Dr. Raymond E. Smith Jr. campaigns for NC Senate District 4
Dr. Raymond E. Smith Jr., a distinguished public servant and educator from rural Eastern North Carolina, is running for the North Carolina Senate District 4 seat, which covers Wilson, Greene, and Wayne counties . He has a history of leadership and advocacy in education and transportation, having previously served two terms as a Representative for House District 21 in the North Carolina General Assembly, where he sponsored over 400 bills. His opponent for the District 4 seat is Buck Newton.
Dr. Smith's experience includes being the first African American At-Large member of the Wayne County Board of Education and a former Minority Whip, demonstrating his commitment to equity in education.
“I witnessed firsthand how they worked tirelessly to improve the lives of others, which ingrained in me the values of service, integrity, and leadership,” Dr. Smith said, reflecting on his upbringing in a family dedicated to public service. His mother was a teacher, and his father served as a U.S. Marine and civil servant.
In the General Assembly, he focused on policies benefiting Wayne, Greene, and Wilson Counties, advocating for improvements in education, economic opportunities, and public transportation. “Service is not just something I do; it is who I am,” he stated, emphasizing the intrinsic nature of service in his identity.
Dr. Smith's leadership was crucial as the first Executive Director of the Goldsboro/Wayne Transportation Authority, where he developed North Carolina’s first joint rural-urban public transportation system, known as Gateway. He coordinated efforts among multiple government entities with differing goals and funding limitations, ultimately creating a sustainable funding formula based on miles, hours, and passengers.
“Just as I brought diverse interests together for the common good with Gateway, I will work diligently to ensure that the voices of Wayne, Greene, and Wilson Counties are heard,” he said, outlining his commitment to collaboration in his Senate campaign.
He advocates for a strong, equitable education system, calling for increased funding, teacher retention programs, and expanded access to early childhood education. “By investing in our students, we lay the foundation for long-term economic stability and a reduction in crime,” he noted, linking educational investment to community safety and economic growth.
Dr. Smith also aims to revitalize the local economy by focusing on workforce development and attracting industries in renewable energy and technology. He recognizes the need to address the root causes of crime, advocating for increased resources for law enforcement, community programs, and rehabilitation initiatives. “Addressing the educational challenges in our communities will create long-term solutions that lead to stronger, safer, and more prosperous counties,” he stated.
As a candidate, Dr. Smith emphasizes transparency and accountability in decision-making. He plans to hold regular town hall meetings for constituents to express concerns and provide publicly accessible records of decisions and votes. “I will hold regular town hall meetings across Wayne, Greene, and Wilson counties, ensuring that constituents have direct access to voice their concerns,” he asserted.
His strategy includes conducting community surveys to gather input on legislative initiatives and engaging with local school boards and stakeholders. He stresses the need for strict oversight of educational funds to ensure equitable resource distribution.
To address regional challenges related to broadband and transportation access, Dr. Smith proposes conducting both in-person and virtual town hall meetings. He plans to host mobile office days to meet constituents in various locations, addressing transportation challenges in rural areas. “By implementing these strategies, I aim to ensure that every voice in District 4 is heard and represented in our state legislature,” he said.
Dr. Smith highlights the importance of bipartisan collaboration. He reflects on his experience in the General Assembly, where he represented Wayne and Sampson Counties, emphasizing his commitment to working across party lines for the benefit of the community. “Collaboration across party lines and with various stakeholders is essential for effective governance, as it allows for a broader range of ideas and solutions to address the diverse needs of our communities,” he stated.
His approach to governance balances short-term goals with long-term planning for sustainable growth in Wayne, Greene, and Wilson Counties. “Balancing short-term goals with long-term planning to ensure sustainable growth and development requires a multifaceted approach that leverages our strengths while addressing immediate and foundational challenges,” Dr. Smith explained.
Key initiatives he proposes include fast-tracking workforce education programs and improving broadband access. He aims to develop a strategic blueprint focusing on investments in sustainable industries like clean energy. “Engaging actively with community members through town halls and cooperative planning sessions ensures that our strategies are community-driven and grounded in the real needs of our constituents,” he said.
Dr. Smith shared a message to the voters of rural Eastern North Carolina, emphasizing the need for strong leadership and a deep understanding of community challenges. “Our district is at a crossroads, facing challenges that demand strong leadership, integrity, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of our communities,” he stated.
His campaign is centered on addressing tangible issues such as economic development, public safety, and education reform. “I stand before you today with a proven track record of delivering results for our community and with a continued commitment to fight for every single resident of this district,” he concluded, reinforcing his commitment to public service.
North Carolina will hold its general election on Nov. 5th with in-person early voting beginning on October 17th. Neuse News will live stream the 2024 Election Results on Facebook starting at 7:15 pm.
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