
Trusted, Effective Leadership
Meet Christine
Christine Kushner has been a fierce and effective advocate for public education, health care access, and strong communities for more than three decades. She now seeks to add her voice and expertise to the Wake County Commission to expand access to health and social services, make housing more affordable, preserve our environment, and support our public school system.
Christine served on the Wake County Board of Education for 11 years, including terms as Chair and Vice Chair of the Board. She currently serves as a member of the Wake County Health and Human Services Board, with a focus on social services and public health. In 2023, Christine was appointed by Governor Roy Cooper to represent North Carolina on the Southern Regional Education Board.
This gives her the perfect background to serve on the Commission, where education, health, and safety make up over two-thirds of Wake County’s $2+ billion budget.
Christine has a long history of community service and leadership:
President of the Board of Directors for the Alice Aycock Poe Center for Health Education
Treasurer/Member, Wake County Health and Human Service Board
Chair, Lillian’s List Foundation
Chair, Wake County Board of Education
Chair, District 4 Board Advisory Council for School Board member Rosa Gill
PTA President, Hunter Elementary School
Member, Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council
Member and volunteer, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
A graduate of the Fayetteville City public schools, Christine holds a bachelor's degree from UNC Chapel Hill where she graduated as a Morehead Scholar, and a master's degree in public affairs from the School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University. She has worked as a health care policy analyst, nonprofit administrator, and freelance writer.
Endorsements
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State Senator Lisa Grafstein
“As the former chair of our School Board, Christine has a track record of tested and effective leadership in our community. She has been a valued partner in my work in the legislature, and I endorse her campaign for County Commissioner.”
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Former State Representative Rosa Gill
"I first met Christine 20 years ago, when she chaired the School Board Advisory Council for District 4. I have always found her to be someone who listens to the concerns of others. I support her campaign for County Commissioner, and I know she will lead with compassion.”
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State Representative Cynthia Ball
“Christine has a long history of public service to Wake County, and I am excited for her to return to public leadership here in Wake County.”
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Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson
"I endorse Christine in this race for Commission because she is an ideal candidate. She has served on the County Health and Human Service Board for the past three years with a high degree of engagement and sound judgment. She has a deep insight into the County's work in its core missions — human services and education."
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Wake County Commissioner Tara Waters
“Christine will make decisions based on fairness and inclusion, on behalf of all residents of our county, especially our most vulnerable populations. I look forward to supporting her campaign.”
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Wake County School Board Vice-Chair Tyler Swanson
“Christine will be a champion for our public schools, at a time when we need it most. She understands the complexity of the interwoven relationships between the Wake County Commission and the Wake County Public School System. She also understands that a strong public school system is necessary for a strong local economy that attracts and supports good jobs.”
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Wake County Register of Deeds Tammy Brunner
“Having Christine on the County Commission would be a great win for Wake County! I look forward to supporting her in this campaign, and I am #TeamChristine.”
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Lily Chen, Community Advocate and Public Health Educator
"Christine has supported and advocated for expanded mental health and wellness services for our immigrant community and all our residents. As the daughter of immigrants herself, Christine understands the special needs of global families living here in Wake County. She will listen and support strategies that strengthen community resources for our most vulnerable."
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Wake County School Board Member Sam Hershey
”Christine will make an excellent County Commissioner. Her knowledge of and dedication to our schools and community, and her commitment to standing up for what's right in these times, are just a few of the reasons why I'm proud to support her and to call her my friend.”
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Wake County School Board Member Toshiba Rice
"I have been alongside Christine Kushner for more than 15 years, fighting for our public school children. She understands the needs of vulnerable children who need a strong community to support their wellness and academic needs. I am happy to support my friend in this race for County Commissioner."
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Sandra Simpson, Wake County Business Leader
"I proudly endorse my friend Christine for the Wake County Commission. She believes elected officials should be stewards of taxpayer money, ensuring spending is prioritized and officials held accountable. Christine is also a passionate advocate for public schools, recognizing that a strong education system develops a skilled workforce, attracts businesses, and strengthens our local economy. Her integrity, experience, and dedication make her the best choice for this role."
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Wake County School Board Member Lynn Edmonds
“Christine came onto the School Board at a tumultuous time and brought steady leadership to our public schools. I am grateful for her engagement in our community, and I look forward to supporting her campaign.”
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Former Wake County School Board Member Tom Benton
“I am delighted that Christine Kushner is running for County Commissioner. When we served on the School Board together, she was a great partner for building consensus and finding shared goals.I was always impressed and appreciative of her time and effort to get to know the needs of each part of our county."
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Former Wake County School Board Member Heather Scott
Christine Kushner is an experienced leader who serves with compassion, fairness, and consideration for all. I had the privilege of serving with her on the Wake County Board of Education and appreciated her insight and dedication for our community. Christine will work hard to ensure all of Wake County is a safe place to work, live, and play.