Helene Recovery; SAFE Rural Act Introduced; Absentee Rules

Helene Recovery; SAFE Rural Act Introduced; Absentee Rules

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 ballot rejections. Plus, American Eagle is expanding its North Carolina footprint with a new distribution hub planned for Rowan County. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Voter ID Rules Approved; Noncitizen Registrations Probed; CJ Wins 15 Awards

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, including nine first-place honors. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Medicaid Spending Soars; Teen Takeover Crackdown

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 tackle as they return to Raleigh. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Cary Audit Uncovers Failures; Dominique Moody Reforms Funded

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 municipal deannexation process. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Voucher Data Examined; Sports Betting

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 providers for plan members. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.