Paul believes our community today faces urgent challenges that status-quo politics will not solve. We cannot take for granted that our economy will develop the jobs of tomorrow. We cannot assume that our schools will improve and have the resources they need to equip our children to compete in a global economy. Certainly, we cannot rest while our traditional values are under attack.

Following five years of private legal practice, Paul Newton worked for 25 years at Duke Energy and eventually earned the responsibility to lead the company as an executive. While serving as General Counsel of its utilities, Paul was recognized by NC Business Magazine as one of North Carolina's Legal Elite. He later retired in 2015 as North Carolina State President.

Paul's work experience included leading the state's largest private economic development organization. As a leader, he earned a reputation of integrity and gained respect for his down-to-earth concern for others. He is ready to put this private sector experience to work in Raleigh.

Serving his community started years ago as an Advisory Board member with Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Cabarrus County. Paul also served on the CEO Advisory Council of the NC Center for Non-Profits, the Board of Directors of Leadership NC, and on the Executive Committee of the NC Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Raised by a father who worked in textiles at Fieldcrest Mills and a mother who worked with our community college system, Paul graduated from UNC - Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and a Juris Doctor degree. He also completed the Harvard Advanced Management Program.

Most important to Paul is his job as father and husband. The American Diabetes Association honored Paul with "Father of the Year" in 2008 for his commitment to his family.

Paul and his wife Melanie have been married 29 years and have raised three daughters and one son. His wife Melanie runs a small business hosting weddings and special events at the family's farm in Mt. Pleasant. They attend The Refuge church in Kannapolis.

Paul is an advocate for excellence in education at all levels - Pre-K through University and Technical Training. He believes that a vibrant and dynamic public education system is vital to the health of our communities and essential for attracting and retaining quality employers locally.

Not afraid to be called a conservative, Paul Newton is a conservative guided by his real world experience and his Christian faith. He genuinely cares about others and has a proven track record of successful leadership.