Jay grew up in Charlotte. She attended Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools from elementary through high school, graduating from South Mecklenburg. Jay is a proud UNC Chapel Hill alumni.

Jay's work history encompasses almost 2 decades of service in the political, business and non-profit sectors. Jay has worked in the political arena at the Federal, State and Local levels. On the National level, she worked for Jim Miller, Former Director of the Office of Management and Budget and a member of President Reagan's cabinet in Washington, DC. Furthermore, Jay worked for Washington think tanks including Citizens for a Sound Economy and the Competitive Enterprise Institute. Both think tanks promote regulatory relief, lower taxes, and a free market approach to business. Statewide, Jay has worked on numerous NC campaigns raising money, including Congressman Richard Burr's first campaign. Jay has a strong understanding of public policy. Locally, Jay has worked for the American Heart Association in Charlotte.

In addition to Jay's political experience, she ran a celebrity services firm with her sister. The company handled marketing, public relations, and interior design for professional athletes and entertainers. As a result of this experience, Jay knows first-hand the concerns of small business owners.

Ferrell Blount, NC Republican Party Chairman, personally recruited Rao and said, "Jay will be an outstanding candidate and an exemplary Secretary of State."

To learn more about Jay Rao, visit her website:   
http://www.jayrao.com/