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The following is information from one of three Republican candidates for Davie District Court Judge seat. Voters will select one; early voting started April 28 and the primary will be on May 17.

The Candidate

Name

Jon William Welborn

Age

41

Address

Princeton Court, Advance

Education

East Wilkes High School, graduated 1998; Appalachian State University, bachelor’s degree in criminal Justice, graduated 2002; Intern, Watauga County District Attorney office; Appalachian School of Law (Grundy, Va,), graduated juris doctor 2005; Intern Iredell County District Attorney office

Occupation

Owner and Attorney, Welborn Law, Mocksville. 17 years substantial trial experience; civil, criminal, and felony Superior and District court. Practice areas focus on criminal and family law. Licensed to practice law in all N.C. state courts, Western District of the U.S.Federal Court

In The Community

• Davie GOP Chair 2017-2021

• GOP District Vice Chair 2017-2021

• Active member of Hillsdale United Methodist Church; Spiritual Leadership Team; Children’s Ministries

• Master Mason; Board of Directors, Masonic Home for Children, Oxford

• Family Promise of Davie County

• Farmington Community Center

• Member, Davie County Chamber of Commerce

• Member, National Rifle Association

• Little League Softball coach 2016-2021

1) Why did you decide to seek public office? 250 words max

I am a Christian, father, husband, and patriot. My wife and I have been married for 14 years, and we have two daughters, ages 12 and 8. I have a personal investment in keeping our communities safe and supporting the families that live here. My Christian faith calls me to serve my community and be an encouragement to others.

I firmly believe that a person should seek public office, to give to the community, not to receive.  Stewardship and service are central to the role of the Judge. I see a great opportunity to effect positive change in our communities through support and mentorship for our struggling youth.  I will serve the residents of North Carolina by administering justice without favoritism to anyone or the State. My faith and family raising compel me to examine every situation through a lens of humility and a desire to leave things better than I found them.

If elected, I will be accessible to attorneys, law enforcement, and the general community. I welcome emails and phone calls of support or concern. Hearing FROM the community, ABOUT the community, is central to serving in a public office FOR the community.  I can guarantee that if my signature is needed for the protection or welfare of a citizen/community, I will answer the phone, any time of the day or night.

2) What is your work/life experience to qualifies you to be a judge? 500 words max

There is no incumbent in this race; therefore none of the candidates have judicial experience. However, I am the most experienced and most endorsed candidate by far. I have 17 years of legal experience in all matters arising in District Court. I know what it is like to juggle multiple courts, in multiple counties; all while managing a small business and being a husband and a dad. I have appeared in the District Court of nearly 30 counties so I have seen firsthand the difference between a good and bad Judge. I believe good character, steadfast demeanor, strong work ethic, and diverse legal experience serve as critical metrics to measure the qualifications of a judicial candidate. I have been a little league coach and chairman over a variety of church, community, and charitable organizations over the years. I have experience being a leader within the community. You can be assured no one will outwork me and I will make bold decisions if required, to uphold our Constitution, our rights, and protect our communities.

I was blessed with a great family that raised me right. I grew up 30 minutes from Mocksville, understanding what it means to put God, Country, and family first. My father passed when I was 18, and I chose to attend a local community college so that I could stay close to home and help my grandfather work his land. My family needed me, and I knew what was required. I continued to work toward entry into law school and was successful as a transfer student at Appalachian State. I share that story with young people as a reminder that there are multiple paths to a successful career, and how community college is a viable choice for young adults who have multiple responsibilities. Mentorship to youth in the courtroom is a critical role of a District Court judge.

Judges require logic and common sense. I believe the Judge must be able to accurately apply the law, while simultaneously applying a sense of logic and common sense to make decisions. Although there are guidelines that Judges must work within, there is also an aspect of autonomy that allows the Judge to consider case specifics. Even if a Judge is correct in their interpretation of the law, the results can be devastating if they lack a sense of logic and common sense. The protection of citizens’ rights and the welfare of our communities depend on a Judge’s willingness to consider the unique circumstances of every case, and the gravity of each decision. If elected, logic and common sense will be part of every judgment.

Additionally, an effective judge needs comprehensive legal experience. My legal background encompasses both prosecutorial and defense experience. I enjoy being in trial and don’t shy away from being in court. For the last 8 years, I have been blessed with the ability to focus my practice and caseload to better serve my clients and spend more time in trials. By far, I have the most legal experience of any candidate running for this seat.

A friend once described me as being “just like y’all but knows the law”. I am proud of that description. I feel it is accurate. I know the importance of a solid work ethic and commitment to one’s community. I believe that a good judge has a combination of legal experience, morals and ethics, and logic and common sense. I am the candidate that possesses all those traits.

3) Does it matter if District Court judges are Democrat or Republican, liberal or conservative? 500 words

I am unashamedly a Christian, Constitutionally Conservative Republican. It is always important to have a good understanding of the person for whom you vote. Understanding their perspective and beliefs is necessary to measure how they may or may not represent the community they serve. Awareness of a candidate’s associated political party is one way to understand a candidate and analyze if their major ideals line up with yours. The general duties and responsibilities of a District Court Judge are to apply and enforce the law, not interpret Law therefore the political affiliation at this level of Judge may not be as critical as it would be in appellate courts.

Judges must be impartial, here’s where an understanding of the candidate’s character is most important. Even if I disagreed with an individual’s beliefs, I would apply the law fairly and impartially to all that entered the Courtroom. I adhere to the principles of strict Constitutional Conservatism, whereas the Constitution’s meaning endures through time. As a Judge, it will not be my job to create law, but rather to apply the law fairly and correctly. Knowing my Christian values, one may be able to relate this concept to Biblical principles. Specifically, fair and correct interpretation of the law is a Biblical principle. Neither the Constitution nor the Bible may be what you WANT it to say, or what you think it SHOULD say, but what specifically DOES it say? Judges who serve their communities in this way can simultaneously remain impartial to individuals in the courtroom while remaining true to their convictions.

Many in our community have seen the role District Court Judges can play in their lives firsthand through family or friends in criminal & traffic matters; civil cases such as domestic violence, divorce & child custody; or maybe even juvenile cases such as delinquency, neglect or adoption. Those people know how important it is to have a judge that understands the community and the judge’s role in the courtroom.

However, more recently we’ve seen how important it is to our state and republic for judges to do their job, and not the job of our legislators and lawmakers. Some judges have taken it upon themselves to interject their political beliefs to push against the will of the people. For example, judges ruled against NC voters when voters spoke loudly that they wanted Voter ID. We’ve seen federal judges push against border policies set by lawmakers. This is what happens when judges legislate from the bench. It is my belief, that in some instances, the association with a specific political party may be a key indicator of how a judge views their role in the courtroom. Voters who want their vote protected from an activist should vote for a genuine Republican. You have my word that I will stay in my lane and not legislate from the bench.

4) Other, platform, about self, etc. 750 words max

I have been blessed in many ways throughout this campaign. I want to thank each and every person that has contributed, volunteered, or simply just engaged in my social media posts. I have received some unbelievable endorsements for my campaign from a variety of elected officials and leaders such as NC Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, NC Supreme Court Justice Phil Berger Jr., and NC Superior Court Judge Lori Hamilton. You may see other endorsements and learn more about me at JonWelborn.com.

With my remaining allotted space, I want to do what I’ve done as the GOP chair from 2017 to 2021. I want to tell you about other candidates that need your support and vote. I feel strongly that conservatives must work together and inform our communities of the best and most authentic conservative candidates if we are to make a difference in NC.

First, Trey Allen for NC Supreme Court. He is a former US Marine and current General Counsel for the NC Administrative Office of the Courts. In that capacity, he is a trusted advisor to NC Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul Newby and provides legal guidance on a broad range of subjects to court officials across the state. A vote for Trey Allen is the only way to keep our conservative majority on the Court of Appeals.

Second, Judge Michael Stading for the Court of Appeals. Judge Stading is a current District Court judge in Mecklenburg County and serves as a Captain in the US Air Force. He has a proven track record to defend law and order and uphold the Constitution.

I know both of these gentlemen personally and professionally. They are two of the most intelligent and hardworking candidates I have ever met. They will uphold our Constitution, ensure equal justice for all, and defend Law and Order in our higher Courts. I encourage everyone to learn more at TreyAllenNC.com and MichaelStading.com

Why did you decide to seek public office?

Welborn: I am a Christian, father, husband, and patriot. My wife and I have been married for 14 years, and we have two daughters, ages 12 and 8. I have a personal investment in keeping our communities safe and supporting the families that live here. My Christian faith calls me to serve my community and be an encouragement to others.

I firmly believe that a person should seek public office, to give to the community, not to receive.  Stewardship and service are central to the role of the Judge. I see a great opportunity to effect positive change in our communities through support and mentorship for our struggling youth.  I will serve the residents of North Carolina by administering justice without favoritism to anyone or the State. My faith and family raising compel me to examine every situation through a lens of humility and a desire to leave things better than I found them.

If elected, I will be accessible to attorneys, law enforcement, and the general community. I welcome emails and phone calls of support or concern. Hearing from the community, about the community, is central to serving in a public office for the community. I can guarantee that if my signature is needed for the protection or welfare of a citizen/community, I will answer the phone, any time of the day or night.

What is your work/life experience to qualifies you to be a judge?

Welborn: There is no incumbent in this race; therefore none of the candidates have judicial experience.However, I am the most experienced and most endorsed candidate by far. I have 17 years of legal experience in all matters arising in District Court. I know what it is like to juggle multiple courts, in multiple counties; all while managing a small business and being a husband and a dad. I have appeared in the District Court of nearly 30 counties so I have seen firsthand the difference between a good and bad Judge. I believe good character, steadfast demeanor, strong work ethic, and diverse legal experience serve as critical metrics to measure the qualifications of a judicial candidate. I have been a little league coach and chairman over a variety of church, community, and charitable organizations over the years. I have experience being a leader within the community. You can be assured no one will outwork me and I will make bold decisions if required, to uphold our Constitution, our rights, and protect our communities.

I was blessed with a great family that raised me right. I grew up 30 minutes from Mocksville, understanding what it means to put God, Country, and family first. My father passed when I was 18, and I chose to attend a local community college so that I could stay close to home and help my grandfather work his land. My family needed me, and I knew what was required. I continued to work toward entry into law school and was successful as a transfer student at Appalachian State. I share that story with young people as a reminder that there are multiple paths to a successful career, and how community college is a viable choice for young adults who have multiple responsibilities. Mentorship to youth in the courtroom is a critical role of a District Court judge.

Judges require logic and common sense. I believe the Judge must be able to accurately apply the law, while simultaneously applying a sense of logic and common sense to make decisions. Although there are guidelines that Judges must work within, there is also an aspect of autonomy that allows the Judge to consider case specifics. Even if a Judge is correct in their interpretation of the law, the results can be devastating if they lack a sense of logic and common sense. The protection of citizens’ rights and the welfare of our communities depend on a Judge’s willingness to consider the unique circumstances of every case, and the gravity of each decision. If elected, logic and common sense will be part of every judgment.

Additionally, an effective judge needs comprehensive legal experience. My legal background encompasses both prosecutorial and defense experience. I enjoy being in trial and don’t shy away from being in court. For the last 8 years, I have been blessed with the ability to focus my practice and caseload to better serve my clients and spend more time in trials. By far, I have the most legal experience of any candidate running for this seat.

A friend once described me as being “just like y’all but knows the law”. I am proud of that description. I feel it is accurate. I know the importance of a solid work ethic and commitment to one’s community. I believe that a good judge has a combination of legal experience, morals and ethics, and logic and common sense. I am the candidate that possesses all those traits.

Does it matter if District Court judges are Democrat or Republican, liberal or conservative?

Welborn: I am unashamedly a Christian, Constitutionally Conservative Republican. It is always important to have a good understanding of the person for whom you vote. Understanding their perspective and beliefs is necessary to measure how they may or may not represent the community they serve. Awareness of a candidate’s associated political party is one way to understand a candidate and analyze if their major ideals line up with yours.

The general duties and responsibilities of a District Court Judge are to apply and enforce the law, not interpret Law therefore the political affiliation at this level of Judge may not be as critical as it would be in appellate courts.

Judges must be impartial, here’s where an understanding of the candidate’s character is most important. Even if I disagreed with an individual’s beliefs, I would apply the law fairly and impartially to all that entered the Courtroom. I adhere to the principles of strict Constitutional Conservatism, whereas the Constitution’s meaning endures through time. As a Judge, it will not be my job to create law, but rather to apply the law fairly and correctly. Knowing my Christian values, one may be able to relate this concept to Biblical principles. Specifically, fair and correct interpretation of the law is a Biblical principle. Neither the Constitution nor the Bible may be what you want it to say, or what you think it should say, but what specifically does it say? Judges who serve their communities in this way can simultaneously remain impartial to individuals in the courtroom while remaining true to their convictions.

Many in our community have seen the role District Court Judges can play in their lives firsthand through family or friends in criminal & traffic matters; civil cases such as domestic violence, divorce & child custody; or maybe even juvenile cases such as delinquency, neglect or adoption. Those people know how important it is to have a judge that understands the community and the judge’s role in the courtroom.

However, more recently we’ve seen how important it is to our state and republic for judges to do their job, and not the job of our legislators and lawmakers. Some judges have taken it upon themselves to interject their political beliefs to push against the will of the people. For example, judges ruled against NC voters when voters spoke loudly that they wanted Voter ID. We’ve seen federal judges push against border policies set by lawmakers. This is what happens when judges legislate from the bench. It is my belief, that in some instances, the association with a specific political party may be a key indicator of how a judge views their role in the courtroom. Voters who want their vote protected from an activist should vote for a genuine Republican. You have my word that I will stay in my lane and not legislate from the bench.

Other Issues

Welborn: I have been blessed in many ways throughout this campaign. I want to thank each and every person that has contributed, volunteered, or simply just engaged in my social media posts. I have received some unbelievable endorsements for my campaign from a variety of elected officials and leaders such as NC Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, NC Supreme Court Justice Phil Berger Jr., and NC Superior Court Judge Lori Hamilton. You may see other endorsements and learn more about me at JonWelborn.com.

With my remaining allotted space, I want to do what I’ve done as the GOP chair from 2017 to 2021. I want to tell you about other candidates that need your support and vote. I feel strongly that conservatives must work together and inform our communities of the best and most authentic conservative candidates if we are to make a difference in NC.

First, Trey Allen for NC Supreme Court. He is a former US Marine and current General Counsel for the NC Administrative Office of the Courts. In that capacity, he is a trusted advisor to NC Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul Newby and provides legal guidance on a broad range of subjects to court officials across the state. A vote for Trey Allen is the only way to keep our conservative majority on the Court of Appeals.

Second, Judge Michael Stading for the Court of Appeals. Judge Stading is a current District Court judge in Mecklenburg County and serves as a Captain in the US Air Force. He has a proven track record to defend law and order and uphold the Constitution.

I know both of these gentlemen personally and professionally. They are two of the most intelligent and hardworking candidates I have ever met. They will uphold our Constitution, ensure equal justice for all, and defend Law and Order in our higher Courts. I encourage everyone to learn more at TreyAllenNC.com and MichaelStading.com.