As the race for North Carolina's next attorney general intensifies, two outgoing members of Congress are vying for the position. Democratic U.S. Rep. Jeff Jackson and Republican U.S. Rep. Dan Bishop, both lawyers and prolific fundraisers, are competing for the role previously held by two-term Attorney General Josh Stein.
The upcoming election on Nov. 5 will determine who will succeed Stein, with Democrats historically dominating the position. The candidates have focused their campaigns on issues related to representing the state in court and ensuring community safety.
State Bureau of Investigation data shows that while the violent crime rate in North Carolina has fluctuated over the years, it remained relatively stable in recent times.
The race has garnered significant attention, with the candidates and their affiliated PACs expected to spend a combined total of at least $31 million on advertising. This election is among the closely watched attorney general races taking place across the U.S. next month.
The attorney general plays a crucial role in representing the state in legal matters, defending district attorneys' work in criminal case appeals, and making legislative recommendations to the General Assembly. The position has gained prominence in recent years due to the increasing partisan nature of state attorneys general in challenging or supporting federal policies in court.
Both candidates bring unique backgrounds to the race. Jackson, an Afghan war veteran and former prosecutor, emphasizes his nonpartisan approach to law enforcement. Bishop, a seasoned litigator with extensive courtroom experience, advocates for a focus on law and order and combating what he sees as leniency towards crime.
The attorney general position in North Carolina has served as a launching pad for gubernatorial bids, with past officeholders like Gov. Roy Cooper using it as a stepping stone. The candidates have differing views on legal issues, with Bishop criticizing Jackson's record on crime and Jackson questioning Bishop's endorsements and legal history.
The race has seen its share of controversies, including a defamation lawsuit filed by Bishop against Jackson's campaign. Despite the challenges, both candidates are determined to win the attorney general's race and shape the future of law enforcement in North Carolina.
