Representative Dan Bishop, a prominent Republican member of the Freedom Caucus who represents District 8, has announced his decision to step down from his congressional seat in order to run for the position of North Carolina attorney general. This decision has sparked intense competition for the role, historically dominated by Democrats.

Bishop stated in an interview with Charlotte radio station WBT that the time is right to reinforce support for prosecutors and frontline law enforcement officers in North Carolina. He will be making an official announcement on Friday, confirming his intention to seek the attorney general position.

The competition for this open seat is expected to be fierce. Incumbent Attorney General Josh Stein, a Democrat, is running for the state's gubernatorial seat in 2024, leaving the attorney general position up for grabs.