5-20-25: Meck Dec Day -250 Years

Tune in here to this ​Tuesday’s edition of Breaking With Brett Jensen!

Breaking with Brett Jensen kicks the show off by discussing the historical significance of May 20th, marking the 250th anniversary of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence.

Brett interviews Scott Syfert, author and co-founder of the May 20th Society, who explains the Meck Dec’s claim as the first American declaration of independence, signed in Charlotte on May 20, 1775—14 months before the national one. Syfert emphasizes the cultural and symbolic impact of the event, which is reflected in Charlotte’s names, such as Independence Square and Freedom Park. Despite lacking preserved colonial structures

Later, Jensen interviews North Carolina State Representative David Willis to discuss the state budget process and ongoing hurricane recovery efforts. Willis, who represents Union County, explains that the House is finalizing its version of the budget, with votes expected within the week. He highlights key differences from the Senate version, including stronger support for K-12 education, community colleges, and state employee raises.

Listen here for all of this and more on Breaking With Brett Jensen.

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