Bell and Hampson to Face Off for Appeals Court Seat
The candidates will compete for North Carolina Court of Appeals Seat 2 in the upcoming November election.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Elections
Live Poll
Should judges be permitted to make public political statements while serving on the bench?
Republican George Bell and Democratic incumbent Toby Hampson will run for North Carolina Court of Appeals Seat 2 on Nov. 3, 2026. Both candidates recently shared their views on key issues in a survey conducted by state media outlets.
Why it matters
Voters will decide the composition of the state's appellate bench, choosing between a veteran of the Mecklenburg County Superior Court and an incumbent who has served on the appeals court since 2019.
The race features 48-year-old George Bell, a Mecklenburg County Superior Court judge, and 50-year-old incumbent Toby Hampson, who has held his seat since 2019. Candidates participated in a survey by The News & Observer and Charlotte Observer.
The players
George Bell
He is the Republican candidate for the seat and currently serves as a Mecklenburg County Superior Court judge.
Toby Hampson
He is the Democratic incumbent candidate who has served on the North Carolina Court of Appeals since 2019.
The details
Candidates George Bell and Toby Hampson have completed a questionnaire regarding their opinions on issues facing North Carolina voters. The race provides a direct choice for citizens regarding the future direction of the state's judicial system.
Timeline
The election for North Carolina Court of Appeals Seat 2 is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.
Political Context
Opposition parties often argue that judicial elections should be depoliticized to ensure total impartiality on the bench. Conversely, supporters of the current system contend that electing judges keeps the judiciary accountable to the values of North Carolina voters.
This election determines who will influence legal precedents and judicial review processes for the residents of North Carolina. Voters should review the candidate questionnaires to understand how each judge's approach to the law may impact state regulations.
The takeaway
The upcoming election offers a clear contrast between an experienced incumbent and a challenger with extensive background in both defense and trial court work. Voters can evaluate these candidates' judicial philosophies to decide which approach best serves the interests of the state.
Further reading
Learn more about the upcoming Elections in North Carolina to understand the broader state judicial landscape.
Live Poll
Should judges be permitted to make public political statements while serving on the bench?
