6-18-25: New Challenger For Cotham

Matthews Shakeups and Mecklenburg Money Moves: Inside the Early 2026 Power Plays

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

Breaking Brett Jensen kicks off the show by discussing local political shakeups and early campaign moves ahead of the 2026 election. He zeroes in on Matthews Town Commissioner Ken McCool’s announcement that he’ll challenge Tricia Cotham for the House District 105 seat—a seat Cotham narrowly held onto in the last election by just 213 votes. Brett offers sharp commentary on what this early move might mean for Democrats and Republicans alike, especially in a district still buzzing from last cycle’s controversial campaigning.

Later, Jensen turned his attention to Raleigh, where momentum continues to build around a major transportation funding proposal. Brett breaks down the latest developments in the push for a one-cent sales tax increase across Mecklenburg County—emphasizing that it’s not just a Charlotte issue but a county-wide vote. The North Carolina House overwhelmingly passed the referendum measure 102–6, with every Mecklenburg County House member voting in favor, including Representatives Laura Budd and Tricia Cotham.

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