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Jerry R. Tillett

Hello Fellow Conservatives

Thank you for your willingness to be involved in the necessary but difficult and sometimes tenebrous work of governance and service to our community.

I seek your vote as your next Senator for District 1. I am a Christian, conservative, proud American, father, grandfather, husband, businessman, and public servant.

My parents instilled in me a decent respect for America and all of its finest institutions including: a divinely inspired system of government, adherence to rule of law, personal accountability, fiscal responsibility, FREE ENTERPRISE, religious freedom, defense of and adherence to our Constitutions, US and State, as well as the importance of family.

It has been an honor to serve our State and district as Senior Resident Superior Court Judge, serving as Judge for over 30 years, having held court in 86 of our 100 counties.

Previously, I worked with the Legislature at the highest levels, chaired local projects and legislative endeavors, as well as district and statewide innovations.

I would appreciate your support.

Sincerely,
Jerry R. Tillett

North Carolina’s Issues

As a Christian, Conservative, Public Servant and Businessman, Jerry Tillett believes in God, Family, Country and Community. Here are his top priorities as your next State Senator.

Law & Order

Law and Order form the bedrock of civil society, enabling the protection of rights, the resolution of conflicts, and the promotion of public welfare.

Free Enterprise

An economic system where individuals and businesses operate for profit with minimal interference from the government.

Economic Prosperity

The state of wealth in our district measured by growth, jobs, innovation, and stability.

Quality of life for Residents

The quality of life for residents includes wealth, employment, opportunity, health, education, safety, and independence.

Open Debate With Respect

Respect and civility are crucial for constructive discussions to promote the free exchange of ideas. Greater insight may be gained by entertaining diverse viewpoints.

Press Releases

Latest Press Releases from Tillett for Senate

Statement from Tillett for Senate Campaign’s Legal Team

December 23, 2025
Retired Judge Jerry R. Tillett Files Paperwork to Run for North Carolina Senate, 1st District.

Manteo, N.C. — Retired Superior Court Judge Jerry R. Tillett officially filed paperwork today to run for the North Carolina Senate, 1st District, entering the 2026 race with a pledge to restore accountability, strengthen coastal communities, and put working people—not political insiders—at the center of state decision-making. Tillett, whose judicial career spanned decades across northeastern…

December 1, 2025
Jerry Tillett Greets Community at Wanchese Christmas Parade

Retired Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Jerry R. Tillett joined the community for the 10th Annual Wanchese Christmas Parade, celebrating a decade of tradition, fellowship, and coastal pride. Families, local churches, first responders, and fishermen lined the route as colorful floats and classic boats rolled through the village, honoring the heritage and faith that define…

November 29, 2025
Judge Jerry R. Tillett Visits Annual Camden–Elizabeth City Shrine Club Gun Show, Affirms Strong Support for the Second Amendment

Camden, N.C. — November 15, 2025 — Retired Superior Court Judge Jerry R. Tillett, now a candidate for the North Carolina Senate, District 1, demonstrated his long-standing support for the Second Amendment on Saturday during a campaign stop at the annual Camden–Elizabeth City Shrine Club Gun Show, held at 172 Chantilly Road in Camden. The event—now a cherished regional tradition—has…

November 25, 2025
Packed Crowd Fills Historic Burrus House to Support Jerry Tillett’s Campaign for NC Senate District 1

Manteo, NC — On a warm late-Fall Thursday evening, with a soft breeze rolling off Shallowbag Bay, supporters flooded the historic venue for Jerry Tillett’s campaign fundraiser for North Carolina Senate District 1. The crowd grew so large that organizers opened the second floor, yet even then, dozens stood outside in the parking lot—determined to hear…

November 22, 2025
VFW Post 6060 Honors Local Heroes in Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

Elizabeth City, NC — VFW Post 6060 held its annual Veterans Day ceremony this weekend in Elizabeth City, honoring the service and sacrifice of local veterans across all branches of the United States Armed Forces. Retired U.S. Army NCO Dan Serik served as master of ceremonies, welcoming a large crowd of community members, veterans, and dignitaries who…

November 11, 2025
A Faith-Rooted, Economic Driven Team For North Carolina’s Coastal Region

Hertford, NC — On the crisp evening of November 5, 2025, under the golden glow of autumn in the Albemarle Plantation, retired Judge Jerry R. Tillett (candidate for NC Senate District 1) and County Commissioner John C. Spruill (candidate for NC House District 1) unveiled a bold, shared economic vision for the region they both…

November 6, 2025
Standing-Room-Only Crowd Greets Jerry R. Tillett’s Announcement for NC Senate District 1

Elizabeth City, NC — A standing-room-only crowd gathered this week at a lively event hosted by the Pasquotank County Republican Party, where Jerry R. Tillett, retired Chief Superior Court Judge for North Carolina’s First Judicial District, officially announced his candidacy for the North Carolina Senate District 1. The district includes Dare, Currituck, Camden, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Gates,…

November 5, 2025

Tillett For Senate Endorsements

Jerry Tillett is honored to have the support of so many people. Here are some of the elected officials who have openly offered their endorsements.

“What we need in Raleigh is someone with a spine when things like shrimp gate come into play. Mr. Tillett Sir, I wholeheartedly endorse your campaign for North Carolina Senate.”

Representative Keith Kidwell

NC House – Distirct 79

“Honored to endorse Judge Jerry Tillett for NC Senate 1 in the March 3rd, 2026 Primary Election!”

Commissioner Carson Creef

Dare County

“I am pleased to share that after a long and distingished career Jerry Tillet intends to continue serving the people. Having served as counsel to the President Pro Tempore of the North Carolina State Senate prior to his career on the Superior Court Bench, Judge Tillett is uniquely qualified to represent our communities in the State Legislature.”

Attorney Dan L Merrell

Dare County

Voter Information

Election Questions & Answers

What Counties are In the First Senatorial District?

Dare, Currituck, Camden, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Gates, Hertford. Northampton, Bertie, and Tyrrell counties.

When is the election?

The 2026 primary election is Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
Polling places will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Any voter in line at their assigned polling place at 7:30 p.m. will be able to vote.

Where do I find My Polling Location and Sample Ballot?

Registered voters can find their polling place and sample ballot here: Voter Se arch.

Do I need to Show ID to Vote

North Carolina voters will be asked to show photo ID when they check in to vote. Learn more: Voter ID.