Democrat Sydney Batch, candidate for NC Senate District 17, answers our questions
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Candidates for NC Senate District 17
Libertarian Patrick Bowersox is running against Democratic incumbent Sydney Batch. District 17 covers Wake County. Get to know the candidates with our 2024 NC Voter Guide.
To help inform voters about the Nov. 5, 2024, election, this candidate questionnaire is available to be republished by local publications in North Carolina without any cost. Please consider subscribing to The News & Observer to help make this coverage possible.
Name: Sydney Batch
District/seat: Senate District 17
County or counties represented: Wake
Political party: Democrat
Age as of Nov. 5, 2024: 45
Campaign website: sydneybatch.com
Current occupation: State Senator, Attorney, Social Worker
Professional experience: I am a family law attorney and child welfare advocate with over 18 years of experience. I co-founded the law firm Batch Poore & Williams, PC, where I focus on family law, child welfare law, and appellate work. I’ve advocated for children and families throughout my career. I also serve as Deputy Leader of the North Carolina Senate Democratic Caucus, representing the people of southern Wake County since 2018.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Juris Doctor, UNC School of Law at Chapel Hill Master of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Please list any notable government or civic involvement. North Carolina State Senator, District 17 (2021–present); North Carolina House of Representatives (2018–2020); Chair, Wake County Legislative Delegation; Deputy Leader of the North Carolina Senate Democratic Caucus
What would be your top priority if elected?
My top priority is ensuring North Carolinians have access to affordable health care; particularly maternal and mental health services and providing better support for working families through child care assistance and paid family leave are crucial to strengthening our communities.
By percentage, what raises should state employees, school staff and teachers receive in the next state budget?
State employees, school staff, and teachers should receive an additional 5% raise, reflecting the cost-of-living increases and their essential role in our community. Additionally, we should offer bonuses and merit-based pay to retain top talent and incentivize those who dedicate themselves to public service.
What legislation would you support to improve Triangle transportation, housing or infrastructure? Please be specific.
I support expanding investment in the Housing Trust Fund to address the growing demand for affordable housing in the Triangle. My Expand Workforce Housing Act will provide funding to create more affordable housing options and prevent displacement. Additionally, I would work to improve public transportation by securing state funds for the expansion of regional transit systems and advancing sustainable land-use policies to encourage transit-friendly communities.
Do you think the legislature should fund about $500 million for private school vouchers through the Opportunity Scholarship program? Why or why not?
While Wake County is fortunate to have excellent educational options — including public, private, charter, and magnet schools — our priority must be ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education, no matter which path they choose. Siphoning off funds for private schools weakens our public schools. We should instead focus on fully funding public education, reducing class sizes, and increasing teacher pay, to give every child an excellent education, regardless of their ZIP code.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue?
I’ve sometimes taken a more moderate stance on fiscal policy, particularly regarding the state’s tax structure. While I believe in progressive taxation, I also recognize the need for tax incentives that promote small business growth and economic development in underserved areas. Ensuring a balanced approach is essential to stimulating economic growth without placing an undue burden on working families and small businesses.
This story was originally published October 3, 2024 at 7:51 AM.