Depending on whom district Republicans select, the decision could also reshape western North Carolina’s representation in Raleigh and trigger additional nomination contests across the region. Wyatt spent decades in local government administration, including 15 years managing Henderson County, before running for county commissioner this year. It must determine which contender can represent western North Carolina effectively in Washington without unnecessarily weakening the region elsewhere. It may also reshape where western North Carolina’s political influence resides at the moment the region needs it most. “Western NC’s next representative must be ready Day One” was originally published on www.carolinajournal.com.