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. For this race, we're looking at the Republican primary ballot. For the North Carolina Senate race for District 17. There are two candidates running for this race, Sarah Al-Baghdadi and Shirley Johnson. You will be eligible if you are picking up the Republican ballot to vote for one of these two individuals. To start off with Sarah Al-Baghdadi, she does not have a website that I could find at this moment. I have touched base with her regarding the NC Deep Dives Voters Guide, which she did fill out, but she did state that she hadn't gotten her website together quite yet. She is or was planning to do that. Looking at a Google search, I did find her ballotpedia. It says Sarah Al-Baghdadi of the Republican Party is running for election to the North Carolina State Senate to represent District 17. She is on the ballot in the Republican primary on March 3rd, 2026. She did not fill out any of Ballotpedia's survey responses and does not have any campaign finance summary here. I did look her up on the North Carolina State Board of Elections campaign finance website, and I see her committee correspondence, but she has not filed any other paperwork indicating campaign finance. I saw one x post that popped up in the Google search. Again, I haven't been able to verify this, but I wanted to share it in case it's helpful for you. It is posted by somebody that I don't know, so I don't know if she has any standing in the community. It says voter history for Sarah Al-Baghdadi says she's filed to run for the NC Senate District 17 seat in Wake County as a Republican. Says one, she originally registered to vote as a Democrat in Mecklenburg County in 2008. She remained registered there until 2014 when her address verification card was returned as undeliverable, and she has been inactive for the last two federal elections. Her record shows that she has never voted. And then it says two, in March of 2025, she registered in Wake County as a Republican residing in Apex. Her current voter search shows she has not voted since then either. And three, her voter history master file has no record of any vote ever having been cast by that NCID number. I can say that I did go on to the voter search. I did find her. She is labeled as a Republican. And for at least what I saw there, it does not have any voter history if that is helpful for you. Sarah did answer our NC Deep Dive Voters Guide, so I will go through her responses here. Number one, experience and preparation. What experience best prepares you to serve in the North Carolina Senate? She said, My law enforcement experience. I worked for the Wake County Sheriff's Office and served the public. I saw firsthand how the general public are affected by those laws. I am currently employed with the Wake County Public School System as a substitute teacher, and I also own a small business. Number two, top priority. What is the first state issue you would prioritize and how would it specifically affect your district? She said mental health. It would affect the district in a positive way. There is a need and a want from my district to prioritize these key issues. Number three, decision making. How do you balance party priorities, district needs, and constitutional limits when crafting or voting on legislation? She said, as a mom of two teenagers and one preteen, I can definitely find a common ground and within the law I will do everything I can to make a change that will be what my district needs and wants. Again, what my district wants is the key word, and if given the chance, I will work for everyone in my district. Number four, compromise and limits. What is one area where compromise is necessary and one where it is not? She said, I can compromise only if it's in my district's best interest, and I practice what I preach. I will lead with love and faith. My district is who I will fight for and I will put North Carolina first. Number five, independence and representation. When would you say no to party leadership or outside pressure to better represent your constituents? She said, I can take a lot of pressure and will stand by and for my constituents. You can count on me and I want to be your voice and make sure that it's heard. Number six, concrete example. Can you describe a specific problem affecting your district and explain how your approach would differ from current state policies? She said, a current issue we are facing are proposed data centers and my approach would be for the betterment of my district. Number seven, accountability. How should voters hold you accountable if they feel you are not representing their district's interests? She said, call me, text me, and email me. You have my word. I will respond personally. Together we are a community and teamwork makes dreams work. Your interests and concerns are my utmost priority. We all want what is best for our community and children at large. Number eight, learn more. How can voters learn more about you, your values, and your priorities? She said the community can learn more about me with my social media and websites coming soon. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me by phone, text, or email. I will respond to each and every one of you. And that is all I could find online about Sarah Al-Baghdadi. The next candidate is Shirley Johnson. And I will go ahead and read through her website, which is ShirleyJohnson 4NC.com. It says Shirley Johnson Contribute. There's a button where you can contribute. First in faith, first in freedom, first in family. Meet Shirley Johnson. Shirley Johnson is a Christian conservative, lifelong public servant and former elected official with over 20 years of experience serving families, children, and communities. Raised in a large, close-knit family, Shirley's faith and values guide her leadership. She began her tenure career on the state Senate Republican staff where she learned how government works, how to write responsible legislation, and how to cut wasteful spending while protecting essential services. Shirley later served in statewide leadership roles and as executive director of the Sangamon County Child Advocacy Center and CASA, leading efforts to protect abused and trafficked children. She has served on the FBI Human Trafficking Task Force, the State Child Death Review Team, and was elected trustee for the Village of Jerome. As a social services specialist, doctoral candidate, and community leader, Shirley is committed to strong families, fiscal responsibility, public safety, and servant leadership that puts people, not politics, first. It says connect with Shirley, and there are buttons to connect with her at Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. Priorities for a stronger North Carolina. Strong families and parental rights. Protect parents' rights in education, healthcare, and moral instruction. Support school choice, charter schools, and parental transparency. Oppose radical ideology in classrooms, and protect age-appropriate education. Public safety and law enforcement. Fully support law enforcement and first responders. Strengthen penalties for violent crime, human trafficking, and child exploitation. Oppose soft on crime policies that endanger families and neighborhoods. Fiscal responsibility and taxpayer protection. Cut wasteful spending and oppose unnecessary tax increases. Protect working families and seniors from inflationary policies. Demand accountability for how Wake County and state funds are spent. Educational excellence. Focus on reading, math, and workforce readiness. Support teachers while removing bureaucratic red tape. Promote career and technical education aligned with North Carolina jobs. Faith, freedom, and constitutional values. Defend religious liberty and freedom of speech. Uphold the U.S. and North Carolina constitutions. Resist government overreach into churches, families, and small businesses. Economic growth and local jobs. Support small businesses and entrepreneurs. Promote policies that keep jobs in North Carolina, not overseas, reduce regulations that harm families, farmers, and small employers. Protecting children and the vulnerable. Tough action against child abuse, neglect, and trafficking. Strengthen systems that protect children while respecting family integrity, and advocate for victims, not criminals. It says join Shirley's team, and there's a form you can fill out for that. And that is the entirety of Shirley's website. Upon doing the Google search, I did find her on ballotpedia. It says Shirley Johnson of the Republican Party is running for election to the North Carolina State Senate to represent District 17. She's on the ballot in the Republican primary on March 3rd, 2026. For her campaign finance for the 2026 election, and it has the dates January 1st, 2025 through December 31st, 2025, and has an asterisk that says the most recent available data. Her total contributions was $140 from one contributor, and then her expenditures is still sitting at zero dollars. She did not fill out Ballapedia's survey responses, but she did take part in our NC Deep Dives Voter Guide. Number one, experience in preparation. What experience best prepares you to serve in the North Carolina Senate? She said, the experience that best prepares me to serve in the North Carolina Senate is a career lived out on both inside state government and on the front lines of serving families. I began my career with 10 years on Senate staff where I learned how government truly works, how to write responsible legislation, protect essential services, and be a careful steward of taxpayer dollars. That experience taught me the importance of limited, effective government and accountability to the people we serve. I later led efforts to protect abused and trafficked children as executive director of a child advocacy center and CASA, served on an FBI Human Trafficking Task Force, and was appointed to the State Child Death Review Team. These roles gave me first hand insight into how laws and policies affect real families, often at their most vulnerable moments. Throughout my career, I have stepped forward when families needed strong advocacy and common sense leadership. I bring both legislative experience and real world perspective. Someone who understands policy, respects taxpayers, and is committed to protecting children, strengthening families, and serving North Carolina with integrity. Number two, top priority. What is the first state issue you would prioritize and how would it specifically affect your district? She said the first state issue I would prioritize is public safety, because nothing else matters if families do not feel safe in their homes, schools, or communities. Citizens deserve to live peacefully and securely, and when public safety is neglected, it undermines every other priority, from education to economic growth, from education to economic growth. For District 17, strengthening public safety means supporting law enforcement, holding violent offenders accountable, and ensuring our laws protect victims rather than criminals. Safe communities attract businesses, retain families, and allow children to learn without fear. Public safety and economic stability go hand in hand. A strong economy supports safer neighborhoods and better schools, while rising costs, workforce challenges, and limited job opportunities place stress on families. The General Assembly must pursue policies that reduce the cost of living, support small businesses, attract responsible investment, and prepare workers for skilled, high-paying jobs, benefiting both urban and rural communities within our district. By prioritizing public safety, the General Assembly can then effectively address other critical issues such as educational accountability and economic stability. This approach fulfills our responsibility to protect families, strengthen opportunity, and ensure North Carolina and District 17 remain places where people can live, work, and thrive. Number three, decision making. How do you balance party priorities, district needs, and constitutional limits when crafting or voting on legislation? She said balancing party priorities, district needs, and constitutional limits is a responsibility I take seriously. While most Republican priorities align with my personal values and conservative principles, my first obligation is always to the Constitution and to the people of my district. When district concerns arise that may differ from party priorities, I believe thoughtful leadership requires listening, not posturing. I will work closely with local stakeholders, advocates, and fellow lawmakers to understand the real world impact of legislation and to negotiate solutions that address legitimate concerns without abandoning conservative values. Every decision I make will be guided by constitutional limits, respect for individual liberty, fiscal responsibility, and the proper role of government. By focusing on practical, principled compromises that get to the heart of an issue, I can support legislation that protects taxpayers, respects the rule of law, and reflects both values of our district and the foundational principles that govern our state. Number four, Compromise and Limits. What is one area where compromise is necessary and one where it is not? She said compromise is an essential part of the legislative process, and responsible governance often requires give and take to craft laws that truly serve the people of our state. One area where compromise is necessary is public health. We must protect the most vulnerable, those who cannot afford quality care, while also preserving private health care options that allow individuals and families to choose their own doctors and make decisions without excessive government interference. A balanced approach ensures access, accountability, and personal freedom. There are certain areas where compromise is not acceptable. Let me be clear, legal immigration has always been welcomed in America. It fosters strong bonds in foreign trade and education. However, illegal immigration disregards our laws, threatens public safety, strains limited resources, and undermines the rule of law. These issues cannot be overlooked or excused. Protecting our borders and enforcing existing laws are fundamental responsibilities of government and are essential for safeguarding our communities. Conservative leadership involves knowing when to negotiate and when to stand firm, always guided by the Constitution, public safety, and the responsibility to prioritize citizens' well-being. five, independence and representation. five, independence and representation. When would you say no to party leadership or outside pressure to better represent your constituents? She said, If a rule is in opposition to the Constitution, harms the residents in my district, or clashes with my fundamental principles, I will not support it or bend to the pressure. While party leadership, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders play an important role in advancing shared priorities, elected officials are not sent to the Capitol to be rubber stamps. They are sent to represent their constituents with honesty and independence. The legislative process is all about working together, ironing out differences, and producing quality legislation. I am committed to working with my party and outside interests to find outcomes that benefit our constituents, state, and flesh out a final piece of legislation that best serves the common good. Elected officials are meant to step forward, stand for others, especially those their promise to serve. Nowhere is duty clearer than in following the Constitution. Yet duties stretch beyond paperwork when serving people who place trust in you by voting. Integrity in public service means having the courage to stand firm when it matters most. I will always listen respectfully, work collaboratively, and seek common ground when possible, but I will never compromise my values or the trust my constituents place in me. Number six, concrete example. Can you give, can you describe a specific problem affecting your district and explain how your approach would differ from the current state policies? She said one of the most pressing problems affecting Senate District 17 is education. While we invest significant taxpayer dollars in our public school system, too many students are still falling behind. Families are frustrated by declining academic performance. Families are frustrated by declining academic performance, staffing shortages, and growing safety concerns in classrooms. When the system fails to meet students' needs, parents understandably seek better options. My approach would differ from current state policies through a two-pronged education strategy focused on accountability and choice. First, we must take a hard look at the existing public school system to eliminate fraud and wasteful spending, ensure funds are reaching classrooms, and address teachers' pay and support. Teachers deserve competitive salaries, safe working environments, and the authority to maintain orderly classrooms so they can focus on teaching, not bureaucracy. Second, I strongly support school choice. Scholarship-based options empower parents, restore accountability, and encourage improvement across all schools. When families have options, schools are incentivized to raise academic standards, especially in foundational subjects like reading and math, and to respond to the needs of students rather than administrative mandates. Education should prioritize student achievement, parental involvement, and teacher support, not ideology. By strengthening public schools while expanding responsible school choice, we can ensure every stud we can ensure every child in District 17 has access to quality education and a real opportunity to succeed. Number seven, accountability. How should voters hold you accountable if they feel you are not representing their district's interest? She said accountability lies at the heart of elected office, and I not only expect constituents to hold me accountable, I embrace it. Serving the public is a responsibility built on trust, and that trust must be continually earned. If voters believe I am not representing the interest of District 17, they should contact my office, meet with me in the community, and make their voices heard. I am committed to being accessible, listening respectfully, and engaging directly with the people I serve, not hiding behind politics or party or party leadership. True accountability comes from open communication, transparency, and engagement. I believe the best representation occurs when elected officials and constituents work together to address concerns, evaluate outcomes, and ensure government remains responsive, responsible, and rooted in the values of the district. Number eight, learn more. How can voters learn more about you, your values, and your priorities? She said having a candidate who is easily accessible and able to communicate with you is the foundation of my state senate campaign. This access promotes transparency and creates genuine opportunities for you to ask about the important issues, whether they are hot button topics or everyday concerns in our community. Beginning on Monday, February 2nd, 2026, I encourage every voter in my district to join me for my live call-in show, Ask Shirley, which will air every Monday on Facebook. Your calls are welcome from 7 to 8 p.m. and I promise that none of your questions will be rushed or dismissed. She gives the link to that page. The concerns you share will give me a clearer perspective on what may be obvious to you but less apparent to me. I welcome invitations to speak with community groups, faith organizations, neighborhood associations, and meet the candidate events with families and friends. I believe the best way to serve our district is by listening directly to the people who live and work here. Lastly, I invite all residents of District 17 to follow me on social media, engage with me, ask questions, and share their concerns. I want to get to know you better and welcome the opportunity to earn your trust. All links are provided below. And she shares her links for Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. And it looks like I'll include those links in the Show notes of this episode. There was an Indy article for NC Senate District 17 Shirley Johnson. I believe if I remember correctly, I did find one for Sarah, but there was no information attached to it. So it says name Shirley Johnson, age 50, party affiliation, Republican, occupation and employer, consultant for revived life consultant, consultant, revived life coaching and consulting. Number one, what in your background qualifies you to represent the people of North Carolina District effectively? What would you cite as your biggest career accomplishment? She says my background uniquely prepares me to serve the people of my North Carolina district effectively. I bring over a decade of experience working for the Illinois State Senate, where I served in appropriations, press, and constituent outreach roles. Through this work, I developed a deep understanding of the legislative process from drafting and advancing legislation to working collaboratively with constituents, advocacy organizations, organizations, and stakeholders in a bipartisan manner to achieve meaningful results. In addition, my professional background in human and social services has shaped my approach to public service. I have worked closely with children and families experiencing trauma, giving me firsthand insight to how policy decisions directly affect people's daily lives. This experience guides my commitment to legislate with compassion, respect for community values, and a strong focus on protecting families and children. My greatest career accomplishment was establishing the first Child Advocacy Center, CAC, satellite office in Central Ill in Central Illinois. Families were often required to travel long distances for forensic interviews, which in one case caused a child's such severe distress that he attempted to exit a moving vehicle, which in one case caused a child such severe distress that he attempted to exit a moving vehicle. Recognizing the need to reduce additional trauma while maintaining professional standards, I led the effort to create a satellite office in a neighboring county. I secured startup funding by writing a grant and ensured fiscal responsibility by leveraging existing staff to operate the site. The satellite office significantly reduced trauma for children, eased financial burdens on families, improved service delivery across multiple counties, and continues to serve families today. Number two, what do you believe to be the three most pressing issues facing the next General Assembly? What steps do you believe the state should take to address them? She said the next General Assembly faces three clear priorities that directly affect the daily lives of North Carolinians public safety, education, and the economy. Addressing these issues responsibly is essential to restoring confidence in the government and strengthening our communities. Public safety. Safe communities are the foundation of a strong state. When lawlessness increases and emergency response slows, families suffer. The General Assembly must take decisive action to support law enforcement, provide officers with the tools and training they need, and ensure our courts function efficiently and without delay. Preventing crime, holding offenders accountable, and supporting victims of violence are core responsibilities of government. Public safety is not optional. It is essential to preserving order, trust, and the security of our neighborhoods. Education. Education shapes the future of our state, yet too many students are falling behind. Classrooms face staffing shortages, declining performance, and growing safety concerns that worry parents. Not every child has access to quality education, and families are responding by seeking alternatives when public schools fail to meet their needs. School choice plays an important role in restoring accountability and encouraging improvement. Scholarship-based options give parents greater control, promote competition, and incentivize schools to raise academic standards, especially in foundational subjects like reading and math. Education policy should prioritize student achievement and parental involvement, not ideology, and ensure teachers are supported in maintaining orderly, effective classrooms. The economy. A strong economy supports safer communities and better schools. Rising costs, workforce readiness, and job availability all affect whether families can afford housing, food, and childcare. State leaders must focus on policies that reduce the cost of living, support small businesses, attract investment, and prepare workers for skilled, high-paying jobs. Economic growth should be broad-based and sustainable, benefiting both urban and rural communities. By prioritizing public safety, educational accountability, and economic stability, the General Assembly can fulfill its responsibility to protect families, strengthen opportunities, and ensure North Carolina remains a place where people can live, work, and thrive. Number three, North Carolina expanded Medicaid two years ago. However, federal budget cuts now threaten the program due to a state trigger law that ends expansion if federal support drops below 90%. How would you address Medicaid funding to maintain coverage for the millions of North Carolinians enrolled? She said Medicaid plays a critical role as a healthcare safety net for low-income individuals and families across North Carolina, and maintaining access to care for our most vulnerable residents must remain a priority. At the same time, the rapid growth of the program and the state's federal funding trigger law create legitimate long-term sustainability concerns that cannot be ignored. North Carolina's Medicaid enrollment has grown to more than 3 million residents, reflecting both real need and rising costs that demand responsible oversight to ensure the program remains financially viable and focused on those it was designed to serve. To maintain coverage while protecting taxpayers, I support a three-tier approach. First, the state must strengthen program integrity by aggressively identifying and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse so public dollars are spent efficiently and appropriately. Second, we should expand and modernize work support initiatives, including the Work First program, to help able-bodied recipients gain the skills and employment opportunities needed to transition into jobs that provide private or employer-sponsored health insurance. Third, the state must increase accountability for hospital and insurance companies participating in Medicaid managed care. This includes reviewing profit margins, administrative cost, and reimbursement structures to ensure insurers are not extracting excessive profits at the expense of taxpayers or patient care. Medicaid dollars should prioritize access, quality, and outcomes, not inflated corporate margins. This balanced approach serves Medicaid as a dependable safety net for children, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families while promoting workforce participation, fiscal responsibility, and fairness for North Carolina taxpayers. Number four, the General Assembly has recently passed legislation limiting local control over zoning and development standards to address housing shortages. Do you support the legislature's approach of limiting local zoning authority to increase housing supply, or should municipalities retain greater autonomy over land use decisions? She said, I support the General Assembly's efforts to address North Carolina's housing shortage by placing reasonable limits on overly restrictive local zoning policies. Housing affordability is a growing concern for families, seniors, and young professionals across the state, and excessive regulation at the local level has contributed to rising costs, limited supply, and reduced home ownership opportunities. While local input remains important, the state has a legitimate role in ensuring that zoning policies do not unnecessarily block housing growth, stifle private investment, or prevent working families from living near jobs, schools, and essential services. A balanced statewide framework can reduce bureaucratic barriers, encourage responsible development, and allow the free market to respond to demand without sacrificing safety or basic community standards. This legislation promotes property rights, economic growth, and housing availability while still allowing municipalities to enforce core health, safety, and infrastructure requirements. By curbing excessive local restrictions and encouraging a broader range of housing options, the General Assembly is taking a prudent, conservative approach that supports families, strengthens communities, and helps keep North Carolina an affordable place to live and work. How would you address the rising cost of housing, childcare, and basic necessities facing North Carolina families? Addressing the rising cost of housing, childcare, and everyday necessities requires a practical, family-centered approach that prioritizes affordability, local ownership, and economic stability for North Carolina families. Housing affordability begins with protecting homeownership and reducing the financial burden on families. Efforts to eliminate or significantly reduce property taxes on primary residences would help homeowners, especially seniors and middle-income families, remain in their homes. At the same time, large institutional investors should not be allowed to dominate housing markets and drive up rents. Housing policies should discourage monopolistic practices and encourage the use of existing properties for affordable housing rather than pricing families out of their communities. Targeted tax incentives for property owners who maintain affordable rental rates can expand housing access without heavy-handed government intervention. For childcare and essential household costs, the focus should be on lowering expenses by reducing unnecessary regulations that increase prices and limit options. Supporting parental choice, flexible work arrangements, and community-based and faith-based childcare providers allows families to select solutions that best meet their needs while keeping costs manageable. By reducing taxes, promoting fair housing practices, supporting family choice, and encouraging local solutions, North Carolina can ease the financial pressure on families and help ensure that housing, childcare, and basic necessities remain within reach for those who live and work here. 6. Climate disasters are intensifying. Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina in 2024. Tropical storm Chantel flooded the Triangle in 2025, and coastal erosion threatens the Outer Banks. With much affordable housing, located in flood-prone areas and FEMA resources stretched thin, what is your plan for climate resilience and disaster relief? She said, Climate resilience and disaster relief are critical issues for North Carolina, particularly in light of recent events such as Hurricane Helene, tropical storm chantal, and ongoing coastal erosion along the outer banks. These disasters highlight the need for stronger preparation, smarter infrastructure, and responsible use of limited emergency resources. My approach focuses on resilience, not rhetoric. We must invest in research-driven solutions that improve how communities withstand natural disasters. This includes supporting scientific research and innovation in materials, construction methods, and structural design that can better protect homes, roads, and critical infrastructure in flood and storm-prone areas. Advances in engineering, physics, and building science can help reduce long-term damage, lower recovery cost, and protect lives. At the same time, disaster relief efforts must prioritize efficiency and accountability. FEMA resources are finite, and North Carolina must work proactively to strengthen state and local preparedness, reduce repeated losses in high-risk areas, and ensure affordable housing is built or retrofitted with resilience in mind. Addressing these challenges requires careful study, collaboration with experts, and a commitment to practical solutions that protect families, preserve communities, and respect taxpayers. I am committed to approaching climate resilience with seriousness, data-driven decision making, and a focus on long-term stability for North Carolina. 7. The General Assembly recently passed a new congressional redistricting map. This marks the state's seventh congressional map since 2016. How do you view the most recent redistricting? And do you support independent redistricting processes, or do you believe the legislature should retain this power? Redistricting is not a new phenomenon, nor is it unique to North Carolina. It is a constitutionally established process that has long been used to reflect population changes, comply with federal law, and ensure that representation remains balanced and responsive to the people. The fact that North Carolina has adopted multiple maps since 2016 reflects court involvement, legal challenges, and shifting standards, not an abandonment of the process itself. I view the most recent redistricting as a lawful exercise of the legislature's responsibility to draw districts that meet constitutional requirements and reflect the state's changing population. When done transparently and within legal bounds, redistricting is a legitimate tool for maintaining representative government and ensuring voters have a meaningful voice. I believe the legislature should retain primary authority over redistricting. Legislators are directly accountable to voters, while so-called independent commissions are often unelected, less transparent, and ultimately insulated from public accountability. Removing this responsibility from elected representatives does not eliminate politics. It simply shifts decision making to bodies with less direct oversight. That said, the process should remain open, data driven, and subject to judicial review to prevent abuse. Retaining legislative authority while ensuring transparency and accountability is the best way to preserve representative government and maintain public trust in our electoral system. The General Assembly failed to pass a 2025 to 2027 budget, leaving teachers without raises. North Carolina ranks 43rd nationally in teacher pay. How would you address teacher compensation and what will you do to ensure a budget passes that adequately funds education? Paying teachers fairly must be a top priority, and the General Assembly's failure to pass a responsible budget for the 2025 to 2027 is unacceptable. North Carolina's ranking near the bottom nationally in teacher pay makes it harder to recruit and retain qualified educators and undermines confidence in our public education system. Teachers should not be collateral damage in political stalemates. However, addressing teacher pay does not require raising taxes. It requires discipline, accountability, and better use of existing resources. A practical path forward is a step-based budget that increases teacher salaries by identifying and eliminating wasteful or duplicative spending. Regular audits and oversight can uncover programs that no longer serve a clear purpose, allowing funds to be redirected where they matter most, into classrooms and teachers' paychecks. Funding should prioritize educators over bureaucracy and non-essential projects. Resources currently tied up in administrative growth or underperforming initiative should be reassessed so they can support teacher compensation across both urban and rural districts. Pay increases should be targeted, not uniform, recognizing experience, proven performance, and expertise in high need subject areas. Passing a budget requires early cooperation, clear priorities, and a commitment to keeping teachers out of political bargaining. Teacher pay must be treated as non-negotiable. North Carolina's educators deserve stability, respect, and a legislature willing to do its job responsibly and on time. Number nine, North Carolina currently has a 12-week abortion ban, with certain exceptions. Some legislators have proposed further restrictions. Do you support the current law? Do you believe access should be expanded? Or would you support further restrictions? She said North Carolina's 12-week abortion limit is an important step toward protecting life, but it does not go far enough. Regardless of ongoing debates about terminology or philosophical arguments about when life begins, the reality is that by 12 weeks a baby in the womb is a developing human being deserving of protection. At the end of the first trimester, a baby's organs are forming and continue to grow. Fingers and toes are present and moving, facial features are developing, and the child is beginning to move within the womb. Often at the same time, many mothers begin to visibly show pregnancy. The humanity of the child at this stage cannot be ignored. The abortion procedure at this point in development raises serious moral and ethical concerns. Children in the womb are the most vulnerable members of our society, and the government has a responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves. For that reason, I believe stronger restrictions should be in place to prevent the cruelty inherent in ending a life at this stage of development. At the same time, I recognize that there are rare and serious extenuating circumstances where difficult decisions must be made. Any policy must be approached with compassion for women facing crises while still affirming the value of every human life. Our laws should reflect both moral responsibility and care, protecting babies while ensuring women and families have access to support, counseling, and real alternatives. 10. Federal legislation will ban most hemp-derived THC products like Delta VIII by November 2026, threatening North Carolina's hemp industry. Meanwhile, recreational marijuana remains illegal and medical marijuana bills have stalled. What is your position on hemp regulation and how would you address the upcoming federal ban, if at all? She said the growing drug crisis among young people is a serious public health and safety concern, and the expansion of high THC products has contributed to increased addiction, mental health issues, and harm to youth. Marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and inconsistent policies have created confusion and easy access to dangerous THC products. For these reasons, I support a clear federal ban on THC to protect children and restore consistency in drug policy. At the same time, I recognize the real impact this would have on North Carolina farmers and small businesses that entered the hemp industry in good faith. These farmers followed the rules as they existed and should not be unfairly penalized for shifting regulations. Any federal ban must include a responsible transition plan, providing farmers with assistance to move into alternative crops, access grants or low interest loans, and expand non-psychoactive hemp users such as fiber, textiles, and industrial products. We can protect public health while also supporting North Carolina's agricultural community through thoughtful, compassionate policy. Number 11. Governor Josh Stein recently signed Irena's Law, which eliminates cashless bail, requires mental health evaluations for certain defendants, and attempts to restart the death penalty by requiring alternative execution methods if lethal injection is unavailable. The law also accelerates death penalty appeals. Where do you stand on the death penalty and changes made by the law? She said, I believe that the death penalty should be reserved for the most violent and heinous crimes, particularly those committed against children and other vulnerable victims, and only if the accused is not mentally insane. Since the death penalty is irreversible, it must be applied with the highest possible evidentiary standard. The death penalty should never be based on hearsay, circumstantial evidence, or the testimony of witnesses who are not present who were not present at the scene. Instead, it should be limited to cases supported by conclusive and indisputable evidence such as video footage of the crime, DNA and fingerprint evidence, especially when there is no prior relationship between the accused and the victim, a full and voluntary confession. Only when these standards are met should the death penalty be considered. I also support the provisions of Irena's law, which require mental health evaluations for certain defendants. Furthermore, I believe that individuals found to have serious mental health issues should receive prolonged and appropriate treatment, both to protect public safety and to ensure that justice is administered. Number 12. Tech companies are investing heavily in North Carolina data centers, bringing jobs and tax revenue, but also consuming significant electricity and water resources. How should the state balance data center investment with environmental protection and community concerns? She said North Carolina should continue to welcome private investment and job creation, but it must do so with clear expectations that protect taxpayers, local communities, and essential resources. Data centers from major technology companies bring capital investment and tax revenue, but the benefits must be balanced against real costs to infrastructure, utilities, and quality of life. Many data center jobs are temporary during construction, while long-term positions often require highly specialized skills. The state should ensure that incentive packages are tied to meaningful, permanent employment opportunities and workforce training for North Carolinians, not just short-term gains. There are also legitimate concerns about energy and water use. Data centers can consume significantly more electricity than traditional commercial facilities, placing strain on the power grid and potentially driving up utility costs for residents. Increased demand may also deepen reliance on fossil fuels. In addition, the large volumes of water required for cooling can stress local water supplies, particularly in growing communities. Noise and long-term sustainability are valid concerns that should not be dismissed. A responsible approach requires transparency and accountability. Companies seeking state or local incentives should be required to fully disclose projected energy and water usage, contribute to necessary infrastructure upgrades, and adopt efficiency and conservation measures that limit their impact on surrounding communities. Local governments should retain a meaningful role in reviewing and approving these projects to ensure community concerns are addressed. Economic growth should not come at the expense of families, farmers, or small businesses paying higher utility bills or losing access to critical resources. By setting clear standards, tying incentives to real public benefit, and demanding transparency, North Carolina can support job creation while protecting communities and responsibly managing our natural resources. Number 13, give an example of an opinion, policy, vote, or action you changed based on constituent feedback. If you have not yet held elective office, describe a time when you changed your position on an issue after listening to those affected by it. She said, My views on abortion have evolved as a result of listening carefully to those directly affected and serving families in difficult and often traumatic circumstances. Earlier in my career, I held a firm position opposing abortion in all cases. However, through hands on work with women and youth, including women who had to make the emergency health care. Decisions and those impacted by rape, incest, and abuse, I came to better understand the complex and painful realities some families face. As a result, my position has shifted to recognize limited and serious extenuating circumstances where rigid policies can cause greater harm to the mother. This change was shaped not by politics but by real conversations with individuals who were living through crisis and needed compassion, care, and support. While I continue to oppose late-term abortions and the practice of presenting abortion as a sole option for families, I believe policies must reflect both moral responsibility and human compassion. I also strongly support ensuring that comprehensive counseling, mental health care, and family resources are available whenever an abortion occurs. Listening to constituents and those most affected has strengthened my commitment to approach this issue with care, accountability, and a deep respect for life and human dignity. Number 14, are there any issues this questionnaire has not addressed that you would like to address? She said one important issue not addressed in this questionnaire is food safety and transparency. I am deeply concerned about the increasing use of chemical treatments, bioengineered products, and lab created foods entering the consumer marketplace without sufficient long-term research on their physical and cognitive health impacts. Families deserve confidence that the food they purchase is safe, clearly labeled, and responsibly regulated. The United States is facing a broader health crisis and poor food quality is contributing to declining physical health, cognitive clarity, and overall resilience, particularly among children. Excessive chemical exposure in food has real implications for learning, development, and long-term productivity. If left unaddressed, these trends risk weakening our population and placing our nation at a competitive disadvantage globally, especially as many other countries maintain far stricter limits on chemicals and food processing practices. In North Carolina, the Food and Drug Protection Division within the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services should strengthen standards for food handling, inspections, product testing, and licensing. We should prioritize access to real, minimally processed foods, including traditionally raised meats and non-chemically treated fruits and vegetables, while increasing transparency around emerging food technologies. Additionally, the state should explore incentives for farmers who utilize non-GMO and sustainable practices, supporting public health, our children's well-being, and North Carolina's agricultural economy. And that is all that can be found really in a Google search for Shirley Johnson. Again, this race will be found on the Republican ballot in this primary for the North Carolina State Senate District 17. There are two candidates, Sarah Al-Baghdadi and Shirley Johnson. If you pick up a Republican ballot, you will be eligible to vote for one of these individuals. 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.