Sandhills Sentinel spoke with those pursuing State Senate seats in November.
All candidates were provided a list of questions that they responded to in written form. Questions for each candidate are identical, and the candidates’ submitted answers have not been altered in any way. The order of candidates reflects the order they will appear on the ballot.
Helen Probst Mills, Democrat
How long have you lived in Moore County?
I have lived here for over 14 years.
What is your educational background?
The University of Chicago, BA, 1986; Case Western Reserve University, JD, 1991
Have you ever served in an elected office?
No.
For challenger of an incumbent- What is one thing your opponent did while in office that you would have done differently?
I would have worked very hard to pass Medicaid Expansion, as opposed to voting against this massive jobs bill for North Carolina (over 40,000 good healthcare jobs across the entire state) that would provide access to healthcare for over 500,000 North Carolinians and lowered health insurance premiums for everyone. An incumbent who is supposed to work for the people shouldn’t vote against legislation that would provide 700 new jobs in Senate District 25 (Anson, Moore, Richmond, and Scotland counties).
What unique qualities will you bring to the office?
I am a truthful, fair person who works hard with many people to achieve results. I have spent the last several years serving Moore County on the Sandhills Community College Foundation Board and as a Trustee of SCC, as well as a Board member of the Northern Moore Family Resource Center. In all of those roles I have seen that the best ideas come to fruition when all sides are listened to and discussion leads to the best result.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I have the interests of the people in my heart. I am firmly committed to representing the people of Senate District 25 and fighting for you, not the PACs and special interests. This is clearly reflected on the financial reports of myself and the opponent. His most recent report shows the vast majority of his donations were from PACs while he only had 7 donors within the district.
Tom McInnis, Republican
How long have you lived in Moore County?
I have owned real estate in Moore County for nearly 40 years. My farm where I reside is located in Richmond County near the village of Ellerbe.
What is your educational background?
High School Graduate and Vocational and Career/Technical Certification and Registration for Real Estate and Auction Marketing.
Have you ever served in an elected office?
3rd turn in NC Senate and 1 ½ terms on the Richmond County School Board.
For incumbents- What would you have done differently if you had the chance?
I am satisfied that I have given 110% of my best efforts for the citizens of Moore County and the 25th District of NC Senate.
What unique qualities will you bring to the office?
I bring bold and decisive leadership to the office of State Senate and I am rated as one of the most effective members of the State Senate.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
The reason that I am the superior candidate for the office is my seniority and committee appointments, which have and will continue to be beneficial to Moore County and the district.
Early voting is from Oct. 15- 31. The election is November 3.
You can find more information on the Moore County Board of Elections website.
Contributed photos: L,R; Tom McInnis and Helen Probst Mills.
Article by Sandhills Sentinel Journalism Intern Stephanie M. Sellers.
