The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT

The recount in the State Senate District 26 race has concluded with Sam Page maintaining his narrow lead over Phil Berger, leaving the outcome unchanged as ballot disputes continue to play out. Berger’s team is still pursuing formal protests over specific ballots, keeping the race in focus. Meanwhile, the State Fire Marshal is warning of an increased wildfire risk across North Carolina, citing dry conditions and urging residents to use caution. In election policy, the state’s modernization commission is making progress on overhauling North Carolina’s campaign finance system, aiming to improve transparency and efficiency in reporting.

VinFast says it will restart construction on its North Carolina facility, though the company is significantly scaling back hiring expectations, raising new questions about the project’s long-term impact. In state news, Rep. Mike Clampitt has passed away after a battle with cancer, prompting tributes from colleagues across North Carolina. Meanwhile, the State Board of Elections has rejected a petition to change voter ID rules, keeping current requirements in place. In energy policy, North Carolina senators are seeking federal assistance to evaluate solar projects, as concerns grow over costs, reliability, and oversight.

Senate leader Phil Berger has officially requested a recount in the razor-thin State Senate District 26 race after challenger Sam Page maintained a narrow lead through the county canvass. Berger’s campaign is also challenging 13 ballots, arguing irregularities could impact the final outcome. Meanwhile, a new analysis of property tax trends shows significant revenue growth in North Carolina’s most populous counties, raising questions about rising tax burdens and long-term sustainability for homeowners.

Tensions are rising in the razor-thin State Senate District 26 race as Phil Berger’s recount team claims some voters may have received the wrong ballot, an allegation strongly disputed by the Page campaign. With the recount request deadline today, the outcome of the race remains uncertain. Meanwhile, a GROW NC panel is exploring the creation of disaster investment zones aimed at boosting recovery and economic development in storm-impacted areas. In legal news, former U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema is seeking dismissal of a North Carolina alienation of affection lawsuit, adding a high-profile twist to the case.

A Level 4 out of 5 severe weather risk is in place across much of North Carolina today, with forecasters warning of the potential for damaging winds, tornadoes, and large hail. In election news, challenger Page maintained a 23-vote lead over Senate leader Phil Berger after official results were finalized during the county canvass, though Berger still has until tomorrow to request a recount. Meanwhile, North Carolina has been selected for a pilot program testing electric air taxis to help expand access to rural health care, a project aimed at improving emergency and specialty care transportation. Vice President JD Vance also visited the state, commenting on North Carolina political figures including Congressman Don Davis and former Governor Roy Cooper.

Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to speak in Rocky Mount Friday afternoon as political attention turns to North Carolina following the recent primary elections. Counties across the state are conducting their official canvass today, which could finalize the razor-thin State Senate District 26 race where challenger Page holds a 23-vote lead over Senate leader Phil Berger. A new study also suggests public school students tend to see academic gains when school choice options expand. Meanwhile, Governor Stein has joined other governors urging Congress to reclaim authority over tariffs, and Republicans are seeking a court ruling to block so-called “never residents” from voting in North Carolina elections.

North Carolina leaders have launched a new commission to review the state’s public education system, signaling a fresh look at policy, performance, and future reforms. Meanwhile, Hurricane Helene recovery efforts are facing new challenges as officials warn a funding gap for water infrastructure could slow rebuilding projects. In law enforcement news, a $12.7 million Medicaid fraud scheme has been uncovered, raising broader concerns about oversight within the program.

Governor Josh Stein is urging lawmakers to approve a $1.4 billion “critical needs budget,” arguing the funding is necessary to keep key state services operating while the broader budget stalemate continues. On foreign policy, Senator Ted Budd voiced support for President Trump’s approach toward Iran, backing the administration’s strategy amid rising global tensions. In election law, a federal judge has upheld North Carolina’s ban on ballot selfies, ruling the restriction is intended to prevent vote buying and protect election integrity. Meanwhile, North Carolina has received a record $52.9 million federal grant to support charter schools, the largest such award in the state’s history, aimed at expanding or launching dozens of charter programs over the next five years.

Officials are reviewing the results of North Carolina’s primary elections as counties prepare for Friday’s canvass and outline the rules that could trigger a recount in extremely close races. In municipal news, a new audit reports that Rocky Mount’s cash reserves dropped by $80 million under the city’s current management, raising questions about fiscal oversight. At the federal level, North Carolina lawmakers are seeking to intervene in a lawsuit challenging the state’s policy on gender transition procedures for prison inmates. Meanwhile, State Senator Graig Meyer has resigned from the General Assembly to take over leadership of the North Carolina Justice Center.

The razor-thin State Senate District 26 primary continues as challenger Sam Page expanded his lead over Senate leader Phil Berger to 23 votes after provisional ballots were counted, keeping the race under intense scrutiny. Meanwhile, FEMA has released $3.59 million in recovery funding for Burke County to support ongoing rebuilding efforts. In education news, a follow-up audit uncovered additional issues in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, even as a new statewide report highlights strong principal retention and relatively stable teacher attrition rates. In the courts, NC State University is seeking dismissal of the lawsuit tied to toxic chemical exposure claims at Poe Hall.

A shakeup at the State Board of Elections saw former Senator Bob Rucho resign, with Hawkins sworn in as his replacement. Meanwhile, the razor-thin State Senate District 26 race between Phil Berger and challenger Page remains unresolved, with 189 provisional ballots still to be reviewed. In DC, a Raleigh firefighter and Green Party candidate was arrested after disrupting a Senate hearing. In primary results, GOP voters rejected candidates associated with the “Educators on the Ballot” slate. Separately, state officials are warning that North Carolina’s ongoing budget impasse is nearing a crisis point if lawmakers fail to reach an agreement soon.

Analysts are breaking down the results from North Carolina’s 2026 primary elections, highlighting key takeaways and the races that will shape the general election. Attention is particularly focused on the razor-thin State Senate District 26 contest between Senate leader Phil Berger and challenger Page, where election officials are preparing to begin the recount and canvassing process. In legal news, the state Appeals Court ruled against the incumbent in a dispute over the 2023 Pembroke mayor’s race. Meanwhile, former state Rep. Brockman has been indicted on child sex charges, adding a major development to an already controversial case.

Results from North Carolina’s 2026 primary are coming into focus, with major statewide and legislative races shaping the political landscape heading into the general election. In the U.S. Senate race, Roy Cooper secured the Democratic nomination and will face Republican Michael Whatley in November. One of the night’s closest contests came in State Senate District 26, where challenger Page held a razor-thin two-vote lead over Senate leader Phil Berger, setting up a likely recount. In congressional politics, Laurie Buckhout won the GOP nomination in the 1st District, while several incumbent lawmakers were upset in state legislative primaries. In Mecklenburg County, Sheriff Garry McFadden also secured victory in his primary race.

Primary Election Day is underway across North Carolina, with key statewide and congressional races drawing close attention as voters head to the polls. Officials are highlighting what voters need to know — from polling hours to ID requirements — while campaigns focus on turnout in competitive primaries. The State Board of Elections has named a new director of election security ahead of the vote, aiming to reinforce confidence in the process. Final early voting numbers show turnout trends and party participation levels heading into Election Day, offering insight into what to watch as results come in.

President Trump says U.S. operations involving Iran will continue until stated objectives are achieved, as tensions escalate following Iran’s reported closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a move with major implications for global energy markets. Gas prices across North Carolina are reacting to the instability, with analysts warning that prolonged disruption could push prices higher. In election news, a Canadian citizen has pleaded guilty to illegally voting in North Carolina federal elections. Meanwhile, state officials confirmed that votes cast for a disqualified candidate in the GOP U.S. Senate primary will still be counted under current election law. Separately, UNC System leaders have approved a significant overhaul of the system’s academic freedom policy, redefining faculty protections and responsibilities moving forward.

New results from the 2026 GOP Primary Carolina Journal Poll provide fresh insight into the U.S. Senate race and overall support for leading Republican's across North Carolina. The survey also measures President Trump’s approval among GOP voters, levels of MAGA alignment, and voter interest in participating in the upcoming primary. Additional findings examine Republican views on the state’s ongoing budget impasse, perceptions of North Carolina’s tax climate, and evolving media consumption habits. Separately, proposed changes to the North Carolina Investment Authority could strengthen pension performance while reducing long-term costs to taxpayers.

New data from the 2026 primary shows early voting trends taking shape across North Carolina, with turnout patterns offering early clues about voter enthusiasm and party engagement. At the same time, a newly formed modernization commission has begun work on overhauling North Carolina’s election systems, aiming to improve security, efficiency, and data integrity. In economic development news, the Department of Commerce has canceled six Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) projects, raising questions about shifting priorities and incentive strategies.

The 2026 State of the Union placed tariffs front and center, with a focus on how trade policy is impacting North Carolina’s agriculture, manufacturing, and export sectors. The address also highlighted the rapid growth of AI data centers and the resulting strain on utilities and energy infrastructure, alongside ongoing challenges in single-family housing affordability. Public safety was another theme, with renewed attention on the Charlotte light rail murder of Iryna Zarutska and concerns over improperly issued commercial driver’s licenses.

Tariffs dominated discussion at the 1st District GOP primary debate, as candidates sparred over trade policy and its impact on North Carolina industries. New data shows the cost of living in North Carolina is rising at a slower pace than the national average, offering some relief for households. Despite ongoing trade tensions, tariffs have left North Carolina’s overall trade deficit largely unchanged, according to recent analysis. In legal news, NC State is seeking dismissal of a lawsuit tied to toxic chemical exposure at Poe Hall. Meanwhile, film and television productions spent $185.5 million in North Carolina in 2025, highlighting the continued growth of the state’s entertainment industry.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that former President Donald Trump cannot use emergency powers law to impose tariffs, delivering a significant decision on executive authority and trade policy. Reaction has poured in from political leaders and policy analysts across North Carolina and beyond. Meanwhile, a newly formed task force is examining potential changes to North Carolina’s school accountability system, signaling possible reforms in how student and school performance are measured. In economic development news, four North Carolina cities rank among the top 20 Southern tech hubs, with Raleigh coming in at No. 3, underscoring the state’s growing footprint in the technology sector.

New crime data shows homicides are down in several North Carolina cities in 2025, signaling improvement after years of elevated violence in some urban areas. In international news with local impact, Asheville has been selected to host the 2026 G20 Finance Track meetings, bringing global attention and economic activity to Western North Carolina. Early voting continues statewide, with updated turnout numbers offering insight into voter participation trends ahead of the primary.

Tensions grow in Raleigh as lawmakers and state officials clash over the pace of Hurricane Helene recovery projects, with concerns raised about delays and accountability. On the federal front, former North Carolina Congressman Mark Walker was named to a Trump State Department role focused on global religious freedom. The Department of Public Instruction is also preparing updates to math standards aimed at better aligning classroom instruction with workforce demands. In the courts, a long-running lawsuit from bar owners over COVID shutdowns could shrink significantly, as nearly two dozen plaintiffs may be dismissed from the case.

A new North Carolina energy report warns that electricity rates could rise as demand surges statewide, driven by population growth and expanding industry. In election news, a judge struck down an order related to the State Board of Elections, ruling the board violated its own procedures. Early voting continues across North Carolina, with updated turnout numbers offering insight into voter engagement ahead of the primary. Meanwhile, the Department of Environmental Quality awarded $5.7 million for flood mitigation projects in western North Carolina to strengthen resilience after recent storms.

The U.S. Department of Energy plans to invest $175 million in coal plant upgrades nationwide, including a North Carolina site, as part of broader grid reliability efforts. Meanwhile, the State Board of Elections is investigating allegations of fake officials and fraud tied to voter registration drives. At the General Assembly, a House committee pressed Buncombe County leaders over DEI policies, while Asheville agreed to eliminate race-based commission criteria. In the courts, a judge dismissed Carrboro’s climate lawsuit against Duke Energy, delivering a win for the utility in the ongoing energy policy debate.

North Carolina lost 7,200 manufacturing jobs in 2025, according to the state Department of Commerce, raising fresh concerns about economic headwinds in key industries. Early voting continues statewide for the 2026 primary as campaigns ramp up turnout efforts. A judge has clarified the scope of a protective order in the Zarutska stabbing death case, addressing disputes over records and access. From Capitol Hill, Congressman Brad Knott highlighted the Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act, aimed at strengthening domestic production and reducing reliance on foreign sources.

North Carolina is expanding apprenticeship opportunities using new federal workforce funds, aiming to strengthen job pipelines in key industries. In Union County, a targeted math tutoring initiative is drawing attention as a potential statewide model for boosting student achievement. Early voting has officially begun across North Carolina, key dates, rules, and turnout expectations as ballots are cast. Meanwhile, the state’s Energy Saver rebate program is now available in all 100 counties, broadening access to cost-saving efficiency upgrades for homeowners.

In this episode of The Carolina Journal News Hour, host Nick Craig discusses several statewide news stories. First, he talks to Teresa Opeika about a recent change in North Carolina's private property rights, specifically regarding navigable streams and the Registered Property Program. They explore the implications of the program's repeal and how it affects over 3,600 landowners. Later, Nick shares updates on the state's efforts to improve broadband expansion, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. He also touches on the importance of private property rights and the potential impact of a new partnership between federal and state agencies to aid in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.

Charlotte officials faced intense questioning before the House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform as lawmakers examined public safety, accountability, and leadership within the city’s criminal justice system. District Attorney Spencer Merriweather defended prosecutorial decisions amid concerns over violent crime. Sheriff Garry McFadden was repeatedly pressed on enforcement of Iryna’s Law, the low number of ICE detainers honored, and the use of grant funding. Lawmakers also questioned McFadden over controversial jail policies — including a music studio inside the jail — and more than 21 inmate deaths during his tenure. In a tense exchange, McFadden blamed ICE for recruitment challenges within his department, prompting further scrutiny of leadership, priorities, and management.

State Auditor Dave Boliek has launched a new commission aimed at modernizing North Carolina’s election data systems, citing the need for greater accuracy, security, and transparency. At the same time, the State Board of Education is calling for pay raises for school personnel while also raising alarms over potential cuts tied to the state’s voucher program. In Raleigh, Charlotte city officials are set to appear before the House Select Committee on Oversight and Reform, where lawmakers are expected to question them on crime, governance, and accountability. Separately, Governor Stein issued an executive order focused on improving crisis response and coordination among state agencies. In election-related court news, a judge has denied an injunction seeking changes to early voting sites on three North Carolina college campuses, allowing current plans to stand.

Newly released crime data shows continued improvement in safety across North Carolina public schools, reinforcing a positive statewide trend. On the sports front, at least 16 players with North Carolina ties are set to appear in the Super Bowl, highlighting the state’s deep football footprint. In state government, Auditor Dave Boliek is auditing his own office as part of a broader push for transparency and accountability. Meanwhile, a judge blocked UNC from enforcing a protest ban and dismissed part of the university’s lawsuit, and attention now turns to Raleigh as Charlotte leaders prepare to address lawmakers at the General Assembly on Monday.

A federal audit has flagged serious safety risks on Charlotte’s public transit system, raising renewed concerns about security, oversight, and rider safety. The audit findings come as state officials detail how more than $200 million in Hurricane Helene recovery funds are being distributed across affected communities. In election news, the North Carolina Board of Elections ruled that Dupre is ineligible for the GOP U.S. Senate ballot, reshaping the primary field. Separately, a new audit finds thousands of vacant state government positions are costing North Carolina more than $1 billion, spotlighting workforce shortages and operational inefficiencies.

North Carolina’s infrastructure received a C-minus grade in the latest civil engineering report, renewing concerns about roads, bridges, and long-term investment needs statewide. At the same time, the State Board of Elections is asking roughly 241,000 voters to verify their identity, part of an effort to clean up voter rolls and ensure accurate records. In Raleigh, a judge has ruled he will not impose additional limits on lawmakers’ planned hearing on crime in Charlotte, allowing legislative oversight efforts to proceed. Separately, election officials say a major data repair project has successfully completed corrections on more than 32,000 voter registration records, marking progress in addressing longstanding database issues.

North Carolina has been ranked No. 1 in the nation for economic development in 2025, highlighting continued success in business recruitment, job growth, and capital investment. At the same time, applications are now open for the Opportunity Scholarship program, with enrollment already surpassing 100,000 students, underscoring growing demand for school choice across the state. In legal news, a hearing is set for Thursday in a lawsuit brought by College Democrats challenging early voting site decisions, a case that could have implications for future election administration.

North Carolina has begun cleanup efforts after a historic snowfall, with officials warning that hazardous travel conditions could persist for several days due to lingering ice and refreezing. To meet heightened demand during the cold snap, the Department of Energy has extended a waiver allowing Duke Energy to boost power output amid frigid temperatures. Meanwhile, a new court filing estimates that retiree demands tied to the State Health Plan could cost taxpayers up to $3 billion, underscoring the scale of the ongoing legal and fiscal dispute.

Governor Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency ahead of a statewide snowstorm, urging residents to prepare for hazardous travel, power outages, and dangerous conditions as winter weather moves in. The day also brings sad news from the political community, with a candidate for the North Carolina House passing away suddenly, prompting tributes and condolences across party lines. Meanwhile, new data from the 2026 Carolina Journal Statewide Education Poll shows where voters stand on key education issues, including school choice, accountability, and funding, offering an early look at how education could shape upcoming elections.

North Carolina continues to rank among the top three states for population growth, a trend that state leaders say is driving both economic opportunity and infrastructure strain. At the same time, bipartisan state and federal officials are increasing pressure on regional power grid operators to rein in rising electricity costs that are hitting consumers and businesses alike. President Trump also announced that John Deere plans to open a new facility in North Carolina, adding to the state’s manufacturing momentum. Weather officials are warning residents to prepare for another round of winter weather this weekend. Meanwhile, the Trump administration rolled out its nationwide “Freedom Truck” initiative at a North Carolina charter school.

A court order has forced state lawmakers to delay a scheduled hearing on crime in Charlotte, putting a temporary pause on legislative scrutiny tied to recent violence. Separately, a major Meta–Corning agreement is positioning North Carolina at the center of a growing AI infrastructure and data-center push, boosting the state’s role in advanced technology development. In education policy, a new report ranks North Carolina 13th nationally on the education freedom index, reflecting gains in school choice alongside ongoing debates over regulation. Rounding out the day, new economic data shows North Carolina’s GDP grew by 5.6% in the third quarter, signaling continued economic momentum.

Cold temperatures are expected to start Tuesday morning across North Carolina as residents continue recovering from the weekend winter storm, though utility officials report power has been restored to most customers statewide. In Washington, Congressman Murphy has introduced legislation aimed at strengthening American cotton production and supporting domestic farmers. Following the storm, homeowners are being warned to watch for repair scams as fraudulent contractors target disaster-impacted areas. Meanwhile, State Auditor Dave Boliek is urging the North Carolina Court of Appeals to formally recognize its recent Stein v. Hall ruling as part of an ongoing legal dispute.

North Carolina is assessing impacts after winter weather moved across the state on Sunday, bringing a mix of snow, ice, and hazardous travel conditions to several regions. As cleanup continues, attention is also turning back to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, where a looming deadline approaches despite only 14 homes completed so far under the state’s aid program, raising concerns about pace and accountability. In legal news, the North Carolina Supreme Court declined to hear a case challenging the state’s Sunday hunting law, leaving current restrictions in place.

State officials are urging North Carolinians to prepare now as the state braces for a potential major ice storm, warning of dangerous travel conditions, power outages, and downed trees. Duke Energy says crews and equipment are staged across the state as utilities prepare for possible widespread impacts. In policy news, Georgia has joined a new federal school choice program, increasing pressure in North Carolina as lawmakers consider a potential veto override on similar legislation. Meanwhile, the tobacco trust fund has opened applications for 2026 grants, offering funding opportunities for agricultural and rural development projects.

North Carolina has declared a state of emergency ahead of a winter storm, with officials urging residents to prepare for hazardous travel conditions and possible power outages. In higher education news, UNC–Chapel Hill announced a major campus expansion planned for 2027, aimed at supporting enrollment growth and research initiatives. Meanwhile, an ICE detainer has been placed on a man accused of causing a fatal Rowan County crash that killed a soccer player and his girlfriend, adding a federal immigration component to the case. In economic development news, CommScope has canceled a planned expansion in Catawba County, citing changing market conditions. Separately, a court filing estimates retiree demands tied to the State Health Plan could cost taxpayers up to $3 billion, intensifying an ongoing legal and fiscal dispute.

President Trump is set to speak at the World Economic Forum as new concerns emerge over potential retaliatory tariffs from the European Union that could significantly impact North Carolina’s economy, particularly manufacturing and exports. A new state law is now in effect allowing North Carolina law enforcement to disable or take down drones deemed dangerous to public safety. In redistricting news, critics of North Carolina’s new congressional map have dropped their federal lawsuits, narrowing the remaining legal challenges. Meanwhile, biotech giant Genentech is doubling down on its North Carolina investment with additional incentives, even as tariff risks loom over the global market.

Republicans have officially surpassed Democrats as the largest bloc of registered voters in North Carolina, a major milestone highlighted by new voter registration data and long-term political realignment trends. Analysts say the shift reflects growing numbers of unaffiliated voters and sustained GOP gains in recent election cycles. Meanwhile, renewed scrutiny is being placed on the North Carolina Education Lottery, with questions resurfacing about whether it has fully delivered on its original promise to boost education funding. A look back at history, marking the 1781 Battle of Guilford Courthouse, a pivotal Revolutionary War battle fought on North Carolina soil.

Federal authorities say the FBI has captured a Ten Most Wanted fugitive in Mexico after a decade-long manhunt, marking a major breakthrough in an international case. In higher education, a new UNC System policy requiring course syllabi to be posted online has officially taken effect, aimed at improving transparency for students and parents. Separately, a former Arizona U.S. senator is facing a lawsuit in North Carolina tied to allegations stemming from a broken marriage. In state government news, a new audit finds thousands of vacant state positions are costing North Carolina more than $1 billion, raising concerns about staffing shortages and operational efficiency.

A judge has dismissed a petition seeking to remove the Mecklenburg County sheriff from office, bringing an end—at least for now—to a high-profile legal challenge over leadership and accountability. At the same time, North Carolina’s child care task force is focusing on workforce shortages and affordability concerns as demand for care continues to outpace supply. In disaster recovery news, $116 million in additional Hurricane Helene aid is headed to North Carolina, while Governor Stein and Senator Ted Budd say more federal assistance is still needed. Meanwhile, U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson and state officials are seeking to block the legislature’s release of records tied to the Iryna Zarutska case, setting up another separation-of-powers dispute.

A hearing is scheduled for today on a petition seeking the removal of the Mecklenburg County sheriff. State officials have also outlined plans to distribute a $213 million rural health award, as lawmakers simultaneously consider possible SNAP waivers aimed at expanding flexibility in food assistance programs. Separately, a new analysis revisits the original promises of the North Carolina Education Lottery, raising questions about whether it has fully delivered on funding expectations for schools. North Carolina is joining a growing number of states moving to limit screen time in classrooms amid concerns about student learning and development.

A hearing is scheduled for Thursday on a petition seeking the removal of the Mecklenburg County sheriff, a move that could escalate tensions between lawmakers and local law enforcement leadership. A new report warns that tariffs could have a major economic impact on North Carolina agriculture, potentially costing farmers up to $700 million and threatening 8,000 jobs statewide. Meanwhile, State Auditor Dave Boliek is calling for a voter roll investigation after questions were raised about a U.S. Senate candidate’s listed address.

A string of recent murders across North Carolina is reigniting debate over the state’s bail system and mental health policies, with lawmakers and advocates questioning whether current laws adequately protect public safety while addressing treatment needs. In legal news, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Duke Energy’s appeal in a high-profile anti-monopoly case, allowing lower court rulings against the utility to stand.

Senator Thom Tillis is reacting to news that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is under criminal investigation related to the Fed’s headquarters renovation, calling for accountability as questions mount in Washington. At the same time, North Carolina’s congressional delegation is demanding action after illegal commercial truck driver’s licenses were flagged, warning the issue could jeopardize public safety and federal funding. In education policy, Governor Stein is disputing a new federal cap on graduate-level nursing student loans, arguing it could worsen healthcare workforce shortages. A judge has blocked the release of recordings connected to the Charlotte light rail killing, while new data shows North Carolina ranked third among the nation’s top moving destinations in 2025.

North Carolina could be at risk of losing $48.7 million in federal funding after commercial driver’s licenses were flagged by the federal government, raising concerns about compliance and oversight. Despite that potential setback, a new economic outlook shows North Carolina remains financially strong heading into 2026, with steady growth projections. State Treasurer Brad Briner says the state is on the right track as overall debt levels decline and pension fund performance improves, strengthening long-term fiscal stability.