Good choice: Rep. John Bell would make a solid House majority leader

State Rep. John Bell of Wayne County is seeking to become the Republican majority leader in the House of Representatives.

We believe he would be a good choice for the position.

Bell has only served two terms in the House but is one of its rising stars, having already served as the majority whip.

Bell, who is currently running for a third term in the House, hopes to take the place of retiring Rep. Mike Hager, who has decided to step down for personal reasons. Bell's strongest opposition is coming from right down the road -- Rep. Michael Speciale of Craven County. Coincidentally, the two representatives' districts both include portions of Craven.

In an interview with The News-Argus, Bell said that if he is chosen to fulfill Hager's unexpired term, he would seek a full term as majority leader -- if he is re-elected in November. As the majority whip, he has worked closely with Hager in the House, trying to get the votes to get major legislation passed.

Bell's obvious dedication to his job, his grasp of the issues facing the state and his knowledge of the membership of the chamber would make him a good man for the job.

Published in Editorials on August 24, 2016 10:07 AM