Jacquez Adon Johnson

JacQuez Johnson is a Democratic candidate for the North Carolina House of Representatives in District 80 in the 2026 general election (Nov 3, 2026)【20】. The state House requires members to be at least 21 years old, qualified voters residing in the district for at least one year, and to meet the state’s residency and filing requirements【20】. Johnson, born December 9, 1999 in Thomasville, NC, meets the age and residency thresholds and has formally filed his candidacy for the district【20】.

Johnson grew up in Thomasville, graduating from Thomasville High School before earning a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University in 2023【1】. He identifies as a Christian and works professionally as a teacher, a role that informs his focus on education policy and teacher pay【1】【20】.

His political experience began with a successful 2023 campaign for Thomasville City Council, where he has served continuously to the present day【1】. In 2025 he entered the nonpartisan race for mayor of Thomasville, appearing on the November 4, 2025 ballot alongside Wendy B. Sellars and Raleigh York Jr., though he was not the incumbent【1】. While running for mayor, Johnson completed Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection survey, outlining priorities such as expanding affordable housing, investing in youth programs, and attracting inclusive economic development【1】.

In December 2025 Johnson announced his run for the state House, citing “urgent need for accountability, presence, and results” at the state level【20】. He criticized the state’s failure to pass a budget, linking the impasse to delayed teacher pay raises and broader fiscal strain on families and public employees【20】. Drawing on his background as an educator, he highlighted the 2025 Education Law Center report that ranked North Carolina among the nation’s worst for education funding and equity, positioning himself as a champion for teachers and students【20】.

Johnson’s campaign messaging emphasizes “lead with vision & govern with love,” reflecting his stated inspiration from civil‑rights leaders like John Lewis and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He advocates for policies that create safe, dignified housing, expand after‑school and mentorship opportunities for youth, and attract diverse businesses that provide good‑paying jobs to strengthen downtown Thomasville and the broader district【1】.

If elected, Johnson would bring his experience as a city councilman and teacher to the state legislature, aiming to address budgetary deadlock, improve education funding, and promote community‑focused economic growth for District 80.

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