Incumbent Lee faces challenge from Democrat Barnhill in 9th District Senate race

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Incumbent Republican Sen. Michael Lee and Democratic challenger Andrew Barnhill are going head-to-head for Lee’s District 9 seat in this year’s election.

Barnhill says he wants to replace the current senator and give New Hanover County the attention it deserves. Meanwhile, Sen. Lee says his opponent does not have enough experience for the seat.

WWAY asked the two candidates what they thought the major issues are the county. They both agreed more jobs need to be generated in the area.

“Bringing jobs back to the district, and we saw the loss of the film incentive at the end of 2014,” Barnhill said. “And that’s been a significant concern because of the number of people that that impacts. Not just those that work in the film community but also their families.”

“I think really jobs and education really are on the forefront,” Sen. Lee said, “not just for New Hanover County but for the rest of the state.”

Both candidates have different agendas if elected. Barnhill says repealing House Bill 2 is high on his list, and Lee says he would continue his efforts for better education in the county.