Source:  Press Release, 2/8/10

Sampson County farmer, businessman and civic leader Brent Jackson filed today for the North Carolina Senate.  Jackson, 52, pledged to run a strong campaign to “get eastern North Carolina moving again.”  At the Sampson County Board of Elections, Jackson spoke of a brighter future in his remarks.  “Eastern North Carolina is home to some of the finest people anywhere.  They are hardworking and highly skilled,” he said.  “They deserve an opportunity to compete for good jobs - and I intend to recruit more good jobs to our area.”

Jackson also promised to utilize his business experience in helping get the state budget under control.  “The career politicians in Raleigh have saddled our taxpayers with a burden that isn’t sustainable,” Jackson remarked.  “In business, I have extensive experience in setting spending priorities and trimming the fat from a budget.  I’ll use this common sense in helping balance the state’s books.’’

In seeking to represent Duplin, Lenoir and Sampson counties, Jackson believes that his background in agribusiness will serve the people well.  “A vibrant agricultural economy is important in getting the local economy moving again,” Jackson said.  “I have the experience, the contacts and a deep understanding of agriculture which will be vital in rebuilding the foundation of our economic base.”

Jackson is President and CEO of Jackson Farming Company, Inc. in Autryville.  Under his leadership, the company maintains thousands of acres of farmland and the wide distribution of its produce to a variety of retailers.  In addition to 30 years in farming, Jackson has contributed much to his community and industry through his involvement in civic and trade organizations.

Among others, Jackson has served as Chairman of the Board of the National Watermelon Association, President of the North Carolina Horticulture Council, a Board Member of the National Watermelon Promotion Board.  Additionally, Jackson served on the Board of the Sampson County Farm Bureau, the Sampson County Airport Authority and the Boards of the Clement Civic Center and Clement Fire Department. 

An education advocate, Jackson served on the Board of Trustees of Sampson Community College and Midway School District Board.  Jackson currently serves as a Board Member for the South River Electric Co-Op.  A church leader, Jackson has served in numerous capacities, including Deacon and Sunday School teacher at Union Grove Baptist Church.  Jackson has been married to his wife, Debbie, for 31 years.  They raised three children, of which two are living, and are the proud grandparents of two beautiful grandchildren.