RALEIGH — North Carolina Rep. John Faircloth (R-Guilford) submitted his resignation from the House of Representatives, effective Sept. 6.
Faircloth becomes the third Republican legislator to resign in recent months, following Sen. Jim Perry (R-Lenoir) and Rep. Jason Saine (R-Lincoln).
“I am eternally grateful to my family, friends, constituents, colleagues, and legislative staff for supporting me throughout my time in public office,” the 85-year-old Faircloth wrote in his resignation letter. “It has been my life’s work to serve the community and the people that I love.”
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Guilford County for 7 terms,” Faircloth added. “I am proud of the work that we have been able to accomplish for the betterment of the lives of all North Carolinians.”
House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain) praised Faircloth’s dedication to the state and his constituents.
“His dedication to our state and unwavering commitment to his constituents in Guilford County have set a high standard for public service,” said Moore. “He has fought to protect and improve a free-market economy from excessive government control and public safety and education in North Carolina.
“While we will deeply miss his wisdom and experience in the legislature, I wish him all the best in this well-deserved retirement. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of leaders.”
House Rules Chairman Destin Hall (R-Caldwell) commended Faircloth’s “prestigious record of public service,” describing him as a “pillar of strength and integrity” in the legislature. He also congratulated Faircloth on his retirement, saying that it “marks the end of an era,” and his contributions “will be felt for years to come.”
A native of Greensboro, Faircloth’s public service began in law enforcement followed by a stint on the High Point City Council before serving seven consecutive terms in the North Carolina House of Representatives.
First elected to the House in 2010, Faircloth represented House District 61 from 2011 to 2019. Following redistricting in 2018, his district became District 62, though it remained largely unchanged. The Guilford lawmaker ran unopposed in 2016. In all of his other reelection cycles, Faircloth defeated his Democratic challengers.
Faircloth served as the House Appropriations Chair from 2017-24, playing a crucial role in shaping the state’s budget. His committee work extended to the judiciary, local government, transportation and elections.
On the ballot this fall for Faircloth’s seat are Republican John Blust and Democrat Majorie Benbow. Blust previously served in both chambers of the General Assembly, including District 62.
