James Bailey — Candidate for Cabarrus County Commissioner

Quality Cabarrus is proud to support James Bailey for Cabarrus County Commissioner, a proven public servant with nearly three decades of experience protecting and serving our community, and a platform focused on responsible growth, fiscal discipline, and strong local leadership.

James Bailey
James BaileyRepublican

Meet James Bailey

James Bailey grew up in the Winecoff area of Concord/Kannapolis, walking to Winecoff Elementary and later attending Northwest Cabarrus Middle and High Schools, the same schools and neighborhoods that shaped so many Cabarrus County families. That deep, lifelong connection to our community is at the heart of why he’s running.

James spent 29 years with the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, starting in the Detention Center before moving to Patrol, where he saw firsthand both the challenges facing our community and the strength of the neighbors who show up for one another. In 2018, Sheriff Van Shaw appointed him Chief Deputy, a role in which James oversaw the Office’s day-to-day operations, including budget management, coordination with County leadership, and direct work with County Commissioners and state and federal legislators.

Since retiring from the Sheriff’s Office in 2023, James has continued serving Cabarrus County as the Assistant Director of Campus Health, Safety, and Security at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.

Above all, James is a family man. A husband to his wife Anna, a father, and a proud “Pawpaw” to five grandchildren, several of whom currently attend Cabarrus County Schools. That personal stake in the County’s future is part of what drives his commitment to smart, sustainable growth.

Why James Bailey Is the Right Choice for Cabarrus County

James brings a rare combination of hands-on public sector experience and genuine community roots to the Board of Commissioners. He has already spent decades working directly with County budgets, County management, and County Commissioners, meaning he understands how county government works from the inside, not just from campaign talking points.

James’ Platform

  • Keeping Taxes Low, Without Sacrificing Quality Services
    James is committed to keeping the tax rate as low as possible while still delivering the quality services Cabarrus County residents expect. Ensuring every tax dollar is spent wisely and to the direct benefit of citizens.

  • Promoting Economic Development
    James supports strong economic development as a key tool for keeping taxes lower for everyone. Bringing in new investment and jobs that strengthen the tax base rather than placing more burden on individual residents.

  • Investing in Water and Sewer Infrastructure
    James will work with municipalities to ensure adequate funding for the expansion of water and sewer resources, so residents have the basic services they need and local businesses have the infrastructure to operate and grow.

  • Planning for Growth the Right Way
    James believes the County must collaborate closely with municipalities to fully understand how growth is impacting local infrastructure, including our schools, so that Cabarrus County grows responsibly rather than reactively.

  • Making Every School Dollar Count
    James will work directly with the School Board to ensure funds are used efficiently and effectively, with a clear focus on making sure every dollar has a positive, measurable impact in the classroom.

  • Supporting Our Local Farmers
    James is committed to making sure Cabarrus County’s farmers have the resources they need to keep their farms running, many of which have been passed down through generations of local families.

  • Being a Voice in Raleigh
    James believes it’s essential to actively engage with our State Legislators, ensuring that the real effects of legislation coming out of Raleigh are understood and discussed before they impact Cabarrus County residents.

Why We Think He’s Right For The Job

James Bailey has spent his entire career serving Cabarrus County. First protecting our community as Chief Deputy, and now working to keep our schools and campuses safe. He understands county government, county budgets, and the everyday concerns of Cabarrus County families because he’s lived them. Quality Cabarrus believes James Bailey has the experience, judgment, and community commitment to be an effective, growth-minded voice on the Board of Commissioners.

Learn more or support James’s campaign at baileyforcabarrus.com.

Our Candidates & Issues

See where our preferred local leaders stand on the issues that matter most: jobs, economic growth, and responsible government in Cabarrus County, NC. Explore our candidate profiles and policy priorities to make an informed choice in the upcoming election.