Please let me introduce to you Representative Maria Cervania. If you take away nothing else from this article, know that Rep. Cervania will listen with empathy, and will likely take action on your behalf. As a constituent of House District 41, I am glad that she represents me and my neighbors. While we won't agree on every initiative, policy or law, I'm confident that she'll respectfully listen to concerns raised by any constituent.
Background
Representative Cervania serves a western part of Wake County, North Carolina, in House District 41 (aka NC HD 41; see the image above, and to the right). 
Currently beginning her second term in the NC General Assembly (NCGA), she previously served as a Wake County Commissioner. Her approach to public service is bipartisan, shaped by a diverse range of political and personal experiences, including her Republican parents' service in the military and as a water commissioner, her marriage to a libertarian, and her Catholic faith. For more in-depth information about Rep. Cervania, see this video interview, her bio, her responses to a candidate questionnaire, and her NCGA page. I volunteer as a COS District Captain for HD 41.
Listens and cares
On a quiet Friday, March 7th, when the Legislative Office Building in Raleigh was nearly empty and a typical day off for our part-time legislators, Rep Cervania and her Legislative Assistant made time to meet with us—a gesture that spoke volumes. Meeting were Rep Cervania, State Legislative Liaison (SLL) Frank Empie, and Capital Region Captain (RC) Simon Pervical. Our main goal was to get to know Rep. Cervania, and our secondary goal was to discuss the COS Project and Resolution. Despite it being the busiest time of the year for our part-time lawmakers, Rep. Cervania dedicated a full 90 minutes (yes, ninety, nine-zero, one hour and 30 minutes) to an engaging, respectful, and deeply caring conversation. Her warmth, attentiveness and interest in every topic created a space where we could have talked for hours more. As a fellow Catholic, I recognized in her the compassionate heart, engaging spirit, and discerning mind that resonate so strongly with the values of our shared faith.
Advocates and works in a bipartisan way
During a legislative "quiet period," Rep. Cervania exemplified her commitment to bipartisan collaboration by discussing in general some education legislation she’s developing alongside members of the other party. Her track record speaks volumes—bills she sponsored during the 2023-24 session were bipartisan (click this link, and sort by the two First Primary and First Primary columns), reflecting her dedication to unity and the common good for North Carolinians. She beautifully likened running for office to a wedding—short and emotional—while governing and legislating is like a marriage, requiring teamwork, compromise, and a long-term commitment to bipartisan initiatives.
Photos of a lobby in the NC Legislative Building where we met on March 7th, and its front entrance.
When we discussed the text of the COS Resolution itself, Rep. Cervania immediately highlighted that federal term limits transcend partisanship, resonating with voters across the political spectrum, and impacting all officials irrespective of any party affiliation. She recognized the Broadside newsletter, distributed weekly to all 170 NC legislators, and offered thoughtful feedback, showing genuine interest in how the COS Resolution benefits all North Carolinians, regardless of party affiliation (click link to read now; published as Broadside issue 2023-4). Following our conversation, she committed to proactive steps, including reaching out to Rep. Dennis Riddell, a Republican and key supporter of the COS Resolution (HJR 379) and Faithful Article V Commissioner Act (HB 241) in the House. Her actions and words consistently demonstrate her dedication to bridging divides and fostering bipartisan progress.
Deep reverence for the framers' wisdom
Showing profound respect for the founding principles of our constitutional republic, Rep. Cervania spoke with reverence about the wisdom of the framers, 
whose vision established a system of governance rooted in accountability and checks on power. These principles remain as vital today as they were at the founding, serving as a safeguard against overreach and instability. Reflecting on current challenges, such as the disruptive impact of DOGE, we concurred that such issues and remedies would be unnecessary if our nation adhered to the foundational ideals of sound governance, fiscal responsibility, and sustainable leadership. Her reverence for these principles underscores her commitment to the enduring strength and integrity of our republic.
Follow-ups are indicative
Rep. Cervania's commitment to follow through is a testament to her engagement and bipartisan leadership. She plans to call Rep. Dennis Riddell (R) to discuss both the COS Resolution (HJR 379) as filed, and the Faithful Article V Faithful Commissioners Act (HB 214) demonstrating her willingness to act on behalf of a constituent. She has expressed interest in learning about Democratic leaders and "blue" states where the COS Resolution has gained traction and bipartisan support, reflecting her openness to insights. Additionally, she is eager to meet with COS supporters and her constituents, and would like to explore how and when such a meeting could take place. Her curiosity extends to understanding the specifics of the 597 COS supporters including 393 petition signers in HD 41, showcasing her genuine interest in engaging with her constituents and fostering meaningful community connections and relationships.
Are you interested in following up yourself, and learning or engaging more? Call her office and ask to sign up for her newsletter. Sign the COS petition or volunteer to get more involved in the COS movement in HD 41 or statewide. Our welcoming grassroots army of 100,000+ supporters in North Carolina awaits you!
