Name as it appears on the ballot: Damion McCullers

Age: 46

Party affiliation: Democrat

Campaign website:

Occupation & employer:  District Court Judge

1) Please tell us what in your record as a public official or private citizen demonstrates your ability to be effective, fair, and impartial on the bench? Please be specific. What do you believe qualifies you to serve as a district court judge?  

I have had the opportunity to participate in every role that an attorney might have in District Court. I have prosecuted cases in the district attorney‘s office. I have defended cases. I have also had the privilege over the past 3 years to hear cases as a district court, judge. I am uniquely qualified and have a broad range of useful practice experience.

2) How do you define yourself politically? How does that impact your judicial approach? 

Politically I would define myself as a person seeking to be the best citizen and informed voter that I can be. My political positions have no impact on my judicial approach. I believe in the rule of law and administering justice without favoritism or bias. 

3) What do you believe are the three most important qualities a judge must have to be an effective jurist?

There are a number of qualities that I believe are important for a judge to possess. Three major qualities are the ability to listen, be fair and impartial, and be able to recognize and apply the human element that is present in every case.

4) In a sentence, how would you define your judicial philosophy?

I believe every citizen should be treated with dignity and respect with the rule of law leading the way.

5) Black North Carolinians are incarcerated at six times the rate of whites. How do you see your responsibility as a judge in addressing racial inequity in the justice system?

It is my job as a district court judge to apply the law and to be fair and impartial to every citizen that might come before me. I believe that when this is done that is a great start in addressing this issue.

6) Do you believe the cash bail system is in need of reform? What changes do you believe are necessary to ensure those accused of crimes are not incarcerated due to their inability to afford bond? What factors do you consider when determining the bond amount?

There are some opportunities for improvement with the current system. However, there are mechanisms in our current statutes and local rules that assist in making sure that those accused of a crime but not be able to afford a bond are not unduly incarcerated. I consider every factor set out in our statute and local rules when determining a bond amount. 

7) Do you support restorative justice practices prior to sentencing? If so, how would you seek to implement those practices in your capacity as a judge? Which types of cases do you think should be eligible? 

I do support restorative justice practices. However, I believe the specific facts of the case determine whether or not they are appropriate for each matter.

8) Do you support mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes, such as low-level drug offenses? Why or why not?

As a judge, I am bound to follow the law as it is prescribed by our legislature and appellate courts. I believe  the men and women in those particular roles endeavor each day to do the will of the citizens of the state of North Carolina and I endeavor each day to follow the law as it is prescribed.

9) Some district courts are implementing misdemeanor diversion programs for young and/or first-time offenders. Do you believe programs like these are effective?

I do believe these programs are effective. These are excellent opportunities for participants to earn dismissals or reduce charges. These outcomes can become a great advantage in their futures.

10) In many cases, voters know very little about the judges they are electing. Tell us something about yourself that our readers may be surprised to learn.

I love to ride motorcycles. There is nothing like the feeling of the wind blowing and the sound of the motor revving on a beautiful day.