Unlike just about everyone else who is running to unseat an incumbent in 2026, Republican Mike Hager is not a political newcomer, not by a long shot. He served as state representative for District 112 for six years, finishing up as House Majority Leader — until 2016, when he gave up his seat to look after his parents. Back then, his home in Rutherford County was in District 112. Now it’s in 113, along with Polk, Henderson, and little bit of McDowell counties. Hager’s obligations aren’t quite an onerous now, and he wants back in the game. 

Over the past eight years, he’s kept a hand in politics, working behind the scenes as what he calls a “State Government Relations Specialist.” He’s on the local Habitat for Humanity board and is a member of the Greenhill Volunteer Fire Department.

And he thinks his opponent, Jake Johnson, who is literally half his age, is vulnerable.  This could be the race to watch during next spring's primaries. We talked at the Saluda Library earlier this month.

Resources

NC State Board of Elections Results

Cody Henson resigns

Jake Johnson to run again

Mike Hager campaign