A retired Army Colonel, Laurie Buckhout, is seeking to flip a House seat from blue to red in North Carolina's 1st Congressional District. Buckhout, the GOP nominee, is running against Democratic incumbent Rep. Don Davis in a race that has been ranked as a 'Democrat Toss Up' by the Cook Political Report.
Buckhout criticized Davis, accusing him of being a 'career politician' beholden to President Biden and Democratic policies. She emphasized her independence, stating that she is accountable only to the voters and constituents of eastern North Carolina.
Highlighting her military background, Buckhout served for 26 years in the U.S. Army, reaching the rank of Colonel before retiring in 2010. She commanded an 800-person battalion attack task force during the initial spearhead attack into Iraq in 2003.
Border security and the economy are key issues for Buckhout's campaign. She expressed concerns about crime, opioid use, and illegal immigration in the district, emphasizing the need for accountability and safety for residents.
Following her military service, Buckhout started a strategic consulting and services group focusing on electronic warfare and cyberspace operations. She highlighted endorsements from local law enforcement officials and district attorneys as valuable support for her candidacy.
The North Carolina General Assembly recently adopted new congressional district boundaries, adding several counties to the First Congressional District. Buckhout, who won the GOP primary election, will face Davis in the general election on November 5.
