Third Parties Seek Ballot Access in North Carolina

Leaders of six third parties, including the North Carolina Forward Party, urged the State Board of Elections to reverse a decision denying ballot access to three parties despite them having gathered the required signatures. The Board cited concerns over potential fraudulent signatures, impacting candidates like Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. The Board will reconsider the Constitution Party's petition and update on others in an upcoming meeting. (Carolina Journal)

NCSBE Reverses Constitution Party Ban, Delays Decision on Others

The North Carolina State Board of Elections reversed its earlier decision to keep the Constitution Party off the November ballot but postponed certifying the We The People Party and Justice For All Party, citing ongoing investigations into petition signatures. The delay continues to block Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cornell West from the state’s ballot. The initial decision to block these parties, despite meeting signature thresholds, has prompted congressional and state investigations into possible partisan interference. (North State Journal)

Former NC Justice Bob Orr Seeks to Challenge Gerrymandering in State Supreme Court

Former Republican N.C. Supreme Court justice Bob Orr is considering bypassing the Court of Appeals to appeal the dismissal of his gerrymandering lawsuit directly to the state Supreme Court. The lawsuit, which challenges the drawing of political districts to favor one party, was dismissed by Wake County Superior Court. Orr argues that fair elections are an "unenumerated" right under the N.C. Constitution, while defendants contend that partisan gerrymandering is a political issue beyond judicial intervention. (Citizens Times)

Shelane Etchison is Breaking Barriers as North Carolina’s First Unaffiliated Congressional Candidate

Shelane Etchison, the first unaffiliated Congressional candidate in modern North Carolina history, aims to break political barriers and offer voters an alternative to the two main parties. Etchison qualified for the 9th District Congressional ballot by collecting around 12,000 signatures, with approximately 8,000 verified. Her campaign, managed by Democratic consultant Thomas Mills, focuses on addressing voter dissatisfaction and advocating for government reforms, including term limits and independent redistricting commissions. Etchison, a former Army officer, emphasizes the need for trust in democratic institutions and aims to address issues like the border crisis and economic affordability. (North State Journal)

Voter Sentiments in Rural Eastern NC Reflect Deep Political Divides

At the 301 Endless Yard Sale in Selma, NC, Tina Caruso expressed her frustration and longing for integrity in the White House, reflecting the emotional toll of recent political years. Despite her fears of displaying support for President Biden, Caruso stands by him. Rural voters in Eastern NC show mixed feelings about the election, with concerns about Biden's age and Trump's behavior. Many, like Dayla Sullivan, are unimpressed by either candidate. Trump maintains a loyal base, despite legal issues, while some voters, such as Jennifer Hess, are considering third-party candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. North Carolina remains a battleground state with a significant unaffiliated voter population, making voter engagement crucial for both parties. (Charlotte Observer)

NC Republicans and Democrats Intensify Efforts to Engage Millennial and Gen Z Voters

Both Republicans and Democrats in North Carolina are employing new strategies to attract millennial and Gen Z voters. Emily Stack, chair of the North Carolina Federation of Young Republicans, highlights the use of social media and local clubs to engage young voters. Meanwhile, North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton mentions outreach at concert venues and bars. With the upcoming conventions, both parties are expanding their efforts and teams to ensure effective engagement and increased voter registration among young people. (CBS 17)

Political Conversations Thrive in Durham's Barbershops and Senior Centers

At Rivals Barbershop in Durham, NC, political discussions are a staple, with patrons like Shaquille Barksdale expressing frustration over the current political landscape and advocating for more grassroots decision-making. Dre, a barber, sees the shop as a safe space for open dialogue. Meanwhile, at the Durham Center for Senior Life, Frankie Peace and others focus more on camaraderie than politics, although Peace supports President Biden. Both settings highlight a desire for unity and understanding amidst differing political views. (ABC 11)

NC Governor Roy Cooper Pardons Four Ex-Offenders, Commutes Sentences of Four Others

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper pardoned four ex-offenders and commuted the sentences of four others on Thursday. Among those receiving commutations are brothers Josiah and Andrew Deyton, and Jonathan Koniak, who were serving sentences until 2061 for a 2008 armed robbery of a church. Kareem Phifer, sentenced for armed robberies committed at age 15, also had his sentence commuted following a special board's recommendation. Cooper's pardons addressed crimes committed in the offenders' youth, recognizing their responsible behavior and community service since conviction. The pardons are effective immediately, while commutations take effect on July 25. (WRAL)

VP Kamala Harris Rallies Support in NC Amid Calls for Biden to Step Aside

Vice President Kamala Harris addressed a crowd of 700 in Greensboro, NC, warning of a dystopian America under a second Trump term, while defending President Biden amidst calls for him to exit the race. Harris highlighted Biden’s achievements, such as capping insulin prices and enhancing NATO, contrasting them with Trump’s controversial statements and plans. Some rally attendees supported Biden, while others saw Harris as a strong potential successor. Governor Roy Cooper, introduced Harris and has been mentioned as a possible running mate if Harris leads the ticket. The rally emphasized unity and the need to focus on the upcoming election. (NC Newsline)

Biden Affirms Commitment to 2024 Race Amid Growing Party Concerns

In a one-hour press conference, President Joe Biden reiterated his decision to run for re-election, despite calls from some Democratic leaders and supporters for him to step down. Biden, addressing concerns about his ability to defeat Donald Trump, emphasized his qualifications and determination to complete his work. Speaking without a teleprompter, Biden engaged with ten reporters, discussing topics from foreign policy to economic recovery. Despite a few verbal missteps, he highlighted his administration's accomplishments and expressed confidence in Vice President Kamala Harris's qualifications. Biden also addressed concerns about his health, mentioning his willingness to undergo further neurological testing if recommended. (WUNC)

Former NC Treasurer Janet Cowell Enters Raleigh Mayoral Race

Former Raleigh councilwoman and NC Treasurer Janet Cowell has officially filed her candidacy for Raleigh's mayoral race. Cowell joins current city councilman Corey Branch, mortgage broker Paul Fitts, community advocate Eugene Myrick, and pre-law student James Shaughnessy. While Branch is more well-known, Cowell acknowledges the need to introduce herself to 80% of Raleigh voters. Cowell emphasized her extensive public service experience and recent work on Dix Park as her strengths. The race is expected to be cordial and focused on key city issues like affordable housing and downtown development. (ABC 11)

New Hanover County Planning Board Rejects Development Plan for Cape Fear River’s Western Bank

The New Hanover County Planning Board voted 3-1 against a staff recommendation for developing the Western Bank of the Cape Fear River, citing significant legal and financial challenges. Board member Colin Tarrant highlighted the need for a comprehensive master plan and marketing analysis for the area. Resident Kayne Darrell praised the decision, emphasizing the need to preserve the West Bank and address pollution from past industrial activities. The County Commissioners will review the Planning Board’s recommendation in their meeting next week. (WWAY 3)

Monroe City Council Censures Mayor Robert Burns Over Controversial Proclamation

The Monroe City Council voted 5-2 to censure Mayor Robert Burns following his June 24 proclamation celebrating the second anniversary of the Roe v. Wade reversal. Council members cited repeated instances of Burns acting out of order, including contentious social media posts and unauthorized use of city resources. The censure also stripped Burns of the ability to create committees and make proclamations without council approval. Burns, who has faced backlash for previous controversial remarks, defended his actions as consistent with his platform as a "Christian, Constitutionalist, Conservative" and expressed no regret, viewing the censure as a "badge of honor." (WCNC)

Chatham County Approves $194 Million Budget for 2024-25 with Tax and Fee Increases

The Chatham County Board of Commissioners approved a $194 million budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year on June 17. The budget includes a $0.04 increase in the property tax rate to $0.725 per $100 valuation, and a 15% increase in water use rates and administrative fees. Additionally, the Hope and Northview fire districts will raise their tax rates to $0.0975 and $0.09 per $100 valuation, respectively. Key allocations include $66.5 million for schools, $23.5 million for the Sheriff’s Office, and salary increases for county staff and commissioners. The budget also funds new positions and upgrades for the Animal Resource Center and Sheriff's Office technology. (Chatham News + Record)

NC Governor Signs Bill for Teacher Raises Amid Budget Negotiations

North Carolina teachers and school staff will receive raises this summer under a bill signed by Governor Roy Cooper, authorizing pay increases initially outlined in last year’s budget. The new legislation ensures teachers will see a pay bump, with first-year teachers’ salaries rising to $41,000 from $39,000, and veteran teachers receiving incremental increases. Additionally, bonuses will be provided to qualifying teachers based on performance metrics. The bill also includes $67.5 million in stopgap funding for childcare centers, though Cooper emphasized the need for further investment in early childhood education. Other actions by Cooper included signing a bill for automatic expunctions of dismissed or acquitted charges and vetoing a bill related to eviction orders. (News & Observer)

Jackson County Schools to Provide Free Meals for All Students Starting Next Month

When the new school year begins, all students in Jackson County schools will have access to free meals, thanks to new local funding. Previously, five schools in the district qualified for federal free meal programs, while five others did not. To extend no-cost meals to all schools, including Scotts Creek Elementary and Fairview Elementary, school leaders requested $500,000 from the Board of Commissioners. Superintendent Dr. Dana Ayers emphasized the significant financial relief this will provide for families. The funding was approved, ensuring every student benefits from free nutritious meals regardless of their school's qualification for federal aid. (ABC 13)

CMS Teachers Face Missing Paychecks Amid Payroll System Issues

Bettina Thomas, a summer school teacher for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS), has been without her paycheck for nearly two weeks, leaving her unable to afford basic necessities. Thomas and at least a dozen other teachers are awaiting their wages, with some having experienced similar issues in previous years. Thomas attributes the problem to a new payroll system CMS began converting to in February, similar to one that caused payroll issues in Gaston County Schools. In response, Thomas called for the creation of a missing wages committee during a Board of Education meeting. CMS assured her that she would receive her paycheck by Friday, but teachers are demanding prompt and lasting solutions. (Charlotte Observer)

Judge to Decide on Dismissal of Sexual Misconduct Lawsuit Against Alamance-Burlington School District

A judge will decide Monday whether to dismiss a lawsuit filed against the Alamance-Burlington Board of Education, alleging negligence in employing a teacher accused of sexual misconduct. The lawsuit claims the district failed to act on complaints about Ivan Danilo Ardila-Perez, a former Spanish teacher at Southern Alamance Middle School, who faces charges of indecent liberties with students. Despite warnings from students and parents, the district did not remove Ardila-Perez until his arrest in April 2023. The plaintiff seeks a jury trial and $25,000 in damages, citing the district's failure to protect students' rights to a safe education. (FOX 8)

UNC-Chapel Hill Police Obtain Warrant to Investigate Student Group's Instagram Over Vandalism Incident

UNC-Chapel Hill police obtained a warrant to access private Instagram information of the student group Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) in connection with a May 11 protest. The warrant seeks subscription information, direct messages, and location data to investigate vandalism of the South Building during the protest. UNC Police are investigating the crimes of injury to real property and conspiracy, alleging the group posted photos of the damage. SJP denies involvement, attributing the vandalism to autonomous actors. No arrests have been made. The use of social media warrants in criminal investigations has become increasingly common. (News & Observer)

North Carolina Drops to Second Place in CNBC’s 2024 Business Ranking

North Carolina has fallen to second place in CNBC’s 2024 ranking of the top states for business, after holding the top spot for two years. Virginia now leads the list, followed by North Carolina, Texas, Georgia, and Florida. Despite its strong business friendliness, workforce, and economy, North Carolina's lower rankings in cost of living and quality of life contributed to the drop. The state boasts a 2.3% GDP growth in Q1 2024 and a 3.9% unemployment rate, slightly below the national average. (Carolina Journal)

North Carolina Identifies 15 Top Selectsites to Boost Manufacturing Sector

North Carolina has selected 15 smaller industrial sites under 1,000 acres for the Selectsite Readiness Program, a state initiative aimed at bolstering the manufacturing sector. This decision follows the depletion of larger "megasites" by companies like Toyota and Wolfspeed. The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) and Site Selection Group identified these sites from 64 applicants, considering factors such as utility infrastructure, workforce availability, and operational costs. Selected sites will benefit from state support in site preparation, infrastructure development, and expedited permitting. The chosen sites include locations in counties such as Wake, Chatham, and Union, with sizes ranging from 74 to 672 acres. (News & Observer)

Science Corp. Expands in Research Triangle Park with New Microchip Production Facility

California-based biotech company Science Corp. is expanding its operations in Research Triangle Park (RTP) by investing $65 million in a new production facility, the Science Foundry. This facility will produce microchips for both its own medical devices and other biotech companies. In exchange for nearly $1 million in incentives from Durham County, Science Corp. will create 50 new jobs, many requiring a two-year degree from Durham Technical Community College. The company plans to collaborate with local universities and colleges for customized training and internships. This expansion follows Science Corp.'s acquisition of MEMSCAP's assets in 2022 and adds to the Triangle's growing biotech sector, highlighted by Novo Nordisk's recent $4.1 billion investment in the area. (Axios Raleigh)

Southwestern Community College Graduates 36 Nurses to Alleviate Regional Shortage

Southwestern Community College has graduated 36 new nurses, with 32 of them remaining in Western North Carolina to address the region’s nursing shortage. The graduates, one of the largest classes in SCC's history, were honored in a pinning ceremony on May 9. "This graduating class is an exceptional group of students, and I am excited to see what their future holds," said Amy Banner, SCC's director of Nursing. The graduates will take their licensure exams this summer, allowing them to begin work in local hospitals and healthcare facilities, thereby enhancing community care and involvement. (Sylva Herald)

Mebane Considers Social Drinking District at Tanger Outlets to Boost Revenue

Tanger Outlets in Mebane, NC, proposed creating a social drinking district, allowing patrons 21 and older to consume alcohol in designated common areas, aiming to increase customer dwell time and subsequently boost sales tax revenue. The proposal, presented by general manager Amanda Slayden, follows the approval of a similar trial run for downtown Mebane. Slayden assured the council that the district would exclude retail areas and parking lots and highlighted existing security and sanitation measures. The council will hold a public hearing on the proposal in August, with operating hours suggested from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. (Alamance News)

Study Reveals Toxic Metals in Tampons, Raising Health Concerns

Researchers have discovered toxic metals, including arsenic and lead, in over a dozen popular tampon brands, according to a study published in Environment International. The study, believed to be the first to measure metals in tampons, found detectable levels of 16 metals across 30 tampons from 14 brands. The presence of these metals, which are harmful to the cardiovascular, nervous, and endocrine systems, among others, raises significant health concerns. The FDA, which does not currently require testing tampons for chemical contaminants, is reviewing the study. Researchers call for more stringent regulations and testing to ensure the safety of menstrual products. (WFAE)