Josh Stein

Joshua Harold Stein is a former member of the North Carolina State Senate, representing the 16th district from 2009 to 2016. A member of the Democratic Party, Stein's legislative career is marked by his focus on consumer protection, renewable energy, and public safety. He transitioned from the State Senate to serve as the Attorney General of North Carolina from 2017 to 2025, where he gained recognition for his efforts in addressing the opioid crisis and advocating for various consumer rights. In 2025, he became the 76th governor of North Carolina, making history as the state's first Jewish governor.

Early life and career

Josh Stein was born on September 13, 1966, in Washington, D.C., to Jane and Adam Stein, who were of Jewish descent. His family relocated to North Carolina during his childhood, ultimately settling in Chapel Hill. Stein's father co-founded North Carolina's first integrated law firm, which likely influenced Stein's interest in law and public service. He attended Chapel Hill High School, where he was a member of the state championship soccer team. After completing high school, Stein pursued higher education at Dartmouth College, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history in 1988. Following his undergraduate studies, he took on the role of an educator, teaching English and economics in Zimbabwe.

Stein's educational journey continued at Harvard Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree, as well as at the Kennedy School of Government. His early career included an internship with State Representative Dan Blue in the 1990s, which provided him with initial exposure to the legislative process. After graduating from law school, Stein worked for the Self-Help Credit Union and the North Carolina Minority Support Center, focusing on community development and support for minority businesses.

In 1998, Stein managed John Edwards's campaign for the U.S. Senate, which marked a significant step in his political career. Following the campaign, he served as Edwards's deputy chief of staff from January 1999 to December 2000. However, his tenure in this role was marked by controversy, as it was reported that Elizabeth Edwards had reservations about Stein's appointment due to concerns regarding transparency.

In 2001, Stein was appointed by North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper as Senior Deputy Attorney General for Consumer Protection, a position he held until his election to the State Senate in 2008. During this time, he gained valuable experience in legal matters and consumer advocacy. From 2012 to 2016, he served as of counsel at Smith Moore Leatherwood LLP, a regional law firm, further enhancing his legal expertise.

Legislative service

Stein entered the North Carolina State Senate after winning the election for the 16th district in 2008, defeating Republican incumbent John Alexander. His legislative service spanned from 2009 to 2016, during which he was reelected in 2010. His colleagues recognized his leadership abilities, electing him as minority whip.

Throughout his time in the Senate, Stein was involved in various legislative initiatives aimed at improving public safety and consumer protection. He worked on expanding the state's DNA database, which was intended to assist law enforcement in solving crimes. Additionally, he championed legislation to ban cyberstalking, reflecting a commitment to addressing emerging issues related to technology and personal safety.

Stein also focused on renewable energy policies, advocating for the extension and expansion of the state's renewable energy tax credit. This initiative aimed to promote sustainable energy practices and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, he prioritized improving school safety, recognizing the importance of creating secure environments for students and educators.

His tenure in the North Carolina Senate laid the groundwork for his subsequent political career, as he developed a reputation for addressing critical issues facing the state and advocating for the interests of his constituents.

Policy focus and district

During his time in the North Carolina State Senate, Stein's policy focus encompassed a range of issues that resonated with the needs of his district and the state as a whole. His commitment to consumer protection was evident in his efforts to expand the state's DNA database and ban cyberstalking, which aimed to enhance public safety and protect individuals from harm.

Stein's advocacy for renewable energy reflected a broader national conversation about climate change and sustainability. By supporting the extension and expansion of the renewable energy tax credit, he sought to encourage investment in clean energy technologies and promote economic growth within the state. This focus on renewable energy was particularly relevant to North Carolina, which has significant potential for solar and wind energy development.

In addition to these initiatives, Stein's work on school safety demonstrated his dedication to ensuring that educational environments were secure for students and staff. His legislative efforts in this area were part of a larger trend among lawmakers to address concerns about school violence and create safer learning spaces.

Stein's district, the 16th Senate district, encompasses a diverse population with varying needs and interests. His ability to navigate the complexities of state politics and advocate for policies that benefited his constituents contributed to his electoral success and established his reputation as a dedicated public servant.

In summary, Josh Stein's legislative career in the North Carolina State Senate was characterized by a focus on consumer protection, renewable energy, and public safety. His experiences and initiatives during this time laid the foundation for his later roles as Attorney General and Governor of North Carolina, where he continued to address pressing issues facing the state.