Lynne Russo

Lynne Russo (Democratic Party) is running for election to the North Carolina House of Representatives to represent District 117. She is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2026. The Democratic primary for this office on March 3, 2026, was canceled.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Lynne Russo is a community advocate based in the mountains of Western North Carolina. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, she mobilized national support for Appalachian families and fought for the long-term recovery funding the region so desperately needed.

Lynne’s connection to North Carolina runs deep. Her grandparents met here at a dance while her grandfather was serving in the Navy. That family tie has shaped her love for the state ever since.

Over the course of her career, Lynne has helped national nonprofits raise millions for communities in need and tell human-centered stories that drive change. Her work has spanned respected organizations like The Education Trust, the Milken Family Foundation, and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Now, she’s stepping up to serve Western North Carolina as a state representative because in this turbulent time, we need serious leaders. Leaders who are willing to roll up their sleeves and confront the challenges trickling down from Washington. Leaders who will fight for what really matters.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

EDUCATION

North Carolina ranks near the bottom nationally in education funding, 43rd in overall teacher pay and 39th in starting salary, leading to high turnover and ongoing staffing shortages. Lynne will fight to fully fund public schools and push back on the continued diversion of $1.3 billion in taxpayer dollars to private school vouchers. She’ll also work to rebuild and modernize schools damaged by Hurricane Helene, ensuring students and teachers have safe, functional classrooms equipped for the future.SMALL BUSINESS RECOVERY

Small businesses make up 96% of all businesses in Western North Carolina, yet many were left without meaningful state or federal support after Hurricane Helene. While some received help through SBA loans or nonprofit grants, too many are still struggling to reopen, rehire, or rebuild. Lynne will fight to expand access to state-led recovery programs and push for targeted grants that support storefront repairs, equipment replacement, and revitalization of local business districts. She’ll also work to simplify the application process for state assistance, so small business owners aren’t forced to navigate red tape just to survive. Because when small businesses thrive, our entire community thrives.FARMERS & AGRICULTURE

When Hurricane Helene hit, WNC farmers lost critical fencing, equipment, and infrastructure. Lynne will push for targeted disaster recovery grants to help them rebuild barns, greenhouses, irrigation systems, and more. She’ll also fight for policies that protect family farms, strengthen local markets, and preserve our agricultural way of life because rural resilience starts with supporting the people who grow our food.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about strengthening public education, supporting small businesses, protecting our agricultural heritage, expanding affordable healthcare, and honoring our veterans. Our schools must be fully funded so every child has a fair chance to succeed. Small businesses are the backbone of Western North Carolina, and they need real recovery resources to thrive. Farmers deserve the tools and markets to keep agriculture strong for future generations. I am also committed to ensuring healthcare is accessible and affordable, and that veterans receive the respect, care, and opportunities they’ve earned.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Being of service.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Lindsey Prather