1-26-26: Primary Endorsements; ICE Takes Swing At CLT

Tune in here to this ​Monday edition of Breaking With Brett Jensen!

Breaking Brett Jensen provides an overview of the primary elections in Mecklenburg County, with early voting staring Feb. 12. The election includes key races for sheriff and seats in the state legislature. Jensen explains the political dynamics at play, including the Democratic Party’s dominance in sheriff elections and the absence of Republican candidates in the race. He also details high-profile endorsements by the Black Political Caucus in several contests, including the group’s surprise backing of incumbent Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden. One of the most significant Democratic primaries is in House District 106, where the outcome could affect efforts to override a veto by Gov. Josh Stein related to legislation requiring sheriffs to cooperate with ICE officials.

Later, Jensen highlights a social media post by ICE that blamed Charlotte’s sanctuary policies and Mayor Vi Lyles for the release of an illegal alien who later killed a teenager. He challenges ICE’s claims, noting that bail decisions are made by magistrates and county officials, not the mayor, and that Charlotte is considered a sanctuary city. He also underscores the political sensitivities surrounding immigration enforcement and public safety at the local level.

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

To be the first to hear about Breaking Brett Jensen’s exclusives and more follow him on X @Brett_Jensen!