Xavier Becerra's past as HHS Secretary is scrutinized over his handling of immigration and child trafficking cases, while a World of Warcraft incident from 2005 is highlighted as a real-world pandemic simulation, and a norovirus outbreak on a cruise ship is reported. [... 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 use of marijuana is being increasingly portrayed as a natural, therapeutic substance, but experts warn of its potential dangers, including addiction, public health and safety concerns, and the need for a science-based approach to policy decisions. [... 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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Jesus Christ is described as the living cornerstone, the foundation on which everything is laid. He sets the angles and gives the direction, and when we come to him, we become like him, sharing the nature, the life, and the strength that is in Jesus himself. We are built upon the foundation of Jesus Christ, and we become living stones, being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. [... more]

The pivotal event of human history is the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, which is the center of worship, the work of the Holy Spirit, racial reconciliation, overcoming fear, holy living, healing, freedom from guilt, and overcoming Satan and demons. The cross is the answer to many of life's problems, and it is the key to understanding God's love and plan for humanity. [... more]

Living a deeply spiritual, holy life means having a sacred relationship with God, who rescues us from sin and emptiness, and shapes us to fit His divine purposes. This relationship gives us the privilege of offering various sacrifices to our living Lord, including our bodies, gratitude, good deeds, sharing with others, financial gifts, self-sacrificing love, and prayer. [... more]

The Church of Jesus Christ is a two-thousand-year-old building project by which God is always interested and always building. It's a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, and a living temple where people come to worship and offer spiritual sacrifices. As living stones, we are being built up by God, sharing his life and strength, and becoming more like him. [... more]

A 4-3 decision from the North Carolina Supreme Court has dismissed the Leandro case, a 32-year-old legal challenge to public education funding. The ruling has significant implications for education policy and the constitutional separation of powers in the state. [... more]

North Carolina voters express pessimism about the country's direction, with 55% saying it's headed in the wrong direction, according to a recent Carolina Journal poll. The poll also found that 84% of voters support requiring lawmakers to give up their salary if they don't pass a budget, and 78% support requiring AI data centers to provide their own energy generation. Additionally, 69% of respondents support increasing the use of involuntary commitment for people with severe mental illness. [... more]

The church is a fellowship of those born again, not just those who claim to be, but those who are truly born again. Jesus Christ loves the church so much that he gave himself up for her, purchasing her with his precious blood. The church's condition is one of sin, but God's plan is to make her holy and without blemish, presenting her to himself in splendor. The ultimate goal is the wedding of the Lamb, where Jesus will be united with his church in heaven. [... more]

North Carolina's record voter turnout in the 2026 primary elections was driven by the presidential race, but still relatively low compared to general elections. Meanwhile, a state auditor's report reveals financial mismanagement in Rocky Mount, leading to a $80 million decline in cash reserves. Legislative leaders are seeking to intervene in a federal lawsuit challenging a state law banning taxpayer funding for gender transition procedures for prison inmates, arguing it's a matter of state policy. [... more]

The Iranian regime has announced a new supreme leader, Moshtaba Khamenei, who is closely aligned with the IRGC. The US administration has stated that it will not accept any deal with Iran except for unconditional surrender. The conflict between the US and Iran has raised concerns about oil prices and potential terror attacks on US soil. The Iranian people have been under oppression for decades, and it remains to be seen how they will respond to the current situation. The US and Israel are providing air support to the Iranian people, and there are rumors of a potential ground invasion. The ACLJ is working to promote freedom and liberty around the world, including in Iran, and is calling on people to support their efforts during their seven days of global impact. [... more]

The U.S. Department of Energy invests $175 million in upgrading coal-fired power plants across the nation, including a major facility in North Carolina. The funding aims to strengthen the power grid, keep electricity affordable and reliable, and preserve energy jobs. Meanwhile, the North Carolina State Board of Elections investigates reports of voter registration fraud, including individuals impersonating election officials and providing misinformation to voters. [... more]

A contentious hearing in the North Carolina General Assembly focused on crime and public safety in Mecklenburg County, with officials from Charlotte and Mecklenburg County testifying before the House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform. The hearing centered on the brutal murder of Irina Zarutska and the performance of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office, with Sheriff Gary McFadden refusing to answer questions due to an ongoing investigation. [... more]

Crime in North Carolina public schools has decreased for a third consecutive year, with fewer than 1% of students committing a reportable offense. The state auditor's office is promoting transparency and accountability with internal audits and budget dashboards. Meanwhile, a lawsuit against UNC Chapel Hill over a 2024 protest has resulted in a judge blocking the campus ban for three plaintiffs, citing First Amendment rights. [... more]

Cotton production plays a significant role in North Carolina's economy, with the state ranking sixth in the nation for cotton production. Meanwhile, immunization is crucial as the immune system weakens with age, and vaccines help train and strengthen the immune response to fight off respiratory illnesses. In North Carolina, the General Assembly has made changes to appointment authority, which has led to legal challenges. Additionally, the state is experiencing winter weather, and scammers are taking advantage of individuals affected by the storms, making it essential to be cautious when dealing with insurance claims. [... more]

Tennessee's legislative agenda focuses on expanding school choice, tackling immigration, and reforming healthcare. The Regulatory Freedom Act aims to reduce bureaucratic red tape, while capping property taxes and expanding school vouchers are also on the table. [... more]

Crime is down in Memphis, thanks to the Memphis Safe Task Force, but there are still concerns about illegal aliens and the impact on housing costs and wages. The city's school system is also a major issue, with the University of Memphis Campus School being one of the most successful in the state, while the Memphis-Shelby County School District is struggling. State Senator Brent Taylor and State Representative Mark White discuss their plans to address these issues and make Memphis a safer and more prosperous place. [... more]

Mecklenburg County Sheriff Gary McFadden has been requested to appear in front of the North Carolina General Assembly's House Oversight Committee to discuss his office's role in public safety and transportation. Meanwhile, a petition has been filed to remove McFadden from office, citing allegations of misconduct and corruption. In other news, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has been arrested and is facing charges in the United States, prompting reactions from North Carolina lawmakers. Additionally, the Republican registration advantage in North Carolina has grown, with more registered Republicans than Democrats for the first time in state history. [... more]

North Carolina Family Policy Council highlights key legislation passed in 2025, including bills protecting parental rights, preventing sexual exploitation, and improving foster care and adoption laws. The organization also discusses its efforts to prevent gambling expansion and promote parental involvement in education. [... more]

A heated hearing took place in the North Carolina General Assembly as the House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform grilled members of the Chapel Hill-Carborough City School District over their alleged defiance of Senate Bill 49, the Parents' Bill of Rights. The committee also discussed potential repercussions for school districts that ignore state law, including the possibility of pulling state funding. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein announced that Medicaid funding has been restored, but the General Assembly disputes the governor's claims, saying it's a political show. President Donald Trump endorsed Senate leader Phil Berger in his primary election, and the North Carolina General Assembly is set to meet again to discuss various topics. [... more]

A discussion on Christian Nationalism, immigration policy, and Texas politics, including the expansion of mosques in Texas and the implications of Sharia Law. The conversation also touches on Middle East politics, Donald Trump, and the Congressional investigation into Jeffrey Epstein's activities. Additionally, the hosts discuss identity theft and the importance of protecting one's personal information, as well as a new reality series on Rare Diseases, CIDP. [... more]

Customs and Border Protection conducted an operation in Charlotte, known as Charlotte's Web, which resulted in the arrest of 81 individuals with significant criminal and immigration histories. Meanwhile, the North Carolina General Assembly is set to convene for its final week of business before the calendar flips to 2026, but it appears that there will not be any major voting taking place in either the House or the Senate. The dispute centers on the Department of Health and Human Services' handling of Medicaid reimbursements and recent rate cuts. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly continues to struggle with budget negotiations, with no comprehensive state budget passed despite being well into the second fiscal quarter. Governor Josh Stein is calling for an emergency session to address the Medicaid rebase, while the Republican-led General Assembly is at odds over tax code policies. Meanwhile, the federal government is on the verge of reopening after a 43-day shutdown, with a bipartisan deal to end the shutdown advancing through the House Rules Committee. [... more]

A bipartisan group of senators voted to approve a key procedural measure that puts legislation reopening the federal government on track to pass the United States Senate. The Civitas Partisan Index suggests a relatively good year for Democrats in the 2026 midterm elections, with shifts in voting patterns in urban and suburban districts. [... more]

Greg McDonald shares his first encounter with Elvis Presley and Colonel Tom Parker, where they bonded over their shared experiences as Assembly of God kids and their love for preachers. They talked about the tent used for Oral Roberts' revivals, the organ player for Earl Roberts, and their common interest in the supernatural, including snakes in church. [... more]

North Carolina State Representative Cecil Brockman has resigned from office after being charged with taking indecent liberties with a child and statutory sexual offenses. The move comes as the North Carolina General Assembly considers his expulsion. Meanwhile, the state's DEI policies are under fire, with some lawmakers questioning the use of quotas and hiring targets. In other news, a cash-for-vote scheme has been alleged in the Wilmington City Council elections, with voters receiving text messages offering payment in exchange for voting for certain candidates. The North Carolina State Board of Elections has been referred the allegations for further investigation. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly has approved new congressional maps, prompting legal challenges from the NAACP, Common Cause, and a group of individuals working with Democrat operative Mark Elias' law firm. The plaintiffs argue that the maps dilute black voting strength and violate the Voting Rights Act, the 14th Amendment, and the First Amendment. The North Carolina State Board of Elections is urging the courts to resolve the issues surrounding the maps by December 1st to avoid administrative delays for the 2026 election. Meanwhile, the government shutdown in Washington, D.C. continues, with the North Carolina Democrat Party criticizing Republicans for their handling of the situation. [... more]

North Carolina's General Assembly has approved a new congressional map, likely giving Republicans one extra seat in the US House of Representatives. Democrats have expressed outrage, calling the map an attack on North Carolina and its voters. The map does not require the governor's approval and is now in effect. Litigation is expected, with Democrats arguing that the map is a power grab by Republicans. Meanwhile, a private school in Charlotte is facing a lawsuit from parents who claim the school breached their contract by changing its educational policies without their consent. [... more]

The North Carolina General Assembly is at an impasse over Medicaid rebase funding, with the House passing several measures that the Senate refused to take up. Meanwhile, the Opportunity Scholarship Program is nearing a milestone of 100,000 students enrolled, with broad support for school choice and medical marijuana on the rise. The state's auto parts manufacturing industry is also feeling the effects of tariffs, with imports declining sharply since the tariffs took effect in April and May. [... more]

A new congressional map is officially in effect across North Carolina, giving Republicans an additional advantage in the upcoming midterm elections. The map was approved by the North Carolina General Assembly, despite Democrat opposition, and cannot be vetoed by the governor. The new map is expected to give Republicans 11 seats in the House of Representatives, while Democrats will have three. The map has sparked controversy, with Democrats accusing Republicans of gerrymandering and trying to rig the system to favor their party. [... more]

Lawmakers in North Carolina's General Assembly have been busy dealing with redistricting, disaster recovery, and education funding, among other issues. A new mini-budget has been approved to fund essential state operations, including disaster recovery, education, and public safety initiatives. The budget also includes funding for broadband fiber repair, court technology upgrades, and infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has expressed concerns about the redistricting process and has called for increased funding for public safety and mental health services. [... more]