Don Brown Campaigns for US Senate as Local Pols Face Scrutiny Over Crime

North Carolina Republican Senate candidate discusses his campaign as Mecklenburg Sheriff faces tough questions on jail management and immigration enforcement.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Don Brown, a Republican candidate for the US Senate in North Carolina, joined a local radio show to discuss his campaign and how he would challenge Democrat Roy Cooper. Meanwhile, North Carolina lawmakers grilled Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden over his management of the county jail and his refusal to fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.

Why it matters

The US Senate race in North Carolina is expected to be highly competitive, with the seat currently held by a Democrat. Brown's campaign and his positioning against the incumbent could have significant implications for the balance of power in the Senate. Additionally, the scrutiny facing Sheriff McFadden highlights ongoing debates around criminal justice reform, immigration policy, and the role of local law enforcement.

The details

During the radio interview, Brown discussed his campaign platform and strategy for taking on the Democratic incumbent. He criticized Cooper's record and sought to position himself as a stronger advocate for conservative values. Meanwhile, state lawmakers pressed McFadden on issues such as jail overcrowding, inmate safety, and his department's cooperation with federal immigration authorities. McFadden defended his policies, arguing that his priority is public safety rather than immigration enforcement.

  • Don Brown joined the radio show on February 9, 2026.
  • North Carolina lawmakers grilled Sheriff McFadden during a recent legislative hearing.

The players

Don Brown

A Republican candidate for the US Senate in North Carolina, challenging the incumbent Democrat.

Roy Cooper

The incumbent Democratic US Senator from North Carolina, who is being challenged by Brown.

Garry McFadden

The Mecklenburg County Sheriff, who has faced scrutiny from state lawmakers over his management of the county jail and his approach to immigration enforcement.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold our leaders accountable and fight for the conservative values that North Carolinians deserve.”

— Don Brown, Republican US Senate Candidate (wbt.com)

“My priority is public safety, not immigration enforcement. I will continue to do what's best for the people of Mecklenburg County.”

— Garry McFadden, Mecklenburg County Sheriff (wbt.com)

What’s next

The North Carolina Senate race is expected to be a closely watched contest, with both parties vying for the seat. Brown's campaign will likely continue to ramp up in the coming months as he seeks to gain traction against the incumbent. Meanwhile, the scrutiny facing Sheriff McFadden is likely to persist, with lawmakers and community members closely monitoring his management of the county jail and his approach to immigration enforcement.

The takeaway

The dynamics of the North Carolina Senate race and the ongoing debates around criminal justice reform and immigration policy highlight the complex and often contentious nature of local and national politics. Voters in the state will have important decisions to make as they weigh the competing visions and priorities of the candidates and elected officials.