Christopher Smith
Elections and appointments
Personal
Contact
Christopher Smith (Democratic Party) ran for election to the Winston-Salem City Council to represent West Ward in North Carolina. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Smith completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Christopher Smith was born in Danbury, North Carolina. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 2003 to 2014. He graduated from Forbush High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from Appalachian State University in 2007. His career experience includes working as an entrepreneur, founder of Sing-Along Music Group, owner of Remix Realty, along with serving as a business advisor and mentor to entrepreneurs and small businesses. He has been affiliated with Nashville Songwriters Association International.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: City elections in Winston-Salem, North Carolina (2024)
General election
Democratic primary election
The Democratic primary election was canceled. Christopher Smith advanced from the Democratic primary for Winston-Salem City Council West Ward.
Republican primary election
The Republican primary election was canceled. Incumbent Robert Clark advanced from the Republican primary for Winston-Salem City Council West Ward.
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Smith in this election.
2020
See also: Municipal elections in Forsyth County, North Carolina (2020)
General election
Democratic primary election
The Democratic primary election was canceled. Gull Riaz, Christopher Smith, and Eric Weiss advanced from the Democratic primary for Forsyth County Board of Commissioners District B.
Republican primary election
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Christopher Smith completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Smith's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I’m a family man, entrepreneur and former Army intelligence officer who is now running for Winston-Salem City Council to create a more communicative, transparent, inclusive, sustainable, & thriving city. I believe in policies that empower working families, support small businesses, & that proactively address critical issues like affordable housing.
In 2021 I helped create the Non-Discrimination Ordinance Coalition; an organization with the goal of expanding our city's non-discrimination ordinances. We were successful in that endeavor and expanded protections for "race, ethnicity, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, veteran status, disability, age, marital status, familial status, protected hairstyle, political affiliation or national origin in any aspect of modern life.”
However, it was during this endeavor that I realized how inefficient our local government was and how difficult it was to connect and communicate with my representative who had been in office over two decades and whose only connection to the community was an email address buried on the city website. I discovered that we had too many politicians hiding behind these government inefficiencies. To many quick to say why we can't do something and not enough asking "how can we?" So I committed to myself after that experience to run for city council in an attempt to change that environment. - My first priority is Economic Growth. Under my opponents tenure, Winston Salem has lost 15 headquartered companies and is second to last in the nation in youth upward mobility. I hope to increase industry recruitment and expand entrepreneur and small business support to include more support from the city after an entrepreneur is successful in taking his idea from concept to small business. In addition, I want to focus on trade and youth initatives that will bolster upward mobility in our county.
- My second priority is Safety & Policing. I want to expand Community Violence Intervention Programs, & continue funding violence interrupters like the Cure Violence program, all aimed at curbing violence before it begins. Additionally, we have 104 sworn officer vacancies and approximately 38 non-sworn vacancies. My opponent signaled to the Journal he has no answer for the staff shortages there, chalking them up largely to national trends, but I disagree. We could increase funding for marketing in addition to exploring bringing competitive benefits like Longevity Pay, and the Winston-Salem Police Officers Retirement System, that city council eliminated in 2014. Officers are telling us directly this would aid recruitment.
- My 3rd priority is Affordable Housing. We are over 16,000 affordable housing units short of our need. The city's approach to date has been to support initiatives through partnerships with non-profit groups run by for-profit builders. I want to continue incentivizing builders, along with eliminating red tape & reforming fees; however, long term, our affordable housing needs will not be met solely relying on supporting for-profit builders. We are seeing a trend of cities getting more involved in the direct building & management of affordable housing. I believe we must follow that trend. The creation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund was a great small step, but it's time to take the necessary giant leap forward.
Affordable Housing is where I have the most divergent ideas from other city council members. I have a policy paper on the topic on my website. Beyond that, not policy per se, but my chief priority is to increase of transparency and communication. This effects all citizens and touches all of my other top priorities; Economic Growth, Safety & Policing, & Affordable Housing. I aim to be more accessible and maintain an online presence. I take inspiration from my fellow Army Officer, Jeff Jackson, and hope to use social media to articulate and explain complex governmental affairs so that they can be understood by all. Further, I aim to implement a West Ward newsletter and hold town halls and listening sessions in my ward.
The City Council holds a unique position because it operates at the intersection of state laws and local needs. While higher levels of government address broad policy, City Council decisions have an immediate and direct impact on residents’ daily lives - whether it's shaping economic development, public safety, or zoning laws. This proximity to the people makes the Council a vital part of the legal system, as it allows for decisions to be tailored to the specific challenges and opportunities in our community. My experience advocating for and helping pass expanded non-discrimination ordinances in Winston-Salem has shown me firsthand the importance of this office. As someone who successfully worked with city leaders to strengthen protections against discrimination, I’ve seen how the City Council can serve as a critical gateway for legal change. I understand how to navigate the system, working within state frameworks while ensuring local needs are met and protected. This office is uniquely positioned to be the bridge between state law and community-driven solutions. Additionally, City Council members are not just policymakers, they are advocates. We have the responsibility to represent the needs of our city to state and federal agencies and make sure our voices are heard.
I look up to both of my parents for the different but equally powerful lessons they taught me. My mom for her perseverance—through good times and bad, she’s shown the value of hard work and resourcefulness. She was my first exposure to entrepreneurship, running her own cake-decorating business for decades and becoming well-known for her skill. Simultaneously, she was a bus driver, substitute teacher, and church leader, and ran a kitchen. Even in her 50s, she completely reinvented herself by starting a new career as a rural mail carrier in a different city and she still works a rural mail carrier to this day. My dad, for his ability to overcome any obstacle. He turned his life around as a young man, put himself through school, worked a full career in the HVAC field, and even became an inventor and small business owner in his later years. Even in the face of his lung cancer diagnosis, I watched him quit smoking and drinking while enduring chemotherapy. He passed away in 2015, but he left a legacy of resilience and strength that inspires me every day. Between the two of them, while we didn’t have a lot growing up, we had everything we needed. They always found a way to support my sister and me - whether it was sports, scouts, youth groups, band, etc. Their dedication taught me that with perseverance, determination, and love, you can overcome any challenge and always provide for those you love.
One book that has deeply influenced my leadership style and political philosophy is "The Mission, The Men, & Me" by Pete Blaber. As a former army intelligence officer, this book resonates with my belief in prioritizing the mission, serving others, and making decisions based on ground-level realities. Blaber’s approach - focused on listening, learning, and adapting - mirrors how I intend to lead in local government. Effective governance is about understanding the needs of the people, making informed decisions, and always keeping the mission of bettering the community at the forefront. This approach is critical for effective leadership in government. It's about understanding the goal, serving the community, and making smart, adaptive decisions based on reality, not rigid ideology. A core theme of the book is thinking outside the box, which is something I emphasize in my campaign. I often say we have too many politicians quick to tell us why our goals can’t be achieved, and not enough asking, “How can we?” We’ve become mired in status quo inefficiencies, and it’s time for a new approach. One that challenges conventional thinking and seeks creative solutions to problems like economic growth, public safety, and affordable housing. Just like Blaber advocates for adaptive, on-the-ground decision-making in special operations, I believe we need that same mindset in politics - constantly adjusting and finding new ways to get things done. This philosophy of innovation and putting people first is central to how I aim to serve as a member of City Council.
I believe the most important characteristics of an elected official are integrity, transparency, and a genuine commitment to serve the community. Integrity means doing what’s right, even when it’s difficult or unpopular. As a former army intelligence officer and small business owner, I’ve learned the value of disciplined decision-making and accountability, which I will bring to City Council. Transparency is foundational, not just in government but in all leadership. An open and honest government fosters trust and gives citizens confidence in their elected officials. That’s why increased communication and transparency is the centerpiece of my campaign. It's essential to good governance and addresses all other issues, from economic growth to safety and affordable housing. Additionally, we've seen in the West Ward what happens when representatives don't prioritize these values; Citizens are left in the dark for years while their community is thrown into construction chaos. Lastly, an elected official must prioritize inclusivity and fairness. Through my work with the Non-Discrimination Ordinance Coalition, I fought to expand protections for all residents, and I will continue advocating for policies that ensure every voice is heard, and every person is treated with dignity and respect.
I believe my diverse life experiences, work ethic, and commitment to finding solutions are the qualities that will make me a successful officeholder. Growing up as an ADHD kid in a working-class family, I learned early on the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness. My parents, despite not having much, always found a way to provide opportunities for me through sports, scouts, and youth programs - experiences that shaped my belief in the importance of community support and youth services. As a former military officer, I developed critical problem-solving and leadership skills. I worked with people from diverse backgrounds, navigating complex situations and finding common ground to achieve goals. This ability to collaborate and adapt will be crucial in city governance, where we face varied challenges that require thoughtful and inclusive solutions. My experience as a small business owner also gives me a strong understanding of economic growth and the hurdles businesses face. I know how to advocate for policies that help rather than hinder business development - whether it's addressing overly restrictive ordinances or ensuring the government is a partner, not a barrier, to success. Finally, my work with the Non-Discrimination Ordinance Coalition taught me the value of cutting through red tape to get meaningful results. I believe in proactive leadership - asking “How can we?” rather than accepting why things can’t be done. This is a mindset I will carry into office, focused on transparency, accountability, and finding solutions that truly serve our community.
The City Council plays a vital role in shaping policies that directly impact the lives of every Winston-Salem resident. Unlike state or federal offices, which often deal with broader legislative matters, City Council is on the front lines of local governance, addressing issues like public safety, housing, infrastructure, and economic development that affect citizens' daily lives. My role on city council would consist of being one of the 8 elected volunteers who are the governing body that creates the rules, policies, and procedures that the city follows. I would approve the city's budget and set property tax rates and fees for services like water and garbage collection. I would also appoint important leaders, like the City Manager, who oversees daily operations, and the City Attorney, who offers legal advice, should the need arise. Additionally, as a council member, I would help choose who serves on various city boards and committees, in addition to serving on them myself. Winston Salem is unique in that council members serve on at least two committees consisting of the “Public Safety” committee, the “Community Development / Housing / General Government” committee, the “Public Works” committee, or the “Finance” committee. This is where most matters are discussed and debated before their inclusion on a council meeting agenda, where they receive a vote. This office is critical because it acts as the voice of the people. I would serve as a bridge between residents and higher levels of government, advocating for resources and policies that reflect the needs of my city.
When I think about the legacy I want to leave behind, it’s about building a stronger, more inclusive community for my children and future generations. I want to be remembered as someone who never accepted the status quo but instead asked, “How can we do better?” Whether it's in expanding protections for all citizens, ensuring businesses can thrive, or providing opportunities for young people through youth services, I hope my efforts will help create a city where everyone can succeed. But at the heart of it, I just want to leave the world better than I found it, especially for my children. I strive each day to just do better than I did the day before. If I can continue to do that while being a good father and husband, I’ll have lived a full life.
While not the first historical event, the most impactful one for me was 9/11. I was a high school senior at the time, in a Cisco Certification class. I had stepped out to go to the bathroom when I saw the TVs in the school lobby showing the news coverage of the second tower being hit. I have trouble remembering what I did yesterday, but this moment is so vivid in my mind. It was a turning point for me and played a huge role in my decision to enlist in the military soon after.
I’ve always been industrious, so I started working at a young age. As a kid, I took on all kinds of odd jobs - raking leaves, shoveling snow, delivering phonebooks, and even picking up trash in a restaurant parking lot to earn extra money. My first real paycheck job came when I started lifeguarding at 15, a job I kept for three summers. During my third summer of lifeguarding, I also worked as a banquet server and valet at Old Town Club, where I met my now-wife. We’ve been together ever since, so that summer holds a special place in my heart. My work ethic has always been a driving force for me. As a full-time student, I put myself through college by working a full-time job with benefits at Cingular Wireless (now AT&T), all while serving in the Air Force Reserve. I’ve always believed in hard work and making the most of every opportunity.
I can’t say I have just one favorite book, but I’ve always gravitated toward non-fiction that covers a wide range of topics. I enjoy U.S. and World History, Greek Mythology, Military Stories, Religion, and biographies of people who I find interesting or who have made a significant impact. My reading list is pretty diverse. Most recently, I finished Christopher Hitchens' Hitch-22, which I found fascinating for its intellectual depth and bold perspectives. Before that, I read The Autobiography of Malcolm X, a powerful and transformative read, and before that, Eric Haney’s Inside Delta Force, which gave me a firsthand look into military operations. I’ve also enjoyed books like Joshua Foer’s Moonwalking with Einstein, which delves into the science of memory, and Sam Sheridan’s A Fighter’s Heart, exploring the physical and mental toughness of fighters. I love Stephen Fry’s take on Greek Mythology in Mythos, and John Lewis' Walking with the Wind was a deeply moving memoir about the Civil Rights Movement. These days, I tend to listen to more audiobooks than physical books because of time constraints. They get a lot of play in the car when I’m traveling. But I still make it a point to visit the library with my kids about once a month. They get a new stack of books to read and it’s a great way for me to peruse for interesting titles, and I always seem to find something new that grabs my attention. Plus, with a library card, not only can you check out books for free, but you can also listen to audiobooks for free!
That’s a tough one. I’m a comic book nerd, so my mind immediately wanders to Iron Man, Professor X, Hal Jordan, Batman… Superman should probably be the obvious choice because he’s the most overpowered and with the coolest abilities, but I tend to gravitate toward people a little more grounded, like Indiana Jones & James Bond. I’ll say Michaelangelo from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is my final answer - just to keep it fun. But I’m probably more of a Jack Ryan in real life.
As a music supervisor, I’m surrounded by music every day. It’s literally my job to find and license music for film, TV, and advertisements. So it’s no surprise that a new song gets stuck in my head almost daily. But one song stands out above the rest… Recently, I found myself on the main stage of a Rock Cruise, singing Celine Dion’s “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” to Mark Tremonti of Creed (a musical hero) and Chris Daughtry. While my friends from other bands and a few thousand rock fans who were most definitely not there to hear Celine Dion, watched on in bewilderment. How did I end up there? Well, that’s a longer story. Let’s just say it involved some questionable life choices, an over-the-top dedication to Tremonti, forgotten lyrics, and maybe a few hip thrusts that were probably inappropriate for someone considering a run for public office. Incredibly, when the dust settled, Mark, Chris, and the crowd were laughing and having a great time, so I guess I did something right. For the full, absurd story, you’ll have to ask me about it. Or better yet, if I’m elected, maybe I’ll even share the video! Even more incentive to get people to the polls!
One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced is navigating life with ADHD, especially as a kid from a working-class family. Growing up, it was hard to fit into traditional educational settings, and at times, I struggled with focus and structure - particularly when I felt unchallenged or uninterested. This didn’t have a name until I was an adult, so it also didn’t have a treatment. I was never the teacher’s favorite because of this, yet I always managed to maintain good grades. In high school, I was no stranger to the principal's office, yet graduated as an honor society graduate. Despite the hardships, this challenge shaped me into someone who thinks outside the box and finds creative ways to solve problems. I learned how to channel my interests and hyperfocus into entrepreneurship opportunities and into organizations aimed at helping others. As a kid, I relied on community programs, like city parks and recreation opportunities, to keep me engaged and out of trouble. These experiences have fueled my passion for making sure our youth have access to the support and outlets they need to thrive. Beyond that, balancing work and life has also been a challenge. I put myself through college while working full-time, and serving in the Air Force Reserve. It wasn’t easy juggling all those responsibilities, along with my extracurricular activities like college radio and student government, but it taught me discipline and perseverance. I learned that hard work and resourcefulness can help you overcome almost any obstacle, no matter the struggle.
While it’s not a traditional power, one issue that makes the role of City Council in Winston-Salem unique is the financial dynamic created by our largest employers and property owners - hospitals and schools - not paying property taxes. These institutions are vital to our community, but their tax-exempt status means the city must find other ways to make up for this revenue shortfall, affecting how we budget and plan. Recently, the City Council approved a 10% property tax increase for the 2024-25 fiscal year. I believe this increase was too much, too fast. While I understand the need for modernizing pay and funding essential services, such a sharp rise in taxes makes it harder for businesses to operate, grow, and recruit talent. It also adds to the financial strain on residents, who are already feeling the effects of inflation. Budgeting decisions like these need a more balanced approach that takes into account the overall economic health of our community. As a City Council member, I would push for greater engagement with local businesses and residents early in the budget process to ensure their voices are heard. We need to explore alternatives that ease the tax burden while still meeting the city’s needs, creating an environment where businesses can thrive and families can afford to live. Our focus should be on long-term economic sustainability, and that requires transparency, collaboration, and strategic thinking. I’m committed to finding solutions that promote growth and prosperity for everyone in Winston-Salem.
While experience in government or politics isn’t essential, it can be helpful in navigating the complexities of policymaking and understanding how to get things done. My background as a military officer provided me with a solid foundation in strategic planning and leadership, where I worked alongside a diverse range of stakeholders - from top foreign governments to local tribal leaders. This experience has taught me the value of effective communication, collaboration, and adaptability. I’ve also had the opportunity to engage with local government through my work with the Non-Discrimination Ordinance Coalition. By advocating for and assisting in passing expanded protections, I gained firsthand experience on how to work within the system to drive positive change for our community. This role allowed me to see how local policies can have a direct impact on people’s lives and reinforced the importance of transparency and accountability in leadership. Ultimately, whether someone has prior political experience or not, what matters most is their ability to understand the needs of the community, advocate for change, and bring a fresh, forward-thinking perspective to the table. That’s what I plan to do as the Democratic challenger in the West Ward, running against a 24-year Republican incumbent who has never had a Democratic opponent.
The most effective City Council members bring diverse skills and experiences that help them address the community's varied needs. Adaptability and problem-solving are essential, as is the ability to navigate complex issues, listen to different viewpoints, and find solutions. My time in the armed forces taught me to work with people from diverse backgrounds, striving for compromise while achieving goals - an invaluable skill for local governance. Communication and accessibility are also crucial. Council members must engage residents, listen to concerns, and explain decisions transparently. As a small business owner, I understand the importance of clear communication, whether advocating for COVID relief or addressing restrictive ordinances. Government should be a partner, not a barrier, requiring open dialogue. Empathy and community understanding are equally important. Growing up as an ADHD kid from a working-class family, I benefited from city programs that gave me opportunities to thrive. That background drives my passion for supporting youth services. As a father with kids in public school, I understand the challenges families face, including 2 pm committee meetings that exclude many. We need leaders who relate to these experiences and advocate for real-world solutions. Lastly, effective advocacy and the ability to navigate bureaucracy are key. My work with the Non-Discrimination Ordinance Coalition showed me how to cut through red tape and push for meaningful change. I've seen the impact of determined advocacy, and I bring that same energy to my campaign. These skills - adaptability, communication, empathy, and advocacy - are essential for anyone in this office, and they are what I will bring as a City Council member.
The City Council serves as the bridge between residents and the decisions that shape daily life, making local choices on zoning, infrastructure, safety, and economic growth. This allows Council members to tailor solutions to Winston-Salem's specific needs. When I advocated for expanded non-discrimination protections, it was the Council that passed ordinances reflecting our community’s values. This flexibility enables swift responses to local issues, ensuring government works effectively and equitably. My experience showed me the Council's potential for positive change, but also exposed frustrations with status quo politics: red tape, slow action, and poor communication. That’s why I’m running for City Council—to cut through bureaucracy and find solutions that truly serve our community. Council members must also engage residents, building trust and encouraging civic participation. I aim to maintain an active online presence, host town halls, and publish a West Ward newsletter, ensuring transparency and accountability in every decision. Finally, the Council’s budgetary authority lets it set financial priorities, directly influencing how public funds improve infrastructure, support businesses, and enhance quality of life. Given Winston-Salem’s challenges, like tax-exempt properties, it’s vital the Council manages resources responsibly. The recent 10% tax increase was too steep and swift; I’d push for a more balanced, inclusive approach to budgeting that engages residents and business leaders. The City Council is the heartbeat of local government—making impactful, community-driven decisions. That’s why it’s crucial to have leaders who are attuned to constituents' needs and committed to clear communication and responsible governance.
I’m partial to the classic, “How do you make a tissue dance? You put a little boogie in it.” My dad taught me that joke. Another go-to is “I just bought the worst Thesaurus. Not only is it terrible, but it’s also terrible.” Or, “How do you find Will Smith in a snowstorm? You look for fresh prints.”
Transparency and accountability are cornerstones of my campaign. It’s not enough for decisions to be made behind closed doors—residents deserve to know why those decisions are being made, and they deserve clarity on how their tax dollars are spent. A prime West Ward example is the unending construction delays along Meadowlark Road. Construction began years ago and has repeatedly experienced delay after delay. The area is still a chaotic construction zone years later. Why? Reasons haven’t been articulated or communicated properly. This lack of explanation undermines trust in government. I believe transparency must be paired with clear, accessible communication. As your council member, I’ll ensure that every major decision is not only visible to the public but also explained in a way that’s easy to understand. I plan to maintain an active online presence, highlighting city actions, local businesses, and community news. Mirroring my fellow North Carolina Army Officer Jeff Jackson, I’ll use social media to break down complex governmental affairs so that everyone, not just policy experts, can follow along and understand the issues affecting their day-to-day lives. Beyond that, I’ll launch a West Ward newsletter and hold regular town halls and listening sessions to keep communication open. Unlike my opponent, whose approach to community communication doesn’t extend beyond burying an official email on the city website, I aim to be accessible and engaged with the community at all times. This level of openness is what true accountability looks like.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
2020
Christopher Smith did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey.
See also
External links
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 19, 2024