As time in Raleigh draws to a close a year after my appointment to the NC Senate, I find myself reflecting on three primary thoughts.

First, my confidence in North Carolina’s government is greater today than it was when I took office. I am struck by the caliber of individuals who serve on both sides of the isle. Most work for a living, many are small business owners; none are getting rich on the $13,951 salary. With few exceptions, these individuals sought office for the right reasons, and genuinely pursue what they believe to be in the best interest of North Carolina, even if their ideology is different from mine.

The leadership in both houses, from committee chairs to President Pro-Tempore Phil Berger and Rules Chairman Tom Apodaca in the Senate, and Speaker Thom Tillis and Rules Chair Tim Moore in the House, keep both chambers on an efficient schedule. They effectively guide positive legislation through both bodies. North Carolina has generally chosen well in her elected officials.

Second, the bureaucracy is worse than I imagined possible. I have sat through numerous committee meetings in which the asininity of the (continue reading…)