I salute the flag of North Carolina and pledge to the Old North State love, loyalty, and faith.

We are fortunate to live in a state “where the weak grow strong and the strong grow great.” My life story is a testament to North Carolina’s state toast.

I was born and raised in a rural town, Maple Hill, in Pender County in eastern NC with values centered on family, faith and community. My heart for public service is rooted in a foundation built by educators in the Pender County School system, who nurtured my belief that a small-town girl with a love for the outdoors and horseback riding could make a difference.

As a first-generation college student, I worked my way through UNC at Chapel Hill. At one point, I worked three different jobs including participating in a work-study program, and then became a double Tar Heel after graduating from UNC at Chapel Hill School of Law – where I have subsequently been honored as a Distinguished Young Alumni and Outstanding Recent Graduate respectively.

Before UNC at Chapel Hill and Carolina Law, I was a proud graduate of Pender County Head Start and know that access to early childhood development opportunities play a critical role in children’s learning and adult outcomes.

I know what it’s like to struggle to make ends meet and to depend on government services for a sound basic education, free lunch programs, healthcare, affordable housing and hurricane disaster relief. One of my most vivid memories involves sweeping flood water out of my childhood home and discarding irreplaceable family photos and molded possessions after our home was condemned.

 My experiences and struggles have shaped my commitment to public service and paying it forward, hence my sincere belief that, as President Abraham Lincoln said, “democracy is a government of the people, by the people and for the people.”

In November 2014, Wake County voters made history by electing me as the youngest Commissioner ever elected in Wake County. I represented over one million constituents at-large and helped manage a $1.1 billion budget, later becoming the youngest person to serve as Chair of the board.

As a County Commissioner, I championed job creation, workforce development, increased education funding, affordable housing and childcare, food security initiatives, living wages and family oriented policies such as paid parental leave and paid family leave.

In August 2021, I was appointed as a Deputy Commissioner in the North Carolina Industrial Commission, where I administered the Workers’ Compensation Act and Tort Claims Act and ensured that all parties were treated fairly and equitably under the law.

Today, I have the privilege of serving as your State Auditor. I’m unbossed, unbought and most importantly for this role, I understand the value of a dollar and impact of government services on our everyday lives. We are already seeing tangible results under my leadership. I humbly ask for your support and your vote in the November 5, 2024 election.

Yours in service,

Jessica N. Holmes