Opinion
States Have Only Themselves to Blame
Some North Carolina politicians are joining their national counterparts in asking for a federal bailout of state budgets. This would be a colossal mistake.
Opinion
“Lord of the Rings” & Other Political Fantasies
What "The Lord of the Rings," "Harry Potter," and other works of fantasy have to say about war, economics, and political philosophy.
Opinion
There’s a Better Way to Draw Districts
A broad groups of state legislators and others have endorsed a commission system to rectify North Carolina's problem with gerrymandering. Perhaps we can finally get it done.
Opinion
A sneak peek at this year’s UNC summer reading program?
My mole at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has uncovered what might be UNC-CH’s book selection for this year’s Summer Reading Program for incoming freshmen. Readers will recall the program created a nationwide stir last year with its selection of Michael Sells’ Approaching the Qur’án, which focused on the 35 most approachable suras in the religious text.
Opinion
Let’s Say You’re an Anti-War Congressman
There's a time to debate the adviseability of a military action, and then a time to see it through. Apparently, not all NC congressmen understand this concept.
Opinion
Racial preferences’ fate in North Carolina hinges on Michigan case
All eyes are on Michigan now, thanks to a case before the Supreme Court involving the University of Michigan Law Schools' use of racial preferences in admissions decisions. It is a case being watched with extreme interest by N.C. higher-education officials , public and private.
Opinion
Who’s Watching the War, and What They Think
The Zogby organization has a new poll out on where viewers are getting their war news -- and what their choice of network says about their views.
Opinion
Our Desperate Need for Moral Leadership
I heard two very different people Thursday dismiss the notion of "moral leadership." But those who see shades of gray everywhere aren't sophisticated. They're color-blind.
Opinion
Will Gov. Easley’s Transportation Plan Move Ahead?
There are reports out of the General Assembly that Gov. Easley is gaining support for his proposal to redirect $700 million of bonding authority attached to the Highway Trust Fund. The legislature is drifting way off course, here.
Opinion
Why the War is Not a Distraction
Some are wondering whether North Carolina leaders will be able to set the war in Iraq aside to focus on other issues. But that's not the right question to ask.
Opinion
Ask a Bad Question, Get a Bad Answer
The News & Observer of Raleigh announced poll results Monday that seemed to suggest public support for the governor's tax hike. Here's where the poll went wrong.
Opinion
John Edward’s Big Bet Could Pay Off
NC's Sen. John Edwards has staked his political future on a positive outcome in Gulf War II. Will his high-stakes bet pay off?
