Joyce Waddell, Democratic candidate for NC Senate District 40, answers our questions

Name: Joyce Waddell

Birth date (month, day and year):

Campaign website or social media page: facebook.com/JoyceWaddellNC/

Occupation: NC Senator

Education:

Bachelor of Science Degree, South Carolina State University – Orangeburg, South Carolina.

Master of Science Degree, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University – Greensboro, North Carolina.

Master of Education Degree, University of North Carolina at Charlotte – Charlotte, North Carolina.

Master of Arts Degree, Appalachian State University – Boone, North Carolina.

Doctor of Philosophy Degree, University of North Carolina at Greensboro – Greensboro, North Carolina

Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought or held):

Yes, NC Senate, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education

Please list your highlights of civic involvement:

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Rho Psi Omega Chapter, Democratic Women of Mecklenburg County, League of Women Voters, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, National Council of Negro Women, Life Member

Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and most of the county's towns are on board with draft legislation to get permission from the legislature for a sales tax referendum to pay for public transit and other transportation. If elected, would you support a bill that allows the sales tax increase to appear on the ballot? Why or why not?

I believe local communities should have a say in decisions that impact them, including transit and transportation funding. If elected, I would review any proposed legislation to ensure it serves the community's best interests. Supporting a bill for a sales tax referendum would give voters the chance to decide for themselves. My priority is ensuring transparency so residents understand how the funds will be used and how they'll benefit long-term transportation needs.

In North Carolina, abortion is banned after 12 weeks. State politicians, including gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson, have said they want to restrict abortion even further. Do you support the state's current abortion restrictions, and what is your approach to legislating issues related to reproductive health?

Reproductive health is a personal and complex issue that affects individuals and families differently. My approach is to listen to constituents and seek a balance between public health, individual rights, and community well-being. It's important to foster respectful dialogue and find common ground, ensuring access to healthcare while acknowledging diverse perspectives. My priority is to support compassionate, fair policies that reflect the needs of the people I represent.

What would you say is the biggest issue facing your constituents, and what would you do to address it if elected?

The biggest issue for my constituents is access to affordable housing, quality education, and good-paying jobs—key to a strong community. If elected, I will focus on policies that drive economic growth, support affordable housing, and strengthen public education to ensure every child has the chance to succeed. I will also work with local leaders and organizations to address our district's specific needs, ensuring that everyone has the resources and opportunities to thrive.

While violent crime rates are decreasing nationwide they are growing in large North Carolina cities like Charlotte and Raleigh. How would you tackle the issue of rising violent crime rates and what do you believe is the legislature's role when it comes to public safety?

Public safety is a priority, and while crime is decreasing nationwide, rising violence in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh is concerning. A balanced approach is needed—supporting law enforcement while addressing root causes like poverty, education, and mental health. The legislature must ensure law enforcement has resources while promoting programs that strengthen community-police relationships, reduce recidivism, & create opportunities for at-risk individuals. State-local collaboration is key.

While inflation has slowed, rising prices continue to concern North Carolina residents. How will you ensure your constituents are able to afford basic necessities like health care, food and housing?

I understand rising costs continue to strain NC families, even as inflation slows. My focus is on advocating for practical, bipartisan solutions to make healthcare, food, and housing more affordable. This includes policies that increase access to affordable housing, improve healthcare affordability, and support economic stability for working families. I'll promote initiatives to create jobs, reduce unnecessary costs, & assist those most impacted, while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Is there any policy by your party that you disagree with?

As someone committed to representing my community's best interests, I evaluate every policy based on its potential impact on the people I serve. While I may not always agree with every detail of my party's platform, I focus on collaboration and constructive dialogue to ensure that policies address the needs of my constituents. My priority is always to work across the aisle and within my party to advocate for solutions that promote fairness, progress, and the well-being of the community.