Longtime Burlington Leader Stephen Ross Will Not Seek Reelection

Representative Stephen Ross told constituents on December 24 that he will not seek another term in the North Carolina House in 2026, concluding six terms as a state lawmaker. Ross served consecutive terms from 2013 to 2021 and won reelection in 2022. Before his tenure at the state level, he spent more than 20 years on Burlington city council and as mayor, a record of municipal service that anchored his reputation in Alamance County.

Ross framed the decision as consistent with an earlier intention to limit his public service, saying it is time to step away after completing his stated terms. The announcement removes a well known incumbent from the 2026 ballot and guarantees an open seat contest that will draw candidate interest from within and beyond the county. For voters, an open seat often means new issues will surface in primary debates and campaign messaging, and turnout dynamics can shift depending on the profile of those who run.

Institutionally, Ross leaves a gap in seniority and local advocacy at the state level. Long tenures provide lawmakers with committee assignments, relationships and informal influence that can be used to shepherd local projects and budget priorities. His departure will require community leaders and local governments to build new relationships with whatever lawmaker succeeds him, a process that can affect the timing and success of local initiatives.

The upcoming electoral cycle will test party organizations, civic groups and voters to identify candidates and clarify policy priorities for Alamance County. Open seat races typically increase the role of local endorsements, fundraising and voter outreach. Residents seeking to influence the outcome should track candidate filings and attend local forums where platforms and plans for county priorities will be debated.

Ross leaves a legacy of long service at both the municipal and state level. As the 2026 campaign season approaches, Alamance County faces a transition in representation that will shape how local needs are advocated in Raleigh and how civic engagement translates into policy outcomes.