The results are in.  What comes next?

Throughout the electoral process, the North Carolina Medical Society (NCMS) remains vigilant in political engagement to advance our health policy priorities.  The Society is engaging with candidates across the state and closely monitoring outcomes, focusing on candidates supported by NCMS.

The top-of-ballot results saw President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump secure victories, setting up a rematch of the 2020 election.    In North Carolina, Attorney General Josh Stein and Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson both prevailed in what will be a nationally-watched gubernatorial showdown in November.

A trend emerged in North Carolina, with physician candidates demonstrating significant success in State House races.  NCMS members Drs. Timothy Reeder, Grant Campbell, and Ralph Carter all navigating competitive primaries to secure victories.  This highlights the increasing influence of medical professionals in both local and state politics.  Dr. Reeder now faces Renee Kempner,  Dr. Campbell is running against Joanne Chesley, and Dr. Carter faces longtime State Representative Garland Pierce.

The influence of physician candidates also extends to the State Senate level with NCMS member Dr. David Hill running unopposed as a Democrat in District 7, securing an automatic advancement to the General election.  Retired Physician Assistant Mark Hollo also secured a victory for the Republican nomination in District 45.  Hollo is a former member of the NC House.  These developments underscore the growing presence of medical professionals in shaping state-level policies supported by the continuing advocacy of the NCMS and its members.

At the Federal level, the success of NCMS member candidates remains evident.  Drs. Greg Murphy and Steve Feldman advanced automatically in their unopposed Congressional House primaries.  Republican Dr. Murphy is the incumbent and Dr. Feldman is pursuing his first foray into elected office as a Libertarian.  Their candidacies demonstrate the increasing recognition of the need for the medical profession to aid in shaping Federal policy that impacts NCMS members and patients in North Carolina.

The primary election showcases a dynamic political landscape, marked by significant voter engagement and the rising influence of physician and physician assistant candidates.  As the 2024 electoral process progresses, the North Carolina Medical Society will continue to engage with these and other candidates and advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of all North Carolinians.

The NCMS congratulates these member candidates for making a professional and personal commitment to run for public office.  They reaffirm the vital role of healthcare professionals in shaping the future.