Democrat Kevin Thurman, candidate for NC House District 53, answers our questions
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Candidates for NC House District 53
Democrat Kevin Thurman is running against Republican incumbent Howard Penny Jr. District 53 covers Harnett and Johnston counties. 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: Kevin G. Thurman
District/seat: House District 53
County or counties represented: Harnett and Johnston
Political party: Democrat
Age as of Nov. 5, 2024: 34
Campaign website: kevinthurmanfornchouse.com
Current occupation: Liaison
Professional experience: Business Liaison at Research Triangle Institute
Education: Master of Public Administration from NC Central University, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Duke University
Please list any notable government or civic involvement. President of men’s prayer group at Mt. Pisgah Harnett OFWB Church, Inc. Participated in cemetery cleanups at Wilkins Cemetery in Dunn, NC, Harnett County’s oldest African-American cemetery.
What would be your top priority if elected?
Giving school employees livable wages and exceeding the national average in public school funding.
By percentage, what raises should state employees, school staff and teachers receive in the next state budget?
50%.
What legislation would you support to improve Triangle transportation, housing or infrastructure? Please be specific.
I will support the expansion of rural public transportation, affordable housing initiatives, and the expansion of rural broadband.
Do you think the legislature should fund about $500 million for private school vouchers through the Opportunity Scholarship program? Why or why not?
No. Rich people can take taxpayer dollars and use it to pay for their children’s private school tuition. If a child moves from private to public school, the private school is allowed to keep the money. These schools can deny enrollment to children for any reason. Private schools often lack the resources for disabled or special needs children. Not all teachers are licensed at private schools, and there is no public data on school performance nor curriculum.
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue?
No.