Rodney Pierce, a middle school social studies teacher from Roanoke Rapids, narrowly defeated longtime incumbent Rep. Michael Wray in last month's Democratic primary. He campaigned with what he describes as an effort to "educate" voters about Wray's record in the N.C. House of voting with Republicans. Because no Republicans filed for the seat, Pierce will represent majority Black Warren, Halifax and Northampton counties in the legislature next year. Pierce spoke with WUNC's Colin Campbell about his goals to address economic development in an area he calls North Carolina's "Neglected Northeast," as well as how he mounted a successful primary campaign. He also discussed the challenges rural schools are facing and how his candidacy became a civics lesson for his students.
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A conversation with Eva Clayton
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Redistricting recusal?
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A Primary pushed back, as legality of districts is considered
U.S. Senate hopeful Jeff Jackson on authenticity, value of town halls, and variable of race
Another Leandro Twist, Another Cooper Veto
NC gets a budget, and longtime congressman won't seek re-election
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