The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT

North Carolina House and Senate leaders have announced a new state budget framework, outlining agreements on key issues after months of negotiations and stalemate. Meanwhile, renewed scrutiny is falling on COVID-era prison releases under former Governor Roy Cooper, with lawmakers and critics raising fresh public safety concerns. In redistricting news, challengers have dropped their case against two northeastern North Carolina Senate districts, ending another legal fight over legislative maps. Separately, an investigation in Pilot Mountain has led to the indictment of the town’s former manager, adding to a growing list of local government accountability cases.

State Auditor Dave Boliek is continuing to investigate soaring autism therapy costs amid growing concerns about potential Medicaid fraud and abuse. In politics, new NRCC polling shows Republican Laurie Buckhout and Democrat Don Davis locked in a dead heat in one of the state’s most competitive congressional races. A new study also finds cellphone bans in schools are producing slow but measurable improvements in student behavior and learning. Meanwhile, a court has rejected key Trump tariff claims while dismissing challenges brought by North Carolina and several other states. Lawmakers are also preparing for another busy day at the General Assembly.

Former FBI Director James Comey will no longer appear in federal court in Greenville today, delaying another step in the high-profile North Carolina case. At the legislature, a bipartisan proposal is targeting North Carolina’s growing data center tax incentives as AI expansion accelerates statewide. Lawmakers are also proposing a new $50 million affordable housing loan fund aimed at boosting housing development and accessibility. In education litigation, Leandro plaintiffs are citing two key issues as they seek a rehearing from the North Carolina Supreme Court in the decades-long school funding case.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles has announced she will resign just months after winning reelection in a landslide victory, creating a major shakeup in North Carolina’s largest city. In education news, North Carolina teachers say student discipline issues are now their biggest workplace challenge, according to new survey data. Meanwhile, state officials are urging residents to prepare during Hurricane Preparedness Week, emphasizing the importance of emergency plans and supplies ahead of the 2026 season. In legal developments, attorneys for Brown are seeking a hearing and formal finding of incompetence in the federal case tied to the Iryna Zarutska murder investigation.

The North Carolina Senate has passed a bill to delay property tax reappraisals, while also considering a proposal to shift more energy costs to large users and encourage on-site power generation. Charlotte is set to make history as the first U.S. city to host the 2027 Military World Games, bringing international attention and economic impact. In eastern North Carolina, Rocky Mount is reporting progress on its financial recovery, though lawmakers are advancing a bill that would limit the city’s use of utility revenues, keeping state oversight in focus.

Republican senators are renewing their push for zero-based budgeting, aiming to reset state spending and require agencies to justify expenses from the ground up. In politics, Democrats are targeting a full sweep of Mecklenburg County’s 13 House seats, while a new poll shows Roy Cooper holding a 9-point lead over Michael Whatley in the U.S. Senate race. In federal court, a supporter of “ballot selfies” is making a case at the 4th Circuit challenging North Carolina’s ban, continuing the legal fight over election laws. Meanwhile, a busy day is expected at the General Assembly, with multiple key issues on the agenda.

Wake County commissioners have delayed a vote on the proposed Atrium–WakeMed merger, as state officials raise concerns about potential impacts on competition and patient care. In economic development news, Raleigh has been selected as the home for a new USDA research hub, boosting the region’s role in agriculture and innovation. At the legislature, a Democratic proposal would redirect funding from Opportunity Scholarships to child care programs, setting up a debate over education priorities. Meanwhile, election officials report that a statewide voter registration repair project has corrected more than 36,000 records, improving data accuracy ahead of upcoming elections.

Thousands are expected to rally in Raleigh for the North Carolina Association of Educators “Kids Over Corporations” protest, drawing attention to education funding and policy priorities. Meanwhile, the CEO of the John Locke Foundation is praising a U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding donor privacy, calling it a win for free speech protections. Governor Josh Stein has signed a $319 million Medicaid bill into law, advancing funding and policy changes in the state’s healthcare system. At the same time, the NCAE teacher protest is underway, and the state superintendent is flagging potential cheating concerns on state tests, raising new questions about academic integrity.

A North Carolina House bill would eliminate local sales taxes on groceries, while a Senate committee has revived a stalled bill regulating social media use for minors, signaling renewed focus on cost-of-living and online safety issues. Lawmakers are also debating Senate Bill 889, which would delay property reappraisals rather than raise taxes, as part of ongoing discussions about tax burdens. At the national level, a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling in a Louisiana redistricting case could carry implications for North Carolina’s own maps. Meanwhile, a DEQ study found PFAS contamination in all tested sludge-applied fields, raising new environmental and public health concerns.

A North Carolina federal grand jury has indicted former FBI Director James Comey on charges he allegedly threatened President Trump, adding a major development to an already high-profile case. In state politics, Sen. Terence Everitt has resigned from the North Carolina Senate, creating a vacancy in the General Assembly. Meanwhile, a new schools commission has begun work as student proficiency continues to lag statewide, with education leaders looking for solutions. In election administration, officials report 34,000 deceased individuals still listed on North Carolina voter rolls, raising concerns about data accuracy. On the economic front, Census data shows significant growth in the state’s upper middle class over the past 14 years, reflecting broader demographic shifts.

Mecklenburg County has now seen its second Democratic state lawmaker switch to unaffiliated, signaling continued shifts in North Carolina’s political landscape. Attorney General Jeff Jackson is urging businesses to apply for refunds tied to federal tariffs, saying companies may be eligible for relief. Meanwhile, State Treasurer Brad Briner is launching new internships and school-based clubs aimed at improving financial literacy among students. In the courts, lawmakers are objecting to a requested pause in the Leandro school funding case, pushing to keep proceedings moving. The General Assembly is also back in Raleigh, with lawmakers returning to continue work during the short session.

State Rep. Carla Cunningham has left the Democratic Party and registered as unaffiliated, marking another high-profile party switch in North Carolina politics. Meanwhile, new FEMA funding is being directed toward closing recovery gaps in western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. Governor Josh Stein’s proposed budget is drawing criticism after estimates show it could remove roughly 60,000 students from the Opportunity Scholarship program. In the Triad, disputes with United States Postal Service over mailbox placement are delaying major development projects. Separately, Alma Adams was under investigation by the House Ethics Committee.

The House Oversight Committee pressed Chapel Hill-Carrboro Superintendent Rodney Trice over district policies and compliance issues, as lawmakers intensify scrutiny on local school systems. A proposed bill would cut funding for districts that violate the Parents’ Bill of Rights, raising stakes in the ongoing education debate. In legal news, school boards involved in the Leandro case are seeking a rehearing from the North Carolina Supreme Court, keeping the decades-long funding fight alive. Meanwhile, a new report finds the UNC System is not graduating enough students in high-demand fields, sparking concerns about workforce readiness.

North Carolina House and Senate leaders have reached a deal on Medicaid funding and oversight reforms, marking a key breakthrough early in the short session. The agreement comes as a JDIG incentive is being used to support a pharmaceutical manufacturer in Durham, boosting economic development. Meanwhile, school districts across the state are adjusting schedules ahead of a planned May 1 teacher protest, anticipating staffing shortages. In election law, the State Board of Elections is seeking a three-judge panel to hear the “never residents” voting case. At the legislature, pressure is building with a proposed “no budget, no pay” bill aimed at lawmakers as budget negotiations continue.

Governor Josh Stein is proposing a $3 billion spending increase that includes pay raises, targeted tax cuts, and a freeze on new school vouchers, setting up a major policy debate with lawmakers. The plan comes as the 2026 General Assembly short session gets underway, though no veto override votes were taken on the first day. Legislators are also pushing back in court against a challenge to northeastern North Carolina Senate districts, defending the current map. Attention now turns to a pending Medicaid vote, expected to be one of the key early issues this session.

Legislative leaders have launched a probe into early prisoner releases during the Cooper administration, raising questions about public safety and oversight. Meanwhile, state agencies are reportedly slow to address job vacancies flagged in a recent audit, prolonging concerns about staffing shortages and efficiency. Another audit found North Carolina community colleges used some Hurricane Helene relief funds on non-essential items, including stress balls and birdwatching activities, drawing criticism over spending priorities. On the economic front, $1.6 million in rural development grants have been awarded, expected to help create 215 new jobs across the state.

Lake Lure is set to reopen 19 months after Hurricane Helene, marking a major milestone in recovery as the region continues to rebuild. The USDA is also making $221 million in timber relief funding available starting April 20 to support impacted landowners. In Raleigh, Senate leader Phil Berger is outlining priorities and calling for unity ahead of the 2026 short session, which is set to begin this week. On the legal front, the U.S. Supreme Court will review a North Carolina drone licensing dispute, a case that could have broader implications for regulation and property rights.

North Carolina’s elections board has approved new rules related to noncitizen voters following a heated public debate and thousands of comments. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein is calling for the legalization of recreational marijuana after a new panel report, signaling a potential policy shift in the state. In energy news, Duke Energy is seeking a rate hike after increased demand tied to the early 2026 cold snap. The state is also confronting long-term challenges as demographic trends shift, with the U.S. birth rate hitting a record low and raising concerns about future workforce and economic growth.

New campaign finance reports show Roy Cooper significantly outraised Michael Whatley in Q1, bringing in $13.8 million compared to $5 million, as the North Carolina Senate race gains national attention. The Cook Political Report has also shifted the race from a toss-up to lean Democrat, signaling changing dynamics heading into the general election. In policy news, a House committee has advanced a proposed constitutional amendment to limit property tax growth, reflecting concerns over rising valuations. Meanwhile, the State Health Plan has delayed selecting a new third-party administrator after bids failed to meet expectations, adding uncertainty to the program’s future management.

A new report is calling for reforms to North Carolina’s involuntary commitment and mental health treatment system, citing gaps in care and rising demand for services. Meanwhile, a study shows the state continues to grow rapidly, with a new resident moving to North Carolina every seven minutes, adding pressure to housing, infrastructure, and services. In legal news, the North Carolina Supreme Court is taking up a $3 billion dispute over retiree health benefits, a case with major implications for taxpayers and state employees.

Ferguson has been selected to fill a vacant North Carolina House seat, adding a new voice to the General Assembly. Meanwhile, the State Treasurer is expanding the use of artificial intelligence within government operations after strong results from a pilot program. Governor Stein’s proposed data center tax plan is drawing increased attention from lawmakers as they weigh economic incentives against potential revenue impacts. In western North Carolina, Hurricane Helene survivors are beginning to move into newly rebuilt homes, marking continued progress in long-term recovery efforts.

North Carolina is reflecting on its history as the Halifax Resolves mark 250 years, highlighting the state’s early role in American independence. In education, concerns are growing as the school construction fund is being stretched, with a shrinking share of lottery revenue contributing to funding pressures, as lawmakers prepare to return to Raleigh next week. In economic development news, VinFast plans to restart construction on its North Carolina facility but with significantly reduced hiring expectations. Meanwhile, a Guilford County official says claims tied to Phil Berger’s election protest are “highly unlikely,” as the closely watched race continues to draw scrutiny.

State lawmakers are pressing NCDHHS officials and hospital leaders over access to rural health care, as concerns grow about service gaps and long-term sustainability. Meanwhile, a House Oversight Committee has summoned school leaders to testify over library book policies, escalating ongoing debates around content and standards in public schools. In federal court, a multi-state challenge to Trump-era tariffs is set for a hearing Friday, with potential implications for trade policy and state economies. Separately, North Carolina’s Council of State met at historic Halifax.

Senator Ted Budd hosted the new DHS Secretary and is calling for greater efficiency and accountability within FEMA, particularly as North Carolina continues recovering from Hurricane Helene. In a major legal development, the suspect in the Iryna Zarutska murder case has been ruled “incapable to proceed,” pausing prosecution as questions shift to competency and next steps. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Court of Appeals has ruled against the city of Charlotte in a dispute involving flooding and homeowner damages, a decision that could have broader implications for municipal liability.

The Anson County Board of Elections is alleging years of mismanagement by its director, raising concerns about oversight and election administration at the local level. In education news, a record 54% of North Carolina public school graduates are completing college-level coursework, signaling continued progress in academic readiness. Meanwhile, Republicans and the State Board of Elections have resolved a lawsuit over the removal of noncitizen voters from the rolls, bringing clarity to a closely watched election issue.

A new North Carolina audit of federal grants has flagged cost overruns and reporting concerns, raising questions about oversight and accountability in how funds are managed. Hurricane Helene recovery remains a major focus, with $60 billion in damage far exceeding available aid, even as Rutherford County receives $9.39 million in reimbursements and DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin plans a visit to the Asheville area. In politics, a GOP Super PAC is committing $71 million to support Michael Whatley as the U.S. Senate race intensifies. Meanwhile, the State Auditor will take on an oversight role in Charlotte’s $650 million stadium renovation project, adding scrutiny to one of the city’s largest investments.

A new poll shows a widening partisan divide over the war with Iran, highlighting growing political tensions on foreign policy. In North Carolina, Hurricane Helene recovery efforts continue to lag as an estimated $60 billion in damage far outpaces available aid, with officials warning of long-term rebuilding challenges. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin is scheduled to visit western North Carolina this week to assess recovery efforts. In energy policy, state senators are seeking federal assistance to evaluate solar projects amid concerns over costs and reliability. Meanwhile, reactions continue to pour in following the end of the 32-year Leandro school funding case, with sharp divisions over what the ruling means for education moving forward.

The North Carolina Supreme Court has dismissed the long-running Leandro school funding case, bringing an end to a 32-year legal battle over education funding and constitutional obligations. The decision is drawing strong reactions from both supporters and critics, with major implications for future education policy and funding debates. Meanwhile, the Local Government Commission has delayed a potential takeover of Rocky Mount’s finances, instead setting conditions the city must meet to avoid further state intervention.

New prospects are emerging for North Carolina’s next Senate leader, setting up a potential reshaping of power in Raleigh. In recovery news, Rutherford County has been reimbursed $9.39 million for Hurricane Helene efforts, as lawmakers convene a subcommittee hearing focused on ongoing response and recovery. In legal developments, a gun rights group is backing a defendant in a Second Amendment case now before the North Carolina Supreme Court. Meanwhile, some lawmakers are pushing back on the Department of Public Instruction’s latest math report, calling for a return to traditional textbooks in classrooms.

Governor Josh Stein is warning of a projected $2.8 billion budget shortfall over the next two years, raising concerns as lawmakers continue to debate spending priorities and tax policy. At the same time, North Carolina has issued a statewide burn ban as wildfires continue to rage across western parts of the state, with officials urging caution amid dangerous conditions. In legal news, a court has officially certified Dial as the winner of the 2023 Pembroke mayoral race, bringing a lengthy election dispute to a close.

A Wilmington man has been charged with illegally voting despite being a convicted felon serving a child pornography sentence, raising renewed concerns about election integrity enforcement. In a separate legal ruling, a federal judge has upheld a North Carolina law modifying same-day voter registration rules. Meanwhile, the State Board of Elections has received more than 15,000 public comments on proposed rules regarding noncitizen voting safeguards. An op-ed also explores what state governments can learn from Las Vegas casinos, plus an update on wildfires burning across North Carolina, as officials continue monitoring conditions and containment efforts.

North Carolina has issued a statewide burn ban as dry conditions raise wildfire concerns, with officials urging residents to avoid outdoor burning. At the federal level, Attorney General Jeff Jackson and other state AGs are pressing Congress to refund tariffs they argue were unlawfully collected. A new audit finds significant delivery gaps in North Carolina’s ABC system, despite generating more than $1.4 billion in revenue. In western North Carolina, a key access road to Bat Cave has reopened 18 months after Hurricane Helene, marking a milestone in recovery efforts. Meanwhile, Republican members of Congress are urging DHS to address delays and bottlenecks in Helene-related funding.

The latest Carolina Journal poll explores a range of political issues, including the U.S. Senate race in North Carolina, the General Assembly, and more.

North Carolina’s latest revenue forecast is trending upward, but lawmakers are warning that rising Medicaid costs and planned tax cuts could still strain the state budget. In business news, Cary-based Epic Games is cutting 20% of its workforce following a slowdown tied to Fortnite’s performance. Meanwhile, the State Board of Elections has certified the 2026 primary results, with audits confirming accuracy and integrity. In energy policy, a major offshore wind project off the NC coast has been scrapped after the Trump administration canceled federal leases, while community college enrollment has now surpassed pre-pandemic levels. The USDA also announced a new voluntary “Product of USA” labeling program aimed at increasing transparency for consumers.

After a recount confirmed Sam Page’s narrow victory, Phil Berger has officially conceded in the closely watched State Senate District 26 race, bringing an end to one of the tightest contests in North Carolina history. In Raleigh, NC House lawmakers are calling on the Attorney General and DHHS officials to testify as questions grow around Medicaid policy and oversight. Meanwhile, in New Hanover County, the elections director has been placed on leave as the local board moves toward possible removal, adding to ongoing tensions within the county’s election administration.

North Carolina lawmakers are investigating a sharp rise in autism therapy costs, raising concerns about access, insurance coverage, and oversight of providers. In legal news, the U.S. Supreme Court will not review a North Carolina Supreme Court decision involving the release of body camera footage, leaving the lower court ruling in place. A separate case continues as a Libertarian voter appeals the state’s “ballot selfie” law, challenging restrictions on photographing ballots. In business news, PSA Airlines has opened a new headquarters in Charlotte, bringing jobs and expanding the region’s aviation footprint.

Phil Berger is now calling for a hand recount in his razor-thin race against Sam Page, escalating the post-election battle as the margin remains extremely tight. Meanwhile, former Lt. Governor Mark Robinson has broken his silence in a new interview, addressing a recent scandal and acknowledging personal failures. At the same time, Governor Josh Stein is continuing his push for a $1.4 billion “critical needs budget,” emphasizing public safety as a key priority in ongoing negotiations with lawmakers.

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.