Shifts in North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District Race
The political landscape in North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District is undergoing significant changes as notable figures opt out of the upcoming election. Recent decisions by key Republicans have reshaped the candidate pool, setting the stage for one of the nation’s most competitive races.
Republican state Sen. Tim Moffitt and U.S. Army veteran Adam Smith have both confirmed they will not be running to replace Rep. Chuck Edwards on the ballot this November. Edwards withdrew his reelection bid following a House Ethics Committee report that accused him of sexual harassment.
State Rep. Jennifer Balkcom, however, is stepping into the fray, declaring her intention to seek the nomination. Balkcom stated, “when your community needs you, you don’t sit on the sidelines; you step up.”
The Republican Party in the 11th District is set to convene to select a candidate to replace Edwards. The nominee will face off against Democrat Jamie Ager, who remains focused on issues like recovery from Helene and high living costs.
Moffitt, initially seen as a leading contender, announced in a post on X that he would remain in the state Senate, citing family and business responsibilities. “Western North Carolina deserves a representative who can give the full measure of time required, both day-to-day and over the long-term,” he noted.
Adam Smith, who challenged Edwards in the GOP primary, also stepped aside, emphasizing party unity. He stated on Facebook, “This seat must stay in conservative hands, and the best way I can serve that mission right now is to help our party unite immediately behind its nominee instead of dividing it on the eve of battle.”
Balkcom, who had previously supported Moffitt, revealed her candidacy in an X post, expressing her commitment to her roots and the district. “I’m a Henderson County farm girl,” she said. “I know what it means to work hard, fight for what you believe in, and protect something so the next generation can inherit it.”
Should Balkcom secure the nomination, she would need to abandon her reelection campaign for the state House, as North Carolina law prohibits running for two offices simultaneously.
State Rep. Jake Johnson also ruled out his candidacy, citing his residency “one precinct outside” the district under current maps. Neither Johnson nor Smith has endorsed another candidate yet.
Other Republicans showing interest include mortgage broker Christian Reagan and 2022 congressional candidates Matthew Burril, Kristie Sluder, Ken McKim, and conservative influencer Chad Nesbitt.
The selection process, as outlined by Merry Guy, chair of the 11th District Republican Party, will take place at the Buncombe County Republican Party headquarters. The executive committee, comprising district officers, county chairs, vice chairs, and at-large members, will nominate and vote on the candidates. If no candidate achieves a majority, a second round of voting will occur.
Ager Remains Focused on Key Issues
Amid these developments, Democrat Jamie Ager reiterated his campaign priorities, emphasizing recovery efforts and addressing the cost of living. At a recent Asheville event, he expressed his dedication to combating corruption and promoting better leadership.
Louise Baker, an Asheville resident, lauded the courage of Edwards’ staff for bringing allegations to light, stressing the importance of accountability. She also highlighted affordability as a pressing concern for voters.
