News

GOP taps Moffitt to finish McGrady's term

Tim Moffitt

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 9, 2020

Republican leaders in Henderson County named Tim Moffitt to replace Rep. Chuck McGrady in the state House on Thursday night, giving the former legislator from Asheville the power of incumbency just four weeks before the Nov. 3 election.

A native of Henderson County and graduate of West Henderson High School, Moffitt served in the House for two terms representing Buncombe County. He now lives in the Bearwallow community of northern Henderson County. Moffitt praised McGrady's 10 years of service in the state House and pledged to maintain what he described as his exemplary constituent service.

"This is really completing Chuck’s very storied history in serving Henderson County in the General Assembly," he said. "It is an honor to finish out the last year of his term."

The committee empowered under state law to name the replacement — made up of elected officials and precinct chairs in House District 117 — voted unanimously to send Moffitt's name to Gov. Roy Cooper, who under state law must appoint Moffitt, party Chair Merry Guy said. No one else was nominated.

"Tim Moffitt got it and we’re all very very pleased," she said. "We have sent the official letter. We had to get that letter signed and finished."

"I don’t think it’s going to be a deciding factor," she said when asked whether incumbency could boost Moffitt's election bid. "It's nice to have that seat filled and not sit vacant."

Moffitt faces the Democratic nominee, Josh Remillard, in the election for the seat.