The North Carolina State Board of Elections is implementing new rules for photo ID exemptions, sparking controversy over voter fraud and election integrity. Meanwhile, businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic are still navigating insurance claims and government shutdowns, highlighting the complexities of public policy and the importance of transparency in government. [... more]

A new analysis from Carolina Journal shows that elite private schools across North Carolina take little opportunity scholarship dollars, while predominantly lower-cost religious schools receive the largest share of funds. The state budget also expands sports betting and prediction markets, with a 5% increase on gross wagering revenue taxes and a 6% tax on net trading in prediction markets. A federal lawsuit is filed against the Gaston County School Board over a teacher's social media post after Charlie Kirk's assassination, raising questions about First Amendment rights and public vs. private conduct. [... more]

A new report from the North Carolina State Auditor's Office reveals that 78% of inactive landfills in the state are not being monitored, posing significant risks to public health and the environment. Meanwhile, a lawsuit challenges the state's certificate of need law, which is contributing to high healthcare costs in North Carolina. Additionally, the U.S. House has passed a bill to make daylight savings time permanent across the country, and the North Carolina General Assembly is considering legislation to overhaul the process of municipal de-annexation. [... more]

The host discusses various topics, including the increase in rape statistics in New York, the importance of protecting one's identity, the characteristics of Gen Z, the impact of AI and social media on society, the challenges of journalism, a notorious elephant that stalks and kills humans, a bizarre discovery in an Airbnb, and the differences between Gen X and Gen Z. [... more]

A discussion on the concept of cloning, the mysterious disappearance of Mitch McConnell, and the rise of the Democratic Socialists of America. The conversation also touches on Iran's nuclear ambitions, the importance of civics education, and the celebration of National Ice Cream Month. Additionally, the hosts discuss identity politics, hate speech, and racism, highlighting the need for a more nuanced understanding of these complex issues. [... more]

A state audit in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, reveals improper utility billing and unpaid bills from city officials, highlighting financial concerns and mismanagement. Meanwhile, the North Carolina General Assembly passes a law limiting the city's ability to transfer electric utility revenues into its general fund, and the state budget repeals a key sales tax exemption for electricity used by data centers, generating additional revenue for the state. [... more]

The US President is frustrated with Iran's actions, questioning whether they are worthy of making a deal. The country has been a consistent threat for over 45 years, with a history of killing more Americans than any other state. Meanwhile, the US Senate is dealing with a critical vote, with Republicans gaining an advantage due to redistricting. The Democrats are struggling to find a suitable candidate, with one nominee being accused of rape, and the party is facing internal conflicts. The US is also taking a harder stance on Cuba, targeting their doctors who work overseas and cutting off energy supplies to countries using their services. [... 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]

The Declaration of Independence, signed 250 years ago, declared the 13 American colonies' independence from Great Britain, establishing a new nation built on the principles of natural law, inalienable rights, and the Creator. The document's authors, including Thomas Jefferson, drew inspiration from Christian principles and the works of John Locke, appealing to a higher authority to justify their separation from the British crown. The Declaration's significance extends beyond its historical context, influencing American politics and culture to this day. [... 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]

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]

A child welfare reform package, the Dominique Moody Safety Act, has passed the North Carolina House, aiming to strengthen the state's child welfare system by improving coordination, accountability, training, and oversight. Meanwhile, a North Carolina audit reveals delayed first-round unemployment benefit payments and over $47 million in fraudulent benefit overpayments. Additionally, a legal case involving a 14-year-old boy who was allegedly forced to receive a COVID-19 vaccine without parental consent is set to head back to trial courts after a ruling from the North Carolina Court of Appeals. [... 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]

The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs are tied 2-2 in the NBA Finals, with the series shifting to Madison Square Garden for game four. The Knicks are under pressure to win at home, while the Spurs are looking to bounce back from a tough loss. Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs' young star, has been at the center of controversy, with the Knicks' Jalen Brunson accusing him of dirty play. The officiating has been a major storyline in the series, with both teams feeling that they are not getting the calls they deserve. The game is expected to be a physical and intense matchup, with the Knicks looking to protect their home court and the Spurs looking to regain momentum. [... more]

North Carolina Representative Sarah Stevens resigns from the state House to run for the Supreme Court, while nearly two-thirds of opportunity scholarship dollars go to lower-income families. Meanwhile, a growing trend of municipal financial distress is being highlighted by State Auditor Dave Bollock, with Rocky Mount facing significant cash flow issues. The case of DeCarlos Brown, who killed a 22-year-old Ukrainian refugee on the Charlotte Light Rail, is also being closely watched as he is deemed incompetent to stand trial and will undergo treatment for up to four months. [... 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]

Parents are primarily responsible for their child's education, and education encompasses more than just academic learning, including faith formation and human development. The state's role in education should be limited, and parents should have the freedom to choose their child's educational path, whether through public schools, charter schools, private schools, or homeschooling. The use of technology in education, known as EdTech, has been shown to have negative effects on academic performance and social interaction, and parents should have the option to opt-out of these programs. [... more]