North Carolina voters are expressing concerns about the direction of the state and the country, with 54% of voters saying North Carolina is heading in the wrong direction. The state's governor, Josh Stein, has a 50% approval rating, while President Trump's job approval has dropped to 41.5%. The Republican Party is facing a tough election in North Carolina, with 47.5% of voters supporting the Democrat candidate for the state legislature. The Opportunity Scholarship Program has a high level of support among voters, with 65.1% supporting the program. The state's certificate of need law is also a topic of discussion, with 65% of voters supporting the repeal of the law. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are considering a constitutional amendment to lower the state's income tax rate from 7% to 3.5%. Meanwhile, a levy limit proposal aims to cap property tax growth, and the Senate Majority Pact has announced a $31.5 million investment in former Governor Roy Cooper's U.S. Senate campaign against Michael Watley. [... more]

The book of 1 John is not a series of tests for assurance of salvation, but rather a letter to assure believers of their faith in Jesus Christ. John contrasts the children of God with the children of the devil, highlighting the love and generosity of those who trust in Jesus, and the meanness and tight-fistedness of those who reject Him. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers have reached an agreement on a state spending plan, ending a months-long impasse between Republican leaders in the House and Senate. The budget includes record salary increases for teachers and state employees, as well as tax relief for citizens. Meanwhile, a joint legislative committee will investigate the release of inmates under a 2021 pandemic settlement, which has raised concerns about public safety and government accountability. [... more]

A state auditor in North Carolina is examining a surge in Medicaid-funded autism therapy costs, which have increased from $1.4 million to over $660 million in five years. Meanwhile, a new study suggests that stricter cell phone bans in schools may not have an immediate impact on academic achievement or behavior, but could lead to positive results in the long term. Additionally, multiple blue states, including North Carolina, are suing the Trump administration over tariffs imposed under Section 122 of the 1974 Federal Trade Act. [... more]

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation is a topic of debate, with some calling for Shador Sanders to be named QB1 over Deshaun Watson. Meanwhile, the AFC North is shaping up to be a competitive division, with the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens looking strong. The NFL schedule release is also on the horizon, with the Bears and Seahawks set to kick off the season. [... more]

Former FBI Director James Comey's scheduled court appearance in North Carolina has been canceled due to a motion filed by his lawyers. Meanwhile, a bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced legislation to eliminate tax exemptions for data centers, which could save the state millions of dollars. Additionally, a proposal to create a $50 million revolving loan fund to help nonprofit developers cover upfront infrastructure costs for affordable housing projects is gaining traction. The North Carolina Supreme Court is also considering a petition for rehearing in the Leandro case, which has been ongoing for over 30 years and deals with education funding in the state. [... more]

PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolap discusses the future of golf, including changes to the season format, the introduction of a playoffs system, and the use of social media to promote the sport. He also talks about the potential return of top golfers to the PGA Tour and the impact of the NFL on the sport. [... more]

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles announces her resignation, effective June 30th, citing a desire to spend more time with her grandchildren. Meanwhile, North Carolina officials urge residents to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season, which officially begins on June 1st. In other news, a competency hearing is set for DeCarlos Brown Jr., who is accused of murdering Irina Zarutska on the Charlotte Light Rail, due to concerns over his mental fitness to stand trial. [... more]

The North Carolina legislature is considering property tax reform and electricity generation proposals, while the city of Rocky Mount faces a financial crisis due to mismanagement and excessive spending. The city's utility revenue is under scrutiny, with some lawmakers proposing a bill to restrict its use. Meanwhile, Charlotte is preparing to host the 2027 Military World Games, which is expected to have a significant economic impact on the region. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are pushing to overhaul the state's budgeting process with zero-based budgeting, requiring agencies to justify every dollar spent. Meanwhile, a lawsuit challenges the state's ban on ballot selfies, citing First Amendment rights. The debate over state taxes and a long-term budget continues in the General Assembly. [... more]

A merger between Wake Med and Atrium Health is being met with opposition from state officials, citing concerns over increased healthcare costs and reduced competition. Meanwhile, the USDA is relocating its research hub to Raleigh, North Carolina, as part of a decentralization plan. Additionally, a bill has been filed in the North Carolina General Assembly to cut funding for the Opportunity Scholarship Program and redirect it to childcare subsidies, while also addressing issues with incomplete voter registration records. [... more]

Thousands of educators from across North Carolina are expected to gather at the state capitol to call for increased teacher pay and education funding, while the governor signs a $319 million Medicaid bill into law, but expresses concerns about the ongoing costs of Medicaid and the elimination of health care coverage for nearly 27,000 children and pregnant women. [... more]

Paul Revere's Midnight Ride is a poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow that commemorates the actions of American patriot Paul Revere on April 18, 1775. The poem tells the story of Revere's ride to warn the colonists of the approaching British army, and how his actions helped to spark the American Revolution. Meanwhile, the benefits of electric vehicles and high-quality dog nutrition are also discussed. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly is considering a proposal to eliminate local sales taxes on groceries, which would provide direct relief to households grappling with rising costs. Meanwhile, a bill imposing new restrictions on the use of social media by minors has cleared a key Senate hurdle, and a study by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality found widespread PFAS contamination in wastewater and biosolids. Additionally, the US Supreme Court has ruled on a case related to redistricting, clarifying the role of the Voting Rights Act and its impact on the drawing of election districts. [... more]

Miles Bourne, the NXT North American Champion, shares his journey from being a hearing-impaired child to becoming a professional wrestler. He talks about his early days, his struggles, and his triumphs, including his recent championship win. Bourne also discusses his inspirations, his favorite wrestlers, and his approach to the sport. [... more]

A federal grand jury in North Carolina has indicted former FBI director James Comey on charges of making threats to harm President Donald Trump. The indictment comes after a 2025 Instagram post involving seashells arranged on a beach with the message 8647. Meanwhile, North Carolina has fewer low-income households than it did 14 years ago and more upper-income ones, according to a new analysis of U.S. Census data. The state's education system is also facing challenges, with roughly 45% of public school students not proficient in reading and math. The Blue Ribbon Commission on Public Education is working to address these issues and improve education funding. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are dealing with a litany of issues in the General Assembly's 2026 short session, including a plan to fully fund the state's Medicaid program and potential veto overrides. Meanwhile, two Democrat lawmakers in Mecklenburg County have switched their party affiliation, and Attorney General Jeff Jackson is urging North Carolina businesses impacted by President Donald Trump's tariffs to apply for refunds. Additionally, the state treasurer's office is promoting financial literacy through an internship program and a statewide competition for students. [... more]

The NFL draft has come to a close, and teams are already facing scrutiny for their picks. The Rams' selection of Ty Simpson has raised eyebrows, while the Eagles' decision to trade A.J. Brown has left fans questioning Jalen Hurts' future with the team. Meanwhile, the Jets have made a strong statement with their draft picks, and the Giants are looking to build a formidable pass rush. [... more]

Representative Carla Cunningham switches party affiliation from Democrat to unaffiliated, potentially impacting veto overrides in the North Carolina House. Meanwhile, a new infusion of federal disaster funding highlights progress and challenges in Western North Carolina's recovery from Hurricane Helene. Governor Josh Stein's proposed budget would phase out the Opportunity Scholarship Program, affecting an estimated 60,000 students. The U.S. Postal Service's regulations on cluster box units are causing delays and adding costs to housing developments, making homes less affordable for many families. U.S. Representative Alma Adams was cleared of any wrongdoing after an investigation by the House Ethics Committee regarding an alleged inappropriate relationship with a staffer. [... more]

A contentious committee hearing in Raleigh revealed that the Chapel Hill-Carborough City School District is not in compliance with Senate Bill 49, the Parents' Bill of Rights, which aims to increase transparency in curriculum and protect children from inappropriate content. The district's superintendent, Dr. Rodney Trice, was questioned by lawmakers over the district's handling of materials in its libraries, with some lawmakers expressing concerns that the district is intentionally subverting the law. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Supreme Court is considering a rehearing of the Leandro case, a 32-year-old legal challenge to education funding in the state. The case has been a major point of contention in North Carolina politics for decades, with some lawmakers arguing that it is a key factor in the state's education funding woes. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers have reached an agreement on legislation to overcome a shortfall in the state's Medicaid program, while tightening oversight of the program. The legislation, House Bill 696, would allocate an additional $319 million to cover the Medicaid rebase for the remainder of the fiscal year and implement several policy changes designed to strengthen eligibility verification and program integrity. Meanwhile, a major election integrity lawsuit is continuing to play out in the state as the State Board of Elections is asking a three-judge panel to jump in on a case dealing with so-called never residents. Additionally, some North Carolina lawmakers have filed a proposal that would dock their own pay if they failed to pass a state budget on time, an idea that appears to have overwhelming public support. [... more]

Governor Josh Stein laid out his recommended state budget for fiscal year 26-27, proposing a $3 billion spending increase and tax cuts. He emphasized the need to invest in public education, workforce development, and public safety, while also addressing issues like childcare and housing costs. The governor's budget also includes proposals to increase teacher pay, expand community college programs, and provide more funding for school safety and mental health services. [... more]

A new committee is formed in the North Carolina General Assembly to investigate the release of 4,200 inmates from prison under a settlement in 2021, sparking public safety concerns. Meanwhile, a state audit reveals $1.25 million in mental health resources were spent on items like stuffed animals and plants instead of supporting students and faculty in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. The state auditor's office is working to bring transparency to how hurricane relief funds are spent, and the issue raises questions about waste and abuse in government spending. [... more]

The town of Lake Lure is reopening after months of storm recovery, with a phased soft opening allowing limited public access. Meanwhile, a North Carolina drone operator is taking his case to the U.S. Supreme Court, challenging state regulations on occupational licensing. The North Carolina legislature is also gearing up for a busy session, with lawmakers set to tackle issues like the state budget and drone regulation. [... more]

The persecuted church is a reality for millions of Christians around the world, facing intense pressure, violence, and discrimination. In this podcast, a guest shares stories of believers in Nigeria, Iran, and North Korea, highlighting their courage and resilience in the face of adversity. The conversation also touches on the importance of empowering the persecuted church, providing support and resources to help them stand strong in their faith. [... more]

The North Carolina State Board of Elections adopted new non-citizen voter rules despite heated debate. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein is calling for the legalization of recreational marijuana, citing a report that warns of the dangers of the state's unregulated cannabis market. Additionally, Duke Energy is seeking a $800 million rate increase to recoup energy costs from a recent cold snap. The U.S. birth rate has hit a record low, with implications for the economy and public education. North Carolina's demographic shift is expected to have significant impacts on the state's economy and education system. [... more]

Randy Wilson shares her story of struggling with an eating disorder, attending AA and NA meetings, and eventually finding recovery and motherhood. She credits her faith and support system for helping her overcome her addiction and achieve her goals. [... more]

A look at the latest developments in North Carolina politics, including the U.S. Senate race between Roy Cooper and Michael Watley, and the ongoing debate over tax reform and property tax rates. Additionally, the state health plan is seeking a new third-party administrator and pharmacy benefit manager. [... more]

A North Carolina House Select Committee is recommending broad changes to the state's mental health and criminal justice systems to reduce violent incidents and address untreated mental illness. The committee aims to improve access to mental health services, increase the mental health workforce, and enhance data collection and sharing between state agencies. [... more]

On this episode of Our American Stories after RMS Titanic struck an iceberg on April two young men spent the next minutes sending frantic distress calls across the North Atlantic to anyone who could hear them Their names were Jack Phillips and Harold Bride They kept working as the ship took on water using one of the most advanced communication systems of its time to reach nearby vessels and call for help before the sinking became inevitable After all the fate of more than people rested in their fingers William Hazelgrove author of One Hundred and Sixty Minutes The Race [... more]

C.J. Stroud's contract situation with the Houston Texans is a topic of discussion, with some fans hoping he'll be traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Meanwhile, Tony Shaloub discusses his new show American Classic and his experiences growing up in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The FIFA World Cup is also on the horizon, with fans planning their summer trips and considering listing their spaces on Airbnb. [... more]

North Carolina Treasurer Brad Breiner is expanding the use of artificial intelligence in the state's treasurer's office after a successful pilot program. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein's proposal to revisit North Carolina's data center tax incentive is drawing attention from lawmakers and industry leaders. In Western North Carolina, private entities like Samaritan's Purse and Baptists on Mission are continuing their recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene, with Samaritan's Purse expanding its rebuild program and Baptists on Mission completing 472 grant-related home repair projects. [... more]

North Carolina made a pivotal decision 250 years ago, adopting the Halifax Resolves, which authorized its representatives to vote for independence from Great Britain, making it the first colony to do so. The document's significance is being renewed as state leaders and historians commemorate its anniversary. Meanwhile, a Vietnamese electric car manufacturer, VinFast, has faced delays and setbacks in its North Carolina factory plans, raising questions about the company's ability to meet its hiring goals and the state's investment in the project. [... more]

The World Cup is a spectacle that transcends the game on the field, with politics, history, and culture intertwined. The US men's team faces challenges in competing at the highest level, and the country's national identity is still evolving in the sport. Franklin Four's book, How Soccer Explains the World, explores the unlikely theory of globalization through the lens of soccer, highlighting the unique characteristics of different countries and their approaches to the game. [... more]

North Carolina's rural healthcare system is on unstable footing, with hospital leaders warning of potential closures due to financial strain. The state legislature is considering a $213 million plan to stabilize and transform care in rural areas. Meanwhile, a lawsuit is underway challenging the Trump administration's tariff policies, with multiple states, including North Carolina, joining the suit. Additionally, wildfires are burning across the state, with agricultural officials warning of the risks facing communities statewide. [... more]

Federal, state, and local leaders in Western North Carolina are pressing for faster disaster aid and structural reforms to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following Hurricane Helene's devastation. The new head of the Department of Homeland Security, Mark Wayne Mullen, visited the area, promising to work on regulatory reforms to speed up the funding process and ensure the region's recovery. [... more]

Michael Malone was officially introduced as the new head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels, bringing a new era to the program. He spoke about his vision for the team, honoring the past while embracing change, and his connections in the country and around the world. The team is looking to retain key players, including Caleb Wilson and Henry Vassar, and is expected to be a competitive force in the ACC. [... more]

Allegations of election mismanagement and misconduct have been made against the election director in Anson County, North Carolina, with claims of failure to execute lawful board duties, interference with statutory duties, and mismanagement affecting election administration. The county board has filed a petition to remove the director, and the state board of elections will decide whether to terminate her. Meanwhile, a lawsuit over election integrity in North Carolina has been settled, with the state board of elections agreeing to comply with a 2023 law requiring the removal of non-citizen voters from the rolls. [... more]

Michigan basketball team wins their first title since 1989, while Michael Malone is hired as the new head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels. The transfer portal is open, and several players have entered, including Derek Dixon and Kyan Evans. The Greensboro Swarm is preparing for the G League finals against the Stockton Kings, and the Charlotte Hornets are on a hot streak, potentially skipping the play-in tournament. [... more]