John May was born in 1950 and served in the United States Army during the 1970s. He spent several decades advocating for labor rights as a member of the Communication Workers of America and held a position on the Franklin County Board of Education. May transitioned to public service in 2010, appointed to the North Carolina House of Representatives and serving on the Virginia-North Carolina Interstate High-Speed Rail Compact board. Despite a brief stint in the legislature, he was elected to the Franklin County Board of Commissioners in 2012. May's career reflects a commitment to local governance and economic development in rural areas.

John May's political identity is characterized by an ideological commitment to localism, blending support for rural economic development with a focus on public education and veterans' affairs. His advocacy for the Virginia-North Carolina Interstate High-Speed Rail Compact illustrates a strategic approach to regional connectivity that aligns with his broader economic goals. May's legislative record shows an unexpected convergence with opposing factions on environmental regulations, revealing a highly calculated approach to protecting regional industrial interests. His service in local government underscores a deeply rooted, highly localized political philosophy.