The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina is on the verge of receiving full federal recognition after decades of struggle and advocacy. Meanwhile, the state's disaster relief efforts, particularly with the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency (NCOR), have been marred by bureaucratic delays and mismanagement. A new audit highlights the issues with NCOR, and a proposed bill, the Salamander Act, aims to streamline disaster recovery efforts by expediting permits for the US Army Corps of Engineers. [... more]

A stabbing on the Charlotte light rail has sparked outrage over immigration policies, with the suspect being a Honduran immigrant previously deported twice. The North Carolina State Board of Elections is requesting social security numbers from DMV customers to verify voter eligibility. Meanwhile, a new audit reveals mismanagement of funds and a logistical nightmare in the state's disaster recovery efforts, raising concerns about the state's ability to handle future disasters. [... more]

Mixed messaging surrounds Operation Charlotte's Web as local officials claim the customs and border protection operation is complete, while the Department of Homeland Security says it's not over. Meanwhile, a new audit reveals the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency, or NCOR, has been a logistical nightmare in the state's hurricane recovery efforts, with over $1 billion in taxpayer money spent without proper oversight. [... more]

The North Carolina Zoo mourns the loss of its CEO, Pat Simmons, who passed away after a five-year battle with cancer. Meanwhile, the state is dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, with concerns over mismanaged funding and slow recovery efforts. In a separate issue, a federal lawsuit is challenging North Carolina's ban on ballot selfies, citing free speech concerns. Additionally, a Chapel Hill native who was recently released from Hamas captivity is speaking out about the need for action to free remaining hostages. [... more]