Mike Clampitt
Mike Clampitt, the Republican state House representative for District 119, which includes Jackson, Swain and Transylvania counties, has passed away at the age of 71 after a battle with cancer. Clampitt was seeking election to a fifth term in office and had recently secured a decisive victory in the Republican primary earlier this month.
Clampitt was set to face Democrat Mark Burrows of Transylvania County, whom he defeated in the 2024 General Election, in the upcoming November race. His passing leaves a vacancy in the 119th District seat.
According to state law, Gov. Josh Stein must appoint Clampitt’s successor within seven days of receiving a recommendation from the Republican Party. That recommendation will be determined by a weighted vote of the GOP executive committees from Jackson, Swain and Transylvania counties, with Jackson and Transylvania counties carrying greater weight due to their larger Republican voter bases. The appointee will fill the remainder of Clampitt’s term, which expires at the start of next year.
Clampitt, a former firefighter, was remembered by colleagues and leaders from both parties for his dedication to Western North Carolina and for his compassion.
“He was one of a kind and he will be missed. He was a fellow legislator, a close friend, as well as an outspoken advocate for Western NC. Rest in peace our friend,” said Sen. Kevin Corbin.
Gov. Stein, recalling Clampitt’s leadership in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, said, “Before I was sworn in as Governor, Representative Mike Clampitt was one of the first people I called as we worked to rebuild western NC after Hurricane Helene. He was a steadfast public servant for his community in WNC, and I am saddened by the news of his passing. May his memory be a blessing.”
District 120 representative Karl Gillespie added, “Mike possessed a rare kind of generosity and selflessness; the type of person who would drop everything to help someone in need. He was truly a dedicated public servant to his district and far western North Carolina. I am proud to have served alongside him in the North Carolina House, but more importantly, to have called him a friend.”
A funeral service will be held for Clampitt at 1 p.m. April 4 at the Bardo Arts Center at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee. Public viewing will begin after doors open at 10:30 a.m. Following the service, a procession of firefighters and state troopers will escort the casket to Lauada Cemetery in Bryson City for a final committal.
- Josh Bryson
editor@highlandsnews.com