Moss announces plan to run for Labor Commissioner | Eastern NC Now

    Publisher's Note: This post appears here courtesy of the Carolina Journal. The author of this post is CJ Staff.

    N.C. Rep. Ben Moss, R-Moore, announced on Tuesday that he intends to run for North Carolina Commissioner of Labor in 2024. The announcement comes after current Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson announced at the December Council of State meeting that he will not seek re-election.

    "As a business owner, rail worker, county commissioner, and currently as a state legislator, I've spent my life fighting to advance North Carolina's workforce," said Moss in a press release distributed Tuesday. "After fervent prayer and deliberation with my family, I'm humbled to announce our campaign to continue serving the public as our next Labor Commissioner. Josh Dobson has served our state well, and I look forward to building on his efforts as we work to make North Carolina the best place to live, work, and raise a family."

    Moss won re-election to the N.C. House in November after being double-bunked with, and defeating, long-time Republican Representative Jamie Boles in the May 17 primary.

    "As a result of our business-friendly tax environment and beautiful landscape, North Carolina is a rapidly-growing state," said Moss. "Employers are in demand of a ready-workforce, and workers are in need of more opportunities for education and training to fill these high-paying jobs."

    Tuesday's announcement is the first of what is expected to be many primary candidates for Labor commissioner.

    In November 2024, all 10 statewide Council of State seats will be on the ballot. The seats are four-year terms and elected on the presidential and gubernatorial election cycle.

    Like Labor commissioner, there may be some open seats without an incumbent, depending on whether Treasurer Dale Folwell, Attorney General Josh Stein, or others decide to run for N.C. governor. Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson has also indicated his interest in running for governor. Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt and State Auditor Beth Wood have both told Carolina Journal that they intended to run for their seats again in 2024.

    The 2024 primary is scheduled for March 5, and the general election will be held on Nov. 5, 2024.