As the 119th session of Congress opens on January 5, 2025, North Carolina will welcome five fresh faces to the House of Representatives. These newcomers will join a state delegation of 14, a shift made possible by redistricting and a series of retirements and political transitions. Their swearing-in will take place against a backdrop of political turbulence, as the House is yet to resolve the contentious question of who will lead it.
The five incoming representatives—Addison McDowell, Mark Harris, Pat Harrigan, Brad Knott, and Tim Moore—bring diverse backgrounds and political ambitions to the Capitol. Their election victories are the result of a combination of redrawn districts and, in some cases, significant endorsements from prominent Republican figures, including former President Donald Trump.
Redistricting and Republican Dominance
The 2023 redistricting process in North Carolina led to a reshuffling of district boundaries that benefitted Republican candidates, flipping several seats previously held by Democrats. The new map helped secure victories for Republican candidates in a state traditionally split between the two major parties. Consequently, a number of incumbent Democrats, including Reps. Kathy Manning, Wiley Nickel, and Jeff Jackson, chose not to run for re-election, paving the way for their replacements. The changes have also led to retirements, including that of Rep. Patrick McHenry, who after a decade of service, decided to step down from his post, triggering a race for his seat.
With the Republican Party maintaining a slim majority in the House, the decisions of these new members could have a significant impact on the future direction of the chamber, particularly in the delicate question of selecting a House Speaker.
New Faces in North Carolina’s Congressional Landscape
Each of the new members brings their own distinctive story and platform:
- Addison McDowell (6th District): A 30-year-old former lobbyist, McDowell won his seat following a surprise announcement in December 2023. His victory was powered by Trump’s endorsement, which helped him triumph over more established Republican challengers. McDowell’s campaign emphasized issues such as securing the border, defending gun rights, and protecting life.
- Mark Harris (8th District): After a controversial history involving election fraud allegations that led to a re-vote in his district, Harris makes a political comeback. His platform is grounded in conservative values, including pro-life advocacy, securing the border, and ensuring local control over education.
- Pat Harrigan (10th District): A former Green Beret and firearms manufacturer, Harrigan’s military background shapes his policy stances, which include securing the U.S. border, cutting inflation, and defending gun rights. His candidacy comes after McHenry’s retirement, with Harrigan successfully campaigning in a district redrawn to favor Republicans.
- Brad Knott (13th District): Knott, a federal prosecutor, entered the race with an endorsement from Trump after a contested primary. His legal background and focus on national security, immigration, and law enforcement define his political agenda. Knott’s platform also includes support for Israel and gun rights.
- Tim Moore (14th District): A long-time North Carolina political figure, Moore served as Speaker of the North Carolina House for a decade. His focus is on reducing taxes, lowering energy costs, and securing the border. His previous tenure in state politics has shaped his views on fiscal responsibility and government regulation.
The Impact of These Elections
With a Republican-controlled Congress and the possibility of a Republican president in the White House, North Carolina’s new representatives have the opportunity to influence national policy in areas like immigration, fiscal policy, and social issues. However, the infighting within the Republican Party, which has resulted in gridlock in the past, poses challenges for these new members as they seek to make an impact.
As they prepare to take office, the eyes of North Carolina and the nation will be on these five men, watching how their influence shapes the future of Congress. With both party loyalty and ideological divides at play, their actions in the coming months could be pivotal in defining the direction of American politics.
