ASHEVILLE — Approximately 3,000 people attended a concert rally with Jamie Ager at Asheville Yards last week as he campaigns against Republican state Representative Jennifer Balkcom for the North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District seat. The outcome of this contest is expected to be crucial in determining control of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Supporters donned campaign merchandise, including trucker hats and shirts featuring “Ager for U.S. Congress” in the campaign’s distinctive kelly green color. Many attendees urged one another to engage in door-to-door canvassing and polling efforts. Signs expressing local pride, such as “I’m a mountain Democrat and proud of it,” were visible among the crowd.
The Cook Political Report categorizes this race as a “toss up,” and Democrats view Ager as their strongest candidate for a district that has leaned Republican for about 35 years. Patricia Derrough, a long-time supporter, praised Ager’s character, saying, “He is honest, hardworking, and has good values. Just what Western North Carolina needs by working for all the people, not just the wealthy.”
Ager is a fourth-generation farmer who operates Hickory Nut Gap Farm, selling grass-fed beef, pastured pork, and eggs to local businesses and customers. He shared that his sons are involved in farm activities, stating, “It’s a good job for them, to give a little hayride and give those people a little perspective on growing up here on the farm.”
Balkcom, Ager’s opponent, also has deep local roots; her family has lived in Western North Carolina for eight generations. She grew up on her family’s apple farm in Henderson County and is known in her community as a mortgage loan officer.
The campaign trail
The 11th District spans 16 counties over roughly 6,200 square miles, featuring mountainous terrain that complicates travel. Trump won the district decisively in the last three elections, and it has elected only one Democrat, Heath Shuler, to Congress since 1991. Earlier this year, GOP incumbent Chuck Edwards withdrew from the race after facing allegations of inappropriate conduct, prompting his party to select Balkcom as his replacement with about three months remaining to campaign.
Ager began his campaign nearly 18 months ago, traveling extensively to meet voters throughout the district. “One thing I hear over and over again is that people in this country are sick and tired of partisan politics,” he noted, emphasizing his commitment to addressing constituents’ needs. He aims to focus on reducing the cost of living and combating political corruption.
Balkcom seeks to build on her legislative experience and has already engaged in efforts to support Hurricane Helene recovery. She noted, “I want to work hard for the people that live here, and that’s what we were voted in to do.”
Political analysts have pointed out that Balkcom’s short campaigning window and perceived inexperience may pose challenges. David McLennan, a political scientist, commented, “When you have a real short window of opportunity, it makes it difficult to campaign.” Balkcom has not been available for interviews related to her campaign.
In terms of campaign strategy, both candidates have released advertisements targeting local voters. Ager’s ad included footage of his supporters at a barn dance, stressing community connection. Balkcom’s advertisement focused on her familial values, including a story about her mother’s strength in a crisis.
As the race progresses, Republicans and Democrats alike are watching the shifting political tides in North Carolina amid mounting economic concerns and fluctuating approval ratings for national figures. With early voting starting soon, turnout and engagement will be critical factors as the candidates head into the final stretch of their campaigns.
