On this episode of The Debrief we break down the latest headlines from across North Carolina. The panel weighs in on the political buzz surrounding former Gov. Roy Cooper and whether he’s preparing a surprise entry into the US Senate race. Also, a preview of the General Assembly’s return to Raleigh on July 29, where lawmakers plan to override Gov. Josh Stein’s recent vetoes and advance legislation on the new federal school choice tax credit program. Plus, a deeper look at the state’s stalled road funding strategies, including why critical corridors like U.S. 1 are falling behind despite rapid regional growth. Don’t miss this wide-ranging conversation on policy, politics, and the future of infrastructure and education in the Tar Heel State.
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Opinion
Just because it’s a bill, doesn’t mean it’s being considered
The truth is, all members can file bills on pretty much anything they want. But just because somebody filed something, it doesn't mean "North Carolina" or even "the state legislature" is pursuing this end.
David Larson
Opinion
Federalist 22: Necessity of a Government as Energetic as the One Proposed to the Preservation of the Union
The principal purposes to be answered by union are these the common defense of the members; the preservation of the public peace as well against internal convulsions as external attacks; the regulation of commerce with other nations and between the States; the superintendence of our intercourse, political and commercial, with foreign countries.
Alexander Hamilton
News
Stein seeks $10B more for Helene recovery in WNC
In Washington DC on Wednesday, Gov. Josh Stein, along with state Sen. Kevin Corbin, R-Macon, met with North Carolina’s congressional delegation to seek more than $10 billion in additional federal funding for western North Carolina’s Hurricane Helene recovery.
Theresa Opeka
News
Major ranking moves NC’s Senate race from ‘toss up’ to ‘lean D’
According to the May 2026 Carolina Journal Poll, a survey of 600 likely voters, 49.8% of voters would support Cooper, while 38.7% would support Whatley.
Katherine Zehnder