Democratic Vice Chair Jonah Garson Selected to Fill Meyer’s State Senate Seat
Orange County commissioners will vote on appointing Democratic Party Vice Chair Jonah Garson to replace retiring Senator Graig Meyer in District 23.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — North Carolina Democratic Party Vice Chair Jonah Garson will fill the state Senate seat left vacant by retiring Sen. Graig Meyer, party officials announced Tuesday. The appointment requires approval from the Orange County Board of Commissioners.
Meyer, who has represented Senate District 23 since 2019, announced his retirement from the General Assembly effective January 1, 2025. The district covers portions of Orange County, including areas around Chapel Hill and Carrboro.
Selection Process and Timeline
The Orange County Democratic Party recommended Garson from a pool of candidates who applied to fill the vacant position. County commissioners will vote on the appointment during their next scheduled meeting.
“I am honored to be recommended by the Orange County Democratic Party to serve the people of Senate District 23,” Garson said in a statement. “Senator Meyer has been a tremendous advocate for our community, and I look forward to continuing that work.”
Garson’s Background and Experience
Garson currently serves as vice chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, a position he has held since 2021. He previously worked as a campaign manager and political strategist for various Democratic candidates across the state.
The Orange County resident has been active in local politics for several years, focusing on education policy and economic development issues. He holds a degree in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Meyer’s Legislative Legacy
Senator Meyer announced his retirement plans in November, citing a desire to spend more time with family and pursue other opportunities. During his tenure, he championed legislation related to education funding, environmental protection, and healthcare access.
“Serving in the state Senate has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Meyer said when announcing his retirement. “I have full confidence that whoever succeeds me will continue fighting for the values that matter most to our community.”
Meyer previously served in the state House of Representatives from 2013 to 2019 before winning his Senate seat. He worked as a professor at UNC-Chapel Hill before entering politics.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners is expected to vote on Garson’s appointment at their January 7 meeting. If approved, he will serve the remainder of Meyer’s term, which runs through 2026.
