Another sheriff, another big political move
The 2026 campaign season is starting to look like The Year of The Sheriff.
In Rockingham County, sheriff Sam Page (R) is challenging the re-nomination of state senate president pro tem Phil Berger (R).
Over in Carteret County, sheriff Asa Buck (R) is throwing his hat in the ever-expanding ring in the newly-redrawn 1st congressional district currently served by congressman Don Davis (D).
Buck – with over two decades of law enforcement experience – says recent political events influenced him to seek a seat in Congress:
“From radical socialists being elected to run America’s major cities to the horrifying political assassination of Charlie Kirk, there is little doubt that America is at a political crossroads. The time has come for principled leaders to step up and offer themselves for service. The people of Eastern North Carolina must have a strong voice in Congress to make sure their values are protected and the America First Agenda is implemented. ”
Buck says his core political values are firmly grounded in the Constitution and the pillars of the Conservative movement, namely lower taxes, less government and more individual liberty:
“My views were heavily influenced by Ronald Reagan’s belief that the solutions to America’s problems lie not with more government programs, but instead with the American people and their history of hard work & innovation. President Trump shares Reagan’s belief in the power of the American people and that America’s best days are ahead of us. I’d be honored to serve in Congress and support President Trump’s America First Agenda that empowers the American people.”
In his first year in office, sheriff Buck started a prescription drug collection program he branded “Pills Can Kill” that encouraged citizens to turn in their unused and outdated prescription drugs. The program also highlighted the dangers of easy access to these types of medications.
“Pills Can Kill” was an instant success and has been a model followed across the state and nation. In 2017, the groundbreaking program was the impetus for Buck being presented with North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine.
State senator Bobby Hanig, Lenoir County commissioner Eric Rouse, and Rocky Mount mayor Sandy Roberson are some other Republicans being mentioned as candidates for the 1st congressional district seat.
