RALEIGH — In a press release on Tuesday, it was announced that Senate Majority Leader Paul Newton (R-Cabarrus) would be retiring as of 7 p.m. on March 26.
“It has been an honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Cabarrus County for nearly a decade,” Newton said in the press release. “During that time, I’ve been able to play a small role in so many consequential pieces of legislation that have made an incredible impact on the lives of North Carolinians — from significantly reducing the tax burden for all families and supporting businesses of all sizes, to expanding educational opportunities.”
“I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for the relationships that we’ve built over the years,” Newton said. “I’m especially grateful to the Republican Caucus for electing me to majority leader. Your trust has meant the world to me.”
Newton was first elected to the Senate in 2016 and had been a key figure in tax reforms passed by the General Assembly, as well fas legislation on election integrity and redistricting.
“Paul has been a valued voice and leader in the Republican Caucus and the Senate for years,” Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) said. “He’s provided a calm presence and wise counsel to many legislators during his time in Raleigh. He was always willing to tackle the tough subjects and never wavered from his convictions. I’m thankful that he stepped up last biennium to help lead our caucus, and I look forward to seeing what he will accomplish outside of the General Assembly.”
Per Berger’s press release, the Newton was described as leaving to “pursue an opportunity outside of state government.”
Newton has since been named vice chancellor and general counsel for UNC Chapel Hill, according to a news release on the school’s website. He will start that role on April 21.
“This University holds a special place in my heart. As a double Tar Heel and father of four Carolina graduates, I couldn’t be more thrilled to be the next vice chancellor and general counsel,” Newton said in the UNC Chapel Hill release. “Those of us who love this intuition know and appreciate its mission and founding principles. This is an institution that was born out of a bold vision to educate and serve the people of North Carolina, and that’s something we must never lose sight of.”
“I look forward to playing a role in furthering those goals and working alongside Chancellor Roberts and his team to ensure the University can remain successful for generations to come,” said Newton.
This article has been updated to reflect Newton’s new role at UNC Chapel Hill.
