Garland E. Pierce is a Democratic member of the North Carolina House of Representatives, representing District 48, which includes Hoke and Scotland counties. He has served in this role since 2005, making him one of the longest-serving members in the state legislature. Pierce earned a Bachelor of Science from Fayetteville State University and a Master of Divinity from Shaw Divinity School. Before his political career, he served in the U.S. Army from 1971 to 1974 and has been a dedicated Baptist minister.

Throughout his tenure, Pierce has been an advocate for issues such as economic development, education, and veterans' affairs. He has held leadership positions, including serving as the Democratic Conference Chair in 2016 and as the Democratic Whip from 2017 to 2020. In the 2023-2024 legislative session, he was appointed to several key committees, including Appropriations, Commerce (as Vice Chair), Health, and Military and Veterans Affairs.

Pierce's commitment to his constituents and his extensive experience have made him a respected figure in North Carolina politics. He continues to focus on policies that aim to improve the quality of life for residents in his district and across the state.