A Public Servant, Not a Politician
“I want to see my community win.”
Combat veteran. Community builder. Independent thinker. CJ Turrentine is running for Vance County Commissioner to bring leadership rooted in service, not politics.
Three Promises to District 3
Respect
Treating everyone with dignity—even those I disagree with
Honesty
Speaking truth and leading with integrity, always
Real Effort
Showing up consistently and putting people first
Leadership Rooted in Service
From serving in Iraq to serving Henderson, CJ brings the discipline and heart to make real change in Vance County.
Combat Veteran
Served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom as an infantry dismount team leader and assistant Bradley Fighting Vehicle gunner with the U.S. Army and NC National Guard. “If I can serve America in the military, I can definitely serve my community here.”
Faith-Driven Values
A lifelong Henderson resident and Davis Chapel member, CJ's leadership is grounded in grace, compassion, and “loving your neighbor.” These values guide every decision he makes.
Independent Thinker
CJ runs as an independent because he believes in holding his ground and bringing “a ray of sunshine” to effect real change—not playing partisan politics.
Leadership Experience
- Chair, Henderson Community-Wide Advisory Committee
- Vance Charter School Board of Directors
- Director, Community Partners of Hope Men's Shelter (5 years)
- Salvation Army Advisory Board Member
- Leadership Vance Class of 2025 Graduate
- Sam Watkins Visionary Award Recipient (2025)
“Most Likely to Be an Elected Official”
— Voted by Leadership Vance classmates
Changing the Narrative
Vance County has been labeled “Tier 1” for over 30 years. It's time for a champion who will fight for our future.
Public Safety First
As the #1 priority, CJ will build on his Pathways 2 Peace work to address gun violence and make our streets safer for families.
Education & Youth
Investing in young people through mentorship, trades education, and creating safe spaces. Strong families build strong communities.
Economic Development
Being a 'cheerleader' for Vance County—leveraging Tier 1 status to attract businesses, infrastructure, and good jobs.
Community Revitalization
Extending the Chestnut Street Park model to other neighborhoods, investing in the places that need it most.
Regional Collaboration
Working with Franklin, Warren, and Granville counties to bring shared resources and opportunities to our region.
Accessible Government
Making county government practical and approachable—so every citizen feels heard and has a real voice in their community's future.
Track Record of Impact
CJ doesn't just talk—he delivers. Here are the organizations and projects he's championed.
Chestnut Street Park
8-year transformation of a neglected court into Henderson's premier community space.
Historic site: Former J.P. Taylor tobacco barn, near Davis Chapel—a Green Book safe haven.
Community Partners of Hope
The Hope House
After 5 years leading the Men's Homeless Shelter, CJ helped develop The Hope House—transitional housing where men rebuild their lives through financial literacy and life skills.
Pathways 2 Peace
501(c)(3) Coalition
CJ founded this coalition to fight gun violence after Vance County recorded NC's highest rate of firearm ER visits. Building bridges between community, faith leaders, and government.
District 3 (Sandy Creek)
5,732 residents in rural eastern Vance County. One of the county's most diverse districts.
The 2022 primary was decided by just 10 votes.
The current commissioner was appointed in January 2025, not elected.
District 3 (light blue) • Sandy Creek, Dabney, Townsville
Vance County News & Events
What's happening in our community
Vance County Board of Commissioners
Regular meetings held first and third Mondays at 6:00 PM in the County Administration Building.
View Agendas & MinutesHenderson Daily Dispatch
Your source for local news covering Henderson, Vance County, and the surrounding area.
Read Local NewsKerr-Tar Regional COG
Regional planning and development resources for Vance County and surrounding areas.
Explore ResourcesHelp CJ Get on the Ballot
As an independent candidate, CJ needs petition signatures from registered voters in District 3 to earn ballot access. The deadline is noon on March 3, 2026.
Time remaining to submit signatures:
How to Sign the Petition
Who Can Sign?
- Registered voters in District 3
- Any party affiliation—Democrat, Republican, or Unaffiliated
- Must sign in person with original signature
How to Sign?
- Call/text (252) 204-9334 — CJ will come to you!
- Sign up online below and we'll arrange a meeting
- Community events throughout District 3
Sign Up Online
Let us know you want to sign the petition! We'll reach out to arrange an in-person signing.
I may not have all the answers, but I pledge to lead with integrity and always put people first.— CJ Turrentine
Join the Movement
Collectively, we will change the narrative. Whether you want to sign the petition, volunteer, or just learn more—CJ wants to hear from you.