Early voting is underway, and Election Day is March 3rd. For Waxhaw residents, this Union County primary may be one of the most consequential elections we participate in — not because it will draw national headlines, but because turnout will be low. In elections like this, a relatively small number of votes can determine who ultimately represents our county. That means each Waxhaw voter who shows up carries more influence than usual. (Click here for voter resources)
In Union County, the republican primary often determines the final outcome in November because of party dominance. For communities like Waxhaw, that reality makes participation especially important. If we care about how growth is managed, how laws are applied, and how faithfully public officials represent their constituents, this primary is where those decisions effectively begin.
The Waxhaw Wall has never been about party labels. It’s about a principle: maintaining a healthy separation between public service and private profit. Industry has its role. So does government. But when profit-driven interests begin steering public policy, representative government weakens. The Wall principle calls for elected officials who are motivated first by service, who respect the rule of law, and who are accountable to the people they represent.
Primary elections are where we decide who will carry that responsibility. With turnout expected to be modest, Waxhaw’s engagement could make the difference.
My Personal Picks
U.S. Senate: Don Brown
Don Brown, a Plymouth native and UNC-Chapel Hill graduate with a law degree from Campbell University, brings a robust background as a Navy JAG officer, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, and bestselling author of military nonfiction. He’s challenged unconstitutional mandates in court, and defended election integrity. His campaign emphasizes fiscal discipline amid national debt concerns and fighting government overreach—key for maintaining the rule of law against profit-driven policies.
Brown’s principled stand during COVID, fighting unconstitutional mandates, aligns with resisting industry sway. As a constitutional attorney, he offers objective expertise in applying laws without bias, making him a strong pick for Union County voters who prioritize accountability.
NC Court of Appeals Judge: Matt Smith
Matt Smith, a Monroe resident and current Superior Court Judge since 2022 (after serving as District Court Judge from 2020), has nearly 19 years as a trial lawyer, including owning his firm. A UNC-Chapel Hill and Campbell Law graduate (cum laude), he’s handled criminal, civil, family, and insurance cases—covering 95% of Court of Appeals workloads.
Smith’s philosophy centers on applying the law as written, free from personal opinion, to ensure fairness and public trust. This objective approach counters arbitrary power, such as industry-influenced mandates. His local ties and endorsements from Union County groups highlight his commitment to community service over profit motives.
Union County Board of County Commissioners: Melissa Merrell, Brian Helms, and Sam Harris (The Conservative Red Wall Slate)
This slate embodies the “Wall” ethos: a barrier against profit-driven overdevelopment. Since Merrell and Helms joined the BOCC in 2022, approvals for large residential projects have dropped sharply, easing strains on roads, schools, and resources—a top Waxhaw concern. None have accepted donations from the NC Home Builders Association, underscoring independence from industry influence.
- Melissa Merrell: A former eight-year Board of Education member (chair for six years), overseeing a $454 million budget, Merrell now serves as BOCC chair (previously vice chair). As district director for Congressman Mark Harris, she brings administrative expertise. Her focus on strategic planning and community liaison work promotes balanced growth.
- Brian Helms: Current BOCC chair, Helms has a project management background, ensuring efficient oversight. He’s championed transparency and taxpayer accountability, aligning with the wall against arbitrary developer sway.
- Sam Harris: Elected to the Soil and Water Conservation District in 2022, Harris is an NC State horticulture graduate and NC Department of Agriculture plant pest specialist. Running a small Unionville produce farm, he understands agricultural impacts of unchecked development. His expertise in conservation supports sustainable land use.
Together, they’ve upheld principles like fiscal restraint and rule-based decisions, mirroring resistance to COVID-era overreach by profit-motivated entities.
Union County Board of Education At-Large: Linda Robinson
A retired teacher with 33 years in NC public schools, Robinson holds a B.S. in Mathematics, National Board Certification, and a Master’s in Education (Curriculum and Instruction). She served as a testing coordinator, offering hands-on insight into classroom realities—unique among current board members.
Robinson prioritizes principled education, focusing on core academics and fairness. Her experience ensures decisions serve students, not external agendas, tying into the theme of representative government free from profit influences like those seen in health or development sectors.
Union County Sheriff: Eddie Cathey
Sheriff since 2002 (seeking a record seventh term), Cathey has over 45 years of experience in law enforcement, including as a Highway Patrol First Sergeant. Under his leadership, the office built a forensic crime lab, adopted drones and body cameras, and solved every homicide—demonstrating objective, effective policing.
Cathey refused to enforce unconstitutional COVID orders, prioritizing constitutional protections over mandates potentially tied to medical profits. This stance reinforces the rule of law, making him a reliable guardian for Union County’s safety.
Final Thoughts
The Union County Primary 2026 is your chance to support leaders who build a “wall” of integrity—separating public duty from private gain. Whether addressing growth pressures or upholding principles, these candidates offer reasoned paths forward. Head to the polls, and let’s keep Union County strong through informed choices.