The Political Beat Candidate Guide: Mecklenburg Commission District 2

Democratic candidate Monifa “Mo” Drayton will face Republican Angela Edwards in the election for Mecklenburg County Commission District 2.

Monifa “Mo” Drayton (D)

Why are you running?

I’m running because District 2 deserves leadership that delivers results. I bring more than 20 years of healthcare leadership, public board governance, and community service. My priorities are economic development, workforce opportunities, protecting seniors, and preserving our neighborhoods. I believe public service should be measured by the lives we improve, not the positions we hold.

Are you in favor of the three constitutional amendments on North Carolina’s ballot? Why or why not?

I believe constitutional changes require careful consideration. On property taxes, we need homeowner relief without jeopardizing essential county services. On voter ID, we must protect election security and access. And on the income tax cap, we must consider the long-term impact on public services. My standard is fairness, fiscal responsibility, and protecting the people we serve.

What should the county do about all the controversies in CMS?

The children and student achievement should always be the primary focus considering the significant disparities that must be addressed if we want all children to succeed.

Secondly, we must allow investigations to proceed without political interference. As the financial stewards of tax payer dollars, the county has a responsibility to taxpayers to demand transparency about how public dollars are spent. Accountability must be enforced, but our students and teachers should never pay the price for leadership failures.

What role should the county have when it comes to public safety?

Public safety goes beyond policing. The county has responsibilities involving the Sheriff’s Office, behavioral health, public health, and emergency services. We must invest in prevention, mental health crisis response, and stronger partnerships with law enforcement and communities. Public safety means responding to crime while also addressing the conditions that contribute to it.

What sets you apart from your opponent?

I bring more than two decades of healthcare leadership experience, experience managing complex operations, and public board governance. I understand budgets, accountability, and how to turn strategy into measurable results. I’m not running simply to occupy a seat. I’m running to put my experience to work for the people of District 2.

Angela Edwards (R)

Why are you running?

I’m running for Mecklenburg County Commissioner of District 2. We need to understand we are Mind,Body and Soul we also must bring back balances into our homes and communties.

Are you in favor of the three constitutional amendments on North Carolina’s ballot? Why or why not?

Yes I’m for people coming to vote in person and to be proud to show who you are with your I.D. Yes, I am for the Constitutional amendment to keep the state tax rate for being raised higher than 3.5%. We got to put a cap on taxes especially for people who can’t afford high taxes. Yes, we need a limit on property taxes to help us not to worry about are houses and property taken away from us. Our properties are our Legacies for our families.

What should the county do about all the controversies in CMS?

My opinion about the CMS drama, The County needs to see how has the money being spent for the purpose of educating our children and paying the staff for such great services that we ask for.

What role should the county have when it comes to public safety?

Public safety is all our responsibility. The Mental Health is the most important piece to eliminating the dangers. The County needs to be more visual in the high risk communities to show that they are here and yes we care.

What sets you apart from your opponent?

The difference between me and my opponent is what’s life is all about. Life to me is to give out all what God has placed inside of you to share love, faith, gifts and talents that he has given all of us. I want to see more wholeness in the families and in our Communities. The most important thing I want to see a time limit on how many terms the County, City and CMS can serve, that would solve a lot of our problems.