The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT

Asheville is preparing to host global finance leaders for a G20 meeting, putting western North Carolina in the international spotlight. Meanwhile, Fort Bragg has been selected to host an Army nuclear microreactor as the military explores new ways to strengthen energy resilience. Attorney General Jeff Jackson is claiming a legal victory after a judge blocked a USPS ballot rule that had drawn concerns over its impact on mail-in voting. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss a new report finding North Carolina’s business tax climate remains among the strongest in the country. Plus, a new su...

Congressman Chuck Edwards is appealing directly to his House colleagues in a letter ahead of an expected censure vote stemming from the ethics investigation that preceded his decision to end his reelection campaign. Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss Labor Commissioner Luke Farley recognition of astronaut Christina Koch and her North Carolina roots. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal examines the growing role of prediction markets in North Carolina elections, including both their expanding reach and potential risks.

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Meta has agreed to pay North Carolina up to $645 million over allegations that its social media platforms harmed children, marking a major development in the state’s efforts to hold technology companies accountable. Meanwhile, a new High Point University poll shows Roy Cooper and other Democratic candidates leading in several key North Carolina races heading toward November. The program also examines newly released details surrounding Cooper’s decision to delay announcing a school reopening plan during the COVID-19 pandemic, including information that has emerged six years after the decision was made.

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North Carolina lawmakers are leaving several major policy fights unresolved until after the November election, setting up a potentially busy post-election session in Raleigh. Meanwhile, the UNC System is responding to calls from the Trump administration for higher education reforms by pointing to changes already implemented across North Carolina’s public universities. A lumber manufacturer is also planning a $40 million investment in Scotland County that is expected to create 43 jobs. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a Fourth Circuit ruling siding with Roy Cooper and Democrats in a dispute over FCC campaign advertising ru...

A Statesville family was featured at a White House event highlighting school choice, as the Trump administration continues promoting expanded education options for families nationwide. Meanwhile, two Lenoir County women have pleaded guilty in a $180,000 COVID-related fraud case. The program also examines concerns from CaptiveAire President Bob Luddy, who says tariffs are creating challenges for small businesses. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss state Sen. Bobby Hanig’s decision to retire from the General Assembly and what his departure could mean for the legislature.

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One year after the murder of Iryna Zarutska aboard Charlotte’s light rail system, the program looks back at the case and its lasting impact on public safety, criminal justice policy, and transit security in North Carolina. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein says DMV wait times have fallen 90% since summer 2025, while new school rankings show only one traditional public high school among North Carolina’s top 10. Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss North Carolina joining a regional anti-fraud enforcement partnership with other southeastern states. Plus, a new report examines whether the expansion of universal school choice is b...

North Carolina cities are reconsidering youth curfews following a summer marked by several large teen takeovers and concerns about public safety, with Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal examining how local officials are responding. Meanwhile, a new report finds crime is generally declining in Raleigh and Charlotte, reflecting a broader drop in crime nationwide. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss more than 100 pages of new federal court filings pushing back against former FBI Director James Comey’s arguments in his North Carolina case. Plus, AmeriCorps has awarded $13.2 million to support volunteer and service programs ac...

Students from a Wake County public school traveled to China through an exchange program linked to the Chinese Communist Party, raising questions about the program and its connections. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss a new report finding North Carolina’s business tax climate remains among the strongest in the nation compared with key competitor states. Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation reacts to Governor Josh Stein’s veto of House Bill 958 and the ongoing debate over the election reforms included in the legislation. Plus, AmeriCorps has awarded $13.2 million to support volunteer and service prog...

President Donald Trump has endorsed Republican Jennifer Balkcom in North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District, while new questions are emerging over campaign funds connected to outgoing Congressman Chuck Edwards and a Las Vegas trip. Meanwhile, North Carolina has secured nearly $300 million in federal funding for rail safety improvements and track upgrades across the state. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a major court ruling finding that North Carolina has failed to meet its constitutional obligation to maintain and protect the state’s fisheries. Plus, a judge has ruled that former Governor Roy Cooper will...

Governor Josh Stein has vetoed a North Carolina elections bill that would shorten the state's early voting period, setting up another potential showdown with Republican lawmakers over election policy. Meanwhile, a new audit of the Charlotte Area Transit System found millions of dollars in estimated annual losses from fare evasion while also identifying broader security and enforcement concerns. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss the latest developments in the COVID-era shutdown lawsuit, where bar owners argue former Governor Roy Cooper’s testimony is “crucial” to their case. Plus, Stein has vetoed legislation that would...

Republicans have selected Walsh as their nominee for North Carolina House District 117, replacing Jennifer Balkcom after she became the GOP nominee for Congress in the 11th District. Meanwhile, Prysmian has announced plans for a $1 billion expansion in Catawba County that is expected to create 385 jobs. The program also covers Attorney General Jeff Jackson’s argument that Duke Energy’s proposed residential rate increase amounts to 9.3%, rather than the previously cited 6.8%. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation discusses a North Carolina Supreme Court ruling allowing a lawsuit involving expulsions from a private school to proceed. Plus, a new report rank...

The August Carolina Journal Poll provides a new snapshot of North Carolina voters heading toward the November election, including views on the direction of the country and approval ratings for President Donald Trump and Governor Josh Stein. David Larson of Carolina Journal breaks down the latest generic legislative and congressional ballots before turning to the U.S. Senate race between Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley, the North Carolina Supreme Court contest, and the issues voters say matter most. The poll also explores opinions on state tax policy, proposed changes to the early voting timeline, hemp and cannabis regulations, and...

Governor Josh Stein has signed four bills into law while criticizing provisions he says place “petty” restrictions on the governor’s authority. Meanwhile, Attorney General Jeff Jackson is opposing a proposed Duke Energy settlement, arguing that a 6.8% rate increase remains too costly for North Carolina customers. The program also examines the growing federal debate over hemp regulation, which has placed U.S. Sen. Ted Budd at the center of an issue that has also divided lawmakers in Raleigh. Plus, the North Carolina Department of Labor has recovered a record $3.7 million in unpaid wages for workers across the state.

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Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in the Dominique Moody case, marking a major development in the prosecution surrounding the death of the six-year-old. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has withdrawn Jeff Smythe’s nomination to lead the Department of Public Safety, blaming the North Carolina Senate for failing to act on the appointment. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss more bar owners dropping out of a lawsuit challenging COVID-era shutdown orders. He also examines upcoming North Carolina Supreme Court disputes between Stein and legislative leaders, with the court setting aside more than two ho...

Republicans in North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District have selected state Rep. Jennifer Balkcom to replace Congressman Chuck Edwards as their nominee for the November election. The program recaps Monday night’s GOP executive committee meeting, including an on-the-ground report from Jeff Brewer on how Balkcom secured the nomination and the reaction from western North Carolina Republicans. Meanwhile, a budget corrections bill would add millions of dollars in spending while making several policy changes to the recently enacted state budget.

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Republicans in North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District are meeting tonight to select a replacement nominee following Congressman Chuck Edwards’ withdrawal from the race. State Rep. Jennifer Balkcom appears to be the frontrunner after Sen. Tim Moffitt and Adam Smith announced they would not seek the nomination. The program also features a two-part exclusive interview with Miss North Carolina USA Brittany Boltinhouse. Plus, the State Board of Elections has approved early voting plans for 80 counties as preparations continue for the November election.

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Republicans in North Carolina's 11th Congressional District are moving quickly to select a replacement nominee following Congressman Chuck Edwards' withdrawal from the race. The program also looks at the Department of Public Instruction's first-year update on Superintendent Mo Green's strategic plan, highlighting baseline results collected before the plan's implementation. Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation joins the show to discuss election security legislation approved by the General Assembly and sent to Governor Josh Stein, who is expected to veto the measures. Plus, a new statewide survey finds North Carolina high school students are reporting lower rates of violence...

The fallout from Congressman Chuck Edwards' decision to end his reelection campaign continues, with Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation breaking down the political implications for North Carolina's 11th Congressional District and what comes next as Republicans search for a replacement nominee. The program also covers House Speaker Mike Johnson's prediction that Republican Laurie Buckhout will flip North Carolina's 1st Congressional District in what he calls a "midterm unlike any other." Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal recaps a busy week at the General Assembly, including the passage of major election legislation and the collapse of efforts to pass...

Congressman Chuck Edwards has announced he is ending his reelection campaign following the release of a House Ethics Committee report, creating a major shakeup in North Carolina's 11th Congressional District. The program also covers the North Carolina House's failure to reach a final agreement on hemp legislation after competing lobbying efforts left lawmakers divided. Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal joins the show to discuss North Carolina's new partnership with other southeastern states to strengthen investigations and enforcement against fraud.

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North Carolina Congressman Chuck Edwards has been found to have violated the U.S. House code of conduct over his involvement with two female staffers. Donna King of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss North Carolina’s strong public pension performance and what it means as concerns continue to grow over the long-term solvency of Social Security. Andrew Pomeranz also examines how local government moratoriums on data center development could have broader statewide economic and energy implications.

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Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss two high-profile legal disputes between Governor Josh Stein and legislative leaders that are now scheduled for arguments before the North Carolina Supreme Court in November. The program also examines comments from Asheville's mayor, who argues current state laws are contributing to rising gun violence in the city. Colin Tierney of Carolina Journal breaks down lawmakers' plans to reclaim a controversial $300,000 state budget appropriation for a gated community after a Carolina Journal investigation drew widespread attention. Plus, new estimates suggest that roughly 93% of North Carolina students could qualify...

North Carolina is expanding efforts to attract aerospace and defense manufacturers as state leaders work to strengthen the state's growing defense industry. The program also covers a new agreement with ICE to establish an immigration processing center in North Carolina. Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal joins the show to discuss Chatham County's decision to terminate its $400 million incentive agreement with VinFast following the automaker's changing investment plans. Plus, a new Fox News poll shows former Gov. Roy Cooper leading Republican Michael Whatley in the U.S. Senate race, while the Senate Leadership Fund announces a major investment to boost...

North Carolina has received a $34 million federal grant to support ongoing Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, providing another boost to rebuilding projects across western parts of the state. The program also covers the North Carolina Senate's passage of a wide-ranging elections package that would shorten early voting for certain elections while adding new post-election audit requirements. Duke Energy has signed a pledge aimed at protecting residential customers from bearing the costs of electricity demand driven by large data centers. Finally, State Rep. Erin Paré is raising questions about professional standards and employee dress expectations in North Carolina public schools.

A new state audit found North Carolina spent more than $111 million on Hurricane Helene base camps without tracking key services such as meals, showers, beds, and laundry, raising questions about oversight of emergency response spending. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation discusses former FBI Director James Comey's effort to dismiss a North Carolina case tied to an alleged threat against President Donald Trump. Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation also breaks down major election bills advancing through the North Carolina Senate, including proposed changes to early voting in primary and municipal elections. The program concludes with the...

Federal immigration officials are considering opening North Carolina's first federal immigration detention center in Winton, a proposal Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal examines along with its potential impact on the region. The program also covers North Carolina joining a lawsuit challenging new FEMA grant conditions, arguing the requirements could affect the state's access to disaster recovery funding. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal discusses Duke Energy's latest regulatory settlement, which reduces a proposed rate increase but still leaves most North Carolina households facing a 9.5% hike. Plus, the state Senate is set to debate a major elections bill as lawmakers return...

A new state audit has found that inspections of North Carolina child care centers have become too predictable, potentially reducing their effectiveness in identifying health and safety concerns. Another audit also identified $97.3 million in financial reporting errors within the Department of Public Safety, raising additional questions about fiscal oversight. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a disagreement between Governor Josh Stein and legislative leaders over a case before the North Carolina Supreme Court. Plus, lawmakers are returning to Raleigh this week with several major legislative priorities still awaiting action.

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A Durham-based energy trading firm has filed for bankruptcy after federal regulators imposed a $1.1 billion fraud judgment, marking one of the largest enforcement actions of its kind. The program also examines several studies funded in North Carolina's new state budget, exploring the policy issues lawmakers want to evaluate over the coming years. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation discusses a legal dispute in which the Department of Commerce and VinFast argue portions of their ongoing lawsuit should remain under seal. Plus, the latest second-quarter campaign finance reports show former Governor Roy Cooper outraising Republican National Chairman Michael Whatley...

A new State Auditor report has identified significant financial control failures in the Town of Zebulon, raising concerns about oversight and fiscal management. The program also examines scrutiny surrounding a $300,000 state budget appropriation benefiting a gated community and the questions it has generated. U.S. Sen. Ted Budd discusses his push for additional federal Hurricane Helene recovery funding as rebuilding efforts continue across western North Carolina. Plus, the Department of Public Instruction has released new guidance on student screen use in schools, stopping short of recommending statewide time limits.

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North Carolina has now committed more than $1 billion toward restoring water infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Helene as recovery efforts continue across western portions of the state. The program also features an exclusive look at Congressman Pat Harrigan’s SAFE Rural Act, aimed at strengthening storm resilience in rural communities, while President Donald Trump is set to attend the dignified transfer of two Fort Bragg soldiers killed in the Middle East. Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal joins the show to discuss newly adopted absentee ballot rules approved by the State Board of Elections that critics say could lead to more ba...

The North Carolina State Board of Elections has approved new photo ID rules that critics argue could increase the risk of legitimate ballots being rejected, a topic Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal examines in depth. The program also covers the state's investigation into 1,599 potential noncitizen voter registrations and what election officials say comes next. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation discusses a court decision refusing to revive COVID-era business loss lawsuits filed by Golden Corral and Summit Hotels. The show concludes by highlighting Carolina Journal's success at the North Carolina Press Association Awards, where the publication earned 15 awards...

North Carolina lawmakers are raising concerns as Medicaid spending has grown 93% over the past four years, approaching $42 billion, with House Speaker Destin Hall weighing in on the program’s long-term sustainability. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein is highlighting progress on the Renew NC homebuilding initiative, even as many homeowners remain on waiting lists for assistance. The program also examines how cities across North Carolina are responding to recent incidents of teen takeovers following violence in Raleigh, with several municipalities considering stricter enforcement measures. Finally, a look ahead at next week's legislative session and the key issues lawmakers are expected to ta...

A new State Auditor’s report details widespread financial oversight failures and questionable spending practices within the Town of Cary, raising fresh concerns about accountability and local government management. Meanwhile, former FBI Director James Comey is preparing to challenge what his legal team describes as a “selective” and “vindictive” prosecution in a North Carolina case. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss how the new state budget funds key reforms inspired by the Dominique Moody case, including changes aimed at strengthening child welfare protections. Plus, the North Carolina House continues advancing legislation that would significantly overhaul the munici...

New data shows North Carolina’s most elite private schools receive relatively little funding through the Opportunity Scholarship Program, challenging claims that the program primarily benefits wealthy families attending high-cost institutions. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss budget changes that increase the state’s sports-wagering tax and authorize prediction markets. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation also examines a lawsuit filed by a former Gaston County teacher who claims she was fired over a comment related to Charlie Kirk. Plus, the State Health Plan and Duke Health have reached an agreement preserving access to Duke...

A new state audit has found that nearly 80% of North Carolina’s inactive landfills are not being monitored, raising environmental concerns about potential groundwater contamination and long-term oversight. Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal joins the program to break down the findings and what they could mean for state regulators. Meanwhile, the North Carolina House is advancing legislation that would overhaul the municipal deannexation process, potentially making it easier for property owners to leave city limits. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation also examines a Certificate of Need case in which a New Bern eye surgeon is asking the st...

North Carolina transportation officials say the Department of Transportation fared well in the new state budget, with a major focus on continuing Hurricane Helene recovery and rebuilding efforts in western North Carolina. Meanwhile, the State Board of Education is raising questions about changes to Opportunity Scholarship funding and implementation of the state's new DEI law. Brian Balfour of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to analyze CNBC’s latest rankings, which once again place North Carolina among the nation’s top states for business. Plus, the new state budget increases the tax on sports wagering and authorizes prediction mark...

The State Health Plan has approved premium increases and a new preferred provider structure as officials continue efforts to improve the plan’s long-term financial stability. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina has also secured new third-party administrator and pharmacy benefit manager contracts, marking a significant shift in how benefits will be managed. Meanwhile, CNBC has once again ranked North Carolina among the nation’s top two states for business for the sixth consecutive year, and the new state budget includes nearly $49 million to preserve farmland across the state.

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A new audit of Rocky Mount finances found no evidence of double billing but did uncover unpaid utility bills tied to city officials, raising additional questions about local financial management. Meanwhile, North Carolina’s new state budget scales back tax incentives for data centers as lawmakers revisit the balance between economic development and taxpayer costs. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a Fourth Circuit ruling finding that Charlotte-Mecklenburg police effectively "seized" a defendant by positioning a patrol vehicle near him, a decision with potential implications for future law enforcement encounters. Plus, State Auditor Da...

The program recaps this week’s Council of State meeting, including North Carolina surpassing 100,000 new business registrations, updates on the state’s agricultural industry, and recognition of a Medal of Honor recipient. Katie Zehnder of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss the new state budget’s elimination of vehicle emissions inspections for most drivers. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has vetoed legislation addressing homelessness while signing a dozen other bills into law. Plus, Stein is asking the North Carolina Supreme Court to extend briefing deadlines into October in an ongoing legal dispute with legislative leaders.

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Governor Josh Stein has signed North Carolina’s $34 billion state budget into law just ahead of the deadline, with the program featuring extensive audio from the governor outlining the budget’s investments in education, public safety, Hurricane Helene recovery, and other statewide priorities, while also highlighting areas where he believes the spending plan falls short. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss the latest developments in litigation stemming from COVID-era business closures, including a judge’s rejection of a motion filed by North Carolina bar owners and news that a separate case has been succes...

The North Carolina General Assembly has adjourned after approving the state budget, with lawmakers scheduled to return on July 27 to address remaining legislative business. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to recap the end of the session and what issues remain unresolved. Governor Josh Stein is expected to announce his decision on the budget, which includes repealing Certificate of Need requirements for inpatient rehabilitation facilities, while two Republican senators opposed the spending plan over ferry toll provisions. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation also discusses a lawsuit filed by Sam Page against Kevin Berger.

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