Changes Ahead in the N.C. Senate
The beginning of this new decade is also ushering in the end of an era in the N.C. Senate. With the recent resignations of Senators Tony Rand and David Weinstein to take new positions, the announced intentions of Senators David Hoyle and R.C. Soles not to run for re-election and the 2009 death of Senator Vernon Malone, the face of the Senate is changing. Collectively, these five members have served in the Senate for nearly 100 years. They have influenced thousands of pieces of legislation and have demonstrated strong leadership over key committees. Although there may be differences of opinion on some of the positions they have taken or causes they have championed, in my own experience I have always found them to be hardworking, thoughtful and fair. They have added key insights to difficult decisions, leadership when it counted and humor at times when it has been greatly needed.
With these departures from the Senate, not only is the state losing a wealth of experience, it is also losing a long history and deep understanding of the legislative process. And as the state continues to face many challenges, history matters. When those involved remember why a law was originally enacted or changed, why certain reductions or expansions were made to the state budget or why particular changes to the tax code were approved, it adds insight and understanding to the public policy decisions being made. The collective memories and wisdom of these five senators will be missed.
Filing to run for legislative seats begins on February 8 and ends on February 26. Prior to that time, there may be others who decide not to seek re-election. And with the possibility of hotly contested races in the May primaries and the November general election, there could be other changes that affect the make-up of the Senate leadership as well. And although change can be good, changes on the horizon for the N.C. Senate will have an impact on decisions that affect all North Carolinians.
Stay tuned. There is no doubt more to come.
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