Mike Johnson decides not to seek re-election

Dare County Commissioner Mike Johnson has announced that he will not seek re-election this year.

In a letter addressed to Dare County citizens, Johnson, a Republican, said he felt he was called to spend more time with his family and on personal interests.

During his two terms, Johnson became a passionate advocate for commercial fishermen and served on several boards to represent their interests.

But he also endured criticism about expense accounting and a bear hunt conducted for youth on county land.

“Being your servant has been a humbling and rewarding experience,” he wrote. “Though I do not know everything, I have learned a tremendous amount. The main things that I have learned is Dare in an awesome County and you are wonderful people. I believe that God called me to the Dare County Commission Board and now I am certain that he is calling me back to my family and personal interests.”

So far, Democrat Bob Muller, the former mayor of Nags Head, is the only candidate who has announced and filed for the District 2 seat, which includes Nags Head, Colington and Kill Devil Hills.

Republican Paul Buske, a Kill Devil Hills commissioner, had toyed with the idea of declaring for the seat but announced earlier in the month he would not run. Buske could not be reached late Sunday when Johnson released his statement.

District 2 is also represented by Democrat Max Dutton. His seat is not up for election this cycle.

GO TO HOME PAGE »