What name do you go by?

Edwin.  I’m the III. My father goes by Ed.   He’s Junior.   My son goes by his/our middle name, Bruton.  He’s the IV! 

Why are you running for office?

Two reasons:  First, I’ve wanted to serve in a public office since I was a little boy. The example of service my father set in our family was one I’ve always wanted to follow.  I was involved in all of his campaigns during his nine years in office. I walked door to door with him, rang the door bells, and passed out bumper stickers.  My favorite job was using the staple gun to “shoot the signs”.  

Second, the recent experience I had with Leadership Charlotte directly exposed me to the issues and challenges our city is facing.  It solidified my desire to get directly involved with public service.

Oh, I remember your father.  Wasn’t he Mayor?

No.  Dad was not Mayor.  He lost a very close election to Harvey Gantt in 1983 that many people remember.    Dad served in public office from 1974-1981 on the Mecklenburg County Board of County Commissioners.  He was the chairman of that board from 1978-1981.  He then served on Charlotte City Council from 1981-83.

Is your father involved in your campaign?

No.  He’s not taken any formal role and would not want to.   Obviously, I look to him for advice and we speak often.  He frequently tells friends, “I’m not running for office, I’m running from it!”


What are your qualifications for the job?

I’m a business owner. I work in the field of insurance/investments and I help my customers with important financial decisions that directly impact their lives & companies.  It is a big responsibility that I take seriously.   As a business owner, I’m constantly focused on being efficient, keeping my expenses low, and providing value & service to my customers.   I believe a well run government should operate no differently!

My business experiences have also taught me the importance of building relationships, establishing trust, and following through.  I believe the lessons I’ve learned will serve me well in public office.

What do you hope to accomplish?

I hope to make an impact in the areas of economic development/taxes and in the area of transportation. 

Who's endorsing you in this election?

US Congresswoman, Sue Myrick
Mayor Pat McCrory
State Representative Ruth Samuelson
Former Mayor Richard Vinroot
Former Mayor Eddie Knox
Former Mayor Ken Harris
Former Chairman of Mecklenburg County Commisioners, Tom Cox
Former Chairman of Mecklenburg County Commisioners, Carla DuPuy

What are you reading?                      

Parent Power by John Rosemond.  Amy & I saw him speak at our church once.  We follow his column in the Observer often.   Toddlers are a handful and we need all the advice we can get!

What are your interests outside politics and your business?

I love to cook & entertain.  My mother is my inspiration in this area and I find it a creative outlet that’s a lot of fun.  Amy & I are runners and do so weekly.  She also happens to be a certified personal trainer, so we both work out a good bit.  I also love to play tennis and golf when I can find the time.   

What’s something voters would be surprised to learn about you?

Two things and they both involve Mayor Pat McCrory.  I was in a car accident with Mayor Pat McCrory in which Pat hit our car.  Fortunately, no one was hurt!   Second, Pat was a referee in many of my high school basketball games.  Not many people know that about Pat, but he wore a zebra suit in his off hours as a younger man!