State House Majority Leader Hugh Holliman believes in doing the right thing for the right reason.

Helping constituents work through problems by connecting them to public agencies and resources is one of the best aspects of serving in elected office, Holliman said.

“Democrats really try to help people, certainly people with less opportunity,” Holliman said. “It’s important that we, as a society, ought to help each other.”

Holliman’s grace and quiet determination in the midst of personal tragedy also stamp his character.

The death of his sister from lung cancer and his own battle with cancer prompted Holliman to shepherd legislation last year that would prevent smoking in public places and restaurants.

The son of a textile worker and a delivery man, Holliman grew up in Graham. He was elected in 2001 to the N.C. House of Representatives.

While serving in the General Assembly, Holliman has built a solid reputation as a pro-business Democrat who also understands the needs of working families. He was a chief supporter of increasing the state’s minimum wage while also championing legislation to offer tax breaks to small businesses that provide health care to employees.

Holliman’s ability to work with various and sometimes contrasting constituencies was one of the factors that led to him being chosen in 2006 as House Majority Leader.

In that role, Holliman works closely with Speaker Joe Hackney and other key House leaders to craft policy and gather support for legislation. He also gauges the sentiment of House Democrats, works toward advancing their collective goals, and recruits candidates to run for office.

What makes for a good candidate, Holliman said, is not always something that can be found on a resume or campaign brochure.

“It takes someone who has experience in a lot of different areas,” Holliman said. “It takes someone who really wants to make a difference and not just come here with a big ego or want to do something for themselves. When you put your constituents first, you do the right things for the right reasons.”