Three-term Wilkes County Commissioner Eddie Settle might have surprised some Raleigh political observers when he defeated two primary opponents last month who had already served in the state legislature.
He’s unopposed in November for the newly drawn Senate District 36, which includes Wilkes, Surry, Alexander and Yadkin counties, so he’ll be joining the Senate come January.
In his campaign, he touted his record on the county commissioner, voting to lower taxes and pass a Second Amendment protection resolution.
Age: 62
What are the current and past jobs you’ve held outside of politics? I have owned Nu-Line Printing located in Elkin since 1994, and I have owned Settle Cattle Company since 1990.
Why did you run for state legislature instead of another elected office you might have considered? I believe with my background in business, agriculture – and the geographical location of the counties in the district – that I would connect well with District 36. During my commissioner terms, I have had the privilege to serve on numerous boards. One is the N.C. Agriculture Steering Committee, which I served as chairman for 4 years. Presently, I am serving on the N.C. Association of County Commissioners Environmental Committee. I enjoy knowing the issues, being involved with the citizens and the things that are important to them, and knowing that what I do is making a difference. I am ready to serve as senator for District 36.
If you could enact a single piece of legislation into law today, what would it be? I believe voter identification is a necessary process in order for all citizens to regain confidence in the election process.
Where do you most enjoy taking an out-of-town visitor in your district? The North Wilkesboro Speedway would be a new option for Wilkes. In the past I would say Stone Mountain. However, my district now includes three other counties: Alexander County has Rock Face Mountain. Surry County/Mount Airy is notorious for being known as “Mayberry.” Yadkin County would be Lake Hampton.
What is your favorite hobby outside of work? On any day I enjoy a good round of golf.
Who do you most admire, and why? Ronald Reagan. His Christian conservative leadership and his unwavering stance, his diplomatic style and his loyalty are all characteristics I admired. Reagan knew how to handle any situation, and citizens had confidence in his leadership. He had a way of bringing people together.