly and responsibly. 11. Give an example of an opinion, policy, vote, or action you changed based on constituent feedback. If you have not yet held office, describe a time when you change your position on an issue after listening to those affected by it. In my 27 years as a prosecutor, there have been many occasions when additional facts provided by law enforcement or defense counsel have informed my decision about whether or how to proceed with a prosecution. Sound prosecutorial judgment requires a willingness to listen, evaluate all available information, and adjust course when warranted. I served as a prosecutor during the Duke Lacrosse timeframe, which underscored the importance of exercising independent judgment and carefully weighing all facts before bringing charges and throughout the life of a case. Number 12. Are there any issues this questionnaire has not addressed that you would like to address? She said the Wake County District Attorney's Office serves the most diverse and largest population in the state, and its singular focus must be public safety. It should be an office grounded in community trust, fairness, accountability, not partisan politics or personal political ambition. And that brings us to the third candidate who is Wiley Nickel. His website is wileynickel.com. It says Wiley Nickel for District Attorney. Donate to our campaign today. Join our campaign for Wake County District Attorney. You can sign up to join now. There's a video of Wiley with President Obama. Meet Wiley. As a father, husband, attorney, state senator, and congressman for North Carolina, Wiley Nickel has committed his life to public service and delivering for working families. Working for President Obama, Wiley Nickel learned that real leaders fight for the change they want to see in the world. As a congressman, state senator, and practicing Wake County attorney, Wiley has dedicated his career to defending our rights, strengthening democracy, improving public safety, and fighting for the interests of working families. After working for President Obama, Wiley started a family and opened his own law practice in Wake County that focused on helping members of marginalized and underserved communities navigate a criminal justice system that doesn't always treat everyone fairly. Wiley's practice was able to secure victories for those unfairly targeted and discriminated against based on their race, gender, or sexual orientation. Before serving in Congress, Wiley served two terms in the North Carolina State Senate, where he led efforts to defend voting rights, increase support for police and firefighters, crack down on corporate price gouging, improve child literacy, put a nurse in every public school, and expand access to affordable health care. Then in 2022, he ran for Congress and flipped a red seat blue against a Trump-backed opponent, one of just six flips in the country. Representing North Carolina's 13th Congressional District in Congress from 2023 to 2025, Wiley led efforts to protect abortion access in North Carolina, lower prescription drug costs, and end partisan gerrymandering. During his time in Congress, Wiley brought back millions of dollars for law enforcement in North Carolina and was a champion for increased funding for police and first responders. From pushing back against extremism to defending reproductive freedom, Wiley is a proven fighter for North Carolinians. As a congressman and state senator, Wiley did what was best for North Carolinians, not party bosses. Extreme Republicans knew they couldn't beat him at the ballot box, so they redrew maps so that he couldn't run again. But Wiley has never been one to back down from a fight. He's running for district attorney because he knows we can do more to fight crime and keep Wake County safe. As your next Wake County District Attorney, Wiley will continue fighting to defend our rights, keep our community safe, and make sure our justice system works fairly for all. Wiley is married to his wife, Caroline, and they live in Kerry with their two young children. From voting rights to quality public education to reproductive health care, Wiley has fought tooth and nail for the issues important to North Carolinians. Sign up for campaign updates and stay in touch with Team Wiley. Donate to our campaign today. Every donation helps get us closer to our goals. There's also a button to volunteer and another to donate. Issues. Wiley is running for district attorney because he knows we can do more to fight crime and keep Wake County safe. That starts with a district attorney who will focus on violent crime and property theft and get the job done. Safer Wake County Communities. Wiley will work to build safer communities where families can thrive. That means holding violent offenders accountable while also focusing on smart solutions that reduce repeat crime. Wiley will expand partnerships with law enforcements, with law enforcement, school, and neighborhood groups to stop crime before it starts. Wiley will prioritize tackling gun violence, drug trafficking, violent crime, and property theft while focusing on the root cause of crime by supporting proven drug diversion programs that steer nonviolent offenders back on track. Support law enforcement. Our local law enforcement officers work hard every day to keep us safe, and Wiley will work just as hard to make sure that they have the resources and support they need to do their job. Wiley will be a countywide voice for law enforcement to make sure our police have the resources they need to fully train and staff their departments, retain the best officers, and provide good pay and benefits. Public safety means that everyone feels welcome and safe in our communities. Wiley disagrees with those in his party who want to defund the police and supports programs that help to build community relationships and trust between local law enforcement and the communities they serve. Protect women and children. Protecting women and children will be one of Wiley's highest priorities. He will aggressively prosecute domestic violence, sexual assault, and crimes against children, ensuring victims have a strong voice in the justice system. Wiley will expand victim support services, strengthen partnerships with law enforcement, and work closely with community organizations to prevent abuse before it happens. Wiley will push for tougher penalties for repeat offenders and invest in specialized Training for prosecutors handling sensitive cases. Every woman and child in Wake County deserves safety, dignity, and justice. Modernize the Wake County District Attorney's Office. The career prosecutors at the Wake County District Attorney's Office do an amazing job despite being overworked and understaffed compared to the rest of the state. Mecklenburg County is smaller than Wake County, yet they have double the number of prosecutors. Wake County has 43 prosecutors while Mecklenburg County has 94 prosecutors. Wake is one of the fastest growing communities in the state, and the DA's office hasn't kept pace with the growth. We need a district attorney who will get us the resources we need to keep Wake County safe. Tackle political corruption. With Donald Trump and right-wing extremists trying to take away our freedoms, the threats to our democracy have never been more urgent. The Wake County District Attorney investigates and prosecutes all of North Carolina's political corruption and government maleficence cases because our position in the state's capital. Because of our position in the state's capital. In this moment, we need a district attorney who will stand up for our rights and freedoms, hold corrupt politicians accountable, and defend the rule of law and our constitution. Defend voting rights and constitutional rights. In recent years, we have seen endless attacks on our voting rights and our constitutional rights. As district attorney, Wiley will aggressively prosecute anyone who tries to interfere with our elections. That means holding anyone accountable who tries to intimidate voters, suppress the vote, or attack our democratic process. He'll use the full power of the office to defend voting rights and protect our constitutional freedoms. Wiley will always fight to ensure that every citizen's constitutional rights are protected. Community engagement and communication. We need a district attorney who will communicate and show up in all parts of Wake County in order to build faith and confidence in our criminal justice system. While it's low-hanging fruit, the current office doesn't maintain a unique website or communicate via official social media platforms. Wiley will create a website and communicate regularly with Wake County citizens about the work of the district attorney's office. He'll show up and regularly visit all municipalities in Wake County. He'll partner with local law enforcement and elected leaders around the county to educate the public and help build the community relationships that provide real public safety for Wake. Without trust and community partnerships, the Wake DA's office and broader criminal justice system can't function. Wiley will establish a community engagement office to establish important relationships with local law enforcement, elected leaders, community leaders, neighborhood groups, and Wake County residents of all ages and backgrounds. Building trust with local communities is the best way to get real public safety. Focus on violent crime and property theft, not low-level marijuana users. Medical marijuana is legal in 40 states, as North Carolina State Senator Wiley authorized legislation to legalize medical marijuana. His father died of cancer and used marijuana illegally during his final days of life, something that had a big impact on his views on the issue. Wiley believes we need to change our approach to medical marijuana and will create a new policy in the Wake DA's office for dealing with legitimate medical marijuana users. Combat our mental health crisis. We have a growing mental health crisis in our state. More than 450,000 adults and young adults in our state have serious mental illness, and rates of depression, anxiety, and other disorders continue to rise. Mental health courts work with nonviolent offenders who have been diagnosed with a substance use, mental health, or a co-occurring disorder. Mental health courts facilitate cooperation between state mental health system, mental health service providers, and the court. This allows the state mental health system to provide repeat adult offenders who need mental health services with treatment and other mental health services aimed at improving their ability to function in the community, thereby reducing recidivism and easing the workload of the court. As district attorney, Wiley will create a full-time mental health court for Wake County to address one of the most pressing challenges facing our community. Too often, people struggling with mental illness cycle through the criminal justice system without receiving the treatment they need. A dedicated mental health court will connect individuals to care, reduce repeat offenses, and improve public safety. By working with judges, treatment providers, and law enforcement, we can ensure that those in crisis get the help they need. This approach is both smart on crime and compassionate, making Wake County stronger and safer for all. Fight hate crimes. Wiley will tackle the alarming increase in hate crimes, including those against our Jewish, Asian, and Muslim American communities. He will move more resources into the prosecution of hate crime-related cases and make sure law enforcement continues to invest in training to recognize and respond to the complex nature of these disturbing cases. Work to end gun violence. Gun violence is the leading cause of death among children in the United States. For far too many North Carolinians are dying from senseless gun violence. Wiley is the father of two young children and understands the fear of sending your child off to school, wondering if they'll be safe. In Congress, Wiley was a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and co-sponsored legislation to ban assault weapons and ghost guns, provide for universal background checks, and close the gun show loophole. He also co-sponsored Ethan's Law, legislation that would require the safe storage of firearms and establish penalties for parents if a minor gains access to a gun, as District Attorney Wiley will come down hard on those who use guns to commit violent crime. Endorsements. He also lists a number of endorsements, and I will try to read through at least the majority of them. Apex Town Council, Councilmember Arno Zeggerman, Apex Town Council, Councilmember Ed Gray, Shane Reese and Sue Mu, and the Apex Town Council, Mayor Pro Tem, Terry Mahaffey, Capitol Special Police, Chief of Police, Dr. Roy Taylor, Carborro Town Council, Councilmember Eliazar, Arturo, Posada Orozco Jr., Mayor Harold Weinbrecht of the Town of Kerry, Kerry Town Council members Sarika Bonzel, Lori Bush, Carissa Johnson, Michelle Craig, Bella Wang, Brittany Richards, Chatham County Board of Commissioners, Commissioner Amanda Robertson, Chair Commander, Veterans and Military Families Caucus Wayne County, Viola Riles Figuer Oa, Communication Workers of America, Mayor Leonardo Williams of the City of Durham, Congressman Don Davis of Congressional District 1, former Attorney General and Former Secretary of State Rufus Edmiston, former North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles Commissioner, former North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance, and former North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Wayne Goodman, former Congressman Bob Etheridge, former Congressman G.K. Butterfield, former Director of the National Education Association, John Wilson, former State Auditor and former chair of the Wake County Board of Commissioners, Jessica Holmes, former Wake County Commissioners Sig Hutcheson and Carolyn Sullivan, former special assistant to President Obama, Reggie Love, Founder and Chair Emmerita of North Carolina Democratic Party, AAPI Caucus, Dr. Grace Galloway, Fuquay Verena, Board of Commissioners, Commissioner Chris Warren, Garner Town Council and former Mayor Ken Marshburn, Garner Town Council members Elmo Vance and Kelvin Stallings, Mayor Charles Gaylor of Goldsboro, Gun Violence Prevention Activist Fred Gutenberg, Mayor Mike Kondratick, Town of Holly Springs, Holly Springs Town Council member Dr. Cara Foster, Knightdale Town Council Member Grady Bussey, Mayor TJ Cawley of the Town of Morrisville, former Morrisville Town Councilmember Donna Fender, Morrisville and Steve Rao, Morrisville Town Council members Harrison Kessling, Vicki Scrogins Johnson, Ann Rabadi, and Ashet Patel, North Carolina Democratic Party Labor Caucus President Grant Welch, North Carolina State Representatives Laura Budd, Maria Cervania, Brian Cohn, Allison Dahl, Yah Lu, Phil Rubin, North Carolina State Senators Mujtaba A. Mohammed, Val Applewhite, Paul Lowe, the North Carolina Democratic Party Labor Caucus, the North Carolina State AFL CIO, Democratic Party's AANHPI Caucus, Chair Vishal Ghadia, Raleigh City Council Member Christina Jones, Mayor Ronnie Curran, Town of Rollsville, Rollsville Board of Commissioners Dan Alston and Len Goodwin, Len Woodlong Jr., Save Democracy PAC, Community Activist Ed Jones, Tony Cope, Camille Cower, Coder Zaraur, Superintendent Teacher, Advisory Council Member and Teacher Amy Bryan, Tamil Americans United PAC, Mina Alancian, Town of Selma, Mayor Byron McAllister, Triangle Center Labor Council, United Chinese Americans, President Haipei Xu, Wake County Board of Education, Former Chair in District 7, Representative Chris Hagerty, Wake County Board of Education, District 8, Representative Jennifer Job, Wake County Board of Commissioners, Commissioner Vicky Adamson, Wake County Criminal Defense Lawyer, Lindsay Granados, Wake County Voter Education Coalition, Mayor Ben Claps Saddle of the Town of Wake Forest, Wake Forest Board of Commissioners Haseeb Fatmi and Adam Wright, Watts Chapel, Pastor Harry L. Wright Jr., Wendell Town Commissioner Dustin Ingalls, World Temuil Organization, Dr. Tani K. Sharon, Zebulan, Board of Commissioners, Commissioners Shannon Baxter. There's a link to voting information that says Wake County Early Voting 2026 primary election. Wake County Early Voting runs February 12th through 28th, primary election days, Tuesday, March 3rd. Unaffiliated voters can also vote in the Democratic primary. Where to vote? Find your election day polling place and it lists all the early voting locations. When to vote, it lists the dates, the times, and more information can be found here. And it takes you to Wake County's early voting information. He does have links for Instagram, X, Facebook, Blue Sky, and TikTok, along with volunteer and donate tabs. Doing a Google search, I did find him on Ballotpedia. Wiley Nickel of the Democratic Party is running for election for the North Carolina 10th Prosecutorial District Attorney. He is on the ballot for the Democratic primary on March 3rd, 2026. Nickel of the Democratic Party was a member of the U.S. House representing North Carolina's 13th Congressional District. He assumed office on January 3rd, 2023. He left office on January 3rd, 2025. Nickel also ran for election to the U.S. Senate to represent North Carolina. He will not appear on the ballot for the Democratic primary on March 3rd for that race. He withdrew after Cooper's announcement that he was running. For biography, Wiley Nickel has lived in Kerry, North Carolina. Nickel graduated from Francis W. Parker School in 1994. He earned a Bachelor's of Arts in Political Science and Government from Tulane University in 1998 and a JD from Pepperdine University in 2005. Nichols' career experience includes working as an attorney with Nickel and Granados PLLC. As stated before, he did run for the general election for the U.S. House of North Carolina for District 13 in 2022. He won with 51.6% of the vote. In 2020, he ran for the general election for North Carolina State Senate District 16. He won with 65.6% of the vote. He did not answer Ballotpedia's survey questionnaire, but he did answer our North Carolina Deep Dive Voters Guide. Question number one: experience and preparation. What experience best prepares you to lead this office? He said, I bring over 20 years of legal experience having built and led a successful Wake County law firm where I fought every day to make sure my clients were treated fairly and compassionately by the North Carolina justice system. As a North Carolina state senator and later a member of Congress, I've helped shape criminal law, strengthened public safety, and managed a large congressional office while serving my Wake County constituents. The Wake County District Attorney is not just a practicing courtroom lawyer. The DA oversees a staff of close to 80 and handles over 100,000 criminal cases a year. With proven experience running a law firm and a large government office, I'm uniquely qualified to deliver safety, justice, and accountability in the Wake County District Attorney's Office. Number two, top priority. What is the top priority you would focus on in your first year and why? He said, My top priority as a next district attorney for Wake County is to increase funding. The career prosecutors at the Wake County District Attorney's Office do an amazing job despite being overworked and understaffed. Wake County is the most populous county in the state, however, Mecklenburg County has 94 prosecutors to Wake County's 43, a stark disparity that directly affects caseloads, the time and care attorneys can devote to each case, and the overall efficiency of the court system for victims, defendants, and families alike. We need a district attorney who will get us the resources we need to help keep Wake County safe. I can do that and will make it a top priority on day one. 3. Decision making. How do you balance public safety, fairness, and discretion when deciding which cases to prosecute? He said, I'm running to ensure equal justice for all under the law. As district attorney, every individual will be treated fairly and with dignity. My office will advance justice and exercise discretion as appropriate to improve community outcomes, not to simply throw the book at anyone to secure convictions. Prosecutorial discretion means charging serious and violent crime firmly while also recognizing when treatment, diversion, or dismissal better serves justice. The goal is consistency, accountability, and outcomes that actually make our community safer, not just more convictions. Number four, limits and discretion. Are there types of cases where you believe prosecution should be limited or avoided? He said medical marijuana is legal in 40 states, and as a North Carolina State Senator, I authorized legislation to legalize medical marijuana. That work was shaped by my personal experience. My father died of cancer and relied on marijuana illegally during his final days to manage pain. The current district attorney continues to prosecute low-level marijuana possession cases. I'll adopt a different approach. I believe our already limited prosecutorial resources should prioritize violent crimes and serious offenses, not conduct that the vast majority of the country no longer treats as criminal. As a defense attorney, I have repeatedly seen the barriers caused by low-level criminal charges such as marijuana convictions. Expungements can often be the difference between getting a job or being turned away, securing housing or not, moving forward or staying trapped by a mistake that happened years ago that doesn't define a person. As a state senator in 2020, I supported Governor Cooper's legislation to improve our expungement laws by passing North Carolina's Second Chance Act. This gives persons convicted of nonviolent crimes the chance to have those convictions removed from their records. No one amongst us wants to be defined by our worst day. As a defense attorney in Wake County, I have secured thousands of expungements for my clients, opening doors to new employment opportunities, education, and stability. This is one of the ways we give people an opportunity to do the right thing, reduce recidivism, and actually improve public safety outcomes. As district attorney, my office will actively support and facilitate expungements for individuals who qualify under the law. I commit to host free expungement low barrier legal clinics throughout Wake County, partner with legal aid and community organizations, and use the authority of the DA's office to give legitimate second chances. 5. Integrity under pressure. How would you handle political or public pressure in high-profile cases? I've dedicated my career to public service. From the Obama White House to the North Carolina State Senate to serving in Congress, I have always been accountable to the people I serve. In each of those roles, I learned to listen carefully to input and criticism, but also to make decisions based on facts, the law, and my ethical obligations. In high-profile cases, public pressure is inevitable. My responsibility is to acknowledge the public's concerns while ensuring that decisions are guided by evidence, fairness, and public safety, not headlines or politics. Independence, transparency where appropriate, and respect for the rule of law are what allow the justice system to maintain public trust. A concrete example. Can you describe a specific criminal justice or public safety challenge in your jurisdiction and how your approach would differ from current practices? He said it's about time we had a Wake County District Attorney focused on tackling political corruption in our state. The Wake County District Attorney's Office prosecutes all of North Carolina's political corruption cases, government maleficence cases, and the criminal prosecutions for the state's largest county. In this moment, we need a district attorney who will stand up for our rights and freedoms, hold corrupt politicians accountable, and defend the rule of law and our constitution. I pledge to be that district attorney. Number seven, accountability. How should voters hold you accountable if they feel your office is not acting in the public's interest? He said as a former state senator and congressman, I've always welcomed the public and my constituents to reach out to my office. We need a district attorney who will communicate and show up in all parts of Wake County in order to build faith and confidence in our criminal justice system. While it's low-hanging fruit, the current district attorney doesn't maintain a website or talk to the public on social media. I'll create a website and communicate regularly with Wake County citizens about the work of the district attorney's office. I'll regularly visit all municipalities in Wake County and partner with local law enforcement and elected leaders to educate the public and help build community relationships to provide real public safety for Wake. Without real community relationships, the Wake DA's office and the broader criminal justice system. Without real community relationships, the Wake DA's office and broader criminal justice system can't function. My plan is to establish a community engagement office to establish important relationships with local law enforcement, elected leaders, community leaders, neighborhood groups, and Wake County residents of all ages and backgrounds. Building trust is the best way to get real public safety. I'm running on accountability. That means tackling political corruption, whether it's a Democrat or Republican. Accountability requires equal protection under the law for everyone. Number eight, learn more. How can voters learn more about you, your approach to justice, and how you would lead this office? He said you can learn more about our campaign at www.wileynickel.com. There you can read my platform as well as sign up for our weekly emails. I'd also recommend following us on social media. We are on Facebook, Twitter, Blue Sky, Instagram, and also post regularly on Substack. Indy Week did an article focusing on Wiley as well. It's entitled Wake County District Attorney Wiley Nickel, written February 6th, 2026. Wiley Nickel, his age is 50, he's a Democrat. WileyNickel.com is the website. Occupation and Employer, Attorney, and Former Congressman. Number one, what do you believe are the most important issues facing District Attorney's Office? And what are your top three priorities in addressing these issues? And again, like with the other candidates, if there are repeat things that he's mentioned on his website or in the other questionnaires, I won't include them here, but you can always go back to the article to read it in its entirety. He talks again about how his biggest priority is getting more funding because of how short-staffed they are. Second, compounding this challenge is North Carolina's growing mental health crisis. Today, our jails and prisons have effectively become the largest mental health institutions in Wake County. Rates of depression, anxiety, and co-occurring substance use disorders continue to rise as access to treatment declines. Mental health courts play a critical role in addressing nonviolent offenses involving individuals with mental health or substance use disorders, yet key funding streams, including federal SAMHSA dollars and DHHS administered resources are increasingly at risk. Wake County does not have a mental health courtroom, even though they exist in a dozen other counties. That will change when I'm district attorney. Third, the Wake County District Attorney plays a unique and critical role in combating political corruption and government misconduct statewide. Because Wake County is home to North Carolina's seat of government, the office is responsible for investigating and prosecuting public corruption cases that affect the integrity of our democracy. At a time when public trust in institutions is low, the DA's office must be independent, fair, and willing to hold powerful interests accountable, regardless of political party, position, or connections. As district attorney, I'll ensure that these cases are handled professionally and transparently so that the law is applied equally to everyone. Meeting these challenges requires leadership that understands both the justice system and the funding and policy levers at the federal, state, city, and county levels. I have the experience to lead efforts to ensure adequate prosecutor staffing, strengthen diversion and treatment based alternatives, and tackle political. Political corruption while keeping Wake County safe. Number two, what in your record as a public official or other experience demonstrates your ability to be an effective district attorney? This might include career or community service. Be specific about its relevance to this office. With Donald Trump and right-wing extremists trying to take away our freedoms, the threats to our democracy have never been more urgent. The Wake County District Attorney investigates and prosecutes all of North Carolina's political corruption and government maleficence cases because of our position in the state's capital. In this moment, we need a district attorney who will stand up for our rights and freedoms, hold corrupt politicians accountable, and defend the rule of law and our constitution. I bring over 20 years of legal experience having built and led a successful Wake County law firm where I fought every day to make sure my clients were treated fairly and compassionately by the North Carolina justice system. As a North Carolina State Senator and member of Congress, I helped shape criminal law, strengthened public policy, and managed a large congressional office while serving my Wake County constituents and bringing back millions of dollars in federal funding for affordable housing and public safety. The Wake County District Attorney is not just a practicing courtroom lawyer. The DA oversees a staff of close to 80 people and handles over 100,000 criminal cases a year. With proven experience running a law firm in a large government office, I'm uniquely qualified to deliver safety, justice, and accountability for the Wake County District Attorney's Office. Number three, violent crime rates in Wake County are below the state average, but gun violence, particularly among young people, remains a concern. What do you believe the DA's office role is in reducing violence, including juvenile crimes? If you're an incumbent, how have you worked to achieve that? If you're a challenger, what would you do if elected? Gun violence is the leading cause of death among children in the United States, and far too many North Carolinians are dying from senseless gun violence. As a father of two young children, I understand the fear of sending your child off to school and wondering if they'll be safe. In Congress, I was a member of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and co-sponsored legislation to ban assault weapons and ghost guns, provide for universal background checks, and close the gun show loophole. I also co-sponsored Ethan's Law, legislation that would require the safe storage of firearms and establish penalties for parents if a minor gains access to a gun. As district attorney, I'll calm down hard on those who use guns to commit violent crime. How the district attorney responds to a juvenile's case can change the entire trajectory of the child's life. Compassion here doesn't mean ignoring the law. It means responding in a way that actually reduces future harm. This is another reason why having community ties and connections with law enforcement and local officials matters. Utilizing community-based programs instead of court whenever possible will set these kids up for a positive future, not one spent behind bars. As district attorney, I'll use charging and diversion policies to keep students in school whenever possible and reserve prosecution for conduct that truly threatens public safety. Too often, minor school-based incidents are handled through the criminal justice system when they should be addressed through school discipline, counseling, or restorative practices. Criminalizing normal adolescent behavior derails education, increases dropout rates, and feeds lifelong involvement with the justice system. For nonviolent, low-level offenses involving juveniles, my office will look to diversion, deferred prosecution, and community-based interventions over formal charges where appropriate. These alternatives hold young people accountable without saddling them with permanent records that limit educational and economic opportunity. Early intervention, not early incarceration, is how we reduce recidivism and keep our communities safe. Public safety and educational opportunities go hand in hand. Smart charging, strong diversion, and real investments in public education is how we achieve both. Number four, what kinds of diversion programs do you support using in the DA's office? What kinds of cases do you believe should be exempted from diversion programs? He said I discussed juvenile cases above. I also support diversion programs for appropriate substance abuse-related cases, but not for cases involving violent crime. We have a growing mental health crisis in our state. More than 450,000 adults and young adults in our state have a serious mental illness, and rates of depression and anxiety and other disorders continue to rise. Mental health courts work with nonviolent offenders who have been diagnosed with a substance abuse, mental health, or co-occurring disorder. Mental health courts facilitate cooperation between the state mental health system, mental health service providers, and the court. This allows the state mental health system to provide repeat adult offenders who need mental health services with treatment and other mental health services aimed at improving their ability to function in the community, thereby reducing recidivism and easing the workload of the court. As district attorney, I'll create a full-time mental health court for Wake County to address one of the most pressing challenges facing our community. Too often, people struggling with mental illness cycle through the criminal justice system without receiving the treatment they need. A dedicated mental health court will connect individuals to care, reduce repeat offenses, and improve public safety. By working with judges, treatment providers, and law enforcement, we can ensure that those in crisis get the help they need. This approach is both smart on crime and compassionate, making Wake County stronger and safer for all. Number five, the recently passed Arena's Law eliminates the option for judges to release people pretrial with only a written promise to appear in court and requires that they set secured bonds for defendants charged with violent offenses or with more than two prior convictions. Do you support these changes? Why or why not? The crime that led to Arena's Law was a horrific tragedy. Protecting the public from violent criminals must always come first. When someone poses a real danger, judges should have the authority to detain them, and I support using secured bonds when the facts justify it. But Arena's Law treats our mental health crisis like a bail problem, and it's just not the same thing. North Carolina is in the middle of a serious mental health crisis. Jails and courtrooms are increasingly being used as substitutes for treatment because the state has failed to adequately fund the mental health care North Carolinians need. The bill did nothing to meaningfully invest in mental health services, crisis intervention, or treatment beds that could help prevent violence before it happens. Those solutions cost money, and the legislature chose not to pay for them. Instead, the law removes judicial discretion and mandates secured bonds based on charges and prior convictions, regardless of whether detention will actually make the public safer. That approach fails to address the underlying mental health problems that lead to violence in the first place. Judges and magistrates are trained to make individualized, evidence-based decisions, taking away options like unsecured bonds without providing real mental health alternatives doesn't solve the problem. It shifts it onto overcrowded jails that are ill-equipped to provide treatment and can actually increase the risk of future violence. I support accountability and secured bonds for violent offenders, but real public safety requires more than tougher bond rules. It requires investing in mental health care, early intervention, and community-based treatments, so we're stopping tragedies before they happen, not just reacting after the fact. As district attorney, I'll focus on both aggressively prosecuting violent crime, creating a full-time mental health courtroom in Wake County, like a dozen other counties have already done, and pushing for the mental health resources our community needs to prevent violence and keep Wake County safe. Number six, no one on North Carolina's death row has been executed since 2006. Provisions of Arena's law open the door for executions to resume. In what circumstances, if any, do you support using the death penalty? In what circumstances do you support life sentences and de facto life sentences? He said, I believe the death penalty should be reserved for the most extreme and heinous cases and only pursued after careful, deliberate review where evidence establishes guilt far beyond a reasonable doubt. Given the irreversible nature of capital punishment decisions and history of racial bias, the decision to seek the death penalty must be guided by the highest ethical standards, undisputable facts, and a commitment to ensure justice is fair, accurate, and free from bias. As district attorney, I would approach any potential capital case with caution, transparency, and accountability, weighing the strength of evidence, the interest of the victims and their families, public safety considerations, and the appropriateness of alternative sentences such as life without parole. The goal must always be justice and upholding the integrity of the legal system. I'm also deeply concerned about the enormous financial cost of capital prosecutions, which can consume millions of taxpayer dollars that could otherwise be invested in victim services, mental health treatment, violence prevention, and law enforcement resources that actually reduce crime. The new law also seeks to revive death by firing squad. The revival of execution by firing squad has no place in a modern justice system. Governor Josh Stein has made clear that there will be no firing squad executions while he's governor, and I'll make the same commitment for Wake County cases. Number seven, prosecutors routinely make decisions about which cases to pursue, especially with offices across the state understaffed. What kinds of cases would you prioritize for prosecution? Which would you deprioritize? Please explain your answer. As district attorney, my top priority will be focusing resources on cases that directly impact public safety in Wake County. That includes violent crime, gun violence, domestic violence, and property theft. These are the cases that threaten lives and communities, and they deserve the full attention and resources of the Wake County District Attorney's Office. Ensuring that these cases are prosecuted thoroughly and efficiently will help keep Wake County safe and hold violent offenders accountable. At the same time, I believe we need a more thoughtful and evidence-based approach to low-level offenses that don't pose a risk, that don't pose a direct threat to public safety. Medical marijuana is now legal in 40 states. As a North Carolina State Senator, I authored legislation to legalize medical marijuana. This is a personal issue for me. My father suffered from cancer and used marijuana illegally during his final days. I've seen how firsthand the criminalization of low-level medical marijuana can harm families rather than enhance public safety. As DA, I'll create a new policy for handling legitimate low-level medical marijuana cases and focus greater resources on tackling violent crime. 8. How should the DA's office take immigration status into consideration? He says North Carolina is a hub of innovation and diversity. People with roots from all over the world have come together to build a prosperous and growing community here in Wake County. People who come to our country seeking a better life and play by the rules deserve a pathway to legal status or citizenship that doesn't take decades to complete. As a congressman, I worked hard to advance comprehensive immigration reform and measures for border security, but Donald Trump opposed bipartisan legislation in order to use the issue on our campaign trail. There's still much more work to do at the federal level to fix our broken immigration system. Here in Wake County, public safety depends on trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities. People are far more likely to report crime, cooperate with investigations, and help keep neighborhoods safe when they feel secure interacting with police. And that trust is broken when minor offenses carry disproportionate immigration consequences. As district attorney, I'll use prosecutorial discretion where appropriate to help build trust between undocumented residents and law enforcement. In some circumstances, nonviolent minor offenses can be handled with alternatives to prosecution, including diversion programs, deferred charges, or dismissal when appropriate and supported by law enforcement. This allows law enforcement to focus on violent, repeat, and high-risk offenders while keeping the community engaged and safe. Victims and witnesses must be able to come forward without fear. Prosecutors and staff will be trained to understand the immigration consequences of charging decisions and to apply discretion consistently, fairly, and strategically. Where state law allows, I'll consider record clearing, deferred prosecution, or other non-criminal resolutions for low-level offenses that could negatively impact immigration status. I'll focus on enforcing the law fairly and in ways that build public confidence and trust with law enforcement. By prioritizing trust and fairness while holding serious offenders accountable, my office will create a justice system that is safer, more equitable, and more effective. When people know they can report crimes without fear, law enforcement becomes stronger, communities are safer, and justice works for everyone in Wake County. Number nine, how would you characterize the incumbent DA's record on dealing with the use of force by local law enforcement officers? How would you differ in handling such cases, if at all? He says no one is above the law. Whether someone wears a badge to work or a lanyard, law enforcement officers swear an oath to uphold the law and to protect and serve. My office will thoroughly investigate all credible allegations of police misconduct using all available evidence, including body cameras, witness testimony, and all available information. Misconduct, whether through action or inaction, will be taken seriously and pursued in accordance with the law. The current district attorney is not running for re-election, and my focus in this campaign is on my positive vision for the future. I'm committed to ensuring that every person, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or legal status, is treated fairly under the law. Accountability is essential to maintain public trust and uphold justice. The district attorney's office should be much more transparent in how investigations are conducted, how charging decisions are made, what standards apply, and that the law is being applied fairly and equitably to everyone. I'll continue to invest in tools and training that support accountability. As a congressman, I secured over $1.3 million in federal funding for local law enforcement to purchase body-worn cameras and other technology. These tools not only protect officers, but also provide critical evidence to ensure fairness, accountability, and community trust. Number 10. The state legislature determines how many prosecutor positions it will fund in each DA's office. Wake County is the largest county in the state and yet has far fewer prosecutors than the next largest county, Mecklenburg. How do you propose closing cases more efficiently given the shortage of staff? How would you advocate for more resources for the DA's office? He says funding is one of the most significant challenges facing the district attorney's office. He goes again into comparing the number of DA's prosecutors we have here in Wake County compared to Mecklenburg County, so I won't repeat that. He does say federal funding, there's much more federal government can do to support public safety in Wake County. As a former congressman, I'll work hard to make sure Wake County has the support it needs from the federal government. I'm very optimistic that Hakeem Jeffries will be the next Speaker of the House, and I expect House Democrats will invest in public safety with their expected majority after the 2026 elections. As a congressman, I brought back millions of dollars for law enforcement in North Carolina. As Wake County's district attorney, I'll work to bring back federal funding for the courts, law enforcement, and the DA's office. State funding. One of my top priorities will be to lobby the North Carolina General Assembly in a bipartisan way to ensure adequate funding for the Wake DA's office. I'll bring together a large bipartisan group of Wake County community leaders together to help me press the NC General Assembly to provide adequate resources for public safety in Wake County. County and City Funding. Mecklenburg County and the City of Charlotte fund 23 of the 94 positions in Mecklenburg I mentioned above. The county, the current Wake County District Attorney, who is not running for re-election, never tried to get county or city ADA funding. I've already started conversations with local leaders, with the City of Raleigh and the Wake County Board of Commissioners, and will work to match Mecklenburg with funding for 23 new positions from the Wake County Board of Commissioners and the City of Raleigh. New Hanover County, Fayetteville, Cumberland County, Durham, Durham County, Alamance County, Rowan County, Union County, Buncombe County, and Henderson County all provide grant funding for ADAs. Those counties fund around two to four ADAs, with the exception of the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, which jointly fund 23 ADAs for Mecklenburg's DA's office. Again, Wake County and the City of Raleigh do a lot to support public safety in Wake County, but have never been asked to fund the ADA positions. One of my top priorities will be to secure more funding at state and local levels and bring a large bipartisan group of community leaders together to help me get it done. Private resources. In addition to public funding, I will responsibly expand the use of private resources and volunteer support to strengthen the DA's office without compromising its independence or integrity. That includes building stronger internship pipelines with local colleges and law schools, allowing qualified law students to assist under North Carolina's third-year student practice certification rules while gaining real courtroom experience in helping reduce staff burdens. I will also create opportunities for retired attorneys to volunteer their time and expertise in appropriate supervised roles, as well as structured non-lawyer volunteer programs to support victims and families navigating the court system. For example, victims of domestic violence often face an overwhelming and intimidating courthouse experience. We should make sure they're always met by trained volunteers or interns who can help guide them through the process, connect them with resources, and ensure they're not facing the system alone. These efforts will never replace the need for fully funded prosecutors, but they can improve efficient, but they can improve efficiency, enhance victim support, and allow career prosecutors to focus their time and expertise on the most serious cases, helping the office serve Wake County more effectively and humanely. Number 11. Give an example of an opinion, policy, vote, or action you changed based on constituent feedback. If you have not yet held elected office, describe a time when you changed your position on an issue after listening to those affected by it. He said while in Congress, one of the clearest examples of listening to constituents and adjusting my approach was how our office changed our approach to help people access federal services and navigate our very complicated federal bureaucracy. Over the course of my term, our office handled thousands of cases with federal agencies returning millions of dollars to families and helping constituents resolve issues with Social Security, veterans' benefits, passports, IRS matters, and more. These weren't abstract problems. They came from hearing directly from people who were frustrated, stuck, or denied benefits they had earned or desperately needed. For many families, the biggest barrier wasn't a lack of services but red tape, confusing rules, and unawareness of programs already available. We helped more than 1,600 constituents resolve issues with federal agencies, returning nearly $2.8 million to families in the process. We hosted and attended nearly 300 public events, including 16 town halls, to connect with neighbors and make their voices heard in Washington. We responded to over 70,000 pieces of correspondence, ensuring every constituent knew their voice mattered. Legislatively, we worked to make life better for the people we served. I introduced 13 bills and co-sponsored over 450 pieces of legislation fighting for affordable health care, safer schools, better infrastructure, and an economy that works for everyone. I took to the House floor 70 times to advocate for my district's priorities and to share constituent stories with the American people. Listening to these experiences also led us to increase staffing for casework to three full-time specialists and to author legislation that provided more resources to help people learn about existing programs they were eligible for, ensuring that those services reached the people who needed them. That experience reinforced an important lesson. Public service isn't just about passing laws, it's about helping people navigate systems when those systems fail. I listened to my constituents and moved resources in my office and authored legislation to address the issues. As district attorney, I'll bring that same approach to Wake County Courthouse, focusing on customer service and making the court experience more efficient and effective, especially for victims and for law enforcement officers who currently spend far too much time waiting in court rather than being out on the streets keeping our community safe. Number 12. Are there any issues this questionnaire has not addressed that you would like to address? He said, Ice raids. What ICE is doing in cities across the country is not normal and it should alarm every American. Random sweeps targeting people based on how they look, including U.S. citizens and individuals with no criminal record, undermines public trust and doesn't make our communities safer. Federal resources are being diverted from investigating violent crime, human trafficking, and other real threats all for political theater. Two American citizens have been killed by ICE agents in Minnesota over the past few days. They should both be alive with their families today. We can all agree that violent criminals should be the focus of deportation efforts. That's common sense and good for public safety. That's what we did well when I worked for President Obama, targeting violent criminals for deportation. This approach aimed to focus limited enforcement resources on individuals deemed the greatest threats to public safety. But that's not what's happening here. These ICE raids involve random sweeps of people based solely on how they look, including American citizens and people with no criminal record. Leaked data from ICE shows that in the last fiscal year, only 5% of those booked into ICE detention were violent criminals, while 73% had no criminal convictions at all. Wade County deserves smart, targeted enforcement of violent criminals. Not fear-driven raids that undermine trust in law enforcement. As Wake County District Attorney, I'll use the full weight of my office to hold any federal agent accountable who breaks the law in Wake County. A federal badge doesn't put anyone above the law in North Carolina, and Donald Trump cannot pardon state crimes. When I'm district attorney, accountability will apply to everyone in Wake County without exception. I did find an article from the newsandobserver.com. It's an opinion article entitled End Note Endorsement, Our Choice in the Race for Wake County District Attorney, updated February 11th, 2026, written by their editorial board. It says after serving as Wake County's top prosecutor since 2014, district attorney Lorrin Freeman and Democrat chose not to seek a fourth term. No Republican filed to be on the November ballot for the office, so Freeman's successor effectively will be chosen by the winner of a three-way Democratic primary on March 3rd. Freeman, who previously served as Wake County's clerk of court, has run her office with low-key effectiveness despite a shortage of assistant DAs. She made progress in diverting cases involving drug addiction and mental illness while taking a hard line on prosecuting those charged with violent crimes. Now Democratic voters will have a choice between essentially staying Freeman's diligent but quiet course or electing a candidate who will raise the profile of an office that serves the state's most populous county and as it is in the state capitol, has the power to prosecute corruption within state government. Freeman has endorsed Sherita Walton, a former assistant Wake DA, who now serves as a senior associate city attorney for Raleigh and legal advisor to the Raleigh Police Department. Walton 48 has solid experience, having served for eight years as a prosecutor in Manhattan's District Attorney's Office before coming to Wake County. Her work with the Raleigh Police has made her familiar with both the strengths and flaws of the policing that brings cases to court. Walton would not Walton would address not only criminal cases, but would also seek to reduce crime by consulting with community activists, law enforcement officials, criminal justice advocates, and youth groups. If elected, she would be Wake County's first black district attorney. Melanie Shekita, 53, is another candidate with strong ties to Wake County District Attorney's Office, with ties to the Wake County District Attorney's Office. She has served as an assistant DA for 27 years under Freeman and her predecessor, Colon Willoughby, who has endorsed Shekita. Shekita knows the DA's office and knows where it can be improved. She says she will focus on reducing violent crime by creating a task force on dangerous offenders and would personally prosecute violent felonies. She wants to develop a full-fledged mental health court to break the cycle in which the mentally ill are put in jail, in which the mentally ill are put in jail, treated, released, and then offend again. While Walton and Shekita have direct experience with the Wake County DA's office, candidate Wiley Nickel would come to the job with a fresh perspective and a broader view. Nickel, 50, has a strong political background. He worked for President Barack Obama, served two terms as a state senator, served one term in the U.S. House, and made an early bid for U.S. Senate before withdrawing after former Governor Roy Cooper announced he would seek the Democratic nomination. Nickel's political experience and ambition would invigorate the DA's office. He has shown a willingness to press for more resources for the DA's office. He notes that Mecklenburg County, the state's second largest county behind Wake, has 94 prosecutors while Wake only has 43. One question about Nickel is his lack of experience in prosecuting cases and managing caseloads. In response, he notes that he created and led a Wake County law firm and oversaw a congressional office. We think his strength in community relations offsets what he lacks in criminal trial experience. The DA is, after all, an elected office that must maintain the trust and confidence of the public. Most notably, Nickel wants to activate the Wake DA's dormant role as a prosecutor of political corruption. It may be that contracts, contributions, and grants involving state lawmakers and state officials are all above board, but it's unlikely. The Wake DA needs to respond to media reports and tips about potentially illegal activity within state government. As DA, Nickel promises he will be vigilant about wrongdoing regardless of the political party involved. Nickel also said he will take action if federal agents use the aggressive tactics they've employed in Minnesota and elsewhere. What they're doing is just random sweeps and terrorizing communities and trampling all over the Constitution, he said. The Democratic primary for the Wake County District Attorney offers three worthy candidates. But what's needed now is not only a new head prosecutor, but a fresh view of how to support and employ the powers of the office. We recommend Wiley Nickel for Wake County District Attorney. And then I did see from the Federal Election Commission a financial summary through 2026. And this coverage covers dates of January 1st, 2023 to December 31st, 2025. His total receipts are almost $3 million. The total contributions that he raised was just over almost $2.2 million. $1.4 million came from individual contributions. He made a loan to his campaign for $765,000. And then total disbursements is just under $3 million. His operating expenditures is just over $1.4 million. It looks like he returned his total contribution refunds was $189,000. Total loan repayments, he repaid his candidate loan repayments just over $1.3 million. Ending cash on hand, $11,809.16. Debts and loans owed by committee is at $396,858.01. And that rounds out the Wake County District Attorney District 10 race that will be on the Democratic ballot in this primary election. Again, there are three candidates: Sherita Walton, Melanie Shekita, Wiley Nickel, and you will be eligible to vote for one of those if you are grabbing the Democratic ballot when you go to vote in this primary election. And that brings this episode of the NC Deep Dive to a close. Make sure you check out all the other relevant episodes for the 2026 primary election at www.ncdeepdive.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, or wherever you currently listen to your podcast. I will be including helpful links for each candidate and voting in general on our website show notes, including our NC Deep Dives Voters Guide for the 2026 primary election. We were blessed to have many candidates that took the time to share their thoughts and speak to voters within Southern Wake County. The Voter's Guide is arranged by party affiliation and organized in such a way to make it relatively easy to find the races or the candidates you might be interested in. All candidates' websites are linked if I was able to find one. I also consciously chose to arrange the voters' guide starting at the end of the ballot. So often we are aware of the larger races, yet don't hear about or take the time to learn about the smaller ones. As always, if you have any questions, concerns, or topics you'd like to share, you may contact us via social media or by emailing ncdeepdive at gmail.com. If you found value in this episode, we'd love for you to subscribe, review, and share it to help us in our mission to help voters make their most informed choices. Thank you for engaging with this episode and becoming a more informed citizen. Democracy is a team sport. Together we make democracy work and our communities a better place to work, play, and live. Your vote matters, your voice matters, you matter. Until next time, my friends, Namaste. The love and light in me sees and honors the love and light in you.