|
People In Politics
|
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 22 July 2013 09:56 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
This week, supporters of Republican legislators turn the tables on the anti-Republican protesters at the General Assembly. We hear from N.C. GOP Vice Chairwoman Joyce Krawiec about the Thankful Tuesday event. Then host Host Donna Martinez talks with Correspondent Stephanie Hawco about the pro-GOP rally, the latest on the Moral Monday protest plans, and the fall from grace for one of the state’s most well known public officials: N.C. Rural Economic Development Center leader Billy Ray Hall. Then Tom Jensen of the Democratic polling firm Public Policy Polling discusses the latest survey data of North Carolinians, which shows an erosion of support for Gov. Pat McCrory. That’s followed by comments from the governor, Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) and House Speaker Thom Tillis (R-Mecklenburg) about the historic tax reform agreement forged during the week. Next is a look at new fundraising numbers for some of North Carolina’s congressional and legislative delegation. Then we turn to former Gov. Beverly Perdue’s post-retirement plans, which include participating in a biography of her life and time in public office. Martinez talks with a co-author of the book, Barlow Herget of SGRToday.com. Herget talks about research into Perdue’s background, his discussions so far with Democratic movers and shakers about the Perdue legacy, and what the former governor hopes to accomplish with the book. And finally, the discussion turns to presidential politics. Martinez talks with Washington Examiner columnist Paul Bedard about the 2016 presidential race, which is already generating buzz in D.C. |
|
Last Updated on Monday, 22 July 2013 09:57 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Tuesday, 16 July 2013 06:34 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
They’re legal: so says a three-judge panel about North Carolina’s newly drawn election districts. We bring you reaction to the ruling from a bipartisan judge’s panel about GOP-drawn election maps that had been challenged by Democrats and their allies. Dr. David McLennan of William Peace University weighs in on the very high bar Democrats must seat should they choose to challenge the ruling. Then talk turns to whether the answer to ending political wrangling over the redrawing, which is required every 10 years, is to create an independent redistricting commission. Jane Pinsky of the N.C. Coalition for Government and Lobbying Reform makes the case. Next we turn to the controversy that has ensnared Gov. Pat McCrory over legislation that supporters say would protect the safety of a woman having an abortion, and critics say would limit access to an abortion. Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal tells host Donna Martinez about the tug-of-war over a contentious social issue that had the Republican governor threatening a veto against legislation supported by his own party. Then we delve into the latest twist in the politics of gay marriage. Chris Brook of the North Carolina ACLU explains the basis of his group’s decision to challenge North Carolina’s ban on gay marriage. Last May a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman passed overwhelmingly on the ballot. That’s followed by comments from District 12 Congressman Mel Watt, Democrat who has been nominated by President Obama to lead the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Watt was recently before a Senate committee considering his nomination to the post. Then we have highlights from a news conference held by Gov. Pat McCrory in which he discussed his first six months in office. |
|
Last Updated on Tuesday, 16 July 2013 06:36 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 05 July 2013 07:38 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
This Fourth of July weekend, People in Politics revisits key political stories from the last month. Host Donna Martinez talks with Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling about the latest survey data on the race to snag the U.S. Senate seat now held by Democrat Kay Hagan. Jensen assesses Hagan’s fight for re-election and the strength of various potential Republican challengers. He also discusses President Obama, whose job approval has dropped in the state he lost to Mitt Romney last November. That’s followed by a look at the passing of the first Republican governor of the 20th Century: James Holshouser. Current Gov. Pat McCrory talks about his friend and mentor, while Raleigh News & Observer political columnist Rob Christensen tells Martinez about Holshouser’s political influence and legacy in a state that, prior to his election, had been dominated by Democrats for decades and decades. Next is reaction to the ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court, in which the majority ruled a section of the Voting Rights Act unconstitutional. Chris Brook of the North Carolina ACLU expresses his concerns over the ruling, while Lt. Gov. Dan Forest tells Martinez about the likely impact of the ruling on the new election maps and the effort to adopt a photo I.D. requirement for voting in North Carolina. Then we turn to the protests against Republicans and Republican policies at the legislature. Groups allied with state Democrats – most notably the NAACP, which organizes the weekly protests – are convening on Monday evenings at the legislature. Some have chosen to be arrested as an act of civil disobedience. Now a conservative think tank – the Civitas Institute – is taking heat for posting information from the arrest records, which are public documents. Francis DeLuca of Civitas tells Martinez about the profile of the arrestees and what he believes is behind the protests – the activation of Democratic Party voters in 2014.
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 05 July 2013 07:40 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 28 June 2013 09:19 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that a section of the Voting Rights Act is unconstitutional, meaning that states like North Carolina – which has 44 counties that have been subject to VRA rules – no longer have to comply with the 1965 formula the Court has deemed obsolete. You’ll hear reaction from Chris Brook of the North Carolina ACLU and Lt. Gov. Dan Forest, who tells host Donna Martinez that the ruling may pave the way for a new law requiring a photo I.D. to vote. Forest also discusses his first six months in office and his reaction to protesters who show up on Monday evenings at the legislature, where Forest presides over the Senate. Then we turn the latest twist in the story of the protests organized against Republicans and their policies by the North Carolina NAACP and other allies of the Democratic Party. Francis DeLuca of the Civitas Institute tells Martinez about his group’s research into the protesters that have been arrested. The data, gathered from public records, provides a profile of the Moral Monday arrestees. DeLuca also discusses the heat he’s taking from progressives and Democrats for posting the public information. In response to his action, DeLuca’s own salary ended up posted online. That’s followed by an update on Election 2014. Martinez talks with Don Webb, a High Point businessman who has announced he will seek the GOP nomination for the 6th Congressional District seat now held by fellow Republican Howard Coble. Webb tells Martinez why he’s running and discusses his views of key issues.
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 28 June 2013 09:20 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 21 June 2013 09:51 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
With the death of Gov. James Holshouser this week, North Carolina said goodbye to a piece of political history. Host Donna Martinez looks back at the first Republican governor elected in the state in the 20th century, his policy views, and the transformational role he played in Republican politics through interviews with veteran political reporter Rob Christensen of the Raleigh News & Observer and John Hood of the John Locke Foundation. We also hear memories from Gov. Pat McCrory, former Holshouser aide Ballard Everett, and political talk show host and analyst Tom Campbell. Then we turn to First Lady Ann McCrory’s news conference about puppy mills, an issue near to her heart, and why she urging legislators to take action. That’s followed by the latest polling data from Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling. Jensen talks with Martinez about the U.S. Senate race for the seat now held by Democrat Kay Hagan, the president’s dwindling popularity in North Carolina during his second term, and how Gov. Pat McCrory and state legislators are faring with voters. Then we hear from Sen. Hagan about the race for re-election, and we hear from one of the Republicans who wants to challenge her for the Senate seat, House Speaker Thom Tillis, Republican of Mecklenburg County. And finally, Martinez provides an update on a courtroom win for 1st District Congressman G.K. Butterfield over the 2012 Democratic primary opponent who had challenged Butterfield’s standing on the 2012 ballot. |
|
Last Updated on Friday, 21 June 2013 09:53 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 14 June 2013 12:53 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
The new chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party has only been in office for a few days, but he’s already striking back at critics of the GOP-led General Assembly. Claude Pope talks with host Donna Martinez about the protests by liberal advocacy groups – dubbed Moral Mondays and Witness Wednesdays -- and discusses his plans to keep the Republicans in power as the 2014 election cycle looms. Then People in Politics Correspondent Stephanie Hawco takes us to the latest legislative protest. You’ll hear comments from several anti-GOP activists, as well as the Rev. William Barber, head of the N.C. NAACP, which is leading the events. Then we turn to the legal problems of former Republican legislator Stephen LaRoque of Kinston. LaRoque now faces jail time after being convicted of multiple federal charges that he diverted federal money meant for economic development nonprofits he led, to his family and friends. Investigative reporter Sarah Ovaska of N.C. Policy Watch explains the convictions to Martinez, as well as the sentence LaRoque faces, and the suspicious information that snagged her interest in this story many months ago. That’s followed by an update on discontent inside the North Carolina Democratic Party. Stephanie Hawco tells Martinez about the resignation of a key party official and an EEOC complaint filed against Chairman Randy Voller by a former party staffer. Hawco and Martinez also discuss the public squabble that played out among the GOP’s Senate leaders this week as Senate Finance Committee Co-Chairman Bob Rucho of Mecklenburg County resigned his co-chairmanship in a huff over disagreements with Senate Leader Phil Berger, Republican of Rockingham County. And finally, Martinez talks with Chris Fitzsimon of N.C. Policy Watch about progressives’ disagreements with Republican policies, as well as the upcoming race for the U.S. Senate seat how held by Democrat Kay Hagan.
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 14 June 2013 12:55 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 10 June 2013 07:42 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
President Obama headed back to North Carolina this week for a stop in the Charlotte area to tout his middle class jobs programs. His visit comes amid a variety of scandals engulfing key agencies and officials. Dr. David McLennan of William Peace University offers perspective to host Donna Martinez on how the scandals are impacting the president’s second term, as well as why Sen. Kay Hagan’s Senate seat is being eyed by both Republicans and Democrats. Then CBS Correspondent Howard Arensteen explains why the FBI believes more ricin-laced letters could be in the works as the agency investigates multiple incidents of tainted letters mailed to the president and other officials. That’s followed by analysis of new polling data that shows the questions swirling around the Benghazi terrorist attack is impacting Hillary Clinton’s approval rating. The Washington Examiner’s Paul Bedard provides the background. Then Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills talks with Martinez about the importance of the Hagan Senate race and the growing criticism of Republicans and GOP-led policies in the legislature. Then Cash Michaels of The Carolinians assesses the impact of the NAACP protests dubbed “Moral Mondays” on the GOP. And finally, Gov. Pat McCrory talks with Carolina Newsmakers host Don Curtis about his political background, his years as Charlotte mayor, and life in the executive mansion. |
|
Last Updated on Monday, 10 June 2013 07:43 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 31 May 2013 13:19 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
He’s been the subject of speculation for months, but this week, House Speaker Thom Tillis announced he will see the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Democrat Kay Hagan. People in Politics Correspondent Stephanie Hawco joins host Donna Martinez to discuss Tillis’ decisions, his fundraising prowess, potential primary challengers, and a pro-Tillis Super PAC that has been formed. Then the discussion turns to the federal trial of former Republican Rep. Stephen LaRoque of Kinston. Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal gives Martinez background on the case and discusses the high-profile attorney defending LaRoque on charges he used federal grant funds meant for an economic development nonprofit he ran for personal use and a lavish lifestyle for family members. That’s followed by new polling data from Public Policy Polling on the Hagan Senate race. Next are comments from two candidates for chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party. The party will choose a chairman next week. Martinez revisits her recent conversations with Claude Pope and Jack Brosch. Then Barlow Herget of SGRToday.com talks with Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin about his relationship with the Republican-led legislature and Republican governor following decades of Democrat Party control. Next up, 4th District Democratic Congressman David Price weighs in on gun violence and his ideas for preventing it, including expanding background checks for gun purchases. And finally, Paul Bedard of the Washington Examiner gives a first-hand account of his encounter with former Vice President Dick Cheney, who is writing a book about his struggle with heart disease.
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 31 May 2013 13:20 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Tuesday, 28 May 2013 10:24 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
The Memorial Day weekend edition of People in Politics features Stephanie Hawco, who joins host Donna Martinez to discuss the indictment of a family friend and professional colleague in the recent murder of Democratic political fundraiser Jamie Hahn, who was killed in her Raleigh home as her husband Nation was attacked as well. Hawco also relates an uncomfortable moment on the North Carolina House floor during the week when a Republican legislator read into the record a letter criticizing House Speaker Thom Tillis over a policy disagreement. Then we revisit an interview with Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal who explains thre changes to the membership of the state Board of Elections made by Gov. Pat McCrory. The board was flipped from three Democrats and two Republicans, to three Republicans and two Democrats. Then Democratic U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan introduces Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx to the U.S. Senate committee that will oversee his confirmation hearings to be the next U.S. Secretary of Transportation. That’s followed by another look at last year’s Marriage Amendment with Tami Fitzgerald of the North Carolina Values Coalition. Fitzgerald assesses what has occurred in the year since the constitutional amendment was passed and says facts refute claims by the opposition that gays and lesbians would experience discrimination due to the amendment’s passage. Next is People in Politics Correspondent Patrick Johnson’s engaging interview with Rufus Edmisten, the former aide to Sen. Sam Ervin, who led the Senate investigation of Watergate. Edmisten discusses a new Watergate exhibit at the N.C. Museum of History and recalls key events in the Watergate saga. And finally, Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling explains why pollsters who so wrong about the outcome of the S.C. congressional race that ended with a huge win for former S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford. Pollsters, including Public Policy Polling, said the race was a dead heat going into election day. |
|
Last Updated on Tuesday, 28 May 2013 12:06 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 20 May 2013 09:43 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
A political firestorm engulfs the Obama administration as the IRS admits it has been targeting for special tax scrutiny, nonprofits groups aligned with the Tea Party movement and beliefs in limited government. We hear reaction from President Obama and North Carolina Sens. Kay Hagan and Richard Burr. Then host Donna Martinez talks with the state director of a nonprofit group frequently criticized by President Obama for its support of limited government. Dallas Woodhouse of Americans for Prosperity North Carolina weighs in on the IRS tactics, and also gives his assessment of legislative activities in Raleigh. Then People in Politics Correspondent Stephanie Hawco gives Martinez the latest rundown on what have become weekly protests by the North Carolina NAACP against legislative Republicans. Hawco and Martinez also discuss the re-emergence of Sen. John Edwards and news that Edwards has reactivated his law license and will speak to a group next month. That’s followed by perspective from Republican House Speaker Thom Tillis of Mecklenburg County on issues including the impending passage of a bill that will require a photo I.D. to vote and the prospect of an independent commission to handling redrawing of election districts every 10 years. Then we delve into whether claims by those opposed to last year’s Marriage Amendment have come true in the wake of the passage of the constitutional amendment that defines marriage in North Carolina as between one man and one woman. Tami Fitzgerald of the North Carolina Values Coalition also discusses with Martinez Franklin Graham’s comments that the Graham organization was visited by IRS agents after it ran newspaper ads in support of last year’s amendment, known as Amendment One. And finally, as the 40th anniversary of the Watergate hearings arrives, we get eyewitness perspective from a North Carolinian who was in the middle of the investigation of the scandal that led to the resignation of President Nixon. Rufus Edmisten, former counsel to Sen. Sam Ervin, who led the Senate investigation, tells People in Politics Correspondent Patrick Johnson about his memories of those fateful months. Edmisten, former Attorney General and Secretary of State of North Carolina, also discusses a new Museum of History exhibit that features mementos and timelines of the events. |
|
Last Updated on Monday, 20 May 2013 09:44 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 10 May 2013 09:32 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
The chairman of the state Democratic Party finds himself in hot water – with some veterans in his own party – following his comment that North Carolina Republicans are “raping” citizens with their policies. Veteran Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills tells host Donna Martinez why he’s concerned about the direction and leadership of the party, and why the Republicans need to be held to account for their legislative actions. Then William Peace University professor David McLennan assesses the impact of protests against legislative Republicans by the North Carolina chapter of the NAACP. Next is a look at the tax overhaul laid out this week by Senate Republicans, who say it will result in a $1 billion tax cut. Senate Leader Phil Berger of Rockingham County and Bob Rucho of Mecklenburg County talk about the goal of the plan. That’s followed by a look at Gov. Pat McCrory’s stature within the national GOP. NC State professor Andy Taylor weighs in on what it means for McCrory to have been chosen to give last week’s GOP response to President Obama’s weekly radio and internet address. To find out more about the governor’s working relationship with legislative Republicans, Barlow Herget of SGRToday.com talks with veteran Republican lawmaker Leo Daughtry of Johnston County. Then we turn our attention to what could be the political comeback story of the year. Former South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford talks about his huge win over Democrat Elizabeth Colbert Busch for a seat in the U.S. Congress. His win stunned many in the political world, particularly since polls showed the race a dead heat heading into election day. Martinez talks with Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling about why firm’s poll, as well as others, so badly misread the public. |
|
Last Updated on Friday, 10 May 2013 09:34 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 03 May 2013 09:43 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
It’s the end of two decades of Democratic Party control of the state Board of Elections, as Gov. Pat McCrory appoints new board members to reflect a Republican in the governor’s seat. The board’s first day in action included the appointment of the staff’s chief investigator, Kim Strach, as elections director, replacing long-time Democrat director Gary Bartlett, whose term is expiring. Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal joins host Donna Martinez to assess the move and discusses Strach’s knowledge of campaign finance law, as evidenced by her work in ferreting out wrongdoing by former House Speaker Jim Black that ended in a prison sentence. Martinez and Henderson also discuss recent protests and arrests at the General Assembly, a new poll that shows broad support for an independent redistricting commission, the departure from the legislature of a one-time rising star in the Democratic Party, and President Obama’s nominations of two North Carolina politicians for key Washington D.C. posts. Then we hear the president’s own words about his nominees, Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx for Secretary of Transportation, and Congressman Mel Watt of the 12th congressional district for head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency. We also bring you Mayor Foxx’s comments. Then we turn to a potential primary challenge from the Right for Republican Congressman Walter Jones of the 3rd congressional district. Craven County Commissioner Scott Dacey explains why he’s considering a run against the 18-year veteran. Next are comments from veteran Democratic political consultant Brad Crone, who assesses the state of the Democratic Party, the explosion of unaffiliated voters, and the controversy over a proposal to require a photo I.D. to vote in North Carolina. That’s followed by comments about voter I.D. from House Speaker Thom Tillis, Republican of Mecklenburg County. And finally, we bring you the latest information on the stabbing murder of Democratic Party fundraiser Jamie Hahn, as well as remembrances from her friends and political colleagues who attended her memorial service this week. |
|
Last Updated on Friday, 03 May 2013 09:44 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 26 April 2013 11:14 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Tragedy struck Democratic Party circles this week as up-and-coming party fundraiser Jamie Hahn was stabbed to death and her husband, Nation, was wounded in an attack allegedly committed by a family friend whose financial activities related to political campaigns may be in question. Democratic consultant Thomas Mills talks with host Donna Martinez and reflects on Jamie and Nation Hahn’s work for Democrats and their many friends who are trying to cope with the senseless loss of life. Among those Jamie worked for is 4th District Congressman David Price, who also tells Martinez of Hahn’s work and the shock of her death. Then we turn to a look at an upcoming trial for former state legislator Stephen LaRoque, who is facing federal charges related to money he used to operate economic development nonprofit groups. Sarah Ovaska, reporter for N.C. Policy Watch, explains the allegations against the Republican from Kinston. That’s followed by a look at the three associates of former Gov. Beverly Perdue who this week faced the judge over a campaign finance scheme to circumvent limits on political donations. Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal explains what happened and what the judge told the men in court. Then we visit the latest installment of the voter I.D. saga that is playing out in North Carolina. This week the N.C. House passed a bill that would require an I.D. to vote, with Democrats casting the bill as harkening back to the days of poll taxes. Stephanie Hawco provides the details of the contentious debate, and Martinez gets legal analysis of the poll tax issue from Jeanette Doran of the N.C. Institute for Constitutional Law. Doran says the House bill is constitutional and does not constitute a poll tax. Then we turn to the competition to be the next chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party. Candidate Jack Brosch tells Martinez why he wants to lead the party and how he is different from the second declared candidate, Claude Pope. And finally, 4th District Congressman David Price tells Martinez of his frustration with fellow members of Congress – particularly Republicans – over the impact of budget cuts resulting from sequestration. He also reflects on the recent ricin square in D.C.
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 26 April 2013 11:15 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 22 April 2013 09:38 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Momentum is building in the legislature for passage of a bill that would require some form of photo I.D. to vote in North Carolina. But while polls show the majority of North Carolinians support the idea, the debate among legislators continues to escalate. This week, in the House Elections Committee, Reps. John Blust (R-Guilford) and Rep. Evelyn Terry (D-Forsyth) squared off with opposing views – Blust in support of an I.D. and Terry against. You’ll hear the debate. Then People in Politics Correspondent Stephanie Hawco joins host Donna Martinez to analyze the state of the bill and the impact of Democrats on chamber debate. Hawco also provides an update on Gov. Pat McCrory’s activities for the week, including a meeting of the Education Cabinet, which hasn’t convened in years. Then we take you to a news conference featuring a bipartisan group of legislators who’ve signed on to a bill that would change the way North Carolina draws its election districts. You’ll hear from Democratic Reps. Rick Glazier (Cumberland County) and Deborah Ross (Wake County) and Republican Rep. Chuck McGrady of Henderson County about the push to take politics out of the process. That’s followed by some tough words for state Democrats from one of their own – Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills. Mills sits down with Martinez to explain what he thinks it will take to rebuild the Democratic Party following devastating losses at the polls in 2010 and 2012, and what Democrats should be doing to work with Republicans who hold the majority. Then we hear from Lt. Gov. Dan Forest about why he’s joined a grassroots effort to encourage sales tax reform in the state. And finally, we get an update from CBS on the debate over guns in the wake of a U.S. Senate defeat of President Obama’s gun control push. Sen. Richard Burr voted against the gun bill, while Sen. Kay Hagan voted for it. |
|
Last Updated on Monday, 22 April 2013 09:42 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 15 April 2013 09:34 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Grand jury trouble for a donor to former Gov. Beverly Perdue’s campaign comes to a head with a Wake County grand jury issuing a presentment – the precursor to indictment – related to activities by Charles Fulenwider. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains to host Donna Martinez the origins of the questions and the continued inquiries into Perdue donors months after the first woman governor has left office. Henderson also discusses background into the man Sen. Kay Hagan has hired to run her re-election campaign. Preston Elliott is a Democratic Party heavyweight who has run successful campaigns for U.S. senators thought to be endangered. Then we turn to legislative issues. SGRToday.com’s Rick Martinez looks at an effort to force welfare recipients to take drug tests, while Sen. Malcolm Graham, Democrat of Mecklenburg County, steps to the podium after a meeting with Gov. Pat McCrory, and makes the case for continued funding of historically black colleges and universities in the wake of talk that a UNC campus might face closure. That’s followed by a discussion with state Democratic Party Chairman Randy Voller about the party’s vehement opposition to a proposed law to require some form of photo I.D. to vote in North Carolina. For the opposing view, we hear from House Speaker Thom Tillis about the proposal, as well as his view on why he thinks the legislature should scrutinize early voting laws. And finally, Martinez talks with Dr. Jill Stein, the 2012 Green Party presidential candidate, about her criticism of President Obama’s proposed budget. Stein says the budget plan throws the American people under the bus, as does the American free enterprise system.
|
|
Last Updated on Monday, 15 April 2013 09:35 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 05 April 2013 15:04 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
He lost the race for the 7th district congressional seat by just 654 votes last fall, but now David Rouzer, Republican of Johnston County says he will again seek the GOP nomination in an effort to unseat Democratic Congressman David Rouzer. Host Donna Martinez talks with Rouzer to find out why he thinks he lost, what he hopes to do in a second run, how he expects to boost his vote count, and his view of same-sex marriage. Then we turn to the issue of partisanship in Washington D.C. Offering his view is Tom Campbell, host of the public affairs show NC Spin, who chats with Don Curtis on a recent edition of Carolina Newsmakers. Then we turn to the 2016 race for the White House. Hillary Clinton already seems to be making a run and she has plenty of support within her party. Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling updates Martinez with the latest data on Clinton and Vice President Joe Biden, as well as half a dozen Republicans who enjoy plenty of party support and could give the Democratic nominee a serious run. Next is a look at Gov. Pat McCrory’s week and his announcement of a major overhaul of the state’s dysfunctional Medicaid system. That’s followed by comments about the governor’s budget – and a possible political motivation for proposed closure of several historic sites – from Ran Coble of the North Carolina Center for Public Policy Research. Finally, Martinez provides a news update on Claude Pope’s campaign for Republican Party chairman, a new book being penned by 3rd District Congressman Walter Jones, and same-sex marriage support from Democratic Congressmen G.K. Butterfield and Mel Watt. |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 01 April 2013 09:51 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
As the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments on same-sex marriage, Democratic Sen. Kay Hagan declared her support for gay marriage. Host Donna Martinez talks about the potential political implications for Hagan’s 2014 re-election bid with Rick Martinez of NCN News, SGRToday.com, and NewsRadio 680 WPTF in Raleigh. The two also discuss Cate Edwards, who told NBC News how she found out about her father’s affair with Rielle Hunter and the impact it had on her family. Then we turn to a look at data that shows North Carolinians have a favorable view of new Gov. Pat McCrory. High Point University (HPU) professor Martin Kifur provides the details of the latest HPU poll. But how is McCrory fairing with his own party? Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal analyzes reaction from Republicans to McCrory’s first 90 days in office, the governor’s initial missteps, and why he has some issues in common with Democrats. That’s followed by a discussion with Republican Rep. Virginia Foxx of the 5th district about her proposal to add political “robocalls” to the Do Not Call Registry. The calls have been exempted from the law but Foxx wants Americans to be allowed to opt out of receiving the pre-recorded calls. Foxx also discusses same-sex marriage and reveals she has been encouraged by supporters to challenge Sen. Kay Hagan. And finally, we get perspective on the Supreme Court gay marriage arguments from a North Carolinian who was in Washington D.C. for a rally as the Court met. Tami Fitzgerald of the N.C. Values Coalition – which supports traditional marriage – explains the potential impact of Court rulings on North Carolina’s laws.
|
|
People In Politics
|
|
Tuesday, 26 March 2013 09:18 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
We’re getting a look at Gov. Pat McCrory’s communication style. This week as he prepared to release his first proposed operating budget, McCrory’s office released a video package that resembled a campaign commercial. Host Donna Martinez talks about the video, as well as the governor’s travels across the state, Rick Martinez of NCN News, SGRToday.com, and NewsRadio 680 WPTF in Raleigh. The two also discuss the media portrayal of the voter I.D. issue as controversial, despite consistent polling that shows the vast majority of North Carolinians support it, and former Lt. Gov. Walter Dalton’s new job in higher education. Then Bob Phillips of the progressive advocacy group Common Cause weighs in on efforts by legislative Republicans to move forward with requiring identification to vote in North Carolina. Next is a look at a potential contender for the 2016 presidential race. CBS looks into former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s public statement that she now supports same-sex marriage, leading to questions that the Democrat may be planning a 2016 run. That’s followed by a look at the final spending numbers for North Carolina’s 2012 congressional races. Jonathan Kappler of the North Carolina Free Enterprise Foundation delves into the numbers, and tells us who is amassing a war chest today. And finally, we look at how Gov. McCrory and legislative Republicans are faring with the public in the latest Elon University Poll. Kenneth Fernandez analyzes the results with Donna Martinez.
|
|
Last Updated on Tuesday, 26 March 2013 09:20 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 15 March 2013 09:24 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Winds of change are in the air for the North Carolina Republican Party. Chairman Robin Hayes announced he will not seek re-election and already, a contender for the job has emerged. Host Donna Martinez talks with former Wake County Republican Chairman Claude Pope, who has thrown his hat into the ring for the job. Republicans will select a chairman in early June. Then we turn to the ongoing debate over legislative Republicans’ plan to introduce and pass a law requiring some form of identification to vote in North Carolina. We bring you the debate from a raucous public hearing. Next is a look at news that Sen. Kay Hagan has hired a campaign manager for her 2014 re-election bid. Rick Martinez of SGRToday.com, NCN News, and NewsRadio 680 WPTF in Raleigh joins Donna Martinez to analyze how the Senate race is shaping up. Democratic Hagan’s seat is considered a prime pickup opportunity for Republicans. That’s followed by a discussion with Dana Cope about his recent trip to the White House. Cope, the executive director of the State Employees Association of North Carolina (SEANC) rubbed shoulders with Vice President Joe Biden during a meeting with labor leaders. Cope also assesses for Martinez the two-month tenure of legislative leaders and Gov. Pat McCrory, and talks about his success as a lobbyist no matter which political party is in charge, and legislative issues such as pay raises for state employees. Then Martinez talks about a new job for former Forsyth County legislator Dale Folwell, who has been tapped as an Assistance Secretary at the Department of Commerce, and a legal settlement that requires a conservative activist to pay six figures to a member of the Democrat-aligned organizing group ACORN.
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 15 March 2013 09:26 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 08 March 2013 11:00 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Republican leaders in the General Assembly announced plans this week to move a bill that would require a photo I.D. to vote in North Carolina. The plan was met with intense criticism from Democrats and allied groups. People in Politics Correspondent Stephanie Hawco provides both sides of the debate. That’s followed by comments from Republican Rep. David Lewis of Harnett County, who is helping lead the House effort on the bill. Lewis lays out the House plan and discusses continued opposition to the plan, and comments on how the GOP will address those North Carolinians who don’t have a photo I.D. Then we hear from members of the Legislative Black Caucus, who allege that Republicans are engaging in a war on the poor and vulnerable. Next, host Donna Martinez talks with Elon University Poll Director Ken Fernandez about polling on Gov. Pat McCrory, the state legislature, and key issues of voter ID and immigration. Fernandez also provides data on President Obama’s job approval in the state he lost to Mitt Romney. Next is a look at key arguments in the legal case over North Carolina’s election maps. Barlow Herget of SGRToday.com talks with redistricting expert Bill Gilkeson Jr., who was in court recently as attorneys for Democrats argued against the maps and attorneys for Republicans argued for the maps. Then we turn to comments made by Gov. Pat McCrory this week after meeting with the Metro Mayors Coalition, a group he co-founded when he was mayor of Charlotte. And finally, Lt. Gov. Dan Forest talks about his priorities before a luncheon audience at the John Locke Foundation, a free market think tank in Raleigh.
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 15 March 2013 09:28 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Friday, 01 March 2013 15:44 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
A leaked political strategy memo that calls for North Carolina progressives and Democrats to “eviscerate” the state’s Republican leadership makes national news as Gov. Pat McCrory is asked by Fox News to comment on the planned attacks against him and others. You’ll hear McCrory comment on the memo that was first attributed to the umbrella group Blueprint NC, but which has been claimed by America Votes. Then we turn to fallout from the memo with Dallas Woodhouse of Americans for Prosperity North Carolina. Woodhouse tells host Donna Martinez his group has asked state legislators to investigate the associated progressive groups, some of which receive taxpayer funding. Meantime, the state Republican Party is asking the state Board of Elections and the IRS to investigate whether campaign and/or financial laws and regulations were breached by any nonprofits involved in the overtly political effort. Then Barlow Herget of SGRToday.com and Rick Martinez of the North Carolina News Network analyze the story and the implications for both political parties. Next, Donna Martinez provides an update on Rep. Howard Coble’s health following his hospitalization, and a blog posting at talkingaboutpolitics.com by veteran Democratic political strategist Gary Pearce in which he asks new state Democratic Party Chairman Randy Voller to resign now that published reports say Voller owes nearly $300,000 in back taxes and penalties. That’s followed by a discussion with Lt. Gov. Dan Forest about his first six weeks in office, his focus on education issues, and his relationship with Gov. McCrory. And finally, researchers at the University of South Carolina say that differences in how our brains are wired accounts for why some of us are Republicans and some of us are Democrats.
|
|
Last Updated on Friday, 15 March 2013 09:28 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 25 February 2013 12:04 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Things got loud and raucous at the General Assembly this week as advocates for medical marijuana went after an opponent of legalization following a hearing. Add that to a discussion among legislators about whether to make it illegal to go topless in Asheville and you have a recipe for an unusual week on Jones Street. People in Politics correspondent Stephanie Hawco tells host Donna Martinez about the crazy week, and how new Lt. Governor Dan Forest is adjusting to his new job. Then Martinez talks to the first declared candidate for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Democrat Kay Hagan. Republican Greg Brannon talks about his vision and why he’s pursuing the seat that will be on the ballot in 2014. Next, Martinez reports on an accolade bestowed on former House Speaker Pro Tem Dale Folwell of Forsyth County. That’s followed by a portion of Gov. Pat McCrory’s State of the State address in which he lays out a sobering assessment of state revenues and operations. Democratic Rep. Larry Hall of Durham responds to McCrory’s comments and offers an alternative vision from the Democrats. And finally, we hear about an amazing collection of mementos of President John F. Kennedy. The items are going up for auction and are from the collection of JFK aide and friend, Dave Powers.
|
|
Last Updated on Monday, 25 February 2013 13:44 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 18 February 2013 12:10 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Two governors on one stage: former Democratic Gov. Jim Hunt praises current Republican Gov. Pat McCrory. You’ll hear the two state CEOs reminisce about working together across the aisle and what’s to come for the state. Their conversation took place before hundreds who attended the annual Emerging Issues Forum in Raleigh, where McCrory went on to discuss in detail his plans for energy, transportation, and support for the manufacturing industry. You’ll hear the governor’s comments. Then the discussion turns to criticism of legislative Republicans by Democrats and their allies. Host Donna Martinez is joined by Rick Martinez of NewsRadio 680 WPTF in Raleigh, SGRToday.com, and NCN News to discuss the GOP’s confidence in its power and agenda despite the onslaught of criticism. The two also talk about new state Democratic Party Chairman Randy Voller’s potential impact on the public debate, as well as the love fest between Govs. Hunt and McCrory at the Emerging Issues Forum. Next are remarks by President Obama from Tuesday evening’s State of the Union speech, and reaction from North Carolina Republican Congresswoman Virigina Foxx of the 5th District. Foxx tells Donna Martinez she heard nothing new in the speech and lays out the difference in approach between the the two parties.
|
|
Last Updated on Monday, 25 February 2013 12:15 |
|
People In Politics
|
|
Monday, 11 February 2013 14:08 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
North Carolina Democrats reeling from devastating losses at the ballot box and a scandal inside state party headquarters have elected a new chairman to lead the party back to power and influence. Pittsboro Mayor Randy Voller narrowly defeated former Congressman Bob Etheridge for the post. Host Donna Martinez talks with Voller about his vision, his message, and his style, as well as his view of Republican policies. Then Stephanie Hawco of NCN News joins Martinez to talk about two legislative bills that this week drew fire from critics of the Republican legislative majority and praise from supporters. The bills involve paring back unemployment benefits as part of a plan to repay the federal government more than $2 billion the state borrowed, and a bill to clear out Democrats from a variety of key boards and commissions. Hawco also talks about the lighter side of the week, as evidenced by a bill called the Opossum Right to Work Act. Then we hear eyebrow-raising comments made on the N.C. House floor by Democratic Rep. Jean Farmer-Butterfield of Pitt and Wilson counties. Rep. Butterfield opposes the GOP’s unemployment bill, which she said will lead to a variety of social ills including “suicides and mass killings.” That’s followed by a lively debate among four panelists over whether North Carolina should require a photo I.D. to vote. Republicans are likely to pass such a bill this session, and political watchers expect Gov. Pat McCrory to sign it. Panelists against a photo I.D. are Bob Hall of Democracy North Carolina and Allison Riggs of the Southern Coalition for Social Justice. Panelist favoring a photo I.D. are John Fund of National Reviewe and Hans von Spakovsky of the Heritage Foundation. The forum was sponsored by the Triangle Chapter of The Federalist Society.
|
|
People In Politics
|
|
Tuesday, 05 February 2013 13:36 |
|
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
The General Assembly reconvened and immediately gone to business, with bills filed on Medicaid, term limits for chamber leaders, eugenics compensation, a crime lab for western North Carolina and more. Stephanie Hawco profiles the whirlwind first day and the power dynamics in a body now dominated by Republicans. Then we hear about N.C. House priorities from House Speaker Thom Tillis, Republican of Mecklenburg County. Tillis discusses tax reform, energy, higher education funding in light of recent comments by Gov. Pat McCrory, the state’s unemployment debt, and the potential for any gun legislation this session. Among those seeking the support of new legislators is the pro-medical marijuana advocates, who are already rallying for support. You’ll hear from a key representative of the group. That’s followed by comments by Democratic Sen. Kay Hagan about the Violence Against Womens Act, which she is championing. Hagan explains why she thinks the bill should be reauthorized and why she hopes it will once again have bipartisan support. Sen. Hagan is up for re-election in 2014. Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling joins host Donna Martinez to discuss the Hagan race, the senator’s approval rating, and that of some of the Republicans who may challenge her for the seat. Jensen also provides the latest data on President Obama, which shows the majority of North Carolinians disapproving of his performance. Speaking of the president, we get perspective on Mr. Obama’s priorities from a new member of North Carolina’s congressional delegation – 13th District Congressman George Holding, a Republican. Holding also discusses prosecuting gun violence, which was a priority for his office when he was a U.S. Attorney. And finally, will she run for president? You’ll hear former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who spoke with CBS, along with President Obama.
|
|
Last Updated on Monday, 11 February 2013 14:10 |
|
|
|
|
Page 7 of 11 |
Copyright 2011 - All Rights Reserved
3012 Highwoods Blvd., Suite 200
Raleigh, NC 27604
Telephone: (919) 790-9392
|
