Tom McInnis
The Big Issues
illegal drug Crisis
2nd Amendment Rights
Jobs and the Economy
Education
Voter Integrity
fentanyl and illegal drug Crisis
Make no mistake about it, drug addiction has reached epidemic levels in our state. My stepson, an amazingly talented young man, tragically lost his battle with addiction in 2007. His struggle began after he was unnecessarily prescribed a long-term opioid medication at the age of 15, following an ATV accident that resulted in a broken arm. No family is immune to this crisis.
Senator McInnis worked with fellow legislators to strengthen the penalty for Death by Distribution, ensuring that individuals who transfer illegal drugs resulting in a death can be held fully accountable. The General Assembly’s goal is clear: by increasing penalties for illegal drug sales and trafficking, we aim to deter these dangerous activities and better protect our citizens
Second Amendment Rights
As a hunter, recreational shooter, and proud American, our Second Amendment rights are deeply important to me. Our forefathers shed blood to secure our freedoms, especially the right to keep and bear arms. I am a Life Member of the NRA and served as a consultant in the development of “Friends of the NRA,” supporting shooting sports and promoting gun safety nationwide.
No one is more concerned about the safety of our citizens than I am. I have grandchildren in Richmond and Moore County schools, family and friends walking the streets of our towns and cities, and employees in the workplace. Their safety and the safety of all our citizens is personal to me. These are perilous times. Still, restricting lawful gun ownership is not the answer.
Jobs and the Economy
As an entrepreneur who built a nationally recognized business and created jobs in our community for years, Tom McInnis understands firsthand the challenges facing job creators. He believes the 21st District has been short-changed in economic development and is committed to cutting taxes on small businesses and working families while eliminating burdensome regulations that stifle innovation and job growth.
Throughout his tenure in the General Assembly, Senator McInnis has consistently demonstrated his dedication to strengthening the district and North Carolina’s economy by crafting and sponsoring legislation that supports businesses of all sizes.
Education
As a former member of the Richmond County Board of Education and the son and husband of teachers, Senator McInnis has been a steadfast advocate for quality education for many years. He has consistently fought for higher pay for teachers and school personnel and remains committed to continuing that fight. Specifically, he would like to:
Expand vocational and technical education opportunities through the high school/community college dual-enrollment program for eligible 9th–12th graders. This initiative gives students who do not plan to attend a four-year college the chance to earn meaningful certifications, registrations, or apprenticeships, enabling them to enter the workforce with strong, in-demand skills. In many cases, these credentials lead to careers that provide a living wage that is often higher than the starting salaries of many bachelor’s-degree holders.
Provide additional pathways for teacher licensure, recognizing that highly qualified educators are needed in every classroom and that this cannot always be achieved through a one-size-fits-all certification process. Expanded licensure options will help attract, train, and retain talented individuals who bring diverse skills and real-world experience to our schools.
Continue looking for ways to ensure our parents have the right to choose the best educational options for their children.
Voter integrity
Tom McInnis is committed to ending voter fraud and protecting the integrity of every election in North Carolina. Tom supports requiring all voters to show a valid photo ID at the polls - because fair elections are non-negotiable!
MONEY FOR OUR COMMUNITY
During his terms as State Senator, Tom has secured state appropriations for numerous worthwhile non-profits and governmental entities within the 21st District. A few of these include:
Needs associated with Moore and Cumberland counties and their municipalities
Changing Destinies
Life Care Pregnancy Center
The Arc of Moore County
Moore Free and Charitable Clinic
Cumberland County Fire Chief’s Association
Boys and Girls Club of the Sandhills
North Moore Family Resource Center
Methodist College, Fayetteville Tech, Fayetteville State
Habitat for Humanity
Moore County Airport Authority
Moore Buddies
Adult and Teen Challenge
Grant funding for Cape Fear Valley Medical College, Moore Innovative High School, Volunteer Fire Departments and EMS