Sen. Michael Lee, R-New Hanover, has been elected as the new Majority Leader of the North Carolina Senate following the departure of former Sen. Paul Newton. Lee has been in the state Senate since 2014 and is currently serving his fifth term while holding several leadership positions.
“It is an honor to have the support and trust of my colleagues,” Lee said in a press release. “Our caucus is filled with incredible individuals who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the General Assembly. I look forward to working with every caucus member to help accomplish their priorities and build on the last 14 years of successful policy achievements.”
Newton announced his retirement last Tuesday and served his last day in the North Carolina General Assembly on Wednesday. Reports indicate he’s taking a general counsel position at UNC-Chapel Hill.
Lee serves as a chairman of the Senate Appropriations/Base Budget and Education/Higher Education committees. He also serves on the Commerce and Insurance, Health Care, Judiciary, and Rules and Operations committees.
“Michael works day in and day out to do the best for his constituents,” said Senate Leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham. “He is someone every senator — Republican or Democrat — can turn to for advice and mentorship. I am thankful for his willingness to step forward to help lead our caucus.”
Last week, the New Hanover County Board of Education, where Lee resides, rejected over $3 million in funding from the General Assembly to pilot an artificial intelligence school security program. The General Assembly earmarked the pilot for New Hanover and Davidson Counties in a Hurricane Helene bill at the end of 2024, and Lee was reportedly an influential push in advancing the legislation.
New Hanover County is one the state’s most competitive political districts, often serving as a bellwether during election season. Lee, who’s managed repeated wins in the district, takes over this new leadership role as the Senate begins biennial budget negotiations.