Craig Collins, a Republican Superior Court judge from Gaston County, is running against Democrat Christine Marie Walczyk for North Carolina Court of Appeals Seat 3 in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. The official candidate list confirms the matchup.
Experience and education
According to his campaign biography, Collins earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1994 and a law degree from Villanova in 1997. He lists service as an assistant district attorney in 1997–2006, ownership of a private law practice in 2007–16, District Court service in 2016–24 and his current role as a Superior Court judge.
Judicial approach
In his State Board of Elections Judicial Voter Guide statement, Collins emphasizes following the Constitution, protecting rights and avoiding making law from the bench. He argues that experience in trial courts prepares judges for appellate work.
Collins points to his prosecution, private practice and judicial experience as qualifications. He also identifies community safety as a priority. These descriptions reflect his stated judicial philosophy.
