On Tuesday, Fred Von Canon officially announced his candidacy for North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District. Von Canon will likely be one of several Republicans vying for the opportunity to run against incumbent Congressman Don Davis, a Democrat.
NC-1 is based in the northeastern part of the state and is composed of 19 North Carolina counties, including Edgecombe, Franklin, Nash, Pitt, and Wilson.
Von Canon lives just outside the district, but he says only by about 1,500 feet. He said that might change depending on how state lawmakers draw district lines this fall.
Von Canon announced his decision to run in front of a crowd of supporters that included family members, friends, activists, and donors. During his announcement, Von Canon shared details about his background, emphasizing his conservative political views and outlining his vision for the future, particularly underscoring the importance of electing capable leaders who can offer conservative solutions.
“We need serious individuals who can stand up for conservative principles and effectively serve their country and constituents,” Von Canon said.
Who is fred von canon?
Von Canon’s upbringing in rural Virginia was marked by limited resources and challenging circumstances. Following his service in the United States Navy for over eight years, he gained computer skills while working at Oracle. Von Canon subsequently established a successful software training business. Now seeking to represent North Carolina in Congress, Von Canon portrays himself as an embodiment of the American Dream.
Von Canon has experienced mixed results so far in his political career. While he has won two Republican primaries for the North Carolina House, Von Canon has lost both general election campaigns by less than 6 points. Both losses were to Rep. Terence Everitt, D-Wake.
The district Von Canon ran for was difficult to win as a Republican and has trended more and more Democratic for several election cycles.
“We need people willing to serve, not grifters and career politicians,” Von Canon said. “I’m offering the district a strong conservative vision. We have to get back to having our representatives serving instead of asking, ‘What can I get out of Washington?'”
Von Canon also said he would support an initiative to prevent direct individual trading of stocks.
“I’m not going to wind up as a swamp creature,” Von Canon said. “God has blessed me and my family with so much already. I don’t believe I have a lot of the incentives some of these other people have.”
Von Canon’s wife, Anita, is a former teacher who remains involved in education through tutoring services. The couple is involved in a number of marriage and pro-life ministries through their church and other local organizations.
“My top issues would probably be the economy, the border, and protecting our kids,” Von Canon said.
Von Canon and his wife attend Faith Baptist Church in Youngsville.
State of the race
The North Carolina General Assembly is set to redraw congressional districts later this year. These changes may affect the boundaries and number of the 1st Congressional District; however, the district is likely to be less affected by redistricting than other congressional districts across the state.
Von Canon declared his candidacy in spite of redistricting uncertainties. He hopes to be the Republican who would presumably face off against Congressman Davis in next year’s general election.
Political prognosticators expect a competitive Republican primary for the 1st Congressional District. The seat will be one of a handful of opportunities for a Republican to go to Washington D.C.
With Congresswoman Virgina Foxx, NC-5, declaring for re-election, and Republicans poised to draw new congressional maps, there will likely be between three and five new opportunities for a Republican to win a congressional district.
One of those opportunities will depend on whether Congressman Dan Bishop, NC-8, decides to run for attorney general.
Sandy Smith, who won the district’s Republican primary in 2022, is anticipated to seek the nomination again after losing to Don Davis in the general election last year. Smith narrowly defeated Rocky Mount Mayor Sandy Roberson in a crowded eight-person race, obtaining about 31% of the vote.
According to sources, Roberson is also strongly considering another run.
Christine Villaverde, who lost by about 29% to Deborah Ross in North Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District last year, has also said she is running for the nomination.