Bobby Hanig Announces Bid for North Carolina's 1st Congressional District

Bobby Hanig, a Republican state senator from Currituck County, has officially declared his candidacy for North Carolina's 1st Congressional District, aiming to challenge incumbent Democrat Don Davis in the 2026 election.

 

The 1st District encompasses 22 counties, stretching from the northern Outer Banks to the outskirts of Raleigh, and is recognized as the state's sole swing congressional district.

 

Hanig, who began his political career in the state House in 2018 before transitioning to the Senate in 2022, emphasized his commitment to conservative principles and his legislative track record. "I'm a proven leader who has always been a fierce advocate for my constituents and our shared values and beliefs," he stated. "I will continue that fight when I get to Washington."

 

In the 2024 election, Davis secured his seat by a narrow margin of less than two percentage points, underscoring the district's competitiveness and the high stakes for both parties in the upcoming race.

 

Hanig is not the only Republican contender. Sandy Roberson, the mayor of Rocky Mount, has also entered the race, bringing substantial personal investment to his campaign. The Republican primary will determine who will face Davis in the general election.

 

The official filing period for congressional candidates opens in December, with primaries scheduled for March 2026. National Republicans view the 1st District as a prime opportunity to flip a Democratic seat, while Democrats are keen on maintaining their presence in eastern North Carolina.

 

Beyond his legislative work, Hanig is known for his distinctive style in the General Assembly, often donning bold suit jackets. He has also been a vocal opponent of a proposed shrimp-trawling ban, aligning with coastal residents who argued that the measure threatened their livelihoods.

 

As the 2026 election approaches, the 1st District is poised to be a focal point in the battle for control of the U.S. House, with both parties investing heavily in their respective candidates.