MOUNT AIRY, N.C. — A seasoned member of the Republican Party in North Carolina declared her intention to run for a position on the state Supreme Court in the upcoming election. This announcement was made by Representative Sarah Stevens, who aims to secure the seat currently occupied by Associate Justice Anita Earls, a Democrat who is also gearing up for reelection.
Representative Stevens, a legislator from Surry County, expressed her commitment to being a “conservative voice for justice and families” in her campaign. At the age of 65, Stevens has been a part of the state House since 2009, gaining prominence particularly in matters related to the judiciary. Her roles include serving as the chairwoman of both judiciary and election law committees, alongside her past position as House speaker pro tempore, identifying her as one of the leading figures in the chamber.
In her statement, Stevens emphasized her dual experience as a family law attorney and state legislator, asserting that it has equipped her with the capability to advocate for those who are unable to do so themselves. Her candidature sets the stage for a contest against Justice Earls, who initially took office by defeating a Republican incumbent in 2018 for an eight-year term.
The sole Supreme Court seat available in the next year’s election is the one currently held by Earls, and the official process for candidate filing will commence this December for the elections set for November 2026. Primary elections are anticipated for March, enabling candidates to demonstrate their support within their respective parties.
The North Carolina Supreme Court has been dominated by Republican justices since early 2023. Despite this, Justice Anita Earls remains one of only two Democrats on the bench. The court’s political dynamics are further accentuated by ongoing legal disputes involving Associate Justice Allison Riggs and her Republican opponent Jefferson Griffin, stemming from their unresolved 2024 election.
In early 2024, Stevens made public her battle with breast cancer; however, she has since completed her treatment. Her decision to run for the Supreme Court will subsequently lead to the opening of her 90th House District seat in the 2026 elections, marking a significant shift in her political career’s trajectory.