The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT

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.

State Auditor Dave Boliek delivered an update on the DAVE system to a legislative oversight committee, outlining progress, challenges, and next steps in improving government transparency and accountability. On the campaign trail, Justice Anita Earls says she will continue her bid for the North Carolina Supreme Court despite a recent cancer diagnosis. In business news, North Carolina’s Christmas tree industry reports a strong season, with solid demand helping growers close out the year on a high note. Meanwhile, the state Court of Appeals ruled in favor of legislative leaders over Governor Stein in an ongoing dispute involving judicial and utilities appointments. North Carolina will receive more than $12 million in community development block grants for local projects statewide.

Questions are emerging over whether progressive activists are strategically entering North Carolina GOP primaries, raising concerns among Republican leaders about voter confusion. State officials are also urging lawmakers to pass a long-delayed budget, warning that growing workloads and staffing pressures are straining agencies across state government. In the courts, a federal judge has blocked the release of CMPD body-camera video tied to the Charlotte light rail killing, citing legal and procedural concerns. Meanwhile, North Carolina officials say they have received no formal notice of a rumored federal freeze on child care funding.

A North Carolina state representative has filed a court petition seeking the removal of the Mecklenburg County sheriff, escalating a growing controversy around leadership and accountability in the sheriff’s office. The sheriff has also been asked to appear before a House committee as lawmakers weigh next steps. In broader political news, Republicans have officially overtaken Democrats on North Carolina’s voter rolls, a significant milestone highlighted by new data and long-term registration trends. Meanwhile, reaction is pouring in across the state following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, with North Carolina officials and members of Congress weighing in on the international development.

Federal officials say a New Year’s Eve ISIS-inspired terror attack was thwarted in North Carolina, with U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson and FBI Special Agent James Barnacle crediting coordinated law enforcement efforts for stopping the plot before it could be carried out. As 2026 begins, a slate of new laws take effect across North Carolina. Politically, Republicans have officially overtaken Democrats on North Carolina’s voter rolls, a major milestone reflecting long-term shifts in party affiliation statewide. Looking ahead to primary season, eight members of Congress and 38 state legislators are facing challengers as Super Tuesday races begin to take shape.

North Carolina is marking a historic and somber day with the death of Jim Hunt, the state’s longest-serving governor, who passed away at age 88. Hunt’s legacy in education and state politics is being remembered across party lines. Tragedy also struck in Iredell County, where former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family were killed in a plane crash in Statesville, prompting an outpouring of grief from the racing community. In historic news, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has officially received full federal recognition, ending a decades-long effort and opening the door to new federal resources.

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina is just one signature away from full federal recognition, marking a historic milestone after decades of advocacy. Provisions granting recognition are included in federal legislation that has already cleared Congress, leaving final approval as the last step. Meanwhile, a new audit of the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency (NCORR) details widespread failures in the agency’s handling of disaster recovery funds. State Auditor Dave Boliek sharply criticized the program, calling it a “third disaster” layered on top of the storms it was meant to address, as lawmakers and state officials continue pressing for accountability and reforms.

President Trump is set to visit Rocky Mount on Friday, bringing renewed national attention to North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District as political activity ramps up ahead of 2026. In Washington, the U.S. House version of the National Defense Authorization Act includes language that would grant full federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe, a long-sought goal for tribal leaders in North Carolina. Looking ahead to the end of the year, the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association released its 2025 holiday shopping forecast, projecting steady consumer spending despite economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department is opposing efforts to reopen a settled North Carolina election dispute, arguing the agreement should remain in place.

Governor Josh Stein has announced hundreds of millions of dollars in new funding for infrastructure projects across Western North Carolina, targeting roads, bridges, water systems, and long-term recovery needs following recent storms. On the legal front, the North Carolina Supreme Court has declined to hear a case challenging the state’s ban on Sunday hunting, leaving the current restrictions in place. The courts have also upheld North Carolina’s Certificate of Need law, rejecting a challenge from a New Bern eye surgeon who argued the regulations unfairly limit competition in healthcare.

North Carolina lawmakers are pressing judicial officials over ongoing problems with the state’s eCourts system, raising concerns about reliability, costs, and courtroom disruptions. Legislation introduced by Rep. Harris would bar discrimination against homeschool graduates in college admissions, drawing praise from school choice advocates. Governor Stein is disputing a new federal cap on graduate-level nursing student loans, warning it could worsen the state’s healthcare workforce shortage. Politically, Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page says he will remain in the Republican primary despite President Trump’s endorsement of Senate leader Phil Berger.

Federal prosecutors have filed charges against the suspect accused of stabbing a passenger on Charlotte’s light rail, escalating the case and drawing renewed attention to public safety on transit systems. A new state audit reports that North Carolina’s overall financial health remains strong. In political news, President Trump has endorsed Senate leader Phil Berger in his 2026 GOP primary challenge, injecting national attention into the race.

A contentious legislative hearing on school indoctrination sparked sharp exchanges between lawmakers and school officials, putting renewed focus on curriculum transparency and parental rights. Meanwhile, NCDHHS reversed recent Medicaid cuts as lawsuits continue to mount across the state. In political news, President Trump endorsed Senate Leader Phil Berger in his primary election, adding national attention to the race.

A deadly fight at North Forsyth High left one student dead and another injured, prompting renewed concerns over school safety. Meanwhile, a Canadian national indicted for illegally voting in North Carolina is set for a Dec. 16 arraignment. Former President Trump announced a $12 billion farmer bailout, aimed at offsetting trade-related losses. The state also confirmed an additional $29 million in Helene recovery funding headed to North Carolina communities. Additionally, a new NCDMV law now allows residents to renew their state IDs online twice, expanding digital access and reducing wait times.

A Honduran national accused in the Charlotte light rail stabbing was denied bond, intensifying public scrutiny over crime and immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, House Speaker Destin Hall has formed a new committee to study property taxes amid growing concerns about rising valuations and affordability. As housing recovery applications for Helene victims approach the Dec. 31 deadline, the state also released November sports-betting numbers showing steady activity. On the agriculture front, former President Trump announced a $12 billion bailout package for American farmers to offset ongoing trade impacts.

A stabbing on Charlotte’s Blue Line left one person seriously injured, and police arrested a twice-deported illegal immigrant, reigniting debate over public safety and immigration enforcement. The State Board of Elections is again pressing the DMV to release full Social Security number data to resolve thousands of incomplete voter records. Separately, a scathing audit of NCORR found severe mismanagement and delays in disaster-recovery programs, with State Auditor Dave Boliek labeling the agency a “third disaster” on top of recent storms. Lawmakers and state officials are now demanding major reforms as these findings continue to unfold.

Duke Energy is seeking a roughly 15% rate increase, prompting immediate objections from both Gov. Josh Stein and AG Jeff Jackson, who argue the proposal would burden families already coping with rising costs. The State Board of Elections pushed back against claims that federal officials have “unfettered” access to North Carolina voter data, stressing that all access is governed by strict legal protocols. In business news, Wolfspeed—will receive nearly $700 million in tax refunds under preexisting incentive agreements. As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season closes, North Carolina once again avoided a direct hurricane strike, though Tropical Storm Chantal delivered notable impacts earlier in the year.

Gov. Josh Stein says North Carolina is positioned for continued strong economic growth after a record-setting year for jobs, business recruitment, and investment statewide. As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially ends, the state reflects on a year without a landfalling hurricane—though Tropical Storm Chantal still delivered significant impacts. Duke Energy is also advising customers on ways to manage rising electric bills through the holiday season. Meanwhile, the long-running state budget standoff is headed for a decisive Dec. 15 showdown, with Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Hall still far apart on key issues.

Housing recovery applications for Hurricane Helene victims close on December 31, and state officials are urging storm-impacted homeowners to get paperwork in before the deadline. State Treasurer Briner is also pushing back on activists’ “divestment” claims, arguing the state’s investment strategy remains focused on returns, not politics. Meanwhile, the State Health Plan has climbed out of a major deficit and is now back in the black. On the energy front, federal officials are opposing Duke Energy’s request for the U.S. Supreme Court to hear its anti-monopoly appeal, keeping pressure on the utility in a closely watched case.

A series of new North Carolina laws have taken effect, including measures focused on public safety reforms and donor privacy protections for nonprofits. The NCDMV has released a new five-year modernization plan aimed at transforming customer service, reducing wait times, and expanding online options. Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department is opposing efforts to reopen a previously settled North Carolina election dispute, arguing the agreement should stand. Early reports also show North Carolinians spent heavily online over the holiday weekend, with shoppers driving an estimated $11 billion in digital sales.

Federal judges have denied an injunction request and upheld North Carolina’s newly approved congressional map, clearing the way for candidate filing, which opens today for the 2026 election cycle. The state has also released its updated county economic tier designations for 2026, outlining which areas will receive priority for economic-development grants. Meanwhile, Iryna’s Law—a sweeping public safety and judicial reform package inspired by the murder of Iryna Zarutska—will officially take effect in North Carolina on December 1.

AAA projects that nearly 82 million Americans will travel for Thanksgiving this year, marking one of the busiest holiday travel periods in decades. In a tradition with political flair, President Trump pardoned North Carolina–raised turkeys at the White House, blending the ceremony with prayer and remarks on faith and family. New data from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows the cost of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner has declined compared to last year, offering some relief to consumers. Meanwhile, state officials are warning shoppers ahead of Black Friday after millions were scammed from North Carolinians during the 2025 holiday shopping season.

The White House is partnering with the NRCC to help recruit a Republican candidate in North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, signaling heightened national interest in the seat. Charitable giving across North Carolina has rebounded after last year’s decline, with nonprofits reporting stronger donation levels heading into the holiday season. An opinion piece argues that the UNC System should avoid tuition increases to protect affordability for students. Meanwhile, both sides in the State Health Plan transgender care lawsuit are seeking a pause as they evaluate recent legal developments, and North Carolina has slipped to 13th place in the latest Tax Foundation business climate rankings.

Three people have been charged in connection with the shooting at Concord’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony, an incident that shook families attending the holiday event. Ahead of Thanksgiving, First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance visited Marine families at Camp Lejeune, offering support to those stationed during the holidays. In Western North Carolina, AT&T says the historic destruction caused by Hurricane Helene is prompting the company to rebuild its infrastructure stronger and more resilient. Meanwhile, judges have rejected the 2023 redistricting lawsuits but issued no ruling on the new congressional map challenges now moving through the courts.

Local officials say Charlotte’s recent immigration crackdown has concluded after hundreds of arrests, though DHS maintains that Operation Charlotte’s Web is still ongoing. A sweeping audit of NCORR outlines major failures in the state’s disaster-recovery agency, prompting State Auditor Dave Boliek to label the program a “third disaster” on top of the hurricanes it was meant to fix. Updated figures show 370 arrests connected to Operation Charlotte’s Web.

Operation Charlotte’s Web has now led to more than 250 arrests as CBP continues its concentrated enforcement push in Charlotte. Federal judges are preparing to consider an injunction request that could halt North Carolina’s newly approved congressional map ahead of the 2026 election cycle. The ongoing CBP operation is also drawing attention to North Carolina’s troubling rank as ninth in the nation for human trafficking cases. Separately, a new report shows NCDHHS generated $386 million for positions that remained unfilled, raising concerns about budgeting practices. Meanwhile, Vulcan Elements has been approved as a new JDIG investment, bringing jobs and economic development to the state.

CBP operations in Charlotte and Raleigh have now resulted in more than 200 arrests, as federal officials continue targeting criminal illegal aliens across both cities. In High Point, a local councilwoman has been selected to replace former Rep. Cecil Brockman in the North Carolina House following his resignation. The USDA has released a second round of disaster relief funding to help farmers recover from recent storms. Meanwhile, an eye surgeon and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services are clashing over the future of the state’s Certificate of Need law, with both sides arguing its impact on health care access and competition.

CBP operations in Charlotte have now resulted in more than 130 arrests, with Governor Stein confirming that additional federal agents are also being deployed to Raleigh. A new audit reveals that billions in federal COVID-19 relief dollars remain unspent in North Carolina as the federal deadline to use the funds approaches. Meanwhile, Governor Stein and Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey are jointly urging Congress to provide assistance to Outer Banks homeowners facing rising insurance costs and house collapses.

The Department of Homeland Security has launched Operation Charlotte’s Web, a large-scale enforcement effort targeting criminal illegal aliens in Charlotte. So far, 81 arrests have been made, with DHS citing violent offenders among those detained. Governor Josh Stein released a statement emphasizing the need for local, state, and federal coordination to ensure safety while upholding due process. Meanwhile, top Republican lawmakers say Stein’s recent call for a special Medicaid session is unconstitutional, arguing he overstepped executive authority. FEMA has also approved $155 million in recovery funding for Western North Carolina communities still rebuilding from Hurricane Helene. The General Assembly returns to Raleigh this week, though no major votes are expected.

The November Carolina Journal Poll shows a divided outlook among voters, with mixed opinions on the direction of both the country and North Carolina, as well as Americans’ personal financial situations. The poll also measures job approval ratings for President Trump and Governor Josh Stein, revealing strong partisan divides in both cases. In potential 2026 U.S. Senate matchups, the survey finds Roy Cooper leading Michael Whatley and Don Brown. Meanwhile, federal officials confirm Border Patrol agents are expected to arrive in Charlotte as early as this weekend to conduct operations.

The federal government has officially reopened after a record-breaking shutdown, ending weeks of economic disruption and uncertainty for federal workers and contractors. In major economic news for North Carolina, Toyota has opened its first U.S. electric vehicle battery plant in Liberty, marking a milestone investment in the state’s growing clean-energy and manufacturing sectors. Meanwhile, legal teams in the State Health Plan transgender care case have jointly requested a pause in proceedings as they consider next steps following recent rulings.

Customs and Border Protection could be reassigned to Charlotte as part of a federal security initiative, while President Trump has issued pardons to former Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and attorney Sidney Powell in the 2020 election-interference case. Governor Josh Stein is calling on the General Assembly to fully fund the Medicaid rebase to prevent service disruptions and ensure stability in state healthcare programs. John Locke Foundation’s Brian Balfour is urging lawmakers to end the ongoing gridlock, emphasizing that North Carolina deserves a functional and effective legislature. With a House deal finalized, the federal government is expected to reopen today.

After 41 days, the U.S. Senate has voted to end the federal government shutdown, breaking the longest stalemate in history. North Carolina has dropped to 13th place in the latest Tax Foundation business climate rankings, marking a slight decline in competitiveness. The state has also expanded access to care and support services for more than 600,000 veterans and their families. Meanwhile, U.S. Attorney Clifton Barrett is seeking the dismissal of a libel lawsuit filed against Congressman Pat Harrigan.

Senate Democrats have agreed to a compromise that clears the way for reopening the federal government after over a month-long shutdown, marking a breakthrough in negotiations. Andy Jackson from the John Locke Foundation discussed the 2026 Civitas Partisan Index, outlining what 2026 elections could look like for the North Carolina General Assembly. Meanwhile, Congressman Dan Bishop remains on track for appointment as U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina.

Lawmakers are urging Governor Stein to deploy the National Guard to Charlotte amid rising crime concerns, citing strained local law enforcement resources. Congressman Dan Bishop is expected to be appointed U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, marking a significant federal shift for the longtime Mecklenburg County Republican. FEMA has approved $155 million in additional funding for Hurricane Helene recovery efforts in western North Carolina. Meanwhile, a November 19 injunction hearing has been scheduled in the lawsuits challenging the state’s newly approved congressional map.

The North Carolina Rate Bureau has filed for a 68% increase in dwelling insurance rates, citing rising repair and replacement costs. A Durham-based rare-earth start-up has secured a $1.4 billion federal investment aimed at reducing U.S. dependence on Chinese minerals. State leaders have embarked on a trade mission to Asia to strengthen economic ties and attract new investment to North Carolina. Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation and FAA have announced flight reductions at 40 major U.S. airports due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Charlotte’s municipal elections delivered Democrats decisive results Tuesday night, with key races shaping the city’s political direction for the next term. Across the country, voters in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York City also cast ballots in high-profile contests that could signal trends ahead of 2026. Meanwhile, North Carolina legislators are moving to dismiss challenges to the state’s newly approved congressional map, arguing the redistricting process met all constitutional requirements.

It’s Election Day 2025 across North Carolina, with voters heading to the polls in more than 550 municipalities to decide local races for mayor, city council, and other offices. The State Board of Elections is upgrading its election management software and reminding local officials to use caution on social media to avoid misinformation or bias. Early reports indicate low voter turnout, continuing a trend from recent municipal election cycles.

Representative Cecil Brockman has resigned after House leaders formed an expulsion committee following his arrest on taking indecent liberties with a child. Meanwhile, an alleged cash-for-votes scheme tied to Wilmington’s municipal elections is under investigation. North Carolina’s food banks are set to receive an $18 million boost as SNAP payments face a temporary pause during the federal shutdown. Lawmakers are also questioning the Department of Transportation’s hiring goals and use of a DEI recruiter during a recent oversight hearing.

North Carolina voters are reporting incorrect voter registration notices. Charlotte has been ranked among the top U.S. cities for property crime, raising concerns about public safety in urban areas. Trade experts say President Trump’s decision to reduce tariffs on South Korean autos will likely benefit North Carolina consumers by lowering vehicle prices. Meanwhile, the redistricting lawsuit is moving forward under a tight timeline. Deputy USDA Secretary Vaden also highlighted Raleigh as a new national workforce hub, recognizing the city’s expanding role in federal operations.

President Trump has announced a reduction in tariffs on China after President Xi committed to tougher fentanyl enforcement and a pause on rare-earth exports. Despite the move, North Carolina’s imports of rare-earth metals from China have surged, reflecting ongoing supply chain concerns. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Supreme Court has stayed Attorney General Jeff Jackson’s lawsuit against DuPont and Chemours as the redistricting lawsuit continues to move through the courts. Senators Ted Budd and David Rouzer are urging the Trump administration to protect North Carolina’s tobacco farmers from new trade-related disruptions.

As the federal government shutdown nears the one-month mark, North Carolina continues to feel widespread impacts — from delayed projects to federal employee furloughs. The state’s rainy-day fund has declined, dropping North Carolina in national financial rankings, according to a new report. Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey discussed how global weather events are influencing homeowners insurance rates, the North Carolina Rate Bureau’s ongoing work, and how residents — especially in western counties — can avoid falling victim to insurance scams.

Plaintiffs linked to Democratic attorney Marc Elias are preparing to challenge North Carolina’s newly approved congressional map. The NAACP has also announced plans to add the map to its ongoing redistricting lawsuit, while the State Board of Elections is seeking a resolution by December 1 to avoid disrupting the 2026 election timeline. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Democratic Party has called on Republicans in Washington to end the ongoing federal government shutdown. In other news, the state Supreme Court is being asked to take up asbestos-related lawsuits involving a Charlotte tire manufacturer, and Senate leaders accuse the House budget plan of pushing the state toward deficit spending.

A deeper dive on the new NC congressional map, appeals court upholds hate crime ruling & more on Monday's Carolina Journal News Hour.

Tensions are escalating in Raleigh as lawmakers remain deadlocked over the Medicaid rebase, with funding disputes threatening to delay reimbursements to hospitals and care providers. Enrollment in North Carolina’s Opportunity Scholarship program has surged to nearly 100,000 students, highlighting growing demand for school choice. Following the approval of new congressional maps, attention now turns to potential legal challenges. Meanwhile, Senator Thom Tillis has asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate a marijuana operation run by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. On the economic front, auto imports have declined, signaling a tightening consumer market.

North Carolina lawmakers have officially approved new congressional districts, completing the 2026 redistricting process. Debate on the House floor reflected deep partisan divisions as Democrats objected to the new map’s structure, while Republicans defended it as constitutionally sound. Governor Josh Stein commented on the plan, calling it a disservice to voters and warning of potential legal challenges. Meanwhile, Decarlos Brown Jr. has been formally indicted by U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson in connection with the murder of Iryna Zarutska on Charlotte’s light rail line.