Arthur Griffin Jr., a Democrat and Mecklenburg County commissioner at large, is seeking reelection on Nov. 3, 2026. The county election board lists Griffin, Leigh Altman and Yvette Townsend-Ingram as the Democratic candidates for three at-large seats.
Experience
The county’s official biography says Griffin was first elected commissioner in 2022 after a career that included 17 years on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school board, including chairmanship from 1997 to 2002.
It describes 20 years as a litigation paralegal at Legal Services of Southern Piedmont, later work as a senior vice president at McGraw-Hill Education, and Army service in Vietnam in 1970–71 before retirement as a lieutenant colonel.
His campaign biography lists graduation from Second Ward High School in 1966 and extensive community service.
Policy priorities
On his campaign issues page, Griffin emphasizes affordable housing, workforce preparation and collaboration among public institutions, employers and community partners.
He advocates equitable access to parks, greenways, clean air and water, and quality healthcare. His economic development priorities include inclusive job growth and training that prepares residents for technology, manufacturing and other careers.
Correction: An earlier version incorrectly named fellow candidate Yvette Townsend-Ingram as Benita Townsend-Ingram and confused Griffin’s school board chairmanship dates with his total board service. Those errors have been corrected.
