Rodney D. Pierce is a Democratic member of the North Carolina House of Representatives, representing District 27, which includes Halifax, Northampton, and Warren counties. A native of Roanoke Rapids, Pierce has a background in education, having earned an Associate in Arts from Halifax Community College and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from North Carolina Wesleyan University. He has served as a middle school social studies teacher and was recognized as the North Carolina Council for the Social Studies Teacher of the Year in 2019.
In the 2024 Democratic primary, Pierce won by emphasizing a platform focused on fully funding public education, protecting voting rights, and advocating for equitable economic development in northeastern North Carolina.
Throughout his career, Pierce has been a dedicated advocate for educational equity and social justice. He has served on the North Carolina Governor's Teacher Advisory Committee and is affiliated with organizations such as the State Employees Association of North Carolina and the American Federation of Teachers. As a legislator, Pierce aims to address issues like affordable housing, healthcare access, and economic development to improve the quality of life for his constituents.