A lifelong Robeson County resident, Senator Michael Walters was appointed to the Senate in November, 2009 by Governor Beverly Perdue. Senator Walters was then elected to represent the 13th Senate District 13 in November 2010. Senator Walters is proud to be a citizen of southeastern North Carolina and appreciates the rich cultural diversity and history of our unique, tri-racial area. Senator Walters believes that Robeson and Columbus Counties are special places whose residents are proud of their heritage and traditions. Senator Walters believes our uniqueness is a positive attribute for Columbus and Robeson Counties and provides tremendous potential for economic recruitment and development within our region.
After growing up on the family farm in Fairmont, Senator Walters attended North Carolina State University. After graduation, Senator Walters and his wife, Dr. Barbara Walters, returned to the family farm in Fairmont. Senator and Mrs. Walters are the parents of three daughters, two sons-in-law, and three grandsons. A dedicated alumnus, Senator Walters continues to serve his alma mater on the Board of Directors of the North Carolina State University Wolfpack Club.
After earning a degree in Agricultural Education, Senator Walters returned home to work for the family business. From 1978 until 2002, Senator Walters was the Secretary-Treasurer of the Claybourn Walters Logging Company, a company started by his grandfather, who then passed the ownership to Walters’ father. In 2003, Senator Walters became the third President of the Claybourn Walters Logging Company, Inc. Because of his close ties to the land through farming and timber, Senator Walters is keenly aware of the vast natural resources in Columbus and Robeson Counties and recognizes the economic growth potential they bring to our region.
Senator Walters’ committee assignments in the Senate include: Vice Chair of Agriculture/Environment/Natural Resources; Appropriations/Base Budget; Appropriations/Natural and Economic Resources; Finance; State and Local Government; Transportation; Select Committee on Energy, Science and Technology. He plans to continue to bring his small business expertise to these positions in Raleigh. Creating good paying jobs continues to be his number one priority and he promises continued support for initiatives to support small business and attract industry. Senator Walters believes the knowledge and experiences he gained firsthand while working for and owning a family-operated small business will help him get the people of Robeson and Columbus Counties back to work.
Senator Walters believes in the future of Robeson and Columbus Counties. He will continue to work diligently for future economic development and improved educational opportunities in our region.