RALEIGH, N.C. (WPTF) – A state lawmaker is resigning his seat to take over a statewide advocacy organization.
State Sen. Graig Meyer is resigning from his position as a Democrat representing parts of Caswell, Orange and Person counties to take over as Executive Director of the NC Justice Center.
Meyer has served in the Senate for four terms, after serving in the State House for four terms.
The Center describes itself with a mission “to create lasting, equitable change for people with low incomes and those harmed by systemic oppression across our state. We partner with impacted communities and those we represent to pursue justice and prosperity for all through policy advocacy, strategic litigation, research, coalition-building and support for grassroots action.”
“After twelve years in the General Assembly, I’m ready to go to a different type of public service,” Meyer said in an interview with Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News Monday (March 9).
The center has been involved in litigation challenging some of the decisions made by the Republican-led General Assembly.
Meyer said being in the minority at the legislature has made getting his policy priorities passed difficult.
“When you’re in the minority, you see how much power the majority has,” Meyer said. “The Republican majority in North Carolina has not been a very collaborative majority.”
“There’s only so much time you can try to do better,” Meyer continued. “and telling your constituents hey I’m trying to get what you’re asking for but I’m not able to do it.”
Local Democratic leaders will recommend a replacement for the remainder of Meyer’s current term. That person, who is expected to be in place by next month, could run again for the full term in the fall. Republican Laura Pichardo is also in the race.