"Conservative Champion for the People of Onslow County."

Senator Michael Lazzara is a Marine veteran, small business owner, and longtime public servant now serving his third term in the North Carolina Senate. Representing Onslow County, he has built a record of supporting our military & veterans, strengthening infrastructure, expanding economic opportunity, and delivering results for the people he serves.

Born in Palermo, Sicily, and raised in Chicago, Michael enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1982. He served for four years, attained the rank of corporal, and was stationed at Camp Lejeune. His military service brought him to Onslow County and established a lasting commitment to the servicemembers, veterans, and military families who are central to the community.

Following his service in the Marine Corps, Michael built a successful career as a local entrepreneur. He founded Michaelangelo’s Pizza and Lazzara’s Pizza and became the owner of Vital Signs. His experience creating jobs and managing businesses has given him a practical understanding of the challenges facing business owners and working families. The Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce named him Small Business Person of the Year in 2003 and presented him with its Civic Honor lifetime achievement award in 2008.

Michael was elected to the Jacksonville City Council in 2005 and served until his election to the North Carolina Senate in 2020. During nearly 15 years on the council, including many years as Mayor Pro Tem, he worked to improve transportation infrastructure, promote economic development, strengthen military-community partnerships, and expand recreational opportunities. He also served as president of the North Carolina League of Municipalities and held leadership positions with organizations focused on transportation, tourism, education, and military affairs.

His community involvement has also included years of service as a youth soccer coach and team manager. Michael helped secure 52 acres for the development of a major soccer complex, creating additional opportunities for young athletes and supporting the growth of sports tourism in Onslow County.

Michael was elected to the North Carolina Senate in 2020 and took office in January 2021. He currently chairs both the Senate Transportation Committee and the Senate Appropriations on the Department of Transportation Committee. In these roles, he helps shape state policy on transportation, infrastructure investment, responsible spending, and accountability at the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Throughout his Senate service, Michael has supported common-sense policies that assist servicemembers and veterans, strengthen public safety, improve educational opportunities, keep taxes low, and promote job creation. He has also helped secure important investments for Onslow County’s schools, courts, first responders, airport, and critical infrastructure.

Michael’s career in the Marine Corps, business, local government, and the North Carolina Senate reflects a consistent commitment to service. He remains focused on listening to his constituents, addressing the needs of Onslow County, and advancing conservative, common-sense solutions for North Carolina.