Democratic Leaders Prepare to Fill Vacant State House Seat in High Point
The Guilford County Democratic Party is set to convene next week to appoint a successor for Rep. Cecil Brockman, who recently vacated his seat in the state House following criminal allegations. Brockman’s resignation came in the wake of Speaker Destin Hall’s intention to initiate a removal process, including a bipartisan committee investigation. Brockman has been detained since facing charges of a sexual relationship with a minor.
The Democratic Party will hold a forum on November 15, where members will choose an interim representative to fulfill the remainder of Brockman’s term. Kathy Kirkpatrick, chair of the Guilford County Democratic Party, noted that several Democrats, including current candidates for the next election cycle, have shown interest in the position.
Potential candidates include Amanda Cook, a High Point City Councilwoman, Bruce Davis, a former County Commissioner, Joseph Alston, who previously chaired the County Democratic Party, and educator Angie Williams-McMichael. Kirkpatrick indicated that while there is no formal application, nominations from the floor will be accepted at the meeting.
Eligible voters at the meeting will consist of Democratic Party leaders residing in Brockman’s district, notably elected officials and chairs and vice chairs of organized precincts. The district encompasses most of High Point, as well as areas in Jamestown and southwestern Greensboro.
Once a nominee is selected, Governor Josh Stein will officially appoint them to the House seat, potentially allowing for their swearing-in before the legislative session on November 17.
This swift appointment could bolster Democratic efforts in the House, particularly in supporting Governor Stein’s vetoes. Prior to his legal issues, Brockman often sided with Republicans on certain veto overrides, including legislation on donor privacy and charter school rules. His absence in jail presented an opportunity for House Republicans to more easily secure the votes needed for overrides.
The district, known for its Democratic leanings, once saw an attempt to challenge Brockman in the 2024 primary due to his GOP-aligned votes, but this effort did not succeed.
