Berger/Page primary will impact Burke County

One of the most closely contested North Carolina contests in the March 3 primaries was the battle between incumbent Sen. Phil Berger and Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page.

As I write this, Page is ahead of Berger by fewer than 30 votes.

As North Carolinians prepared for the Berger/Page primary, counties across the state faced important questions about their future.

This contest, which has drawn attention throughout North Carolina, was not simply a battle between two well-known politicians — it reflected the priorities that will shape public education, infrastructure, and other aspects of local community life.

The unresolved state budget is deeply entwined with the primary. The continuing deadlock in Raleigh over the budget mirrors the broader ideological differences between Berger and Page.

Many local leaders view the budget impasse as both a symptom and a result of this rivalry, with crucial funding for schools, infrastructure, and health programs hanging in the balance.

Until the primary outcome clarifies the direction of state leadership, counties remain uncertain about future resources and priorities.

This is what made the Berger/Page contest especially important for communities throughout North Carolina.

For many counties — particularly those that are rural or economically disadvantaged — the primary’s final outcome could determine the direction of key funding and legislative support.

A victory for either candidate will likely bring changes in policy emphasis.

Berger’s approach emphasizes fiscal conservatism and deregulation, which may appeal to counties seeking economic growth through business incentives.

Page’s platform, on the other hand, is more focused on investing in public services and community development projects.

Local leaders are keenly aware that the next administration will influence resource allocation and the creation of laws affecting everyday life.

Burke County, with its mix of rural and urban areas, stands to be significantly affected by the Berger/Page primary. Changes in state funding for education, infrastructure, and healthcare could have major consequences.

If Berger wins, Burke County may benefit from efforts to attract businesses and foster economic development through lower taxes and reduced regulations — a boost for the local manufacturing sector and small businesses.

However, this could also mean tighter budgets for schools and public services. If Page wins, Burke County might see increased investment in schools, expanded support for healthcare facilities, and more resources for community development projects.

These initiatives could help address economic disparities and improve residents’ quality of life. The outcome of the primary will impact job opportunities and the future of public programs relied upon by families in Burke County.

County commissioners in Burke County should approach the outcome of the Berger/Page primary with a proactive and adaptable mindset.

Regardless of which candidate prevails, commissioners will need to carefully assess the new state leadership’s priorities and adjust local strategies to maximize opportunities and mitigate challenges.

Engage Early with State Leaders: Commissioners should quickly establish open lines of communication with the winning candidate and their team. Building relationships early can help advocate for Burke County’s specific needs — whether those are related to economic development, public education, or healthcare resources.

Analyze Policy Shifts: It will be critical to review proposed changes in funding formulas, grant opportunities, and regulatory frameworks. Commissioners should work with county staff to identify potential impacts on local budgets and services, preparing contingency plans for both increased support and possible budget tightening.

Collaborate Regionally: Forming alliances with neighboring counties can amplify Burke County’s voice in advocating for shared interests. Regional cooperation can be especially effective in securing infrastructure projects or addressing issues that cross county lines.

Engage the Community: Commissioners should keep residents, business owners, and local institutions informed about how the primary’s outcome may affect Burke County. Soliciting input and maintaining transparency will strengthen public trust and help set realistic expectations.

Monitor Legislative Developments: Staying informed of new bills and budget proposals as they emerge in Raleigh will enable commissioners to respond quickly to opportunities and challenges, ensuring that Burke County is well-positioned to benefit from state-level decisions.

Advocate for Local Priorities: Whether the focus shifts toward economic incentives or expanded public services, commissioners should be prepared to advocate strongly for the programs and projects that matter most to Burke County’s residents — such as workforce training, school improvements, or healthcare access.

By staying engaged, flexible, and focused on local priorities, Burke County commissioners can help ensure the community remains resilient and benefits from the opportunities presented by new state leadership — whatever direction the Berger/Page primary sets for North Carolina.

While these recommendations offer a solid roadmap, I do have some reservations about whether all commissioners truly grasp the magnitude of the primary’s ramifications.

There is a risk that some may underestimate how profoundly the outcome could affect funding, policy direction, and local services.

It will be vital for commissioners to not only stay informed but also to actively seek out the broader context and implications of the changes ahead, ensuring they are prepared to respond effectively for the benefit of the entire community.

In addition, commissioners must recognize that the familiar rhetoric of promising no tax increases may not be practical given the possible shifts in state funding and policy direction.

If the primary results in reduced state support for education, infrastructure, or healthcare, local governments may face tough choices to maintain essential services.

Clinging to a “no new taxes” stance could limit their ability to address critical needs or invest in community priorities.

Instead, commissioners should be transparent with residents about fiscal realities, openly discuss potential adjustments to revenue strategies, and emphasize that safeguarding local programs and quality of life may require flexibility.

By moving beyond slogans and focusing on pragmatic solutions, commissioners can better position Burke County to weather uncertainty and thrive regardless of the primary’s outcome.

Ultimately, the Berger/Page primary highlights the connection between state politics and local communities. Decisions made in Raleigh reverberate throughout every county, town, and neighborhood.

All of North Carolina is watching to see how this pivotal race will shape the future for counties from the mountains to the coast.