News

Balkcom announces re-election campaign

Jennifer Balkcom

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 31, 2023

State Rep. Jennifer Balkcom on Tuesday announced her candidacy for re-election to the state Legislature representing North Carolina’s House District 117.

The freshman conservative Republican has quickly distinguished herself as a leader in Raleigh. She was the primary sponsor of House Bill 574, which protects opportunities for women and girls in sports. Her legislation garnered bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. She then successfully rallied colleagues to override its later veto by Gov. Roy Cooper, making HB 574 state law.
Rep. Balkcom also helped secure more than $37 million in state funding to benefit the citizens of Henderson County. Appropriations included $14.75 million for water and sewer infrastructure, $14 million for flood resilience and mitigation projects, $2.34 million to Blue Ridge Community College, $2 million to support agricultural services and $1 million for Henderson County’s Emergency Medical Services. Other county organizations that will receive substantial funds include various volunteer fire departments, the Sheriff’s Office, Fletcher Police Department, Angel’s Watch Foster Care Program and St. Gerard House, a non-profit that serves those touched by autism.
“I am honored to serve the wonderful people of Henderson County, very many of whom I grew up with and have known my entire life,” Balkcom said. “Together, we’ve achieved significant progress, but there is still much more work to be done. I am running for re-election to continue fighting for the values that make Henderson County the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Rep. Balkcom, her husband Clint, and their son Douglas live in the Naples area with their four dogs and several chickens. They attend Hendersonville First Baptist Church. To learn more about Balkcom or donate to her campaign visit www.votebalkcom.com.