RALEIGH, N.C. — The Republican members of the North Carolina Senate have appointed a new leader for their majority ranks. Veteran lawmaker Sen. Michael Lee from New Hanover County has been chosen for the pivotal role, marking a significant step in his political journey. This announcement comes from the GOP caucus, as detailed in a press statement shared on Tuesday.
Sen. Lee steps into the shoes of former Majority Leader Sen. Paul Newton, who recently stepped down following his new appointment as general counsel at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Expressing his gratitude, Lee stated, “It is an honor to have the support and trust of my colleagues.”
Within the Senate hierarchy, the majority leader stands as a crucial ally to the chamber’s leading figure, Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger. The role includes overseeing caucus meetings and guiding discussions on legislative matters. Following the appointment of a successor for Newton, the Republican presence will continue to dominate with 30 out of 50 Senate seats.
“Michael is dedicated to serving his constituents diligently,” remarked Berger. “He serves as a mentor and advisor to senators across party lines.”
Lee, an established attorney, first entered the Senate in 2014 by fulfilling a vacancy. Although he faced defeat in 2018 to former Wilmington Mayor Harper Peterson, he managed a comeback by narrowly defeating Peterson in the next election cycle. As of 2023, Lee functions prominently as a top budget committee chairman, a role he will maintain alongside his new leadership position.
Throughout his tenure, Lee has championed significant educational legislation, notably advocating for public funds to assist K-12 students attending private schools. Additionally, he spearheaded legislation this year aimed at curbing certain diversity and inclusion practices within the state’s public education system. Known occasionally for his moderate stance within the Republican Party, Lee notably opposed a first-trimester abortion ban during legislative discussions on the topic. Ultimately, new laws enacted in 2023 imposed a 12-week limit on most abortions.