Trade deficits do not mean bad economic news

The United States has seen trade deficits for most of its history. Successful economies include factors that promote deficits.

Top NC court could blunt sue-and-settle environmental schemes

A case pitting North Carolina's environmental regulators against the Farm Bureau could have far-reaching impacts.

Court spells out limits for constitutional right to hunt and fish

Even a right spelled out in North Carolina's governing document can face limits set by the General Assembly.

Blust still wants to get the rules right

Regardless of who's in charge, one Guilford County lawmaker pushes for greater transparency and less concentration of power.

Locke’s Mitch Kokai assesses NC Senate’s approach to NCInnovation funding

Mitch Kokai, John Locke Foundation senior political analyst, discusses the North Carolina Senate budget’s approach toward NCInnovation. Kokai offered these comments during the April 18, 2025, edition of PBS North Carolina’s “State Lines.”

Richmond schools case offers clue about possible Leandro resolution

The state Appeals Court reminds observers that judges face constitutional limits when ordering the state to spend money.

Forced vaccination case divides top NC court on basic rights

North Carolina Supreme Court justices split on recognizing rights of bodily integrity and parental control.

Stein mimics Cooper’s misleading talk about freezing tax rates

Like his predecessor, North Carolina's new governor attempts to hide a proposed tax hike behind misleading language.

Poll reminds NC of Trump’s unique place in American politics

Job approval numbers look better for the president than for two of his closest allies.

Searching Sowell for wisdom about tariffs’ likely impact

A renowned economist from North Carolina highlights the history of tariffs' negative unintended consequences.

Top NC court unlikely to defer decision on major legal issue

North Carolina Supreme Court Justices Trey Allen and Richard Dietz have signaled interest in clarifying the role of judicial deference in state courts.

Hospital expansion numbers expose CON’s flaws

When regulators approve just 30% of new hospital beds requested for a fast-growing county, healthcare consumers should ask questions.