Opinion
The suburban problem for Democrats is magnified in North Carolina
One problem for Democrats in North Carolina is that they too often mirror the liberal direction of national Democrats.
If you talk a lot about “urban” issues such as the optimal location of light-rail lines or “rural” issues such as the plight of family farms, most of the population will tune you out.
If Democrats can retain the allegiance of inner-suburb voters, the GOP will struggle in future elections in North Carolina and other fast-growing states.
North Carolina’s emerging suburban politics will reward politicians who keep taxes low, tackle traffic congestion, and prioritize spending on public safety and education.