RALEIGH, N.C. — The State Board of Elections today announced that Gov. Pat McCrory has awarded Don Wright The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one the state’s most prestigious civilian honors. Wright will retire Monday from his post as longtime general counsel to the Board of Elections. He is a 30-year veteran of state government.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to have served the people of North Carolina and for the many friends I’ve made along the way,” said Wright.
Wright practiced law in Goldsboro and started a family with his wife, Julie, before joining the Department of Insurance as a deputy commissioner in 1985. Wright transitioned to the Department of Justice in 1991, where he remained until joining the State Board of Elections as its general counsel in 2000.
“Wright has provided consistent support to the 100 county boards of election and helped to improve elections administration in our state,” said Executive Director Kim Westbrook Strach. “His absence will be deeply felt.”
Wright plans to re-enter private practice in Apex, focusing on elections-related issues.