Roy Carter Declares Candidacy in NC-5

Press release received this a.m.:

Surrounded by family, close friends, and supporters, Roy Carter announced his candidacy for Congress during a Labor Day gathering at his home in Ashe County. A native resident of Western North Carolina and a lifelong Democrat, Carter is an educator in the Wilkes County Public School System and is the Head Coach of the North Wilkes High School football team.

In a setting that overlooked the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and neighboring Christmas Tree farms, Carter shared his motivation for entering the 5th district race.

"I am truly honored to run for Congress in this great region of North Carolina, a place I am proud to call my home. As we gather on this Labor Day, we must remember that the working families of our district deserve a true and honest representative of the people every day of the year," said Carter. "I grew up in these mountains, I have raised a family in Western North Carolina, and I know the kind of struggles that our citizens face daily."

In his remarks, Carter explained that his campaign is committed to bridging the partisan divide that has polarized the 5th district in recent years.

"In my life and in my career, I have never been too shy to step up to a challenge and stick to my principles," Carter said. "I will not sit on the sidelines at a time when our district needs an effective leader who will bring people together and find real solutions for economic prosperity, educational excellence, and healthcare reform. I am ready and willing to serve the people of our district as their personal advocate in Congress."

Roy Carter and his wife Pat have been married for 43 years and attend First Baptist Church of West Jefferson. The Carters have three children and are expecting their second grandchild. Roy Carter has served the students of Ashe, Surry, and Wilkes Counties as a teacher and football coach for the past forty years.

The fifth congressional district includes Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Davie, Surry, Stokes, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yadkin Counties as well as portions of Forsyth, Iredell, and Rockingham.