WCDP Election Central – Candidate Information
Wesley Harris
NC Treasurer
Candidate Statement:
Our campaign is of, by and for all people of North Carolina. It’s about something bigger than us and working for the greater good. I am running for NC State Treasurer — to make positive change for all North Carolinians.
When voters make their voices heard, our state is strengthened. I ask for your vote on November 5 or during early voting.
Importance of this Race:
For too many of our communities, the last few decades have shown what happens when the world leaves them behind. Lack of investment has left once-vibrant places hollowed out, and our most vulnerable families have suffered as a result. Without opportunity, folks lose hope, and that threatens the stability of not only our economy, but our very democracy. Our state is overflowing with potential, but to make opportunity accessible to every North Carolinian, we need a state government and a Treasurer who are willing to invest in the most valuable asset we have: our people.
Office Responsibilities:
- To preserve, protect and sustain the state’s pension and healthcare plans.
- Reduce investment fees while maximizing returns.
- Properly account for and report on all funds that are deposited, invested and disbursed through the NC Department of State Treasurer.
- Assure the financially sound issuance of debt for state and local governments.
- Maintain the state’s “AAA” bond rating.
- Provide exemplary service across all divisions of the department.
Issues:
Do Right by Our State Employees:
As the son of a lifelong public school teacher, Wesley saw firsthand how the benefits that the state offers affect our state employees and their families. To ensure the best possible future for NC, we need to have reliable benefits that will attract world-class employees to our schools, as well as other public service jobs. We must make wise investment decisions that ensure we can reward public service with affordable healthcare and a great retirement.
Empower People to Know What's Happening with Our State's Finances:
Sunlight is the best disinfectant—and as State Treasurer, Wesley Harris will make sure that information about our state’s financial situation is easily accessible to any North Carolinian who wants to know more. Additionally, he will make it his mission to travel the state and ensure that our people have the opportunity to know what’s going on with fiscal policy, so that people have the tools to hold their government accountable.
Depoliticize the Treasurer's Office and Focus on Great Returns:
The Treasurer’s office shouldn’t be a playground for partisan games—but at times it has been. The current Treasurer has worked to deny healthcare to state employees who are part of vulnerable minority groups, and to meddle in private companies’ affairs because they supported policies he disliked. As Treasurer, Wesley will cut out the games and focus on providing excellent value to all North Carolina taxpayers.