Republican John Rhodes is challenging Democratic incumbent Beth Gardner Helfrich for North Carolina House District 98 in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election.
Rhodes previously represented the district from 2003 to 2007. He is 59, attended UNC Wilmington and has worked as a real estate broker, according to WFAE’s voter guide. He also previously served as a Cornelius town commissioner.
Experience
His campaign website describes his work as a Mecklenburg County medic, firefighter and owner of Rhodes Realty of Lake Norman. It also lists service as vice chairman of the House Aging Committee, an MPO representative for Cornelius and chairman of the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce Legislative Affairs Roundtable.
On the issues
The following positions are Rhodes’ statements on his campaign website.
Taxes and spending: Rhodes describes himself as a fiscal conservative and says he sponsored a Taxpayer Bill of Rights. He argues that state government should prioritize its spending rather than seek more revenue.
Transportation: He calls for reviewing and reassessing I-77 tolling and its fees.
Public safety: He supports law enforcement and says he wants to combat what he calls “illegal invaders” entering communities.
Education: His website calls for more responsive, manageable public education for North Mecklenburg parents and students.
Recognition
His campaign also cites a past North Carolina Legislator of the Year award from Americans for Prosperity.
This profile is based on publicly available reporting and campaign materials. Campaign statements are attributed to the candidate.
