People In Politics


People in Politics July 5, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Thursday, 03 July 2014 11:12

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What is motivating North Carolina voters as the fall general election nears? Joe Stewart and Matt Bales of the North Carolina Free Enterprise Foundation talk about results of their analysis and explain the changing demographic trends in our state that are ushering in changes in long-standing voting behavior as well. Then host Donna Martinez gets the latest on the July 15 congressional runoff race in District 6 from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. He discusses the differences in the campaign tactics of Republicans Phil Berger Jr. and Mark Walker, who are vying for the GOP nomination for the seat held for decades by retiring Rep. Howard Coble. The two also discuss the latest from the Kay Hagan campaign in the senator's fight for re-election, which seems to be a focus on turning out single women as Hagan faces Republican House Speaker Thom Tillis and Libertarian Sean Haugh in the fall. Henderson also explains why a slew of Republicans are in the political crosshairs of opponents of hydraulic fracturing. Then Martinez focuses on the Democratic primary runoff in the 5th Congressional District. We revisit conversations with Democrats Gardenia Henley and Josh Brannon, both of whom are hoping to win the day on July 15 for the opportunity to face GOP congressional incumbent Virginia Foxx in November. Early voting in both congressional primary runoffs began July 3 and continues through July 12, with Election Day on Tuesday, July 15.

 

Last Updated on Friday, 04 July 2014 09:03
 
People in Politics June 28, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Thursday, 26 June 2014 11:31

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He could be the spoiler candidate the prevents Democrat Kay Hagan from being re-elected to the U.S. Senate or Republican Thom Tillis from snatching the seat for Republicans. Host Donna Martinez talks with the third person on the fall Senate ballot -- Libertarian Sean Haugh. The two talk about domestic policy, the crisis in Iraq, and why Haugh believes "war" is the first thing he would cut from the federal budget. Then we turn to the battle underway in the 6th Congressional district as the GOP primary runoff nears. Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal tells Martinez about the fierce competition and interesting political dynamics at play between Phil Berger Jr. and Mark Walker -- the two men vying for the win on July 15. Then we turn to fireworks that went off this week for two state legislators. Henderson tells Martinez about eyebrow-raising comments made by Republican Rep. Paul Stam of Raleigh about the definition of sexual orientation. He also explains eyebrow raising news about high ranking Democratic legislator Michael Wray of Gaston, who up until very recently had failed to pay numerous tax bills. And finally, with early voting for the GOP's 6th District congressional runoff getting underway July 3, we take another look at the two candidates. Martinez recently talked with Phil Berger Jr. and Mark Walker. You'll hear parts of those conversations. 

Last Updated on Friday, 27 June 2014 07:50
 
People in Politics June 21, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 20 June 2014 09:05

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This week Gov. Beverly Perdue got political circles talking when, at a fundraiser for a group supporting Hillary Clinton for president, the former governor told the audience her husband, Bob Eaves, had attended one of the Moral Monday anti-GOP protests at the legislature. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells host Donna Martinez about the story and the developing makeup of the Moral Monday gatherings. The two also discuss the situation with the campaign of Democrat Clay Aiken, the 2nd District congressional nominee who faces Republican Renee Ellmers in the fall. Aiken is reportedly advertising for campaign staff on a progressive blog and, when it comes to fundraising, is prepared to sing for donors. Then we turn to the aggressive advertising already underway in the U.S. Senate race between Kay Hagan, Thom Tillis, and Sean Haugh. People in Politics Special Correspondent Bruce Ferrell gets perspective from William Peace University political science professor David McLennan. That's followed by a discussion with Josh Brannon, one of two Democrats vying in the July runoff for their party's nomination for the 5th District seat in Congress. Martinez talks with Brannon about his ideology and his views on key issues. And finally, Martinez talks with Alex Johnson of General Opportunity about the role of young people on politics and why some 20-somethings are so concerned about economic issues. 

Last Updated on Friday, 20 June 2014 09:07
 
People in Politics June 14, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 13 June 2014 09:02

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A big surprise on Monday for the anti-Republican protesters as Senate Leader Phil Berger sat down and talked with them for more than an hour after they staged a sit-in outside his office. Host Donna Martinez gets reaction to the GOP's olive branch when she talks with Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills and conservative activist Francis DeLuca of the Civitas Institute. Both analysts weigh in on the politics of the move and give Berger high marks for talking with people who've leveled ugly attacks his way. Then DeLuca discusses the latest polling numbers for state legislators and Gov. Pat McCrory, and weighs in on the stunning defeat of the U.S. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor in Virginia's GOP primary. Then we turn to the July runoff between Democrats seeking their party's nomination for North Carolina's 5th District seat in the U.S. Congress. Martinez talks with candidate Gardenia Henley about her views and why she wants to oust Republican incumbent Virginia Foxx. And finally, we take a look at the debate over debates in the U.S. Senate race. Martinez talks with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson about Republican Thom Tillis' push for 10 debates with his Democratic rival Kay Hagan. 

Last Updated on Friday, 13 June 2014 09:04
 
People in Politics June 7, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Wednesday, 04 June 2014 07:34

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Guilty. Former Charlotte Mayor Patrick Cannon tells a U.S. magistrate he is guilty of public corruption and pleads guilty to a count of honest services fraud. Host Donna Martinez talks with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson about the stunning revelations that could land the 47-year-old rising star of the Democratic Party a prison stint and a huge fine. This week Martinez also continues her look at one of five runoffs scheduled for the North Carolina ballot on July 15: the race for the GOP's nomination for the 6th District seat in Congress. Last week Martinez talked with candidate Mark Walker. This week she talks about key issues with candidate Phil Berger, Jr., and asks him what distinguishes him from his opponent. Then we look at reaction from supporters of the current General Assembly to continued "Moral Monday" protests against Republican legislators and Gov. Pat McCrory. Dallas Woodhouse of Carolina Rising tells Martinez why his group is telling protesters they've got plenty of good news to be happy about. Once the short legislative session comes to a close, will Republican legislators head home to an electorate that's pleased with them? Martinez gets the latest polling data from Public Policy Polling's Tom Jensen, who says voters are just as unhappy with Democrats as they are Republicans. Martinez and Jensen also discuss the U.S. Senate race and the potential spoiler role that may be played by Libertarian Sean Haugh, and whether the Democrats have a 2016 presidential bench should Hillary Clinton decline to seek the party's nomination. 
 

Last Updated on Wednesday, 04 June 2014 07:36
 
People in Politics May 31, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 30 May 2014 09:28

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Two North Carolina congressional candidates are still unsure of what the future holds, and they won't know until 6th Congressional district voters have their say in the July runoff for the Republican nomination. This week, host Donna Martinez talks with candidate Mark Walker about his background and views, and Walker discusses what distinguishes him from his GOP opponent, Phil Berger Jr. Then we turn to perspective on North Carolina's U.S. senate race -- the race can may determine whether Democrats retain control of the Senate. NC State political science professor Andy Taylor explains the dynamics of the race between Democratic incumbent Kay Hagan and her GOP opponent, N.C. House Speaker Thom Tillis. That's followed by an update on the "Moral Monday" protest movement, which has returned to the General Assembly grounds to express members' disagreements with the Republican-led chambers. After repeated warnings by police, more than a dozen protesters were arrested for refusing to leave Speaker Tillis' office. You'll hear Gov. Pat McCrory's view of the incident in an interview with Henry Hinton of WTIB in Greenville. Next is an update on key N.C. Senate races to watch in November. Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal tells Martinez that several incumbents are facing tough challenges. The two also discuss the latest on Sen. Hagan's aggressive campaign against rival Tillis as the Speaker presides over House proceedings. 

 

Last Updated on Friday, 30 May 2014 09:29
 
People in Politics May 24, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Tuesday, 27 May 2014 07:55

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The legislature is hard at work, and so are the anti-Republican protesters, led for a second year by the North Carolina NAACP and other allied groups. But host Donna Martinez reports that this year, something is different with the protests. This year, Republican lawmakers are speaking out. You'll hear comments from state Reps. Paul Stam and Jim Fulgham of Wake County, and state Sen. Jim Davis of Macon County. As the session continues, scrutiny is most intense on House Speaker Thom Tillis, Republican of Mecklenburg County, as he juggles dual roles as House Speaker and U.S. Senate candidate. Matt Bales of the N.C. Free Enterprise Foundation talks with Martinez about Tillis' juggling act and why he's skating a fine line that could become fodder for his opponent's campaign. That's followed by comments about redrawing election districts with the leader of the Senate, Phil Berger of Rockingham County. Next is a look at developments in the 6th District GOP primary between Phil Berger, Jr. and Mark Walker. Endorsements and a difference in campaign style could determine the outcome, according to Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal. Henderson updates Martinez on the ad war in the U.S. Senate race as well. And finally, Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills tells Martinez what Tillis should expect from the Kay Hagan campaign, which enjoys the support of national independent groups and money.
 

Last Updated on Tuesday, 27 May 2014 07:56
 
People in Politics May 17, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 16 May 2014 07:54

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Shock and sorrow this week as politicians react to the sudden death of 2nd District Democratic congressional candidate Keith Crisco. Host Donna Martinez talks with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson about Crisco's untimely passing, reaction from the political world on both sides of the aisle, and the ramifications for the general election. They also discuss the July runoff in the 6th congressional district as Republican Phil Berger Jr. faces off against Rev. Mark Walker, and the advertising that's already begun in the race for the U.S. Senate between Republican Thom Tillis, Democrat Kay Hagan, and Libertarian Sean Haugh. Then we turn to the state legislature, which reconvened this week in Raleigh. You'll hear comments from the leaders of both chambers, Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Thom Tillis. Next is a discussion with former Democratic Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker about his involvement in a new effort to push for redistricting reform. Martinez also asks Meeker if the rumors are true that he's interested in running for governor in 2016. And finally, Gov. Pat McCrory has announced a new initiative to combat substance abuse. You'll hear the governor's comments made at East Carolina University this week.
 

 
People in Politics May 10, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 09 May 2014 11:05

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North Carolina voters had their say Tuesday night, and now we know the field for most races in the fall general election. At least one congressional race will head to a July runoff, however, and a second congressional race is still undecided. But the major race of the night -- the fight for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate -- ended with a comfortablae win for North Carolina House Speaker Thom Tillis, who vanquished seven challengers. You'll hear Tillis' comments to his supporters following his win. Then host Donna Martinez gets reaction to the Tillis win from Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills, who blogs at politicsnc.com. Mills lays out the challenge for Democratic incumbent Kay Hagan and the role President Obama may play in the race. Then we turn to results for the congressional races with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. Martinez and Henderson discuss the question mark over who has won the 2nd District Democratic primary between Clay Aiken and Crisco, and why Phil Berger Jr. will be part of a July runoff in the 6th congressional district. The two also discuss the tough fight that faced 3rd District Congressman Walter Jones, who survived his primary challenge. And finally, Martinez and Henderson go over key legislative primary races, where at least three lawmakers were ousted by their own party. 
 

Last Updated on Friday, 09 May 2014 11:06
 
People in Politics May 3, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Monday, 05 May 2014 07:41

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Primary Election Day is just around  the corner and thousands of North Carolinians have already taken advantage of early voting. This week, host Donna Martinez talks with two Republicans engaged in a heated fight for the GOP nomination for the 7th District seat in Congress -- the seat being vacated by Democrat Mike McIntyre. Former Johnston County state Sen. David Rouzer and New Hanover County Commissioner Woody White have been locked in a verbal and advertising battle over which man would better represent the district, which leans Republican despite McIntyre's long representation. Martinez talks with Rouzer about his strategy of calling out White for being a trial attorney, and she talks with White about his claim that Rouzer represents the Washington establishment that has failed to represent Republican values. Martinez talks with the third Republican in the race last week, Chris Andrade. Then we turn to the race that some folks don't even realize is on the primary ballot: the race for a seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court. This week Martinez revisits her conversations with all three candidates: Justice Robin Hudson, attorney Jeanette Doran, and Judge Eric Levinson. All three talk about their background and why they want to sit on the state's highest court. Voters can choose only one candidate on May 6, but the top two vote-getters will advance to the general election in the fall. Hudson, a Democrat, is the incumbent in the nonpartisan race. Doran and Levinson are Republicans. 

Last Updated on Monday, 05 May 2014 07:43
 
People in Politics April 26, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 25 April 2014 09:58

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Last time around, the 7th District congressional race garnered national attention for the fight between Democrat Mike McIntyre and state Sen. David Rouzer. McIntyre won by just 650 votes. But with McIntyre retiring, the Republicans are salivating over snagging the seat, and te fight has moved to the GOP primary, where Rouzer faces a stiff challenge from New Hanover County Commissioner Woody White. This week host Donna Martinez talks with the third person in the race, Chris Andrade, a man who tells Martinez he's staying out of the Rouzer-White tug-if-war and focusing on his own message to voters. Then we turn to the impact of this week's televised debates between the leading Republican candidates for U.S. Senate. In this week's "On the Trail" segment, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson gives Martinez his analysis of House Speaker Thom Tillis, who joined three of his rivals in what is one of the first instances of the Speaker engaging on a statewide basis. Henderson also details the recent legal settlement made by Democratic Attorney General Roy Cooper over an he ran in the closing days of his 2000 campaign for the office. The settlement has Cooper apologizing to his opponent, Dan Boyce, and others, for the ad, which attacked their character. Cooper has also agreed to pay roughly $75,000 in legal fees to end the 14-year legal battle. Henderson analyzes the potential impact of the settlement on Cooper's possible run for governor in 2016. Then we turn to the contentious GOP primary in the 3rd congressional district, where incumbent Walter Jones is facing his stiffest challenge ever from Taylor Griffin. People in Politics Special Correspondent Patrick Johnson talks about the race with Greenville-area talk show host Tom Lamprecht. That's followed by a look inside a new organization that has joined the state's policy and political debate. Dallas Woodhouse tells Martinez about the group called Carolina Rising. And finally, the State Employees Association of North Carolina has released an investigative audit of the state's $87 billion pension fund investments, which concludes that Treasurer Janet Cowell is making "secret deals" with Wall Street investment firms. Cowell denies the allegation and says the group's report is wrong. Martinez talks with the forensic investigator hired by the employees' group, Edward Siedle, about his findings. 

Last Updated on Friday, 25 April 2014 09:59
 
People in Politics April 19, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Thursday, 17 April 2014 07:56

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This week, host Donna Martinez continues her "Candidate Conversations" with Toni Morris, one of three Democrats seeking their party's nomination for the 2nd District seat in the U.S. Congress. They talk about why she's running, her view of the key issues in the district, and her views on ObamaCare and same-sex marriage. Morris faces Keith Crisco and Clay Aiken in the May 6 primary, with the winner taking on the Republican nominee in the fall -- either GOP incumbent Renee Ellmers or her primary challenger, investment counselor Frank Roche. Then we turn to the fight for North Carolina's U.S. Senate seat. Just days ago, seven of the eight Republicans in the race were part of a debate hosted by the East Wake Republican Club, which asked Martinez to moderate. This week we bring you part of that debate. You'll hear the seven candidates tell the 500 in attendance why they deserve the GOP nomination, their view of ObamaCare, and the economic challenges faced by North Carolinians. The seven candidates in attendance: Ted Alexander, Alex Bradshaw, Greg Brannon, Heather Grant, Mark Harris, Ed Kryn, and Jim Snyder. Thom Tillis was invited but did not participate. The winner of the May 6 primary -- assuming one of the candidates receives more than 40 percent of the vote -- will face the winner of the Democratic Party primary. Incumbent Sen. Kay Hagan is seeking re-election but first must get past her primary challengers, Ernest Reeves and Will Stewart.
 

Last Updated on Thursday, 17 April 2014 09:06
 
People in Politics April 12, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Monday, 14 April 2014 11:15

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He's one of three people seeking the Democratic Party's nomination for the 2nd District seat in Congress. This week, host Donna Martinez talks with Keith Crisco about his run, what distinguishes him from his opposition, his view of the Affordable Care Act, and the key issue in the district. Crisco faces Clay Aiken and Toni Morris on the May 6 ballot. The winner will advance to the general election and battle the winner of the Republican primary: either incumbent Renee Ellmers or financial counselor Frank Roche. Then we turn to comments about North Carolina's election reform law, made this week by Vice President Biden in a video from the Democratic National Committee. Biden pans our state's election reform laws and says they're part of an attempt to keep people from the polls. Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation reacts, saying Biden is wrong and that the election law changes put North Carolina in the mainstream of state law. Next is a look at the 2014 election season from Democratic political strategist Brad Crone. At an election panel held this week in Raleigh, Crone told the audience which Republican candidate he thinks can defeat Democratic Sen. Kay Hagan, and he discussed the voting blocs he believes will determine the outcome of the races. And finally, in this week's installment of "On the Trail," Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells Martinez about a feisty election forum in the 12th District race for the Democratic nomination when one candidate expressed support for school vouchers. The two also discuss new polling data that show Sen. Hagan continues to face a tough re-election bid, and the appointment of a new Charlotte Mayor, former state Sen. Dan Clodfelter. 

Last Updated on Monday, 14 April 2014 11:17
 
People in Politics April 5, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Thursday, 03 April 2014 16:11

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This week host Donna Martinez continues her conversations with the three primary election candidates seeking a seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court. Justice Robin Hudson tells Martinez why she’s seeking another term, how her varied background serves her as a jurist on the state’s highest court, and how the court impacts average North Carolinians. Hudson joins Judge Eric Levinson and Jeanette Doran on the ballot. The top two vote-getters will face each other in the fall general election. Then we turn to perspective on the 2014 season from Joe Stewart of the North Carolina Free Enterprise Foundation. Stewart discusses why it looks to be a good year for Republicans and the role outside money is already playing in the Senate race. Next are comments about Gov. Pat McCrory from Tom Campbell, host of the statewide TV show “NC Spin.” Campbell assesses the governor’s performance so far in office, as well as the intense criticism the governor has received. That’s followed by a look at this week’s State Board of Election report, which showed the potential for “double voting” by more than 700 North Carolina voters in 2012 due to their names also being matched to voter rolls in other states. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses the data with Martinez, the next steps to determine if fraud actually exists, and how it is playing in the ongoing debate over voter fraud and what should be done about it. The two also talk about the latest “On the Trail” campaign news, including new ads that have gone up in the Senate race, the latest Senate polling data, Democratic congressional candidate Clay Aiken’s reluctance to talk about his “American Idol” experience, criticism by Democrats of 5th District Republican Congresswoman Virginia Foxx, and the ongoing fight for votes in the GOP primary for the 6th District congressional race.
 
 
Last Updated on Thursday, 03 April 2014 16:12
 
People in Politics March 29, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 28 March 2014 11:06

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Political stunner this week and we learn that Charlotte Mayor Patrick Cannon was arrested on Wednesday and charged with public corruption following a multi-year investigation by the FBI. Cannon, a Democrat, resigned his office late Wednesday evening after posting bond. He is charged with, among other things, accepting cash in the mayor’s office in exchange for help with zoning and permitting. Host Donna Martinez gets reaction from Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills, who says he doesn’t think Cannon’s trouble will have a big impact on the 2014 elections. Turning to campaign news, Martinez and Mills then discuss Mills’ contention that Democrats, including Kay Hagan, have adopted the wrong political strategy for the 2014 cycle. Mills explains that the “red meat” message about the billionaire Koch brothers’ support of Republican candidates only resonates with party faithful already prepared to vote for Democrats. He discusses what he thinks Hagan and other Democrats should do instead. Then we turn to our latest Candidate Conversation. Martinez talks with Judge Eric Levinson, one of the three candidates on the primary ballot for a seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court. The others are Jeanette Doran and Justice Robin Hudson. Levinson talks about his background, his judicial philosophy, and why he wants to sit on the state’s highest court. Next is a look at the big stories “On the Trail” this week with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. He tells Martinez why one Republican judge has raised questions over her quest for a Supreme Court seat, why Congressman Walter Jones is facing a tough re-election in the 3rd District, and why the allegations have begun to fly between Woody White and David Rouzer in the GOP primary for the 7th District race. That’s followed by political consultant Doug Raymond’s view on the role Heather Grant’s gender may play in the U.S. Senate primary race. Raymond explains the history that says being female usually translates into two or three percentage points for the candidate. 
Last Updated on Friday, 28 March 2014 11:08
 
People in Politics March 22, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Monday, 24 March 2014 09:52

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North Carolinians may not realize that the May 6 primary ballot includes a race between three legal beagles seeking a seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court. The two garnering the highest number of votes will face off in the fall general election for the seat on the highest court, now held by Justice Robin Hudson. Host Donna Martinez begins her look at this key judicial primary with a conversation with candidate Jeanette Doran, who discusses her judicial philosophy, her background, her view of the state’s constitution, and why she thinks voters should cast a vote for her, ahead of her challengers, Judge Eric Levinson and Justice Robin Hudson. Then we turn to this week’s campaign trail developments. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells Martinez about a verbal war of words that has erupted between Republican Senate primary candidates Greg Brannon and Thom Tillis, as well as a look at a key speech to made in May by Democratic incumbent Kay Hagan. Henderson also details the tense exchange between two Republican candidates seeking the GOP nomination for the 7th District seat in Congress, and updates us on the latest stops for two Democrats – Clay Aiken and Keith Crisco – in the race for the Democratic nomination for the 2nd District congressional seat. That’s followed by a look at polling data on the Senate and congressional races with Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling. Jensen tells Martinez about Hagan’s chances for re-election and the Republicans’ chances to retain control of the North Carolina General Assembly. And finally, we turn to redistricting. Advocates for reforming North Carolina’s redistricting process have renewed their calls for changes. Jane Pinsky of the North Carolina Coalition for Lobbying and Government Reform tells Martinez the candidate filings initiated the call for change. Pinsky details the numbers of legislative races that are noncompetitive, offers recommendations for taking politics out of the district lines, and offers kudos to Republican legislators who continue to support redistricting despite its potential to limit the GOP’s power. 
Last Updated on Monday, 24 March 2014 09:54
 
People in Politics March 15, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 14 March 2014 07:52

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Advocates for reforming North Carolina’s redistricting process this week renewed their calls for changes. Jane Pinsky of the North Carolina Coalition for Lobbying and Government Reform tells host Donna Martinez that the candidate filings initiated the call for change. Pinsky details the numbers of legislative races that are noncompetitive, offers recommendations for taking politics out of the district lines, and offers kudos to Republican legislators who continue to support redistricting despite its potential to limit the GOP’s power. Then we turn to continuing turmoil inside the state’s Democratic Party. This week party Chairman Randy Voller told his executive committee the party is broke and may have to sell its historic downtown Raleigh headquarters. Democratic consultant Thomas Mills tells Martinez that many in the party have lost faith in Voller and that donors are finding other ways to support Democrats and are bypassing the party. Mills also reacts to the death of his friend, Sen. Martin Nesbitt of Buncombe County, and explains Nesbitt’s commitment to progressive causes. That’s followed by more news “On the Trail” with Carolina Journal’s Rick Henderson. Henderson gives Martinez the latest endorsements in the U.S. Senate race and explains why lobbyist donations to the 6th District congressional candidacy of Phil Berger Jr. are raising some eyebrows. Henderson also profiles the May 6 primary race for a seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court, where three candidates are vying for two spots on the fall ballot. 
Last Updated on Friday, 14 March 2014 07:54
 
People in Politics March 8, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Monday, 10 March 2014 07:49

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Sorrow envelops North Carolina’s political world with the sudden death this week of Senate Minority Leader Martin Nesbitt. The Buncombe County Democrat has stepped down from his leadership post early in the week, but by late in the week, word came he had died from complications due to stomach cancer. Senate Minority Whip Josh Stein tells host Donna Martinez why Nesbitt was so beloved and what is legacy is likely to be. Stein, a Democrat who represents Wake County, also discusses Nesbitt’s impact on the state’s Democratic Party. Next is a look at the primary election for legislative seats. Matt Bales, research director of the North Carolina Free Enterprise Foundation, tells Martinez why so many legislative candidates have won their seats without one vote yet being cast. Then we turn to fascinating polling data from the latest Elon University Poll. Dr. Ken Fernandez, director of the Elon Poll, gives Martinez poll results he says could spell trouble for Democratic incumbent Kay Hagan, who is seeking re-election to her U.S. Senate seat. And finally, we get the latest endorsements in races for Congress from Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal, who tells Martinez that political advertising has also ticked up as campaigning for the primary begins in earnest.
 
 
Last Updated on Monday, 10 March 2014 09:04
 
People in Politics March 1, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 28 February 2014 10:02

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It’s official. The candidate list is finalized and the matchups for May’s North Carolina primary election are set. Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling joins host Donna Martinez to take the pulse of the state’s electorate on the U.S. Senate race, key congressional races, and the Democrats’ push to regain seats in the state legislature. Jensen also lays out the intriguing fight for control of the U.S. Senate, which could hinge on North Carolina’s seat, now held by Democratic incumbent Kay Hagan. Then we turn to the candidate slate in key races with the weekly “On the Trail” segment. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells Martinez that several GOP incumbents are facing criticism from primary challengers, and the two discuss the very crowded GOP field for the U.S. Senate nomination. That’s followed by an update on the legal troubles for former Republican state legislator Stephen LaRoque. Sarah Ovaska of N.C. Policy Watch tells Martinez that a judge has granted LaRoque a new trial on all 12 counts of misuse of federal grant money.
 
 
Last Updated on Friday, 28 February 2014 10:17
 
People in Politics February 22, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Thursday, 20 February 2014 13:31

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A civil ruling goes against a Republican U.S. Senate candidate in North Carolina, but this week Greg Brannon filed for the seat now held by Democrat Kay Hagan. That story tops the “On the Trail” discussion between host Donna Martinez and Carolina Journal’s Rick Henderson. The two also discuss the fundraising total for Democrat Clay Aiken, who’s seeking to challenge GOP 2nd District incumbent Renee Ellmers, who this week continued her support for an immigration reform plan that could allow a path to citizenship for some illegal immigrants, as well as border security. Martinez and Henderson also discuss the crowded field of candidates for the 6th District seat and an unexpected narrative emerging in the GOP primary race between David Rouzer and Woody White. That’s followed by a look at the turmoil inside the state Democratic Party with William Peace University political science professor Dr. David McLennan, who says it’s bad news for Democrats. McLennan also assesses the impact of a verbal altercation between Gov. Pat McCrory and a grocery store clerk. Then we look back at the role played by a North Carolina politician in Watergate. Rufus Edmisten was a key legal aide to Sen. Sam Ervin, who led the Senate committee that investigated Watergate. Edmisten talks to People in Politics Special Correspondent Patrick Johnson about his experience. Edmisten will be part of a Museum of History event about Watergate to be held later in the week in Raleigh.
 
 
Last Updated on Friday, 21 February 2014 10:07
 
People in Politics February 15, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 14 February 2014 10:38

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Fired! The executive director of the North Carolina Democratic Party has been ousted by state chairman Randy Voller, and Democrats haven’t wasted time in reacting. Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills tells host Donna Martinez that Voller doesn’t have broad support from Democrats and that his actions are hurting the party. Then we look at this week’s candidate filings in the weekly installment of “On The Trail.” Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells Martinez how several key races are shaping up and a new poll about the impact of Democrat Clay Aiken’s celebrity on the 2nd District congressional race. He also discusses the North Carolina Supreme Court Justice who has filed to run for the seat of retiring Chief Justice Sarah Parker. Next is a look at the fundraising tallies of three GOP contenders for the U.S. Senate nomination. Matt Bales, research director of the North Carolina Free Enterprise Foundation, provides the latest numbers for Thom Tillis, Greg Brannon, and Mark Harris – all of whom trail Sen. Kay Hagan badly in the money game. Bales also discusses his group’s candidate tracker and district ratings. That’s followed by comments from Gov. Pat McCrory about his proposal to raise base teacher pay by nearly 14 percent over the next two years. McCrory was joined in Guilford County by Lt. Gov. Dan Forest, House Speaker Tillis, and Senate Leader Phil Berger. And finally, Lt. Gov. Forest talks about how he got into politics in a recent interview with Don Curtis for Carolina Newsmakers.
 
Last Updated on Friday, 14 February 2014 10:40
 
People in Politics February 8, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 07 February 2014 08:52

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He’s made it official via a web video. American Idol star Clay Aiken says he will seek the Democratic nomination for the 2nd district seat in Congress – the seat now held by Republican Renee Ellmers. You’ll hear Aiken talk about his foray into politics and why he believes Ellmers should be replaced. Meantime, another Democrat may as well be in the race for governor. You’ll hear Attorney General Roy Cooper lament Republican leadership of North Carolina and ask North Carolinians to help take the state back. His comments come in a video that all but asks people to vote for him for governor. Host Donna Martinez gets reaction to both Aiken and Cooper from Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills, who says state Democrats are looking at a potential generation change of leadership within the party. Aiken’s candidacy is already drawing scrutiny from national websites. In this week’s edition of “On the Trail,” Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells Martinez about a tweet Aiken made during the 2012 Republican National Convention that mocks the GOP for failing to attract more African-Americans. The two also discuss the latest endorsements in the U.S. Senate race and two key congressional races, as well as fundraising totals for some of the candidates – including N.C. Senate Leader Phil Berger, Republican of Rockingham County. 

 

Last Updated on Friday, 07 February 2014 10:11
 
People in Politics February 1, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Friday, 31 January 2014 10:22

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The money is pouring in to Sen. Kay Hagan’s re-election campaign. Matt Bales of the N.C. Free Enterprise Foundation tells host Donna Martinez the Democratic incumbent started the year with $6 million on hand. Bales delves into where the money is coming from, explains why contests in two North Carolina congressional districts could impact the Senate race, and looks at what he describes as the most entertaining race of the year. Then we hear from Sen. Hagan as she discusses her support for the Affordable Care Act and why she thinks ads being run against her by outside groups are unfair. Next, Martinez provides details on the latest court ruling that means the state’s 2014 elections will not be delayed as the redrawn maps are scrutinized. Democrats and their allies have argued the primary should be delayed until a ruling is reached. Then we turn to comments from Gov. Pat McCrory about the decision by the City of Charlotte not to seek to be the host city for the 2016 Republican National Convention. That’s followed by Martinez’s conversation with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. In this week’s “On The Trail” segment, the two discuss the traffic jam that is the Republican primary field for the 6th District seat in Congress, fundraising totals in a Court of Appeals race, and why five Republican N.C. senators have been deemed vulnerable to defeat by Public Policy Polling. And finally, we turn to President Obama’s 2014 agenda as laid out in the recent State of the Union address. You’ll  hear the president challenge Republicans in Congress to work with him or sit on the sidelines while he advances his program by executive order. 
Last Updated on Friday, 31 January 2014 10:23
 
People in Politics January 25, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Monday, 27 January 2014 10:37

 

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As he begins his second year in office, Gov. Pat McCrory stepped before the microphones and cameras to talk about his accomplishments and 2014 priorities. You’ll hear his comments on energy, transportation, and education, as well the 2014 focus for his wife, First Lady Ann McCrory. In this week’s “On The Trail” segment, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells host Donna Martinez that American Idol runner-up and Raleigh native Clay Aiken looks closer to a run for the Democratic Party nomination in the 2nd Congressional District. The two discuss the growing number of candidates in the race, the role of celebrity in politics, and how Aiken’s potential entry could thwart the Democrats’ efforts to elevate veteran business expert and former Perdue aide Keith Crisco, who’s also seeking the Democratic nomination to challenge Republican incumbent Renee Ellmers. The discussion continues with news about the latest entrants into the U.S. Senate race and the war of words already underway in a key legislative race, where state Senator Bob Rucho has called his Republican primary opponent a liberal Democrat. That’s followed by Martinez’s in-depth conversation with North Carolina Democratic Party Chairman Randy Voller, who tells Martinez about the party’s plans for 2014, why he believes Democrats will pick up seats in the legislature in the fall, why Sen. Kay Hagan can win re-election, and why he doesn’t mind it when the state Republican Party says NAACP Chairman Rev. William Barber is the defacto head of the Democratic Party.
 
 
People in Politics January 18, 2014 PDF Print E-mail
People In Politics
Wednesday, 22 January 2014 11:07

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A veteran Democratic political strategist predicts the 2014 election season will be a wild one in North Carolina. Brad Crone laid out the political landscape for Don Curtis on a recent addition of Carolina Newsmakers. Crone talks about challenges facing state Democrats and why voters not affiliated with Democrats or Republicans will hold sway. Then we turn to President Obama’s challenge in 2014 as he tries to help Democrats up for re-election – including N.C. Sen. Kay Hagan. Ahead of the president’s visit to our state on Wednesday, NC State political science professor Andy Taylor offers perspective. Next is the very latest “On the Trail” as host Donna Martinez talks with Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal about how the Senate race is shaping up now that Kay Hagan has drawn a Democratic Party primary challenger as well as another Republican. Martinez and Henderson also talk about the tightening GOP primary race in the 7th District congressional race between New Hanover County Commissioner Woody White and former state Sen. David Rouzer. Former state GOP Chairman Tom Fetzer is now supporting White even though it was Rouzer who came within 650 votes of defeating Democrat Mike McIntyre  in 2012. That’s followed by Martinez’ conversation with Republican Party Chairman Claude Pope about the party’s 2014 plans. Pope comments on the U.S. Senate race and the ongoing “Moral Monday” protests against Republicans.
Last Updated on Thursday, 23 January 2014 10:09
 
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