The conversation covers various topics including the ongoing Charlie Kirk trial the sensationalism surrounding conspiracy theories issues of free speech and law enforcement in Texas political fundraising strategies and a controversial pardon of a child rapist by the Minnesota governor The discussion emphasizes the importance of truth over drama the implications of media narratives and the legal boundaries of free speech In this conversation Dana discusses the controversial pardon of a convicted rapist the implications of cultural norms in legal accountability and the ongoing debates surrounding data centers in the U S He critiques political decisions that prioritize image over [... more]

North Carolina's business creation has hit a record high in the first half of 2026, with over 100,000 new businesses created, according to Secretary of State Elaine Marshall. The state's economic relationship with Canada remains strong, with Canada being North Carolina's top trading partner. Meanwhile, Labor Commissioner Luke Farley reflected on an unforgettable experience meeting U.S. Marine Corps Major James Capers Jr., a recent Medal of Honor recipient. The state's healthcare affordability commission aims to lower healthcare costs, and the pension system has seen significant improvements, with a $8 billion earnings in the pension system reducing the pension deficit by almost 75%. Additionally, the state's emissions testing requirement is set to be rolled back in 19 counties, and Governor Josh Stein has signed 12 bills into law, including a virtual currency kiosk consumer protection act and a farmland and military protection act. [... more]

Governor Josh Stein signs North Carolina's $34.4 billion state budget into law, delivering major investments in education, public safety, and hurricane recovery, while also highlighting flaws in the budget and the need for continued investment in the state's people and infrastructure. [... more]

The North Carolina legislature has reached a deal on a budget, but it still awaits Governor Josh Stein's signature or veto. The budget includes a provision to repeal certificate of need laws for inpatient rehabilitation care, which could increase access to affordable healthcare. Meanwhile, two Republican senators have voted against the budget due to a provision requiring tolls on all state ferry routes. Additionally, a lawsuit has been filed against Rockingham County and a county commissioner, Kevin Berger, alleging retaliation against former Sheriff Sam Page for running against Phil Berger's son in a primary election. [... more]

North Carolina's Lake Lure is recovering from Hurricane Helene's devastating impact, with officials transitioning from emergency response to long-term infrastructure reconstruction and economic development. Meanwhile, the state is considering an MLB expansion team in Raleigh, which could bring in significant economic benefits and create jobs. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers have passed a state budget that includes tax cuts, teacher raises, and disaster recovery funding. The budget, which was passed with bipartisan support, now heads to Governor Josh Stein's desk for signature. The budget also includes funding for economic development projects, including a commercial aircraft manufacturing facility in Greensboro. Meanwhile, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved over $197 million in additional disaster recovery funding for Western North Carolina, which was affected by Hurricane Helene. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are set to unveil a new state budget, which includes raises for state employees and teachers, as well as tax cuts. Meanwhile, Duke Energy has agreed to cancel its offshore wind energy project and reinvest $129 million in other energy sources. A lawsuit filed by bar owners against former Governor Roy Cooper and the state of North Carolina over COVID-19 restrictions is moving forward, with the plaintiffs seeking depositions from Cooper and his former Health and Human Services Secretary, Mandy Cohen. [... more]

Lawmakers in the North Carolina General Assembly are expected to make significant decisions on a state budget and a constitutional carry bill, while U.S. Senator Ted Budd expresses opposition to a White House funding request for Hurricane Helene recovery. Meanwhile, experts discuss the importance of controlling spending, setting aside funds for emergencies, and reducing the tax burden on individuals and businesses in the state. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly voted to override Governor Josh Stein's vetoes on four bills, including measures related to immigration enforcement, DEI policies, and public education. The legislation aims to improve public safety, restrict state agencies from promoting DEI initiatives, and eliminate DEI in public education. Meanwhile, a major settlement was reached between the US Department of Justice and Comoz, a chemical manufacturer, to address water contamination caused by PFAS chemicals in the southeastern part of the state. [... more]

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles' resignation has led to a new interim mayor, Robert Harrington, who will serve for 18 months. Meanwhile, the North Carolina State Auditor's office has released a report detailing $61 million in spending on the unbuilt Mid-Currituck Bridge, with no construction underway despite 30 years of planning and spending. The report highlights a major funding gap for the project, with construction not expected to begin until 2028. In other news, Governor Josh Stein has signed six bills into law, including the North Carolina Farm Act of 2026 and a ban on third-party litigation investment. The North Carolina General Assembly is also set to make changes to the state's executive branch, with the state Supreme Court set to weigh in on the matter. [... more]

Governor Robert Ray of Iowa took a bold stance in the 1970s by accepting refugees from Vietnam and Cambodia, providing them with a safe haven and a chance to rebuild their lives. His efforts, known as Iowa Shares, raised over $540,000 and helped feed, clothe, and provide medical care to thousands of people. Ray's compassion and leadership inspired a community to come together and make a difference, showcasing the best of the American spirit. [... more]

North Carolina's decision not to participate in the Great American State Fair has sparked controversy, with Governor Josh Stein citing costs as the reason. Meanwhile, the state legislature is considering a property tax reappraisal moratorium, and there is ongoing discussion about bringing an MLB expansion team to the state. Additionally, the North Carolina legislature is facing scrutiny over its handling of transgender students' bathroom policies. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly is reviewing Governor Josh Stein's pick for Department of Public Safety secretary, Jeffrey Smythe, amid concerns over ethics and policing record. Meanwhile, a wide-sweeping election bill, House Bill 958, is making its way through the legislature, addressing issues such as absentee ballot counting, voter ID, and ranked choice voting. [... more]

North Carolina's legislative leaders are pushing back a budget timeframe, with Republican leaders signaling that a finished spending plan may not be ready as quickly as they had hoped. The state's budget is expected to include additional funding for Western North Carolina's Hurricane Helene recovery, as well as proposed raises for teachers, state employees, and law enforcement officers. Lawmakers are also considering a tax increase on sports betting operators and changes to a Medicaid policy for applied behavioral analysis therapy. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly has given final approval to a bill delaying the use of new property tax values in counties that conducted 2026 reappraisals. The measure now heads to Governor Josh Stein for signature or veto. Meanwhile, the State Board of Elections is reviewing proposed changes to voter ID rules, including a shift from unanimous to majority approval for affidavits. A court ruling has also barred never residents from voting in North Carolina elections, a decision that could impact election integrity efforts. Lawmakers are also working on the state budget, with veto overrides and other legislative priorities on the horizon. [... more]

Vice President Vance sends a criminal referral to the DOJ against former Vice Presidential candidate and current Governor of Minnesota Tim Walls, alleging Medicaid fraud and abuse. Meanwhile, concerns over election integrity in California's recent mayoral election have sparked doubts about the legitimacy of the results. Rick Rinnell joins the show to discuss the issues with California's voter rolls and the need for voter ID laws to prevent fraud. [... more]

A recent New York Times investigation into autism therapy clinics has raised concerns about Medicaid spending and oversight in North Carolina. The state's Medicaid budget agreement includes provisions to address these concerns, including limits on therapy hours and requirements for licensed providers. Meanwhile, a K-12 education bill making its way through the North Carolina Senate includes a study on open enrollment policies and a state-funded artificial intelligence tutoring program. The bill also includes funding for advanced teacher roles and new limits on district overspending. [... more]

Recovery officials in western North Carolina are warning of a long-term wildfire threat after Hurricane Helene left behind hundreds of thousands of acres of downed timber. The state's timber economy is struggling due to aging logging operations, mill closures, and declining markets for low-grade wood products. Meanwhile, lawmakers in the North Carolina General Assembly are working to finalize the state budget, which includes a proposed 8% teacher pay raise and a 3% raise for state employees. The Catawba Nation's 2 Kings Casino is also at the center of a legal dispute over sovereign immunity and easements. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are set to tackle a busy legislative calendar in June, with a focus on the state budget and tax cuts. The state's economic growth has been bolstered by tax cuts, but Medicaid expansion has put pressure on the budget. Lawmakers are also considering changes to the Rainy Day Fund and the NC Innovation program, which has been criticized for using taxpayer dollars for venture capital investments. [... more]

The Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be below normal, with a 55% chance of being below normal and a 35% chance of near normal. El Niño conditions are expected to form in the Atlantic, making it harder for storms to develop. The National Weather Service is preparing to deliver real-time storm forecasts and warnings using advanced technology. Meanwhile, the North Carolina General Assembly is working on a full state budget, with a proposed 15.4% salary increase for correctional officers and a 3% pay increase for state employees over a two-year period. [... more]