May has been a politically charged month in North Carolina, with major developments shaping the state’s legislative priorities, judicial decisions, and energy policy. From budget battles to clean energy debates and a controversial court ruling, hereโs a breakdown of whatโs making headlines in North Carolina politics.
North Carolina House Moves Budget Forward Amid Bipartisan Tensions
The North Carolina House of Representatives recently passed a new state budget with some unexpected bipartisan support.
Highlights include raises for state employees and a boost in starting teacher payโissues both sides agreed on. However, proposals to pause personal income tax cuts and fund private school vouchers have drawn criticism. The North Carolina Senate is expected to take up the budget next, and key debates over education and tax policy are heating up.
North Carolina Clean Energy Investment Faces Federal Pushback
A federal proposal called the “One Big Beautiful Bill” could cut clean energy subsidiesโputting nearly $23 billion in investment across North Carolina at risk.
This move has sparked debate among Republican lawmakers, many of whom represent areas benefiting from renewable energy jobs. Clean energy advocates argue the cuts would hurt North Carolinaโs progress on sustainability and economic development.
North Carolina Supreme Court Decision Raises Legal Concerns
The North Carolina Supreme Court has upheld a decision allowing the replacement of a juror mid-deliberation in a murder case, based on a 2021 law.
While the court ruled in favor, two Democratic justices dissented, warning that it could compromise fairness and integrity in North Carolinaโs judicial system. This ruling may have long-term implications for how trials are conducted across the state.
North Carolina Farmers Criticize Federal Agricultural Policy
In rural North Carolina, farmers like Patrick Brown are speaking out about recent changes in USDA programs and rising labor shortages.
Many of these farmers, traditionally Republican voters, are voicing disappointment over policy shifts they feel threaten their livelihoods. These concerns are adding pressure on state leaders to better support North Carolinaโs agricultural community.
Justice Allison Riggs Joins North Carolina Supreme Court After Legal Battle
After a months-long legal battle, Justice Allison Riggs was officially sworn into the North Carolina Supreme Court. Her appointment is considered a win for the Democratic Party and may influence upcoming rulings. With her civil rights background, many in North Carolina expect her to play a pivotal role on the bench.
