Get to know N.C. Senate Republican Candidate Chris Measmer
A former county commissioner with deep local roots, Sen. Measmer points to infrastructure funding, taxpayer advocacy and public safety as priorities in Raleigh.
Incumbent Chris Measmer is one of two Republicans running in the primary for N.C. Senate District 34. Here are his answers to questions from The Cabarrus Compass.
1. Please tell us about your background and your connection to the district you are seeking to represent. How long have you lived in the district?
I was born and raised in this district. Generations of my family have farmed the land, created jobs and raised our families here. I served on the Cabarrus County Commission for several years and own a business in Cabarrus County.
2. What accomplishments or efforts during your time in office are you most proud of?
What motivates me is my deep roots, connection and love for the citizens of Cabarrus County. It’s an honor to take the needs and concerns of District 34 to the General Assembly and make direct impacts on our community.
I secured a second DMV for Cabarrus and am currently collaborating with leadership to provide infrastructure appropriations for District 34. Some of my other accomplishments include votes to override Governor Stein’s vetoes, to implement Iryna’s Law, and a vote for one of the largest regulatory reform bills in North Carolina which also provides more spending accountability.
3. What personal, professional, or civic experiences do you believe best prepare you to serve as a state legislator?
My generational connections to District 34 are an advantage - - I have seen the district change throughout my lifetime and understand its needs. At 23, I started serving on the Cabarrus County Commission where I learned about the intricacies of how the county operates which I’ve used as a tool to better represent District 34.
4. What distinguishes you from your opponent(s), and why do you believe you are the most qualified candidate for this seat?
I’m an established member of the State Senate with productive relationships with Senate leadership which allows me to better advocate for Cabarrus. I have been elected by the people of Cabarrus multiple times to the County Commission and it’s been an honor to have the public’s repeated confidence in my leadership. My service in our local government has given me unique insight and knowledge regarding the needs of Cabarrus.
5. In your view, what are the most significant issues currently impacting residents of your district, and why?
My constituents most often relay their concerns about high property taxes, an issue that needs state level reform. As a taxpayer advocate, I feel strongly that the government does not have the right to tax people out of their homes. Another top issue is public safety and security. We need to continue finding the holes in our laws which allow repeat offenders to commit crimes.
6. If elected, how do you believe you can most effectively advocate for your district’s needs in Raleigh?
I’ve consistently been an advocate for taxpayers, government efficiency and transparency. I’ve taken my passion for a more responsible government from the County Commission to the NC Senate. With the relationships I have built locally, statewide and with my Senate colleagues, I’ve been able to identify and effectively advocate for the needs of District 34.
7. What should be the top legislative priorities for North Carolina over the next two years, and where does your district fit into those priorities?
I believe it’s important to evaluate existing laws and regulations to determine efficiency. My top priorities will continue to be public safety, addressing affordable living, lower taxes and greater efficiency.
8. How do you approach balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to invest in public services such as education, infrastructure, and public safety?
Fiscal responsibility means identifying fraud, waste and abuse which allows funds to be redirected to essential priorities such as public safety, infrastructure and education. I voted for the DAVE Act which has created accountability for departments and agencies where your tax dollars are being spent.
As a member of the General Government Oversight Committee, I participated in a hearing where State Auditor Dave Boliek revealed a mass misappropriation of state funds. I look forward to working with state officials to identify more government inefficiencies as a steward of the taxpayers.
9. What role should state government play versus local government, and are there areas where you believe local communities need more control?
Because I served in both local and state government, I understand how state policies impact communities. When legislation crosses my desk, I always consider the impact on District 34 and am cautious about unfunded mandates imposed on localities.
10. Cabarrus County continues to experience rapid growth. What steps should the state take to help fast-growing communities manage growth while maintaining quality of life?
As a County Commissioner appointee to the Water & Sewer Authority of Cabarrus County, I was able to identify the needs for this important infrastructure expansion. Now as State Senator, I am utilizing that knowledge to advocate for appropriations to fund these vital improvements.
11. How do you plan to engage with constituents and remain accessible to residents throughout your term, not just during election season?
I live and work in the district and am readily available to my constituents. My North Carolina Senate Office is always open for constituent services.
12. At the end of your first term, what outcomes would you point to as evidence that you have been an effective representative for the district?
I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished in the NC Senate and how I’ve been able to directly connect my priorities to the betterment of the district and entire state. I will continue to advocate for District 34 and the great State of North Carolina to make our streets safer, our taxes lower, and our education smarter.