Pam Genant, who wants to represent about two-thirds of Polk County as a member of the US House of Representatives. Isn't she the Democrat who ran against congressman Patrick McHenry in 2022 for District 10? Yes. Here's how she ended up on our ballot this year:
Redistricting last year left Saluda and Coopers Gap in District 11. Tryon, Columbus, and Green Creek are now in District 14, which just happens to be home of state representative Tim Moore. It's now represented by Democrat Jeff Jackson, but the district is no longer so Democrat-friendly, and Jackson is running for Attorney General instead. Patrick McHenry, who represents District 10, decided not to run again, which left room for Moore to run for the seat, if we wants it. And he does.
So does Genant, and if you live in the District 14 portions of Polk County, she like your vote. (If you live in the District 11 parts of the county, please scroll back one episode to listen to my interview with Caleb Rudow.)
Either way, this conversation, which covers housing, healthcare, and other issues that everyone can relate to, will be useful for anyone not already committed to someone. My guest insisted upon showing up at the Saluda Library for our scheduled interview on Sept. 26 despite the impending tropical storm.
Resources
Pam Genant campaign website: https://www.pamgenant.com
Find your district here: https://vt.ncsbe.gov/RegLkup/
State of emergency voting provisions: https://www.ncsbe.gov/news/press-releases/2024/10/07/bipartisan-state-board-unanimously-approves-measures-help-wnc-voters
Polk County Board of Elections: https://www.polknc.gov/board_of_elections_2.php