Eugene Myrick

This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.

Eugene Myrick

Nonpartisan

Elections and appointments

Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

High school

Thomas Jefferson High School

Bachelor's

Shaw University, 1994

Personal

Birthplace

New York, N.Y.

Religion

Baptist

Profession

Entrepreneur

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Campaign Twitter

Campaign Instagram

Campaign TikTok

Eugene Myrick ran for election for Mayor of Raleigh in North Carolina. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Myrick completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Eugene Myrick was born in New York, New York. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from Shaw University in 1994. His career experience includes working as an entrepreneur, special education teacher, and community liasion. He has been affiliated with the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated.

Elections

2024

See also: Mayoral election in Raleigh, North Carolina (2024)

General election

General election for Mayor of Raleigh

Janet Cowell defeated Paul Fitts, Terrance Ruth, Eugene Myrick, and James Shaughnessy IV in the general election for Mayor of Raleigh on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Janet Cowell (Nonpartisan)	59.7	132,315
		Paul Fitts (Nonpartisan)	18.3	40,688
		Terrance Ruth (Nonpartisan)	11.4	25,355
		Eugene Myrick (Nonpartisan)	6.5	14,359
		James Shaughnessy IV (Nonpartisan)	3.6	8,038
		Other/Write-in votes	0.5	1,045

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 221,800
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Endorsements

Myrick received the following endorsements.

• Arab Caucus of North Carolina Democratic Party
• Solidarity with Humanity
• Young Americans Protest

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Eugene Myrick completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Myrick's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Eugene Myrick and my background is rooted in a deep commitment to community service and advocacy. I come from a family of hard workers which include a long line of civil servants including law enforcement, sanitation workers and teachers. I graduated from Shaw University in 1994 and began my career working as a special education teacher in the New York City Public School System. Upon returning to Raleigh I worked in the Wake County Public School System. My job with WCPSS entailed working one-on-one with children that were residents at Dorothea Dix Hospital. My experience working closely with community organizations and advocating for issues such as historic preservation and affordable housing has fueled my desire to take a more active role in shaping our city. My motivation to run for mayor stems from a longstanding passion for ensuring that every resident has a voice. I have been extremely vocal at countless city council meetings, advocating for fair property tax assessments, environmental justice, responsible development and better conditions for our seniors, legacy residents and low wage earners. My approach is guided by the principles of Leadership, Empathy, Accountability & Diversity and I am dedicated to fostering a transparent, inclusive, and responsive city government.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Redefining Affordability: Prioritizing Raleigh's Residents Our city's growth should benefit all its residents, not just a select few. I am committed to redefining affordability by implementing policies that align housing costs with Neighborhood Median Income rather than the broader Area Median Income. This ensures that our local families can afford to stay in the communities they love, without being priced out by skyrocketing costs.
• People Before Profit: Responsible Development for a Livable Raleigh Overdevelopment in Raleigh has led to congestion, environmental degradation, and the displacement of long-term residents. I believe in putting people before profit by advocating for responsible growth that respects our neighborhoods, preserves our historic districts, and prioritizes sustainable development. Our city's future should be built on equity and inclusivity, not on unchecked corporate interests.
• Supporting Public Safety Workers and Teachers: Investing In Our Community's Backbone Public safety workers and teachers are the backbone of our community. I am dedicated to advocating for better wages, benefits, and working conditions for our firefighters, police officers, and educators. By supporting those who serve and educate our residents, we ensure a safer, stronger, and more vibrant Raleigh for everyone.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Affordable Housing and Equitable Development

I am deeply committed to redefining affordability in Raleigh. I want to advocate for housing policies that align costs with Neighborhood Median Income to ensure that residents are not displaced due to rising costs. I also support equitable neighborhood development to prevent gentrification and the erosion of historic districts.

Community Engagement and Shared Governance

I am a strong advocate for community involvement in local government. I support the revitalization of Citizen Advisory Councils (CACs) and believe in fostering shared governance by listening to and acting on the concerns of Raleigh residents.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Renegade by Barack Obama provides an in-depth look at Obama's journey as a leader who values empathy, equity, and service. The book chronicles his rise from community organizer to President, illustrating his commitment to bringing people together across divides, fighting for the underrepresented, and striving for systemic change. Obama's emphasis on grassroots activism, responsible governance, and the power of hope mirrors the political philosophy of prioritizing people over profit, fostering inclusive development, and ensuring that leadership is rooted in integrity and accountability. Renegade offers insights into the importance of vision, resilience, and the belief that government can and should be a force for good—a philosophy that aligns with the values essential for leading a city like Raleigh.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity- Elected officials must act with honesty and transparency, making decisions that are in the best interest of their constituents. Integrity builds trust between officials and the public, ensuring that actions are driven by principle rather than personal gain.

Empathy- Understanding and compassion are crucial for addressing the needs and concerns of all community members, especially the most vulnerable. An empathetic official listens to their constituents and considers the human impact of policies.

Accountability- Elected officials should be accountable for their actions and decisions. This means being willing to take responsibility, admit mistakes, and ensure that their work is open to public scrutiny.

Leadership-Strong leadership involves guiding the community through challenges with vision, decisiveness, and a commitment to serving the public good. It requires the ability to inspire others and mobilize resources to achieve common goals.

Equity- An effective elected official prioritizes fairness and justice, ensuring that policies and decisions do not disproportionately harm any group. Equity means advocating for those who have been historically marginalized and working to create opportunities for all.

Collaboration- Working with others, including colleagues, community organizations, and constituents, is key to effective governance. Creating strategic alliances will foster diverse perspectives and leads to more comprehensive and inclusive solutions.

Commitment to Public Service -Prioritizing the needs of the community over personal interests and consistently working to improve the lives of constituents.

Transparency -Officials should always ensure that their actions are clear and accessible to the public, fostering an environment of openness and accountability.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I’m known for being extremely vocal and not biting my tongue. This honesty ensures transparency and builds trust with constituents, as they know they’re getting the unvarnished truth.

I’m not afraid to speak out and address issues head-on. This courage is crucial for tackling tough problems and advocating for meaningful change, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular.

My straightforward approach is rooted in a commitment to doing what’s right. I prioritize transparency and accountability, ensuring that my decisions and actions are always in the best interest of the community.

My passion for addressing issues and speaking up for those who may not have a voice drives my effectiveness. I’m dedicated to making a difference and bringing about positive change through assertive and informed leadership.

These qualities ensure that I am not only an effective communicator but also a principled and action-oriented leader, committed to serving the community with honesty and determination.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Leading with integrity, advocating for the needs of ALL residents, and ensuring equitable development that benefits the entire community. The mayor must prioritize public safety, support public servants, and foster transparent, inclusive governance. They should champion sustainable growth for the city's environment and historic districts, and promote economic opportunities that uplift local businesses and residents alike. Ultimately, the mayor should serve as a unifying voice, guiding Raleigh toward a prosperous and inclusive future.

A mayor is a leader in his or her city. What does that mean to you?

To me, being a mayor means leading with integrity, empathy, and a commitment to putting people before profit. It involves listening to the needs of the community and acting as a unifying force that brings people together across divides. Leadership as a mayor means being accountable, transparent, and making decisions that prioritize the well-being of all residents. It’s about championing equitable development, supporting public safety workers and teachers, and ensuring that every voice is heard and valued in the city’s future. It's about being a voice for the voiceless. Ultimately, it’s about serving the community with a proven record of leadership that is rooted in trust and shared governance.

If the mayor in your city is a member of the city council and there's a city manager appointed to handle the day-to-day administration of the city government, what do you believe should be the mayor's top priority in office?

If the mayor is a member of the city council and a city manager handles day-to-day administration, the mayor's top priority should be to serve as a visionary leader and advocate for the community's needs. The mayor should focus on setting the strategic direction for the city, ensuring that the policies and initiatives enacted by the council align with the values and priorities of the residents.

This includes fostering collaboration among council members, holding the city manager accountable for implementing the council's vision effectively, and being a strong voice for equitable development, public safety, and community engagement. The mayor should also prioritize transparency and open communication, ensuring that the public is informed and involved in the decision-making process. Ultimately, the mayor's role is to lead with integrity and to be the champion for the people, ensuring that the city government serves all residents fairly and effectively.

What do you love most about your city?

What I love most about Raleigh is its vibrant, diverse community and the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions that come together to create a unique and dynamic environment. I hosted a unity rally last year in downtown and the sense of unity and shared purpose among residents was and continues to be truly inspiring. There’s a deep commitment to fostering inclusivity, growth, and resilience. I also cherish the city's beautiful aesthetics, historic neighborhoods, and the spirit of innovation and collaboration that drives our local initiatives. It’s this combination of community spirit, cultural richness, and forward-thinking that makes our city such a special place to live and work.

What do you perceive to be your city's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Over the next decade, our city faces significant challenges, including rising taxes, displacement, the erasure of historic neighborhoods, and increased homelessness. The housing crisis will worsen if we don’t take proactive measures, and our public safety workers need competitive pay to attract and retain the best talent.

To address these challenges, we must implement a comprehensive approach:

Affordable Housing and Development: We need to redefine affordability by linking housing costs to Neighborhood Median Income rather than Area Median Income. This ensures housing remains accessible for long-term residents and prevents displacement. Additionally, we should enforce responsible development practices that preserve historic neighborhoods and prevent overdevelopment.

Public Safety and Workforce Support: To remain competitive and ensure our public safety workers are fairly compensated, we must review and adjust salaries and benefits to match or exceed those of neighboring counties. Investing in our public safety workforce is crucial for maintaining a high standard of service and safety in our city.

Homelessness and Support Services: We need a robust plan to address homelessness that includes increasing support services, affordable housing options, and preventive measures to address the root causes of homelessness. Collaboration with local organizations and stakeholders will be key to creating sustainable solutions.

By focusing on these areas, we can tackle the most pressing issues facing our city and build a future that is equitable, sustainable, and vibrant for all residents.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between your city and the state government?

The ideal relationship between our city and the state government should be one of collaborative partnership and mutual support. This relationship should be characterized by:

Shared Goals and Vision: Both city and state governments should align on common objectives for the community, such as economic development, infrastructure improvement, and public safety. This alignment ensures that policies and initiatives are cohesive and effectively address the needs of residents.

Respect for Local Autonomy: The state government should respect the city’s autonomy to make decisions that best reflect the unique needs and priorities of its residents. Local officials have a better understanding of their community’s specific challenges and opportunities.

Effective Communication and Coordination: Regular and transparent communication between city and state officials is essential for addressing issues promptly and effectively. Coordination ensures that resources and support are allocated efficiently and that both levels of government work together to solve problems. Current administration has had the tendency to point fingers and quickly fall back on the excuse that certain issues are not in their jurisdiction. An alliance is definitely necessary to build a better city for all residents.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between your city and the federal government?

The federal government should provide essential support and funding to help cities address major challenges, such as infrastructure improvements, affordable housing, and public safety. This support is crucial for cities to implement effective programs and projects that benefit their residents. Additionally, both the city and federal government should uphold high standards of accountability and transparency in their interactions. This ensures that federal funds are used effectively and that the city’s policies and initiatives are aligned with federal regulations and goals.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the mayor's office and law enforcement?

I propose strengthening the relationship between the mayor's office, law enforcement and the citizens they serve. A prime example of this is to implement programs such as a Police Athletic League (PAL); in New York City there are after school programs and summer camps run by police officers and members of the community. This approach builds trust and improves communication. Additionally, we must continue to invest in and improve the ACORNS program (Addressing Crisis through Outreach, Referrals, Networking & Services). All public safety issues do not require someone with a gun and a badge to be on the scene. The ACORNS unit provides professionals who are trained to deal with individuals having a mental health or substance abuse crisis. Furthermore, we must provide support and resources for all of our public safety personnel. We do this by ensuring that our fire and emergency services have the necessary resources, training, and support to effectively respond to incidents. This includes advocating for competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, and up-to-date equipment to safeguard our first responders and enable them to perform their duties safely.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

No, the endorsement phase has just begun.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are absolutely essential for a healthy democracy. As a grassroots candidate without corporate backing, I believe that every dollar spent by our government should be fully transparent and accessible to the public. The people have the right to know how their tax dollars are being used, and leaders must be held accountable for every decision made.

When financial dealings are hidden or unclear, it erodes trust and leaves room for corruption and misuse of public funds. I am a huge proponent of putting people before profit, and that means ensuring that government actions are driven by the needs of the community, not by special interests or backroom deals. My commitment to transparency is a commitment to the people of Raleigh —because their voice, their needs, and their concerns should always come first. If elected, I will fight tirelessly to make sure that Raleigh's government operates openly, honestly, and with the highest level of accountability.

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.

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