Johnston County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the state, but Senate district lines have carved it into multiple districts represented by people from neighboring counties.
For the first time since David Rouzer moved from the N.C. Senate to Congress, Johnston will have one of its own residents serving in the Senate. Attorney Benton Sawrey will represent the newly drawn District 10, which consists entirely of Johnston County.
He lives in Clayton and has spent years volunteering for the local Republican Party.
Age: 35
What is your job outside of politics? Attorney at Narron Wenzel, P.A.
Why did you run for state legislature instead of another elected office you might have considered? State legislature has broad and wide-ranging impacts on people and businesses in my district. I believe you can do more in the state legislature to improve someone’s life or business compared to most other elected offices in North Carolina.
If you could enact a single piece of legislation into law today, what would it be? Abolishing the North Carolina personal income tax.
Where do you most enjoy taking an out-of-town visitor in your district? Redneck BBQ Lab
What is your favorite hobby outside of work? Spending time at the North Carolina coast.
Who do you most admire, and why? My father, David Sawrey. He’s shown me how to be a good father and husband. He’s also taught me the value of hard work and humility while serving in a leadership role.
What’s your favorite snack food or beverage to get through long meetings? Hershey’s Cookies and Creme candy bars