MARCH 5, 2024 PRIMARY ELECTION

US House of Representatives (District 8) Candidates


Each candidate was asked the three following questions:

  1. Why did you decide to run for this office?
  2. What are your top 3 priorities for serving in this office?
  3. What experience/qualities make you a good choice for this office?
Click on each candidate’s picture or name to view their responses.

1 Seat Available – 2 Year Term

Allan Baucom (R)

New Candidate

Don Brown (R)

New Candidate

Leigh Brown (R)

New Candidate

Justin E. Dues (D)

New Candidate
(General Election Only)

Mark Harris (R)

New Candidate

Chris Maples (R)

New Candidate

Candidate Responses

Allan Baucom

Endorsements: NC Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler, Sheriff Eddie Cathey (Union County), Sheriff Jeff Crisco (Stanly County), Sheriff Pete Herron (Montgomery County), District Attorney Lynn Clodfelter (Stanly and Montgomery Counties), District Attorney Trey Robison (Union County), NC State Senator Todd Johnson 


Why did you decide to run for this office?

I didn’t plan to run for this office, but when Dan Bishop decided to run for Attorney General and not seek re-election to Congress, several people came to me asking me if I would be willing to pick up the mantle and represent them in D.C.

As a recently retired farmer and small business owner, I am in a unique position to give 100% to this office and, if elected, will be beholden to no-one except the voters of this district.

What are your top 3 priorities for serving in this office?

There are more issues and problems in D.C. than this space allows me to talk about, but some of the issues that hit home with me are the following:

  1. I want to take a Commonsense, Conservative, Businesslike approach to Washington. Spending has been out of control for way too long in D.C. No person, no business, no government can continually spend more money than it brings in and continue to be successful. Every time the government prints money that has no backing, it cheapens the spending power of the dollars in our pockets.

  2. We need to stop illegal immigration. As a farmer and business owner, I have employed Hispanics and other nationalities who applied for work and legally entered this country. Some of them even went on to become naturalized U.S. citizens. However, we need to secure our borders and deport the people that are in our country illegally. Having said that, I will welcome with open arms those who want to LEGALLY migrate and try to find a better way of life here.

  3. Finally, I believe we need to get rid of the career politicians. This is not a popular opinion in D.C., but no one should be elected as a public servant and then go to Washington and multiply their worth by tens of millions of dollars. To that end, I have signed a pledge that I will sponsor legislation for term limits. Lobbyists have gotten way too comfortable lining the pockets of career politicians. I believe that by limiting the time our representatives serve, we can begin making serious change in D.C.
What experience/qualities make you a good choice for this office?

I have spent my life as a farmer and entrepreneur. Every business I have built I started from scratch to fill a need in the market. If elected, I will take that Commonsense, Conservative, Businesslike approach to Washington, D.C.

Throughout my life, I have worked hard and been blessed. I don’t need another job, or to go to Washington to become a career politician, or to create a retirement package for myself.

If elected, I will not have to answer to any lobbyists or special interest groups, but will be beholden to no one except the voters of this district.

I was born in this district, reside in this district, own farmland in 4 of the counties in this district and employ around 150 people who live in this district. The bottom line is, I know this district and will represent the people of this district to the best of my ability.

John R. Bradford III

Endorsements: Congressman Patrick McHenry, North Carolina Speaker of the House Tim Moore, State Representative Kristen Baker, State Representative Jarrod Lowery, State Representative Wayne Sasser, North Carolina House Majority Leader John Bell, State Representative Destin Hall, North Carolina Police Benevolent Association, Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America, National Homebuilders Association

I’ve also been given the following gradings:
A rated by the NRA, A rated by NC Values Coalition, Awarded for “Conservative Excellence” by CPAC Foundation


Why did you decide to run for this office?

I’m running for Congress because Washington is broken, and we need bold, conservative leadership able to deliver results — not rhetoric. That’s exactly what I’ve done in my 4-terms as a state legislator. Since being elected, I’ve been a champion of initiatives to lower taxes, attract more businesses to North Carolina, balancing our state’s budget every year, and delivering the largest personal income tax cut in state history.

I’ve also been a business owner — starting two companies from the ground up, with my latest business servicing tens of thousands in this district. I know what it means to sign both the back and the front of a paycheck, and right now Americans are hurting. I’ll use my experience, both as a legislator and business owner, and bring a proven track record of getting things done to Washington.

What are your top 3 priorities for serving in this office?
  1. My first priority is to close the southern border; it’s our number one national security issue. Illegal immigration is a drain on our economy and the cost is left at the feet of the taxpayer.

  2. Second, we have to rein in spending in Washington. The 34-trillion-dollar debt puts us in danger, our children, and our future generations as well.

  3. We need real solutions to fix our economy and inflation. I know that is a talking point for most candidates, but I am the only one running for this seat with experience balancing a state budget year after year and bringing in new revenue to offset a bad economy.
What experience/qualities make you a good choice for this office?

As a state legislator, I worked to bring real solutions to problems our state is facing. I’ve fought to lower taxes, helping initiate the largest cut to state income tax in state history, balanced our state’s budget, and brought new opportunities to North Carolina—bolstering our revenue. I’ve been a leader in outlawing sanctuary cities, strengthening local law enforcement, empowering parents to have a greater say in their children’s education, and passing voter ID to protect our elections.

I’m also an entrepreneur, experienced in not only starting businesses but guiding them to success. I work with people all over North Carolina’s 8th congressional district every day and understand the struggles they face. This district needs a congressman that doesn’t just make promises but has a record of delivering promises.

Don Brown

Endorsements: General Michael Flynn, Former National Security Advisor of the United States, serving President Donald Trump; Weddington Mayor Jim Bell; Former Charlotte Mayor Pro Tem Lynn Wheeler.


Why did you decide to run for this office?

The United States faces irretrievable crisis points on three fronts. First there is a national security crisis epitomized by dangerous open borders.

Second there is a constitutional crisis epitomized by the weaponization of government, not only from the kangaroo-court prosecutions against President Trump, but also by out-of-control deep state attacks against ordinary citizens, i.e. Lous Lerner.

Third, there is a budgetary crisis epitomized by a 34 trillion dollar national debt that threatens the dollar, and thus, threatens the United States as an economic superpower. All these crises threat the nation with a dangerous immediacy.

My experience and background as a constitutional lawyer and former U.S. Navy JAG officer puts me in a unique position to battle against these crises.

As a former naval officer, I approach this office in a sense of duty, to try and help save our constitutional republic, before it is lost.

What are your top 3 priorities for serving in this office?
  1. Draft and propose legislation called the Administrative State Reduction Act, requiring an immediate freeze in federal hiring, and a reduction of the federal workforce from nearly 3 million, to below 1.5 million over 10 years, with money saved to be applied to national debt reduction.

  2. Draft and propose legislation calling for the death penalty for fentanyl smugglers ( illegally imported fentanyl killed 107,000 Americans in between August 2021 and August 2022) and for child sex traffickers (see the movie Sound of Freedom).

  3. Draft and propose rogue prosecutor laws, to prosecute the like of Jack Smith, Merrick Garland and Leticia James, who bring criminal prosecution and civil actions, primarily for political purposes. Such shenanigans are not only a bastardization of our court system, but also mark an affront to the United States Constitution, attacking the First, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Amendments for not only defendants, but for all of us.
What experience/qualities make you a good choice for this office?

As a former Naval JAG officer who studied through the Naval War college, and as the author of 15 books on the U.S. military, incuding three national bestsellers, and after having served in the Pentagon and appearing numerous times as a subject matter expert on Fox News and other national media forums, I bring a unique level of expertise on military, national security, and veterans affairs matters.

I’m the only candidate who has waged a direct battle against the liberal Biden and Obama Administrations, both in federal court and in the political arena!

In 2019, President Trump pardoned my client, Army Lieutenant Clint Lorance, sentenced to 20 years for “violating” Obama’s suicidal “rules of engagement” by protecting his men against Taliban bombmakers on a combat patrol in Afghanistan. I represented young Trump “J-6” supporters, charged with the federal equivalent of trespass. Their only real “crime?” Wearing a red MAGA hat on January 6.

I’ve battled socialists in the courts, appearing before that same DC judge overseeing the Kangaroo Court prosecution against President Trump.

I’ve fought Biden’s unconstitutional vaccine mandates, taking one case to the 4th Circuit before Biden backed down. I’ve fought for Christians on religious grounds against Biden before the EEOC. In Congress, I will defend our beloved Constitution!

Leigh Brown

Endorsements: Mayor Jennifer Teague (Harrisburg, NC)


Why did you decide to run for this office?

As a small business owner, mom and native/resident of this area, I believe I bring a perspective to Washington DC which must be heard in this time of division and confusion. My skills and background uniquely qualify me to serve the constituents of the 8th district. The Founding Fathers designed a system for regular citizens to serve and return home-and as a fan of term limits, I would be honored to serve for a time and return home. I’m ready for career politicians to find other jobs!

What are your top 3 priorities for serving in this office?
  1. Protect the American Dream-reduce regulations on small businesses, simplify the tax code, encourage homeownership. In specific-there are immediate actions I would lead the way on-reducing capital gains for one!
  2. Close the borders and deport those illegally here. Enforce the laws on the books, which have always allowed for legal immigrants who are willing to abide by the law and follow the process. Our communities are less safe, job opportunities are reduced, and housing is scarce when we do not protect our own nation.
  3. Stop the overreach of government agencies, from the FBI and its attack on parents to the CDC and its illegal policies around tenant/landlord relationships to the FDA and the approval of a pharmaceutical which was not distributed with informed consent.
What experience/qualities make you a good choice for this office?

I have been working with our elected officials and their staff in DC for many years, working on real estate issues. Real estate is a uniquely qualifying field. In order to be successful, I’ve had to be focused on the needs of others while also telling the truth. I’ve built relationships with so many great people and expect the same as an elected official. I’ve worked with urban/suburban/rural areas and understand the unique needs of different communities. I’ve also seen the growth here in Cabarrus County as a native and know that smart growth is an ongoing conversation. As a product of the local schools, and having raised kids in these same schools, I see the community for both the beauty of its past and the opportunity of its future. I don’t want every community to look the same-Concord does not have to be like Charlotte and Mount Pleasant does not have to be like Concord!

In this role, I would be a resource to the local and state elected officials, but fully believe the federal government should return to a more limited role.

I am someone who does the necessary work-I read before deciding, I listen to many resources, and I make up my own mind. We need leaders who are willing to learn and who are also willing to stand on their own principles. I know who I am, and whose I am.

Justin E. Dues

Endorsements: My wife (who is a Republican), 4 children, and 3 dogs currently.


Why did you decide to run for this office?

As a former infantry Marine who served our nation from 2003 to 2012, I am compelled to contribute once more, this time in a different capacity. The structural shortcomings in our political process have unfortunately fostered widespread distrust in the system. My aspiration is to restore a sense of pride in our government and in America’s accomplishments. Notably, the representation of veterans in Congress is currently at a near-historic low, which is concerning. It appears that the focus of many politicians has shifted from serving the public good to pursuing personal interests. My goal is to steer this narrative back towards a commitment to public service and to effectively represent the values and interests of our citizens.

What are your top 3 priorities for serving in this office?
  1. Advocating for transformational change through Constitutional Amendments: It is imperative to introduce term limits and outlaw gerrymandering nationwide. This will foster a more equitable and effective political landscape in the United States.

  2. Addressing critical issues with bold measures:
    • Tackling Wealth Inequality: Implement policies to curb corporate greed and ensure a more equitable distribution of wealth.
    • Universal Healthcare: Prioritize a healthcare system that places the well-being of individuals above profit margins.
    • Public Education Overhaul: Revitalize our education system from kindergarten through to the 16th grade, with an additional focus on public service options.
    • Climate Change: Implement robust strategies to combat global warming and its impacts.
    • Immigration Reform and Border Security: Develop comprehensive policies that balance humanitarian concerns with national security.

  3. Initiating a global conversation to reallocate defense budgets towards combating existential threats to human prosperity, such as homelessness, malnutrition, human trafficking, and climate change. As a single species sharing one planet and its resources, it is critical to shift our focus from conflict to collaboration, ensuring a sustainable future for the generations to come.
What experience/qualities make you a good choice for this office?

Servant Leadership and Work Ethic: My military background as an infantry Marine has ingrained in me a strong sense of servant leadership and a relentless work ethic. I am committed to serving the community’s needs with dedication and perseverance.

Honor and Courage: I hold a deep commitment to making morally sound choices, even under pressure. This stems from a strong sense of honor and the courage to uphold ethical standards, which are crucial in public service.

Open-Mindedness and Learning: My approach is characterized by open-mindedness and a continuous love for learning. This allows me to stay adaptable and informed, essential for effective leadership and policymaking.

Humor and Perspective: I value humor and perspective in my approach to governance. These qualities aid in fostering a positive and collaborative working environment, crucial for successful leadership.

Creativity and Judgement: I bring creativity to problem-solving, envisioning innovative solutions, and combine this with sound judgement to ensure practical and effective policies.

These qualities, shaped by diverse experiences and a commitment to serve, equip me to effectively represent and advocate for our community’s interests.

Voting gives you the power to create positive change for your community and determine a better quality of life for you and your family.

Meet Your
Elected Officials

Voting gives you the power to create positive change for your community and determine a better quality of life for you and your family.

Meet Your
Elected Officials

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PRIMARY ELECTION DAY
MARCH 5th

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