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.
A Victory For Voting Rights And Black Enfranchisement
Masks, Wagers, And Reconciliation
Bipartisanship Is Back, Along With COVID Concerns
The Swine Spread: Meet The Feral Hogs Finding Themselves At Home In The South
NC Governor: It's Irresponsible To Not Be Vaccinated
It's Redistricting Season
An Unprecedented Investment In America’s Youth
Black Scholars Scorned: The Echoes Of Pauli Murray's Battle With UNC In Nikole Hannah-Jones' Tenure Saga
Disagreeing On What Makes A "Fair, Free & Secure" Election
The Elusive State Budget
Election & Energy Bills, Juneteenth & Vaccines
Unpacking A Proposal To Double Jail Cells In Haywood County
A Cooper Cabinet Pick Declined And Still No Budget
The Politics Of Nikole Hannah-Jones' Tenure Appointment
Safety Measure Or Scare Tactic? NC's Anti-Riot Legislation Explained
How A Deadly NC Fire Catalyzed National Change
Unaffiliated: Meet North Carolina's New Growing Voter Demographic
The Political Debate Behind Calls To "Release The Tape"
The Renewed Debate Over Voter ID
Inclusive Or Indoctrination: The Debate Over New Social Studies Standards
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