Where party-switching challenger to Wake County Republican stands on the issues
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- There is just a Republican primary; incumbent Schietzelt did not respond.
- Candidate wants to approve school budget and set pay $50K–$100K.
- Supports medical marijuana for medically needed non-addicts, mobile unit, budget review.
To help voters learn which candidates are on their ballot and where they stand on important policy issues, The News & Observer is publishing candidate questionnaires in all state and federal races in North Carolina on the March 3, 2026, ballot.
Below are the candidates running for NC House District 35 who responded to our questionnaire in order by the date their responses were received. Some candidates did not provide a photo.
The district is in northern Wake County and the seat is currently held by Rep. Mike Schietzelt. The only primary is between Republicans Schietzelt and Michele Joyner-Dinwiddie, a former Democrat who changed parties. There is no Democratic primary.
Schietzelt did not respond to the questionnaire.
Michele Joyner-Dinwiddie
Age as of March 3, 2026: 54
Political party: Republican
Campaign website: Joyner-for-house-35.squarespace.com
Current occupation: Teacher
Professional experience: Educator and leader
Education: B.A., M.Ed., Ed.S., Ph.D.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement: N/A
What is the most important issue in your district and what do you want to do about it? Approving a state budget for our public schools
The legislature sets teacher base pay. What do you think the salary range should be for teachers, from starting to 30+ experience? $50,000 to $100,000/year
As of January, North Carolina was the last state not to have passed a new, comprehensive budget. What would you do to help make sure a budget passes? Influences the General Assembly of the consequences of not passing it to date and in the months to come.
North Carolina’s income tax rate for individual taxpayers is 3.99%. Should that be reduced further? Need to review budget and see where we can make tighter cuts/decisions to lower it if possible.
Do you think the state is using taxpayer money efficiently? Why or why not? I feel that those making those budgetary decisions are making too much money themselves and the wealth should be spread into the community.
Do you support legalizing medical marijuana use? Why or why not? I support for non-addicts, medically needed individuals.
What do you see as the biggest barrier to health care access in your district, and what actions would you take to address it? Need a mobile unit to either help citizens get to medical care or serve as the medical provider.
This story was originally published February 18, 2026 at 10:11 AM with the headline "Where party-switching challenger to Wake County Republican stands on the issues."
