Senate Majority Leader Paul Newton, R-Cabarrus, is leaving his top role in the North Carolina Senate this week to pursue an opportunity outside of state government.
Newton publicly announced his retirement from the North Carolina Senate on Tuesday in a press release. Wednesday will be his last day serving at the North Carolina General Assembly.
“It has been an honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Cabarrus County for nearly a decade,” Newton said. “During that time, I’ve been able to play a small role in so many consequential pieces of legislation that have made an incredible impact on the lives of North Carolinians — from significantly reducing the tax burden for all families and supporting businesses of all sizes, to expanding educational opportunities. I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for the relationships that we’ve built over the years. I’m especially grateful to the Republican Caucus for electing me to majority leader. Your trust has meant the world to me.”
Newton has represented Cabarrus County in the North Carolina Senate since 2016. Throughout his time in the Senate, Newton held several leadership roles. From 2023 to 2025, he served as the Majority Leader, leading the Senate Republican Caucus. He also co-chaired the Senate Finance Committee and the Redistricting and Elections Committees.
Senate President Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, praised Newton’s contributions to the state and said he looks forward to seeing what he will accomplish outside of the General Assembly.
“Paul has been a valued voice and leader in the Republican Caucus and the Senate for years,” Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) said. “He’s provided a calm presence and wise counsel to many legislators during his time in Raleigh. He was always willing to tackle the tough subjects and never wavered from his convictions.”
When it comes to filling his seat, the Cabarrus County Republican Party will nominate a candidate for the 2025-2026 biennium. Senate Republicans will meet to select a new majority leader.
Newton introduced Senate Bill 261 earlier this month, which aims to revise the state’s interim carbon reduction goals. The bill could significantly impact North Carolina’s long-term energy plans, though its status remains uncertain with Newton’s departure.
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