- Roy Cooper (US Senate Candidate): After serving two terms as the Governor of North Carolina (2017–2025), Roy Cooper is currently the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in the 2026 election. His gubernatorial tenure was marked by a focus on expanding Medicaid, investing in public education, and navigating a divided state government. He is now running to succeed retiring Senator Thom Tillis, positioning himself as an experienced executive capable of bipartisan cooperation.
- Anita Earls (NC Supreme Court Justice): Justice Anita Earls has served on the North Carolina Supreme Court since 2019 and is currently running for re-election. Before joining the bench, she was a prominent civil rights attorney and the founder of the Southern Coalition for Social Justice. On the court, she is known for her focus on voting rights, racial equity, and ensuring fair access to the judicial system.
- Don Davis (US House of Representatives): Congressman Don Davis currently represents North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, which includes much of the northeastern part of the state and Dare County. A former state senator and Air Force veteran, Davis is known for his moderate approach and focus on rural healthcare, agriculture, and economic development for his constituents. He is seeking re-election to continue his work in Washington.
- Eula Reid (Superior Court): Recently appointed by the Governor to the Superior Court for Judicial District 1, Judge Reid previously served as a District Court Judge. She is a veteran of the local legal community, often noted for her work in family and juvenile law.
- Jenny Wells (District Court): Judge Wells currently serves on the District Court bench in the First Judicial District after being appointed in 2025. A former public defender for over a decade, her campaign focuses on treating every individual with dignity and ensuring the court remains accessible to all.
Other Judicial Candidates – Meet Our 2026 Democratic Judicial Candidates!
- Appeals Court Candidates:
Christine Walczyk: Currently a District Court Judge, Walczyk is running for a seat on the NC Court of Appeals. She has a background in criminal and civil litigation and has emphasized fairness and judicial efficiency during her time on the bench.
John Arrowood: A veteran judge on the NC Court of Appeals, Arrowood has served multiple terms and has a long history in private practice and appellate law. He is known for his deep understanding of North Carolina’s legal precedents.
Toby Hampson: An incumbent on the NC Court of Appeals, Judge Hampson was first elected in 2018. He has a specialized background in appellate advocacy and has authored numerous opinions focusing on technical legal clarity and consistency.
Local and Legislative Candidates
- Melissa Zehner (NC Senate): Melissa Zehner is the Democratic candidate for NC Senate District 1. A social worker and advocate by trade, her platform emphasizes improving mental health services, supporting public school teachers, and protecting coastal resources.
- Dare County Candidates:
- Aida Havel (County Commissioner): An attorney with a history of community involvement in the Outer Banks, Havel has previously run for the Board of Commissioners. Her focus typically involves responsible land use, coastal preservation, and transparency in county government.
- Kelleta Govan (Board of Education): Govan is a candidate for the Dare County Board of Education. Her background includes advocacy for student equity and supporting local educators, with a goal of ensuring that school board decisions reflect the diverse needs of Dare County families.