Americans for Prosperity-NC Sets the Stage for 2026 With Key Endorsements

Americans for Prosperity–North Carolina is signaling that the 2026 state legislative cycle is officially underway.

The organization announced its first wave of endorsements on December 5, backing seven candidates running for the North Carolina House and Senate ahead of the March 3, 2026 primary elections. The slate includes some of the most senior leaders in state government along with returning lawmakers and candidates aiming to reclaim seats in Raleigh.

For AFP-NC, the endorsements represent more than early political support. They reflect a broader strategy to shape the next General Assembly around free-market policies, limited government principles, and education reforms that have become hallmarks of North Carolina’s legislative direction over the past decade.

A Grassroots Strategy for a Pivotal Election Year

AFP-NC describes itself as the state’s premier grassroots organization, and the group intends to mobilize its network once again as the election cycle ramps up. That effort will include voter engagement, policy education, and direct campaign support focused on issues such as tax reform, regulatory accountability, and school choice.

“AFP-NC’s strong grassroots network has had a proven impact on previous elections,” State Director Tyler Voigt said in a statement announcing the endorsements. “We look forward to leveraging our capabilities again this cycle to connect with voters and share how these candidates will promote freedom and prosperity for all North Carolinians.”

The organization’s leadership points to North Carolina’s economic growth, tax reductions, and expanded educational options as evidence that its policy priorities have delivered measurable results. AFP-NC leaders argue that maintaining that trajectory depends on returning experienced legislators to office in 2027.

Leadership at the Center of the Endorsement Slate

Topping the list is Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, who has represented Senate District 26 since 2000 and has served as the chamber’s top leader since 2011. AFP-NC credits Berger with playing a central role in shaping the modern North Carolina economy, particularly through tax reform, regulatory changes, school choice expansion, and healthcare policy adjustments.

Supporters frequently describe Berger’s leadership as foundational to what they call the state’s “comeback story,” pointing to policies enacted under his tenure that are now referenced by lawmakers in other states.

Joining him is Senate Majority Leader Mike Lee of District 07, who also chairs the Senate’s Base Budget Committee and Education Committee. Lee has emerged as one of the General Assembly’s most vocal advocates for education policy that emphasizes parental choice and reduced government involvement.

AFP-NC Managing Director of External Affairs Dalton Clark said the candidates selected for endorsement share a record of advancing “free market, limited government solutions” that have contributed to lower taxes, reduced red tape, and increased educational opportunities statewide.

House Lawmakers Focused on Accountability and Education

The endorsements also include several members of the North Carolina House, many of whom have been closely involved in regulatory reform efforts.

State Representative Allen Chesser, now serving his second term in House District 25, is praised for his role in advancing the REINS Act, legislation designed to increase accountability for state agencies by requiring legislative approval for major regulatory changes. AFP-NC describes Chesser as a liberty-focused lawmaker who has also supported expanded patient choice in healthcare treatment options.

Freshman Representative Mike Schietzelt of District 35 earned backing after what the organization calls a highly productive first term. A veteran and small business advocate, Schietzelt has supported school choice initiatives and played a leading role in legislation addressing regulatory oversight and free speech protections.

House Deputy Majority Whip Jake Johnson, who represents District 113 in Western North Carolina, is endorsed for his consistent support of market-based approaches to healthcare and his opposition to policies that expand government control. AFP-NC points to Johnson’s work on regulatory reform and government accountability as key reasons for its support.

Representative Erin Paré of District 37, a small business owner and member of House leadership, is also included. Paré has been a strong advocate for reducing regulatory burdens on entrepreneurs while promoting school choice initiatives across the state.

A Return Bid in House District 32

Rounding out the endorsement slate is Frank Sossamon, who previously served in the General Assembly and is seeking a return to Raleigh after a narrow loss in the 2024 election. Sossamon represented House District 32 during the 2023–2024 biennium and remains closely aligned with AFP-NC’s priorities on education freedom, tax relief, and regulatory reform in Granville and Vance counties.

Looking Toward 2027

As North Carolina approaches another competitive election cycle, AFP-NC’s early endorsements highlight where the organization intends to focus its energy and resources. With control of the legislature shaping issues ranging from taxation to education to economic development, the group is making clear it wants continuity in leadership and a recommitment to policies that have defined the state’s recent direction.

Statewide primaries will take place on March 3, 2026, with the general election following later in the year.