Time for a Bold Change in Leadership!

Kyle Kirby, Chair

Kyle Kirby is a native Mecklenburger, husband, father, Christian and business owner that grew up in the Windsor Park community of Charlotte. Kyle attended Hickory Grove Baptist Christian School in East Charlotte and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte where he double majored in History and Political Science. In 2014, Kyle earned his Juris Doctor from the Charlotte School of Law.

In 2004 when Kyle turned 18, he registered as a Republican and has remained so ever since. In 2016 inspired by the MAGA movement and Donald Trump, Kyle became heavily involved in Republican politics. Kyle served as an Alternate Delegate to the 2020 Republican National Convention & Republican nominee for the State House of Representatives, District 102. From 2021-2023 Kyle served as MeckGOP’s Special Events Chair and founded the annual MeckDec Dinner serving as the county’s primary fundraising event. From 2023-2025 Kyle served as MeckGOP’s Finance Chair. From 2021-2025 according to NCGOP Finance reports, Kyle is responsible for rasing $105,295.33 to serve county Republicans.

Kyle is excited to begin this next phase of helping build a stronger Republican party in Mecklenburg Count. He and his well-appointed board will lead the county party in the right direction by rising funds, helping local Republicans win elections, and run MeckGOP as an effective, efficient business. Kyle and his board have the experience needed to run the county and serve the county party’s history.

Maria Elena Conaway, Vice Chair

Maria Elena has been an involved Republican since 2007- Maria Elena immigrated to the United State from Nicaragua when she was seventeen years old to attend Sacred Heart College, obtaining her B.S. in Biology. She graduated Cum Laude and went on to receive her B.A. in Chemistry and Medical technology, as well as her Master of Business Administration from The University of North Carolina Charlotte.

She currently has her NC and SC real estate license and is affiliated with
Helen Adams Realty. Volunteering in many capacities for countless campaigns, including both Mitt Romney and Pat McCrory’s campaigns, as well as all three of President Trump’s. She is currently the Chair of The Mecklenburg County RNHA (Republican National Hispanic Assembly) and a member of three woman-based
republican clubs. She is the secretary of the NC-RNHA Board.

For the past five years she has served as a local and state delegate, was a RNC replacement alternate for Charlotte’s National Republican Convention’s 12th district and was also a RNC delegate for Milwaukee’s National Republican Convention’s 12th district in 2024. She also serves on several other political committees. She has served as an at-large member of the district 12th Executive Committee and served in that role in district 14 as well. Currently she is the Vice Chair for District 12th and a Central Committee Member. She is an Assistant Precinct Chair for County District 5 with two other volunteers. As an APO, she actively campaigned for Tariq Bokhari, for numerous local and state candidates and for President Trump. She has been her precinct chair for several years.

She obtained the 2024 Organization of Hispanic Journalist Award for defending Republican values in Spanish-language political debate on TV with live audience. As an individual from a Socialist country, she knows firsthand the dangers of Socialist ideology. She will work hard to ensure that it is never implemented in the U.S. and will continue to defend and uphold the Republican values.

Ashley Bookout, Secretary

Born and raised in Charlotte, NC, Ashley Bookout graduated from UNC Charlotte in 2010. After working as a paralegal for several years, she and her husband, Conrad (also a Charlotte native), took a leap and opened their own business, Bookout Blooms, in 2015. Located in Southend, their flower shop specializes in fresh cut flowers, plants, daily delivery, and wedding set-ups. In 2017, Ashley was honored to be named to Charlotte Agenda’s Top 30 Under 30 for her entrepreneurial success.

Ashley’s passion for community involvement led her to get engaged in local politics in 2015. She served as President of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Republican Women from 2019-2021, during which time she worked to build connections and strengthen the local conservative community. She has also been appointed to the NCGOP Platform Committee for multiple years, including 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, and currently serves as Secretary of the 12th Congressional District.

As a dedicated advocate for conservative principles and the importance of our nation’s values, Ashley is committed to leading efforts to protect and promote these ideals. She is a proud mother of two, with Conrad IV (2.5 years old) and Cynthia Frances (3 months old), and is excited for the future of her family and community.

Ashley Bookout is a proven leader in both business and politics, working tirelessly to shape the future of Charlotte and beyond.

Ray Fuentes, Treasurer

Ray Fuentes brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from his professional life in environmental sustainability, community service, and regulatory compliance to his role as Treasurer for the Mecklenburg County GOP.   Ray has built a strong educational foundation and is deeply committed to public service. He has devoted many years to his community, serving seven years on the Planning and Zoning Board, nine years on the Mecklenburg County Air Quality Commission, and four years on the Crescent Resources Land Grant Selection Committee. Ray also ran for Mecklenburg County Commission District 4, showcasing his dedication to shaping the county’s future

Ray is deeply committed to strong families and quality education. He believes no child should be trapped in a failing school and advocates for policies like opportunity scholarships to give families in underserved communities the educational choices they deserve. Inspired by Frederick Douglass’s words, “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men,” Ray strives to build a better future for the next generation.

With his strong background in operations and compliance, as well as his commitment to local government, Ray is a vital asset to the Mecklenburg County GOP. As Treasurer, he is focused on ensuring the financial integrity and success of the party while promoting conservative values throughout Mecklenburg County.

Jaime Daniell, Campaigns Chair

Jaime Daniell is the founder and CEO of Performance Staffing Solutions Inc., a regional staffing firm headquartered in Charlotte, NC. With over 26 years of experience in workforce development, branding, and labor solutions, she is a recognized leader in the staffing industry. Before launching her own firm in 2007, Jaime held executive positions at several national staffing agencies, where she played a pivotal role in business growth and operational excellence.

Jaime earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from West Virginia University. Originally from the New York City area, she has called Charlotte home since 1999, where she resides with her teenage daughter, Kaylee. Beyond her business endeavors, Jaime is deeply involved in community leadership, having served on the boards of multiple nonprofit organizations, including Charlotte Preparatory School, Veritas Charter School, SwimMAC Carolina, and the Women’s Advisory Board for Mecklenburg County Commissioners.

A dedicated public servant, Jaime was a candidate for the North Carolina Senate District 42. She is also an active member of St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church and remains committed to making a positive impact in her community.

Karen Henning, Recruitment Chair

Karen Henning, a Michigan native from a family of thirteen, moved to North Carolina in 1981 with her husband and two children. Her family upbringing was always very strongly rooted in conservative values and service to the country. Although Karen did not serve, her father and
four brothers did and coming from a small, rural town, the love of America was always in the forefront of their lives each day. She now has four grandchildren that also due to her beliefs and her children’s
upbringing believe in God, the United States of America, and the constitution and what it stands for.

Karen has spent the last 4 decades in the Property Management business, both multi-unit and commercial. She currently is VP of Operations of Regency Windsor where she has been employed for 37 years.

Currently Karen serves as the Vice President of the Republican Patriots, Secretary of the Queen City Republicans, and past Precinct #145 Organization Chair. Karen was a ‘Trump Force 47 Captain’ and was a 2022 candidate for NC House 106. Knocking doors for President Trump allowed her to knock doors and make phone calls for President Trump and several other candidates. She knows the importance of having a candidate for all open seats. The district for House 106 was challenging for a Republican but that did not keep her from focusing on the goals as well as the down ballot and getting the Judges and Senator Budd across the finish line.

In her leisure time Karen loves to be with her grown children and grandchildren, swim, play golf occasionally, play cards, and enjoy putting together puzzles.

Maribeth Campbell, Headquarters Chair

Maribeth Campbell completed undergraduate studies at Wellesley College in Political Science and Economics and then studied World Economic and Political Development at Regent University.  She worked as a State Senate campaign manager, Congressional campaign manager, Witherspoon Fellow at Family Research Council, and at Townhall.com on Capitol Hill before marrying and moving with the Marine Corps. In 2008, she began teaching American Government and Economics.  

Involved with the Republican Party since 2003, she volunteered for the Bush campaign in Maine and attended the RNC in New York City as a volunteer and guest in 2004.  She helped start the Young Republicans chapter in Jacksonville in 2006, and volunteered for many local and state campaigns since moving to Charlotte in 2017.  She has served as Meck GOP District 6 APO since August 2023.  

She lives just outside of Matthews on the southeast side of Mecklenburg County with her husband, Jeremy, and daughter, Holly. They enjoy serving with many non-profits and schools in the area.

Alma Peters, Voter Registration Chair

Alma Peters was born and raised in Chihuahua, Mexico, and moved to the United States 30 years ago after marrying her husband. In 2000, upon becoming a U.S. citizen, she proudly registered as a Republican and immediately became involved in the Bush campaign. Since then, she has been a dedicated advocate for civic engagement, voter registration, and grassroots organizing. She believes that democracy thrives when every voice is heard and has made it her mission to empower citizens through active participation in the electoral process. Her work in voter registration, canvassing, and community outreach has reinforced her commitment to ensuring fair and accessible elections for all.

Currently, Alma works at the Mecklenburg County Register of Deeds office while continuing her passion for public service. Over the years, she has played a key role in increasing voter turnout and civic awareness, organizing voter registration drives, knocking on doors to encourage participation, and mobilizing volunteers to strengthen grassroots political movements. She is dedicated to expanding voter outreach efforts, particularly in underrepresented communities, and ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to make their voice count. Alma believes that an engaged and informed electorate is the foundation of a strong democracy and encourages everyone to take part—whether by registering to vote, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness. She remains committed to promoting civic education, expanding opportunities for voter participation, and working toward a future where every vote truly matters.

Mark Tofano, Fundraising and Finance Chair

Mark Tofano is a United States Air Force veteran who is presently serving his second term as a Matthews Town Commissioner. Mark brings a variety of experiences to the team in the fields of technology, sales and marketing,
entrepreneurship, business management, and finance. Having been featured in “Entrepreneur Magazine” for his ability to raise venture capital and to start and build companies, Mark has also invented and produced patented hardware products and software which have received national and international acclaim, product of the year awards from computer technology publications, recognition from international trade magazines and acknowledgement from the “New York Times”.

A Charlotte, NC resident for many years, Mark moved to Matthews, NC in 2011 and has become an important member of the Matthews community. In addition to being a commissioner for the town of Matthews, Mark also served for two years as Commander of the American Legion Post 235 in Matthews. During his tenure as Commander, he received the Commander of the Year 2021 award for the state of North Carolina from the state organization of the American Legion which oversees over 300 America Legion posts statewide. The main reason for the award was for leading Post 235 in its effort to build the first veterans memorial park in the 144 year history of Matthews.

Mark loves all things Italian. He has produced the Ciao Italia Matthews cultural festival in Matthews in both 2023 and 2024 and will be producing a 2025 festival as well. The 501(c)3 organization was formed to promote Italian culture, food, music, art, products and language to the greater Mecklenburg area.

Also, Mark has been singing in the Opera Carolina company since 1998 and is a classical pianist. Mark holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude, from the University of Maryland and is currently a business consultant with a number of Fortune 500 companies in the Charlotte area providing services such as product management, risk analysis, and profitability studies.

Jeffrey Baldwin, PR & Communications Chair

Jeffrey brings valuable national experience in media and political campaigns to our slate. Jeffrey is dedicated to educating the Latino community about the long-term impacts of public policy, empowering them to become independent, intellectual critics. He is deeply committed to advancing the principles of individual freedom, property rights, limited government, and free markets.

A graduate of the North Carolina Institute of Political Leadership, Jeffrey holds a B.A. from East Carolina University and multiple advanced degrees in Business Administration, Management, Political Economy, and Economics from top-ranked institutions in the U.S., Europe, and Central America, including Tulane University, Universidad Francisco Marroquín, and OMMA Business School. He is also a candidate for a PhD in Economics and Finance. Additionally, Jeffrey is a member of the Charlotte International Cabinet.

With over two years of experience managing PR and Communications, he has overseen critical outreach efforts and messaging strategies. He is also a proud member of the National Hispanic Republican Assembly.

Residing in Charlotte, Jeffrey brings his expertise, passion, and commitment to local political campaigns and initiatives. Outside of his professional life, he enjoys sailboat racing, skydiving, and is an aspiring pilot and seasoned volcano climber.

Justin Shealy, General Counsel

From a young age, I was instilled with the values of faith, family, and freedom—principles that have shaped not only my life but also my career as a family law attorney. Guided by a deep commitment to serving my community and defending the fundamental values that make our nation great, I set my academic sights on the University of South Carolina at Aiken, where I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. With a passion for law and justice, and a firm belief in personal responsibility and the rule of law, I attended the Charlotte School of Law, earning my Juris Doctor.

Before stepping into the courtroom as an attorney, I gained invaluable experience serving as a family law paralegal, which provided me with a behind-the-scenes understanding of the complexities of family law. Working closely with clients, I prepared cases for mediation, depositions, and court appearances, gaining firsthand knowledge of the legal process. After graduating from law school, my journey led me through various legal areas, including the insurance industry, where I focused on property claims and third-party liability claims. Traveling across the country, I assisted clients in the aftermath of hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters, reinforcing my commitment to helping those in need during their most challenging times. This experience uniquely prepared me for the rigors of family law, where I now guide clients through the emotional and legal complexities of divorce and custody disputes.

Prior to joining Sodoma Law York, I practiced estate planning and family law throughout North and South Carolina, with a primary focus on York County. I am proud to advocate for traditional family values and to defend the rights of parents, ensuring that families are protected and that justice is served with integrity and compassion.

My Christian faith is the cornerstone of my practice, guiding me to approach each case with empathy, understanding, and respect for the sanctity of family. I believe in upholding the principles of faith, family, and freedom in every aspect of my work, striving to protect the most vulnerable while fiercely advocating for my clients’ rights.

When I’m not in the courtroom, I am dedicated to serving my community. I am actively involved in the local Republican Party, championing conservative values and advocating for policies that preserve the American Dream. I also serve in the children’s ministry at Judah Church, where I am committed to nurturing the next generation with faith-based principles.

I cherish my time with my wife, Elizabeth, and my son, Asher James, who are my greatest blessings and constant reminders of why I fight for strong families and conservative values. In my free time, I enjoy playing pickleball with friends and watching “The Office,” never missing an opportunity to quote my favorite lines.

As a conservative advocate and family law attorney, I am committed to serving my community with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to the principles that make our nation strong.

David Capper, Deputy General Counsel

David is a native Charlottean, and lifelong Republican. He grew up in University City, graduated from Providence Day School, and received his B.A., Summa Cum Laude, with a double major in History and Political Science from Hampden-Sydney College, where he was the Salutatorian of the Class of 2005. After graduating from Hampden-Sydney, he attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where he received his M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science, with particular focus on American Politics and U.S. Constitutional law. After graduating from Baylor, David taught American Politics and Constitutional Law at Angelo State University and Texas A&M Galveston, before leaving academia in 2018 to attend the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, in Arlington, VA. After completing his J.D. in 2021, David returned to Mecklenburg County and became actively involved in local Republican campaigns. He served as Campaign Manager and Chief Strategist for Anne Marie Peacock’s 2022, NC House District 88 Campaign, and also as an advisor to Karen Henning’s 2022 NC House 106 campaign. He is a proud member and current President of the Republican Patriots Club, and a proud member of the Queen City Republicans and Hornet’s Nest Republican Men’s Club.

Note: The Deputy General Counsel is an appointed role, not an elected board position or part of the slate. This position is appointed by the Chair, subject to Executive Board approval, and serves at the Chair’s discretion.