Raleigh, N.C. —The NC Forward Party is proud of the victory of leaders who put People over Politics! Congratulations to Alvarys Santana (Concord City Council), Steve Morris (Concord Mayor), and JC Lyle (Wilmington City Council). 

In a year of record turnouts, the North Carolina Forward Party is proud to congratulate newly elected officials Steve Morris (Mayor of Concord), Alvarys Santana (Concord City Council), and JC Lyle (Wilmington City Council). Their successful campaigns demonstrated a shared commitment to putting the needs of their communities over partisan politics, embodying the core values of the Forward movement. Learn more about these inspiring leaders below. 

Alvarys Santana for City Council, Concord

Congratulations to Alvarys Santana on her election to the Concord City Council, District 4! Alvarys’s unique background as a small business owner and her experience in both politics and business set the stage for her successful campaign. Her election is a commitment to her key campaign goal: focusing on how to manage Concord's rapid growth responsibly, with an eye toward improving both the business landscape and critical infrastructure. Her smart campaigning and relationship building made inroads in a city council race considered unwinnable. Not only did Alvarys win, but she did so with a commanding lead. We look forward to her pragmatic approach to city development.

Steve Morris for Mayor, Concord

NC Forward is thrilled to celebrate the election of Steve Morris as Mayor of Concord! Joining Alvarys Santana in a major win for Cabarrus County, Steve’s victory is a clear mandate to continue his dedicated public service, building on his previous experience as a Cabarrus County Commissioner. Steve won a nailbiter three-way race that could have gone to either of his two opponents. His ability to earn respect across party lines and his commitment to working with all members of the community were key to this success. For a glimpse at how tight the race truly was, check the results below!

JC Lyle for City Council, Wilmington

The NC Forward Party proudly recognizes the victory of JC Lyle for Wilmington City Council! JC’s commitment to Wilmington and her proven track record as a pragmatic, solution-oriented leader resonated strongly with voters. With over 30 years of experience navigating government to serve citizens, including her background in public service in affordable housing, her election is a major win for the community. She will immediately begin work on her campaign goals, leveraging her expertise as a former CEO of a nonprofit home repair ministry and current affordable housing developer. Her ability to work across all political backgrounds to address community needs is exactly what Wilmington deserves. JC Lyle led the overall vote with candidate-elect Cassidy Santaguida and Chakema Clinton-Quintana. Results broken down below. 

Each candidate ran a campaign focused on pragmatic, community-first solutions for responsible growth, smart infrastructure improvements, and affordable housing. We are thrilled to see their dedication to common-sense leadership rewarded at the ballot box. A testament to the type of leader that puts people over politics.

The NC Forward Party also extends its deepest gratitude and best wishes to Nick Sliwinski and Michael Tann for their commendable efforts. Though the election results were not in their favor, their commitment to public service remains an inspiration, and we look forward to their future contributions to North Carolina.