Tom Downing

Tom Downing (Democratic Party) is running for election to the North Carolina State Senate to represent District 50. He is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2026. The Democratic primary for this office on March 3, 2026, was canceled.

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?

It’s time for a new majority in our General Assembly. A Democrat majority who will listen and respond to the needs of real people living in our rural areas. I want to go to Raleigh and work with rural and urban legislators to find practical solutions to our shortages of affordable housing, affordable daycare, and the rising costs of health insurance.I'm bringing a campaign of political healing. I will not distribute negative campaign literature against my opponent. I will not participate in anything that divides us further because we are already divided enough. I promise to share the truth with voters and to state the case for why I should be elected without tearing down my opponent.

I choose to "lead with love" in my campaign. I'll let others lead with repeating falsehoods and fearmongering tactics if they choose.

If some elected officials "stand back and stand by" as our most fundamental rights are chipped away only they can answer for their silence. I'm for everyone enjoying the rights and privileges of our state constitution.If I'm elected to the State Senate I will listen to everyone regardless of their political party registration (or no registration.) I will have frequent town halls, listening sessions, and office hours in each of the eight counties.

I'm ready to listen and lead for the good of everyone in the 50th senate district.

NC is ranked 50 out of 50 states for public school funding. We must increase this level of funding! Is this intentional by the Republican majority? Are they trying to ruin our public schools so they can privatize them?

Space here is limited to discuss the many areas where action is needed by our General Assembly: (not in order of importance) public safety pay and benefits must be increased; volunteer fire departments need funding; DOT infrastructure (roads, bridges, culverts;) disaster preparedness; affordable day care; affordable housing; regional cooperation for economic development; phone and internet service for ALL; ending gerrymandering; and passing a state budget on time.