One of the state legislature’s most outspoken Democrats is resigning from elected office.
North Carolina state Sen. Graig Meyer said Monday that he’ll leave his seat representing Orange, Person and Caswell counties at the end of the month. He plans to become executive director of the North Carolina Justice Center, a group that advocates for rights for low-income people and justice system reforms. The organization has sponsored or supported lawsuits targeting Republican-backed laws in recent years, including North Carolina's expanded private school voucher program.
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Meyer, who served four terms in the House of Representatives and two in the Senate, explained his decision in an email newsletter. He said he ran for office to advocate for the needs of North Carolina’s public schools — and that plans to continue that mission in his new role.
“I have given my all for these communities, and for the State of North Carolina, but of course I haven’t come close to accomplishing all that I had dreamed when I entered the General Assembly back in 2013,” Meyer said.
He continued: “We can and we must do better. For me that means leaving elected office and stepping into a new role… There is no organization more important than the North Carolina Justice Center in our collective efforts to restore North Carolina to our place as the Beacon of the South.”
Republicans have held majorities in the Senate and House of Representatives since 2011 and have used that control to enact laws cutting taxes, slashing regulations, and rewriting state policies to more align with the GOP’s agenda.
Meyer is often among the Democrats who speak out against Republican proposals when they come up for a vote at the General Assembly. State Sen. Sydney Batch, the Senate minority leader, on Monday praised Meyer as a “zealous advocate” for North Carolinians.
“Meyer has been one of our most vocal messengers, always ready to stand up for North Carolinians, and speak to the truth that everyone deserves a fair shot to build a purposeful life in our great state,” Batch said in a statement, adding: “While we will miss his partnership and presence in the Senate, we know he will continue advocating for the people of North Carolina in his new role.”
Democratic Party members are expected to appoint Meyer’s senate replacement before legislators return to Raleigh next month. Whoever Democrats appoint will likely also campaign for the seat this November against Republican candidate Laura Pichardo. The district leans to the left.