First elected in 2016, Clampitt lost his reelection bid in 2018 to Waynesville Democrat Joe Sam Queen but rebounded to win in 2020, 2022 and most recently 2024. His district, which has changed over time, now includes Jackson, Swain and Transylvania counties.

A Swain County native and retired Charlotte fire captain, Clampitt has focused on public safety, disaster recovery and leveraging seniority in the legislature. He highlighted his record of securing substantial infrastructure funds and has been known for accessibility by constituents.

Anna Ferguson, born and raised in the Qualla Community and an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, has business experience in family electrical contracting and retail. Ferguson came up short with 37.54% of the vote. Mike Yow, a first-time candidate positioning himself as a grassroots conservative outside Raleigh’s power structure, secured 6% of the vote. 

Clampitt will go on to face Transylvania County Democrat Mark Burrows in November. Burrows lost to Clampitt in 2024.

Check back with The Smoky Mountain News for full results and detailed analysis across Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties in our March 11 issue.