Governor Josh Stein is proposing a $3 billion spending increase that includes pay raises, targeted tax cuts, and a freeze on new school vouchers, setting up a major policy debate with lawmakers. The plan comes as the 2026 General Assembly short session gets underway, though no veto override votes were taken on the first day. […]
Legislative leaders have launched a probe into early prisoner releases during the Cooper administration, raising questions about public safety and oversight. Meanwhile, state agencies are reportedly slow to address job vacancies flagged in a recent audit, prolonging concerns about staffing shortages and efficiency. Another audit found North Carolina community colleges used some Hurricane Helene relief […]
Lake Lure is set to reopen 19 months after Hurricane Helene, marking a major milestone in recovery as the region continues to rebuild. The USDA is also making $221 million in timber relief funding available starting April 20 to support impacted landowners. In Raleigh, Senate leader Phil Berger is outlining priorities and calling for unity […]
North Carolina’s elections board has approved new rules related to noncitizen voters following a heated public debate and thousands of comments. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein is calling for the legalization of recreational marijuana after a new panel report, signaling a potential policy shift in the state. In energy news, Duke Energy is seeking a rate […]
New campaign finance reports show Roy Cooper significantly outraised Michael Whatley in Q1, bringing in $13.8 million compared to $5 million, as the North Carolina Senate race gains national attention. The Cook Political Report has also shifted the race from a toss-up to lean Democrat, signaling changing dynamics heading into the general election. In policy […]
A new report is calling for reforms to North Carolina’s involuntary commitment and mental health treatment system, citing gaps in care and rising demand for services. Meanwhile, a study shows the state continues to grow rapidly, with a new resident moving to North Carolina every seven minutes, adding pressure to housing, infrastructure, and services. In […]
Ferguson has been selected to fill a vacant North Carolina House seat, adding a new voice to the General Assembly. Meanwhile, the State Treasurer is expanding the use of artificial intelligence within government operations after strong results from a pilot program. Governor Stein’s proposed data center tax plan is drawing increased attention from lawmakers as […]
North Carolina is reflecting on its history as the Halifax Resolves mark 250 years, highlighting the state’s early role in American independence. In education, concerns are growing as the school construction fund is being stretched, with a shrinking share of lottery revenue contributing to funding pressures, as lawmakers prepare to return to Raleigh next week. […]
Senator Ted Budd hosted the new DHS Secretary and is calling for greater efficiency and accountability within FEMA, particularly as North Carolina continues recovering from Hurricane Helene. In a major legal development, the suspect in the Iryna Zarutska murder case has been ruled “incapable to proceed,” pausing prosecution as questions shift to competency and next […]
The Anson County Board of Elections is alleging years of mismanagement by its director, raising concerns about oversight and election administration at the local level. In education news, a record 54% of North Carolina public school graduates are completing college-level coursework, signaling continued progress in academic readiness. Meanwhile, Republicans and the State Board of Elections […]
A new North Carolina audit of federal grants has flagged cost overruns and reporting concerns, raising questions about oversight and accountability in how funds are managed. Hurricane Helene recovery remains a major focus, with $60 billion in damage far exceeding available aid, even as Rutherford County receives $9.39 million in reimbursements and DHS Secretary Markwayne […]
A new poll shows a widening partisan divide over the war with Iran, highlighting growing political tensions on foreign policy. In North Carolina, Hurricane Helene recovery efforts continue to lag as an estimated $60 billion in damage far outpaces available aid, with officials warning of long-term rebuilding challenges. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin is scheduled to […]