Marc Basnight

Biography

Marc Basnight is the president pro tempore of the North Carolina Senate and one of the most powerful political figures in the state. 

Family 

Basnight comes from a family of "high tiders" who have lived on the Outer Banks since the 1700s. 

He and his wife, Sandy, had two daughters, Vicki and Caroline.

Sandy Basnight died after a long illness on June 10, 2007.

Occupation

In 1996, Basnight and his family opened the Lone Cedar Cafe on the causeway between Manteo and Nag's Head on the Outer Banks. The seafood restaurant employed about 100 people and was popular among locals. Actor Andy Griffith was among the regulars.

When the Senate was not in session, Basnight could often be found at the restaurant, helping clear tables or serve drinks. His wife, Sandy, and daughter, Vicki, ran the restaurant.

In the early morning on May 1, 2007, the Lone Cedar Cafe burned to the ground in a two-alarm fire, causing an estimated $1 million in damage. Basnight pledged to rebuild it.

State officials later determined the fire was caused by arson, but they said Basnight was not under suspicion. 

Political Career

In 1984, Basnight succeeded his uncle in the state Senate.

In 1993, he was elected president pro tempore. He has served a record eight terms in that position, building a powerful political machine.

His major accomplishments in office have been creating the Clean Water Management Trust Fund and helping pass $3.1 billion in bonds for state colleges and the state lottery.

He also appoints more than 700 members of state boards and frequently recommends candidates for state jobs.

Possible Senate run

In 2001, he considered a run for the U.S. Senate.

Occupation

Contact Info

Education

Military

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