Congressman Don Davis Becomes a Forward-Aligned Candidate

Democratic Congressman Don Davis is not changing his party affiliation, but he is aligning himself with the North Carolina Forward Party and aligning his work and policies with their platform. Patrick Newton, the Chair of the North Carolina Forward Party, joins us to discuss. (Spectrum News)

North Carolina Rep. Kelly Alexander, Civil Rights Leader, Dies at 75

North Carolina Representative Kelly Alexander, a long-serving Charlotte legislator and former state NAACP president, has died at 75. Known for his unwavering commitment to civil rights and justice, Alexander's legacy includes his work in the state legislature and advocacy for equality. Tributes from state leaders and community members highlight his profound impact as a lawmaker and a beacon of hope. (Charlotte Observer)

North Carolina Legislature Passes Bill to Expand School Vouchers and Enforce ICE Detainers

The Republican-led North Carolina legislature passed a bill providing $463.5 million to eliminate a waitlist for private school vouchers and directing sheriffs to assist ICE agents with jail inmates. Despite likely veto by Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, the bill is expected to become law with GOP support. The measure funds scholarships for 55,000 waitlisted children and mandates compliance with ICE detainers for serious offenders, sparking debates on public school funding and immigration enforcement. (WRAL)

NC Election Official Reprimanded for Misleading Statements and Partisan Advocacy

The North Carolina State Board of Elections reprimanded Linda Rebuck, a Republican member of the Henderson County Board of Elections, for spreading false claims and advocating for Republican victories in the 2024 elections. Rebuck's email to state lawmakers alleged improper voter verification processes, which the board refuted as incorrect and inflammatory. The board emphasized that such actions undermine public trust in fair elections and reminded officials that state law prohibits election board members from publicly supporting any candidate. (News & Observer)

North Carolina GOP Challenges Use of Digital IDs for Voter Identification

The Republican National Committee and North Carolina GOP filed their fourth lawsuit against the State Board of Elections, opposing the use of the University of North Carolina's digital IDs as voter identification in upcoming elections. The lawsuit argues that the approved digital IDs, accessible only via Apple Wallet, do not comply with state law requiring physical photo IDs for in-person voting. The decision, passed by a 3-2 vote along party lines, has raised concerns about statutory authority and election integrity, with Republican board members arguing that the law does not permit mobile app-based IDs. (Carolina Journal)

NC Supreme Court Orders Reprinting of Ballots After Kennedy's Withdrawal

The North Carolina Supreme Court ruled to reprint ballots, removing Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s name after he dropped out of the race, potentially delaying mail-in voting by up to a month and costing taxpayers nearly $1 million. The 4-3 decision, largely along party lines, overruled state arguments about costs and logistical challenges, prioritizing voter clarity. The ruling could impact overseas military voters, and critics argue it serves partisan interests, particularly favoring Republicans concerned about Kennedy siphoning votes from Trump. (WRAL)

GOP Confident in Legislative Races Despite Robinson Trailing in NC Governor’s Race

Despite Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson (R) trailing Atty. Gen. Josh Stein (D) by about 9 points in the North Carolina gubernatorial race, Republican Senate leader Phil Berger remains confident about maintaining the GOP's veto-proof supermajority in the state legislature. The GOP plans to spend $5.6 million on key Senate districts, while Democrats see up to 15 competitive House seats. Both parties anticipate a tighter governor's race as November approaches, with the potential for increased voter turnout influencing down-ballot contests. (CBS 17)

Kamala Harris Draws Thousands in North Carolina Rallies, Energizes Supporters

Vice President Kamala Harris rallied thousands of supporters in Charlotte and Greensboro, North Carolina, in her first campaign events since a debate that polls suggest she won over former President Donald Trump. Speaking to a crowd of about 20,000 in Greensboro, Harris highlighted key issues like the Affordable Care Act and reproductive rights, drawing loud cheers. The visit underscores Democrats’ focus on North Carolina, a critical battleground state where Trump narrowly won in 2020. Rally attendees expressed optimism about Harris’s chances, sensing a shift toward Democrats in the state. (NC Newsline)

Haynes Brigman Named New Town Manager of Wrightsville Beach

Haynes Brigman has been appointed as the new town manager of Wrightsville Beach following a unanimous decision by the Board of Aldermen on September 12. Brigman, who brings nearly 15 years of experience in North Carolina municipal and county government, was selected after a six-month nationwide search that reviewed about 60 candidates. Previously serving as deputy county manager for Brunswick County, Brigman will start his new role on October 7, bringing a wealth of leadership and local government expertise to the position. (WWAY)

Winston-Salem Leaders Discuss Violence Reduction Strategies at Roundtable

Winston-Salem leaders, including the mayor, police, and community organizations, gathered for a roundtable discussion on violence reduction and prevention. The meeting highlighted recent successes, including a 36% reduction in homicides, with 20 reported so far in 2024 compared to 33 in the same period in 2023. While most crime categories have declined, reported rapes increased from 62 to 81. Leaders emphasized the importance of community collaboration, proactive programs like CURE, and ongoing dialogue to enhance public safety and prevent violence. (ABC 45)

Raleigh Police Warn Homeless Camp Residents of Trespassing Enforcement

Residents of a homeless camp on South Saunders Street in Raleigh were warned by police officers that they must vacate the property or face trespassing citations starting next week, followed by potential arrests. While police stated no official order was given to vacate, they emphasized that trespassing is illegal on private property. Camp residents, feeling safer in their community than in shelters, expressed reluctance to leave, citing poor conditions and limited options for families and couples. The city plans to address homelessness through a new pilot program focusing on holistic support for homeless individuals. (CBS 17)

Over 40 North Carolina Schools Targeted by Online Threats; Authorities Respond

Over 40 schools in North Carolina, including those in Henderson, McDowell, and Asheville, have been affected by online threats. School officials and law enforcement assured parents that there is no credible threat, but investigations are ongoing. Authorities emphasize the serious consequences of making threats, even from juveniles, and encourage students to report any concerns. Parents expressed frustration with communication protocols, urging for more detailed and timely information. Schools continue to work closely with law enforcement to maintain safety and address any future threats promptly. (ABC 13)

UNC System Cuts DEI Programs and Jobs Amid Neutrality Mandate

The University of North Carolina system has eliminated 59 diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) jobs, realigned 132 positions, and saved over $17 million as part of a mandated commitment to neutrality. The UNC Board of Governors announced these changes, which have sparked concerns among students about the potential impact on minority populations and campus diversity. The mandate to phase out DEI programs was issued in May, and further cuts are expected in the next certification round scheduled for next year. (CBS 17)

North Carolina Gas Prices Drop Below $3 Per Gallon as Downward Trend Continues

For the first time since last winter, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline in North Carolina has fallen below $3 per gallon, continuing a trend that began in July. The statewide average is now $2.97, the lowest since January, with prices ranging from under $2.80 in some Eastern counties to over $3.23 in others. Diesel prices have also dropped, averaging $3.55 per gallon, the lowest since the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts predict prices will continue to decline due to reduced demand, weaker global economies, and the introduction of cheaper winter gas blends. (News & Observer)

U.S. Job Growth Picks Up in August as Unemployment Dips Slightly

The U.S. job market showed signs of cooling but remained resilient in August, with employers adding 142,000 jobs, up from 89,000 in July. The unemployment rate dipped to 4.2% from 4.3%, the highest in nearly three years. Job gains were mainly in health care, hospitality, and construction, while manufacturing and retail saw cuts. The recent data supports expectations for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates in September, with a likely quarter-point reduction amid ongoing discussions on how aggressively to ease rates in the coming months to balance inflation control with economic growth. (North State Journal)

North Carolina State Fair Ranks Among Top Five Most Popular on Social Media

The North Carolina State Fair, set to return from October 17-27 in Raleigh, ranks as the fifth most popular state fair on social media, with over 116,000 posts on Instagram and TikTok. The fair’s appeal is fueled by its diverse offerings, including new food competitions, local musical acts, and specialty exhibits in the “Got to be NC” pavilion. The fair’s emphasis on promoting North Carolina’s culture and products, combined with active social media engagement and collaborations with influencers, has boosted its popularity. Tickets are available online at discounted prices, with new rides and foods set to be announced in the coming weeks. (Carolina Journal)