Name: Deborah Ross
District/seat: Congressional District 2
Political party: Democrat
Age as of Nov. 5, 2024: 61
Campaign website: https://deborahross.com
Current occupation: Member of Congress
Professional experience: Lawyer, private practice; state director, American Civil Liberties Union, 1994-2002; member of the North Carolina House of Representatives, 2003-2013; member of Congress, 2021-present
Education: Brown University (B.A.), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (J.D.)
Please list notable government or civic involvement. I was a North Carolina representative from 2003-2013. I lost the 2016 U.S. Senate election and have served North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District since 2021. Former YMCA Lightner Y Achievers advisory member and Brown Alumni Association board member.
What would be your top priority if elected?
Wake County is one of the best areas in America to live, attracting individuals and businesses from throughout the nation and world. Though good, this growth has also led to increased rents and housing costs and a lack of contemporary infrastructure to fulfill our region’s demands. I’m committed to increasing federal funding for affordable housing and transportation in Wake County in Congress.
How would you describe the state of the economy and what would you do to improve it?
America has recovered from a deep recession under President Biden. Our economy is booming, salaries are rising, and inflation is improving. We must make higher education, including community college, more cheap and accessible to build on this progress. We must also lower housing and health care costs, especially in Wake County.
What should Congress do to ensure that it meets its deadline to fund the government?
As Congresspeople, our most important job is to make sure that the federal government stays open and can continue to help the people of the United States. As soon as possible, we should fulfill that duty by passing a bill that includes both parties to keep the government open.
Will you certify the results of the presidential election?
Yes
Is there an issue on which you disagree with your party? What is your position on that issue?
Some in my party disagree, but I think successful administration is about the art of the feasible and that compromise frequently works better than conflict. Democrats should always stick to their principles but be willing to compromise. Unlike certain Democrats, I believe in working with and listening to our local business community, especially small company owners who drive our economy.