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In a surprising and exclusive announcement to Duplin Journal, longtime North Carolina Representative Jimmy Dixon has officially reversed his decision to retire and confirmed that he will seek reelection in 2026. Just one week after stating he would not run again, Dixon says a wave of reflection, family conversations and overwhelming community support led him to reconsider.
In an in-depth Q&A, the District 4 representative opens up about what changed his mind, the role his grandson played in that decision, and why he believes now is not the time to step away. From battles over farming rights to the growing polarization in politics, Dixon shares candid insights on the challenges ahead — and why he’s not ready to hand over the reins just yet.
What ultimately influenced your decision to reverse your retirement and seek re-election?
Ultimately, it was my own desire to continue and my assessment that I should not let a few frustrations about internal politics cause me to make a premature decision about retirement.
Was there a particular moment or conversation that tipped the scales for you?
Yes. My grandson asked me why I was not going to run again. In trying to answer that question from a 10-year-old, I struggled with an answer, which caused me to reflect deeper about the “Why.” Additionally, a good friend and mentor asked, “If you are frustrated about a few issues, who do you think can go up there and not be even more frustrated than you are?”
How did your family respond to your decision to remain in public service?
My family has always been super supportive of my efforts through all of the last 15 years. Actually, I initially discussed my possible retirement with only my wife and my daughter. Both were more than happy with both decisions and they, along with my entire family, remain supportive. I can’t imagine anyone serving in this type of role in this type of political climate without the full support of their family.
Can you elaborate on the kinds of encouragement you received from constituents and colleagues?
Every person who reached out to me did so in exactly the same manner and tone; kind, courteous, and appreciative of my efforts over the last 15 years, followed by a variety of forms of asking me to consider continuing to seek reelection. I have heard folks talk about their phone and or email “blowing up” and I guess mine sort of did.
What do you believe voters in District 4 value most about your leadership?
I have tried to be honest, transparent, passionate about farm life, and made sure that House District 4 earned a seat at the decision-making table. I hope they believe I have achieved those goals.
You’ve long been a champion for agriculture — what specific policies or initiatives will you prioritize in your next term?
Our right to farm laws seem to always attract challenges from a wide range of uninformed people and extreme left-leaning organizations who must think food comes from the grocery store. So, we will continue to be alert and mindful of those challenges. Also, it is interesting to note that there are growing numbers of extreme right-leaning MAHA folks who present a different set of challenges. One of the continuing serious problems is the “traveling litigant lawyers” who prey on certain areas of our tried and tested farming methods and practices. Labeling on herbicides and pesticides are current areas of ruthless attacks. The lawfare tactics are designed (There are over 10,800 pending) to use state law as a springboard to get into court on issues where the state is bound by Federal law. They want to file suit and settle out of court, like so many of our neighbors here in Duplin fell prey to during the infamous hog lawsuits. I will continue to fight them vigorously.
What are the most pressing agricultural challenges facing District 4 today?
Weather, input costs, disaster recovery, loss of farmland to development, especially to solar facilities, and low commodity prices. But I am confident that our well-developed livestock industry here in Duplin will help us stay above water. Most folks don’t realize that livestock accounts for 75% of our farm-gate sales, which produce the number one economic driver for our state at $111.1 billion. Therein lies the strength of Duplin County agriculture. We must promote and protect livestock production.
Are there any new issues or causes you plan to focus on if re-elected?
Absolutely! Everyone is screaming that rampant violence, abusive language, political bashing, attacks on law enforcement, assassination attempts and ugly, debased immorality must stop! But I don’t think anyone is suggesting what will help those kinds of actions stop. We must try to reintroduce God and Christian teaching and behavior back into our schools. Surely we can try to do that. I will try.
You mentioned support from colleagues across the state — how do you see your role evolving in the General Assembly?
The response I have received across the state indicates that we have established a good and significant seat at the decision-making tables in the General Assembly. My efforts will be directed toward maintaining and improving that status for the benefit of District 4 and all future generations.
I am grateful for the opportunity to represent the wonderful citizens of Duplin and Wayne Counties in the North Carolina General Assembly — in the people’s house.
