Michael A. Lazzara, is a Republican and represents District 6 in the North Carolina State Senate. He assumed office on January 1, 2021, and his current term ends on January 1, 2025. Born in Palermo, Sicily, Italy, Lazzara was raised in Chicago. His military service includes serving in the United States Marine Corps from 1982 to 1986, stationed at Camp Lejeune. He was promoted to corporal during his service.
Lazzara has a rich career background, including owning and working as the president of Lazzara Enterprises. With over 30 years of experience in the pizza industry, he is also the owner of Lazzara Pizza Inc. In 2005, Lazzara began serving as Mayor Pro Tem of Jacksonville, North Carolina, representing the 3rd ward on the city council. Additionally, he chairs the Jacksonville Tourism Development Authority.
In 2020, Lazzara received the Law Enforcement Agency of the Year award on behalf of the Jacksonville Police Department from the North Carolina Police Executives Association. On November 3, 2020, he was elected to the North Carolina Senate seat representing the 6th district, leading to his resignation from the city council. Lazzara assumed office on January 1, 2021, and was virtually sworn in alongside other senators due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Committee Assignments (2023-2024):
- Appropriations on Department of Transportation Committee (Chair)
- Appropriations/Base Budget Committee (Chair)
- Education/Higher Education Committee
- Senate Finance Committee
- Senate Judiciary Committee
- Senate State and Local Government Committee
- Senate Transportation Committee (Chair)
Lazzara has been an advocate for reopening North Carolina schools with a virtual option amid the pandemic. His dedication to public service and military-friendly initiatives makes him a notable figure in the state.
