Don't rush Dave Boliek into a governor's race
Boliek has the talent and trajectory to be governor — but rushing him into a 2028 run could squander both.
New State Auditor Dave Boliek might be the most governor-ready Republican in North Carolina right now.
He’s smart, disciplined, media-savvy, a good communicator, and he’s already got a lot of high-profile projects in the works. He checks nearly every box you'd want in a top-tier statewide candidate.
Law-and-order cred? He’s a former prosecutor.
Broad appeal? Boliek has lived all over the state, from Lincolnton to Fayetteville.
Executive presence? Boliek carries himself like a leader — disciplined, strategic, and comfortable in the spotlight.
Moral backbone? He’s an Eagle Scout, elder in his church, and a father of four.
Education credentials? Boliek is a former UNC Board of Trustees chairman.
I’m already starting to hear rumblings about Republicans wanting him to run for governor in 2028, when Gov. Josh Stein will be up for re-election.
But rushing him into that race would be a mistake. Here’s why.