Anna Virginia Stearns

Anna Virginia Stearns is the Democratic candidate for Buncombe County Board of Commissioners District 01 in the 2026 general election. The Board of Commissioners serves as Buncombe County’s governing body, responsible for setting policy, adopting the county budget, and overseeing county services [7].

Stearns is a lifelong Buncombe County resident. She grew up in various parts of the county and became a mother at age 14. Determined to break the cycle of poverty, she worked full‑time while raising her two sons and attending school at night. She earned an associate degree from AB‑Tech, a bachelor’s degree from UNC‑Asheville, and a Juris Doctor from Campbell University School of Law [8].

Professionally, Stearns spent fifteen years as a paralegal before attending law school. While in law school she worked for Representative Brian Turner in the North Carolina General Assembly, gaining insight into the legislative process [8]. After graduating, she served as Chief of Staff and General Counsel to Chief Justice Cheri Beasley of the North Carolina Supreme Court, focusing on reforms related to mental health, addiction, and access to legal services in rural areas [8]. Upon returning to Buncombe County, she took over the small law firm where she first interned and also became a small‑business owner. In addition, she led the nonprofit foundation of the local Chamber of Commerce, helping small businesses navigate the complex grant and loan landscape after Hurricane Helene [8].

Following Hurricane Helene, Stearns turned her law office into a recovery hub, offering free legal clinics to storm survivors and assisting small businesses with red‑tape challenges. She also coordinated with the Chamber’s foundation to provide resources that kept local storefronts open and supported community rebuilding efforts [8]. These experiences shape her platform, which emphasizes sustained disaster recovery, resilient infrastructure, vibrant neighborhoods, and policies that promote equitable growth for all Buncombe County residents [7].

Stearns’ campaign highlights her personal journey from a single mother relying on Medicaid, food stamps, and rent assistance to a professional attorney and community leader. She argues that her lived experience gives her a unique perspective on the barriers faced by low‑income families and that she will be a strong advocate for policies that make it easier for residents to build stable, prosperous lives [8]. The campaign’s contact information invites supporters to become “Founding Donors” and to contribute via check to a PO Box in Black Mountain, NC, underscoring a grassroots fundraising approach [7].

Sources

• [7] Anna Stearns for Buncombe County Commission
• [8] About — Anna Stearns for Buncombe County Commission
• [9] Candidate Profiles – NC Voter Guide
• [10] Buncombe County attorney Anna Stearns has announced ...
• [12] Black Mountain attorney Anna Stearns announces bid for ...