Laurie Buckhout, a former Army colonel who is running as the GOP nominee for North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District in the House, is challenging Democratic incumbent Rep. Don Davis. Buckhout has accused Davis of being a “career politician” who is aligned with President Biden and Democratic policies. She claims to be answerable only to the voters and constituents of eastern North Carolina, positioning herself as an outsider compared to Davis who she says has never run a business and has not made a significant impact in his political career.
Buckhout has been focusing her campaign on key issues such as poverty, border security, economy, crime, and opioid use. She has highlighted concerns about illegal aliens, fentanyl, and crime in local neighborhoods, claiming that residents are worried about the lack of accountability and safety. Buckhout, a military veteran who served for 26 years in the U.S. Army, believes that her experience and values align with the district’s needs and aspirations. She emphasizes the importance of standing up for the country in times of crisis.
Buckhout expressed concern about the impact of President Biden’s policies on the country, suggesting that Davis is complicit in enabling Biden’s alleged detrimental actions. She aims to address issues such as border security and boosting the economy, particularly focusing on creating jobs for the district’s residents. Buckhout argues that her opponent’s lack of response to local concerns demonstrates a need for new leadership that can effectively tackle the challenges faced by the district.
Following her military career, Buckhout founded a strategic consulting and services group that specialized in electronic warfare and cyberspace operations. She also worked on programs to protect soldiers from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in conflicts such as Iraq and Afghanistan. Buckhout’s experience in the military and private sector has shaped her approach to public service, and she believes that her background equips her to address complex issues facing the district.
With the recent redrawing of North Carolina’s congressional districts, Buckhout’s campaign has gained momentum as she seeks to represent the newly expanded 1st Congressional District. She has garnered support from local officials, including sheriffs and a district attorney in the area. The upcoming general election in November will be a crucial test for Buckhout’s candidacy as she competes against Davis for the House seat. Buckhout’s platform emphasizes a combination of national security, economic development, and community safety, aligning with the priorities of voters in the district.
As the race heats up in North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, Buckhout’s campaign portrays her as a principled candidate with a commitment to serving the needs of her constituents. By contrasting herself with her opponent as an outsider with a track record of military service and private sector experience, Buckhout seeks to appeal to voters looking for a fresh perspective in Washington. The outcome of the election will determine whether Buckhout’s vision for the district resonates with voters, potentially flipping the seat from blue to red in the upcoming election.
