NC Rep Tricia Cotham Takes Indefinite Medical Leave After Surgery

North Carolina Republican State Representative Tricia Cotham announced she will undergo major surgery due to serious complications and will be away from public appearances and communication for an extended recovery period. She represents southeast Mecklenburg County and serves as vice chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, chairwoman of the Education K-12 Committee, and vice chairwoman of several other committees. Cotham has a background in education, having worked as a teacher and school administrator, and previously served as a Democrat before switching to the Republican Party in 2023. She has been public about her struggles with Long COVID and underwent emergency surgery in November 2024. Cotham apologized for any inconvenience her absence may cause and requested privacy and prayers during her recovery. The North Carolina General Assembly is not expected to return to session until late September, allowing her some time to recuperate.