Joe John's Top Priorities
Education
A strong educational system, from the beginning years to the community college and university levels, is absolutely essential, not only to allow our children to develop their natural abilities to the fullest, but to promote and support a robust economic and business climate in North Carolina.
Studies continue to indicate that the emerging job market in our state will require post high school training and skills. As the proud father of three children educated in North Carolina schools and, more importantly for the years to come, a doting grandfather of seven children at various stages of the education process, I believe in maintaining a high quality and connected educational environment so that all North Carolina’s children may be prepared for the jobs of the future.
Independent Redistricting
I believe it is time for a fresh approach to the drawing of legislative districts, both federal and state--a common sense approach that puts aside divisive finger-pointing and name-calling, and which is dedicated to create a process which results in responsible governing which meets the needs of all North Carolina families.
I strongly support elimination of the current methodology whereby legislators select their voters who then have little actual voice in the selection of their representatives. Therefore, I believe we must establish a truly independent, non-partisan redistricting commission to configure legislative districts.
Courts
Swift justice in the criminal courts and the prompt resolution of litigation in the civil courts, where business disputes, domestic cases and other lawsuits are decided, have become seriously jeopardized.
It is time to recognize the judicial branch of our state government as a co-equal partner with the legislative and executive branches.
To ensure complete judicial independence and impartiality, we must return to non-partisan election of judges.