SENATOR APPLEWHITE
KNOWS WHAT THE ISSUES ARE
FOR NC SENATE 19
On the Front Lines Fighting for Public Education
Senator Applewhite’s children were educated in the North Carolina Public School System, she understands the value of public education. Her vision for education in North Carolina is one where every child has access to quality public education from their earliest years, where educators are valued and supported, and where schools are safe havens for learning and growth. Her dedication to these ideals shines through in her legislative and community work, making a real difference in the lives of students, teachers, and families in Senate District 19 and across the state.
A Champion for Women’s Reproductive Rights
As a steadfast advocate for women's reproductive rights, Senator Applewhite has consistently opposed legislation that restricts access to abortion and other vital health services.
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She believes in empowering women through supportive policies and access to comprehensive health care services. Her vision for North Carolina includes a future where every woman has the right to make decisions about her body without undue legislative interference.
Moving forward Applewhite remains committed to advocating for policies that respect women's choices and ensure their access to safe, legal, and affordable reproductive health services. She stands with the women of North Carolina, affirming her unwavering support in the ongoing battle.
Committed to Veterans and Their Families
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Senator Applewhite is uniquely positioned to lead the charge to honor the sacrifices of those that have served our country and their families. She retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of honorable service.
She is the only woman veteran and the only career veteran currently serving in the North Carolina Senate. Senator Applewhite aims to transform gratitude into impactful policies and programs, addressing the unique needs of veterans. Her time in the Senate has been marked by efforts to ensure veterans receive quality healthcare, including mental health support, and connecting veterans with meaningful employment, educational opportunities, and incentives to ensure North Carolina is truly the most veteran friendly state in the nation.
Unwavering Commitment to Healthcare Access
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The passage of HB 76, Access to Health Care Options is landmark legislation that has reshaped healthcare access for North Carolina. Senator Applewhite's collaborative efforts with Governor Roy Cooper and other legislators were key to overcoming longstanding resistance in the legislature. This teamwork and persistence were pivotal in the bill's successful enactment on December 1, 2023, a date that now stands as a testament to Senator Applewhite's enduring commitment to her constituents, especially the 40,000 individuals in Cumberland County who directly benefited from this legislation.
Interstate I-685
Senator Applewhite is deeply committed to the economic revitalization of Cumberland County through the strategic extension of Interstate 685. In pursuit of this transformative project, she has been actively collaborating with leaders from the business, economic development, local, state and federal government as well as the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
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Senator Applewhite’s advocacy for this project underscores her vision for a region that is not only accessible but also economically dynamic. The potential for I-685 to serve as a catalyst for economic growth could position Cumberland County as a leading destination for innovative businesses and quality employment opportunities.
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Under her leadership, the path to a more prosperous economic future is being paved, ensuring that the residents of Cumberland County will benefit from sustainable growth and enhanced opportunities for generations to come.
Voting Rights and Fair Representation
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As a resolute advocate for fair voting practices and equitable representation in the state legislature, Senator Applewhite was the primary sponsored Senate Bill 642, Independent Redistricting Committee. It embodies her dedication to transparency and impartiality in political representation, aiming to eliminate gerrymandering by removing the power of politicians to draw district lines.
Further cementing her role as a champion of voting rights,
Senator Applewhite was a plaintiff in the landmark case Covington v. North Carolina. This case, which ascended to the U.S. Supreme Court, exposed racial gerrymandering in legislative districts. Senator Applewhite's involvement in this case underlines her commitment to challenging unjust practices and advocating for electoral fairness.