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People In Politics
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People In Politics
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Friday, 18 December 2015 07:00 |
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It’s lawsuit time again. Three progressive advocacy groups have filed a lawsuit that claims North Carolina is not properly administering federal law when it comes to giving North Carolinians an opportunity to register to vote. The suit joins the pile of legal actions in the works in the wake of North Carolina’s changes to election law. In this week’s edition of “From the Trail,” host Donna Martinez gets the details of the suit from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson, who says the new allegations could have legs as the state heads into the 2016 election season. The two also discuss Democrat Roy Cooper’s big endorsement from the state’s teacher union in his race to unseat Gov. Pat McCrory. The endorsement from the NCAE comes as the organization is once again under the legislative spotlight. The Lt. Governor’s race is getting crowded, as is the U.S. Senate race. Martinez and Henderson take a look at the group of Democrats vying for the party’s nomination to take on Republican incumbent Dan Forest, and at the field seeking to oust Republican Sen. Richard Burr. Then Martinez talks with Democratic pollster Tom Jensen, director of Public Policy Polling. The group’s latest polling data shows Gov. Pat McCrory up by two over main Democratic rival Roy Cooper. Jensen says the data shows the race continues to be very tight with McCrory having the slight edge. Jensen also delves into new numbers on the presidential race as Republican Donald Trump continues to dominate the GOP field, but with a clear top tier having emerged. |
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Last Updated on Thursday, 21 January 2016 12:40 |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 11 December 2015 07:07 |
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The national debate over terrorism and gun control comes home to North Carolina. President Obama addressed the nation from the Oval Office Sunday evening, laying out his administration’s efforts to fight ISIS and his view that gun control efforts must be part of the fight. On Monday, Gov. Pat McCrory took to the airwaves to respond to the president, saying he failed to address the role of governors and local officials in the fight and calling on the president for more communication. You’ll hear some of what both men had to say. By Wednesday, the governor was back in the news that put him squarely in the political spotlight when a fellow Republican filed to challenge McCrory in the March primary election. Former Mooresville state legislator Robert Brawley, who lost his bed for re-election in 2014, said he would focus on education and transportation. In our weekly “From the Campaign Trail” segment, host Donna Martinez gets reaction to the GOP challenge to McCrory from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. The two also discuss what Democratic gubernatorial candidate Roy Cooper had to say about guns and gun control and how terrorism and national security may turn the focus of the race from jobs and the economy to terrorism and guns. The two also discuss congressional politics and the big endorsement given by a national economics group to Jim Duncan, a Republican challenger to incumbent 2nd District Congresswoman Renee Ellmers. In statewide races, Martinez and Henderson focus on the open seat for state Treasurer. As of press time, three candidates had filed for the seat: two Democrats (DanBlue III and Ron Elmer) and 1 Republican (Dale Folwell). Them Martinez goes in-depth with Wake County Democrat Ron Elmer about why he wants the job, his qualifications, and the key changes he would make to the state’s money management strategy. |
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Last Updated on Thursday, 21 January 2016 12:39 |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 04 December 2015 07:20 |
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It was a huge week in North Carolina politics as candidate announcements and filing rolled in as the official filing period got underway. You’ll hear Gov. Pat McCrory officially declare his intention to seek a second term as the state’s chief executive. So far, McCrory hasn’t drawn a primary challenger. On the Democratic side of the ledger, two candidates are already saying they’re in. You’ll hear part of the official announcement, made several weeks ago, by Attorney General Roy Cooper, as well as part of a conversation host Donna Martinez had earlier this year with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Ken Spaulding. Then, in this week’s edition of “On The Trail,” Martinez gets perspective on the gubernatorial race from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. He talks about the Cooper-Spaulding matchup as well as the filings so far in the U.S. Senate race where Richard Burr is seeking another term. The two also discuss the announcement made by the NC NAACP about a new push to register voters ahead of the 2016 election and another retirement announcement from a North Carolina Senate heavyweight: Sen. Tom Apodaca. Then Martinez begins a focus on judicial candidate races. She talks with incumbent Court of Appeals Judge Valerie Zachary about why she’s running for a full term on the state’s second highest court. Zachary was appointed earlier this year to the seat of retiring Judge Sanford Steelman. She talks about her background, her philosophy, and the challenge of campaigning for a statewide seat. So far, Zachary and two others have filed for the seat she now holds. Abe Jones and Rickey McKoy-Mitchell are also in the race. |
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Last Updated on Thursday, 21 January 2016 12:39 |
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People In Politics
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Wednesday, 25 November 2015 09:48 |
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The race for governor takes center stage this week. Democratic Attorney General Roy Cooper tells Gov. Pat McCrory “no” to the governor’s request that the AG join South Carolina in filing a friend of the court brief to oppose the Obama administration’s effort to force a Virginia school system to open opposite-sex bathrooms and locker rooms to a transgendered student. And that wasn’t all. In this week’s installment of “From the Campaign Trail,” host Donna Martinez talks with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson about the Cooper campaign’s retort to the governor, calling him a “bully.” The exchange comes as Cooper’s Democratic rival, former legislator Ken Spaulding, continues to call for debates with Cooper – something the Cooper campaign has yet to agree to. And it comes as a former Republican legislators – Robert Brawley – hints he may jump into the GOP primary for governor. Martinez and Henderson also discuss the resignation of state board of election chairman Josh Howard, the impending kickoff of Lt. Gov. Dan Forest’s re-election effort in a race likely to see him once again face Democrat Linda Coleman, and the latest in the legal battle by Democrats and allied groups to have a court throw out the current election maps. That’s followed by Martinez’ conversation with Alamance County pediatrician Dr. Rosemary Stein, who is seeking the GOP’s nomination for Superintendent of Public Instruction – the post now held by Democrat June Atkinson. Dr. Stein talks about the nexus between her relationship with her patients and their parents, and her desire to help educate young children, as well as the ongoing challenge posed by the high number of recent high school graduates who require remedial courses when enrolling in a North Carolina Community College. |
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 02 December 2015 17:20 |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 20 November 2015 07:08 |
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Prison bound: Once one of North Carolina’s most potent forces at the General Assembly, Dana Cope is now heading to prison. The former head of the State Employees Association of North Carolina (SEANC) faced Superior Court Judge Donald Stephens this week, telling the judge he is a thief. Cope pleaded guilty to felonies – essentially stealing more than $500,000 from the organization he led for more than a decade. You’ll hear Cope’s words to the judge and what the judge says to him as he sentenced Cope to between five and seven years in prison. Then host Donna Martinez discusses Cope’s lobbying legacy with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. The two also discuss SEANC’s political involvement through its political arm and how Cope’s prison sentence may impact the role SEANC plays in the 2016 election cycle. Then we turn to the surprise political story of the week: the political debate over whether Syrian refugees should be allowed to continue entering North Carolina. You’ll hear Gov. Pat McCrory discuss his request to President Obama that no more refugees be sent to North Carolina until the backgrounds/vetting of the refugees can be improved to ensure they are, indeed, refugees and are not a threat to safety. The debate comes in the wake of the ISIS terrorist attack on Paris, where law enforcement officials say the terrorist ring leader posed as a refugee to enter Europe. You’ll also hear North Carolina Congressman Richard Hudson discuss his bill to halt the flow. That’s followed by President Obama’s comments in opposition to the effort to stop the influx of refugees. The president said those who support a pause are afraid of widows and orphans. Also opposing the pause is 4th District Congressman David Price, who explains the vetting process. Then Rick Henderson rejoins Martinez to discuss the refugee debate, which was one of the subjects aired at a legislative committee meeting this week. State lawmakers endorsed the governor’s position. Henderson also provides an update on the committee discussion about a prison maintenance contract held by a donor to the governor and whether or not the contract extension was proper. The two also discuss the latest candidate news, where things are heating up in the 6th and 7th congressional district. New 6th District Rep. Mark Walker is facing a primary challenge, and the same fate could be waiting for 7th District Rep. David Rouzer.
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Last Updated on Tuesday, 24 November 2015 17:15 |
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People In Politics
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Wednesday, 18 November 2015 14:11 |
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Friends and colleagues filled a Greensboro church this week to say goodbye to the longest-serving member of North Carolina’s congressional delegation: Howard Coble. The 84-year-old succumbed to skin cancer after retiring from the seat he held for three decades. You’ll hear Gov. Pat McCrory eulogize his friend and mentor and tell the story of Congressman Coble’s recent visit to the Executive Mansion in Raleigh. Then we turn to the 2016 election season and the state’s impending requirement that voters show a photo identification to vote. The state Board of Elections has produced a 1-minute commercial that reminds voters of the new law. You’ll hear the commercial, followed by a discussion between host Donna Martinez and Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson about the legal challenge to the law and the exceptions built in to ensure that anyone who wants to vote has adequate opportunity to obtain an I.D. at no charge. The two also discuss the rash of retirement announcements from members of the General Assembly, including two major powerbrokers: Mecklenburg Sen. Bob Rucho and Wake County Rep. Paul “Skip” Stam. News also broke this week about an appointment to the North Carolina House that will see a 25-year-old become the youngest member of the legislature. Kyle Hall will replace Rep. Bryan Holloway in the House District 91 seat. And finally, as another presidential debate sets viewing records for the host network, Martinez looks at the impact of debates on voters’ views in an interview with Elon University Political Science Professor Ken Fernandez. The two also delve into the limitations of polling at this point in an election cycle.
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Last Updated on Thursday, 19 November 2015 06:42 |
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People In Politics
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Monday, 09 November 2015 06:24 |
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Sad news from the political world this week as we learned of the death of veteran North Carolina Congressman Howard Coble after a battle with skin cancer. You’ll hear Coble’s comments to C-SPAN one year ago as he contemplated his retirement from 30 years of service to North Carolina’s 6th congressional district. You’ll also learn of reaction from his colleague, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx, as well as Gov. Pat McCrory and Senate Leader Phil Berger. Then host Donna Martinez discusses Coble’s legacy with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. The two also discuss the municipal election results, which saw several incumbent mayors re-elected and one incumbent defeated. Henderson also delves into Gov. McCrory’s week, which included the dismissal of a complaint from a liberal advocacy group by the state Ethics Commission and new questions about the governor’s actions as it relates to a political donor. Then Martinez talks with former Gov. Jim Martin, who will be honored this coming weekend by the state Republican Party. The two discuss his years as governor and his political beginnings.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 11 November 2015 16:31 |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 30 October 2015 05:50 |
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The countdown to Election Day has begun as we are just one year away from electing a president, governor, General Assembly, and more. Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling delves into his firm’s latest polling data with host Donna Martinez. The two discuss the race between incumbent Republican Gov. Pat McCrory and his presumed Democratic opponent, Attorney General Roy Cooper. Jensen assesses the dynamics of the political environment, predicting that if the race were held today, Gov. McCrory would be re-elected in a tight race. Jensen also details the latest numbers in the presidential race, including Democrat Hillary Clinton’s rising numbers with Democrats following Vice President Joe Biden’s announcement that he will not jump into the race. On the Republican side of the presidential race, the candidates took to the national debate state this week. Political analyst Doug Raymond assesses the winners and losers. Next we look at Gov. Pat McCrory’s signing of a bill that allows sanctuary cities in North Carolina. You’ll hear the governor talk about the law, and we’ll look at the political implications with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. Martinez and Henderson also discuss the boost Roy Cooper has received from former state legislator Gene McLaurin of Rowan County, who says he will forgo running for a seat himself in order to help Cooper’s gubernatorial campaign. And we look at new developments in the congressional races in Districts 2 and 6, where Republican incumbents Renee Ellmers and Mark Walker face primary challenges from fellow Republicans who say the incumbents have not kept their word to voters. |
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 11 November 2015 16:30 |
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People In Politics
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Thursday, 29 October 2015 05:50 |
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With the official candidate filing season just one month away, candidates are beginning to jump into the races. Host Donna Martinez talks with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson about a third Democrat who wants to challenge Sen. Richard Burr as well as contenders for Insurance Commissioner and Secretary of State. The two also discuss new data on the presidential race and who is getting support from state Tea Party activists. Then we hear from Gov. Pat McCrory as he signed a bill to protect newborn babies. Then Martinez talks with Lt. Gov. Dan Forest about the state's infrastructure bond that will appear on the March primary ballot and about his reasons for seeking re-election.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 18 November 2015 14:11 |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 16 October 2015 06:22 |
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He’s been talking like a candidate. He’s been acting like a candidate. And he’s been treated by the media like a candidate. And now, Democratic Attorney General Roy Cooper IS a candidate for governor. You’ll hear how it sounded when he make his announcement in Nash County to family, friends, and Democratic Party supporters. Host Donna Martinez assesses the Cooper candidacy with Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills, who says Democrats will have no problem finding things to criticize about the administration of current Gov. Pat McCrory. While Cooper snagged the media attention this week, another Democrat says he, not Cooper, is the best representative of the people. Former state legislator Ken Spaulding calls Cooper the hand-picked candidate of the Democratic Party establishment. He talks to Martinez about why he’s running and what he thinks is wrong with the current path of the state. The man both Cooper and Spaulding hope to unseat was busy this week talking about improvements to the Department of Motor Vehicles and the bond referendum he hopes voters will approve in March. You’ll hear Gov. McCrory in an interview with Brian Freeman of News Radio 680 WPTF in Raleigh. That’s followed by a look at a surprising announcement by state Treasurer Janet Cowell, who announced this week that she won’t seek re-election to the statewide elected office. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson talks with Martinez about the people who are already being discussed as possible candidates for the seat that will be open territory for both sides of the aisle. The two also discuss news that former Wake County Democratic legislator Deborah Ross will seek her party’s nomination for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Republican Sen. Richard Burr. She joins Spring Lake Mayor Chris Rey in the race. And finally, Henderson details several of the state legislators who have announced they are bowing out of the General Assembly, including veteran Johnston County Republican Leo Daughtry. |
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 11 November 2015 16:29 |
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People In Politics
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Thursday, 15 October 2015 16:24 |
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This week, municipal elections in a dozen or so cities across the state produce low turnout but impact – including the ousting of Democratic incumbent Mayor Dan Clodfelter. Host Donna Martinez talks about the Democratic primary shakeup that pushed Clodfelter out with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. The two look at the victor, Jennifer Roberts, and at speculation about Clodfelter’s future. Then we discuss the re-election to a third term for Raleigh Mayor Nancy McFarlane and the 80-plus percentage primary victory by Durham’s Mayor, Bill Bell. Then Martinez talks with former North Carolina Gov. Jim Martin, who served as the state’s CEO from 1985 to 1993 and who is credited for his ability to advance the state in education and transportation by working across the political aisle with legislative Democrats. Martinez also chats with the governor about his impact on some of today’s Republican Party leaders and his work to achieve down-ballot Republican victories for states that had been dominated by Democrats for years.
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Last Updated on Friday, 16 October 2015 05:30 |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 02 October 2015 06:27 |
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They’re done! This week the General Assembly completed its work for the “long” legislative session, with election law changes topping the list of bills addressed in the final hours. Chief among them is the provision that moves all North Carolina primaries up from May to March 15, 2016 in an effort to make the state more of player in the selection of presidential candidates while saving money required to have two separate primaries. But just as media coverage was given to a change in campaign finance law that authorizes the creation of party affiliate committees, which led to a debate between establishment and grassroots Republicans. You’ll hear from the players involved in the debate following their successful negotiation over this new vehicle for candidate support. The news conference includes House Speaker Tim Moore, Senate Leader Phil Berger, Republican Party Chairman Hasan Harnett, and his new Executive Director Dallas Woodhouse. Then host Donna Martinez gets perspective on the debate from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson, who describes the tug-of-war between the two GOP party factions. The two also discuss the future of 10th District Congressman Patrick McHenry who is seeking to move up the leadership ladder in Congress in the wake of the departure announcement of House Speaker John Boehner. McHenry is currently Chief Deputy Whip. Henderson also talks about the potential impact on other members of North Carolina’s congressional delegation who were close to Boehner. Then we dig into the latest polling data. Martinez is joined by Elon University Poll Director Dr. Kenneth Fernandez, who delves into data on the presidential and gubernatorial races. |
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Last Updated on Thursday, 15 October 2015 16:24 |
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People In Politics
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Tuesday, 29 September 2015 06:14 |
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He’s risen to Chief Deputy Whip of the U.S. House of Representatives, making 10th District Congressman Patrick McHenry one of the most influential Republicans on Capitol Hill. Host Donna Martinez sits down with Rep. McHenry to discuss his role in Congress, the divided GOP, presidential politics, and his views on key issues. Then we turn our attention to the election cycle. Democratic state Sen. Josh Stein says he want to be the next North Carolina Attorney General and Spring Lake Mayor Chris Rey wants to the next U.S. senator. Martinez talks with Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson about the prospects for Democrats in the Senate race and statewide races. That’s followed by Martinez’ discussion with Dallas Woodhouse of Carolina Rising about his view of the legislative session and what it means for the campaign trail heading into 2016. |
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People In Politics
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Sunday, 20 September 2015 15:26 |
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Should Hillary Clinton be concerned about Bernie Sanders? Just days ago, the Vermont senator and self-described socialist brought his message of income inequality and more government support to Greensboro to a standing-room-only crowd of more than 5,000 at the Greensboro Coliseum. You’ll hear some of his comments. Then host Donna Martinez talks with Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills about the Sanders phenomenon, and why he believes Sanders’ popularity has similarities to the popularity of Donald Trump with Republicans. Mills also has some candid advice for the Clinton campaign. Then we turn to the politics of the state budget – who won and who lost the political fight over funding and programs. Martinez gets perspective from Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal on what it could mean to the 2016 election cycle for both Republicans and Democrats. And finally, it was a huge week for Republican presidential candidates, all of whom have their eyes on North Carolina. In particular, Carly Fiorina, Donald Trump, and Marco Rubio made an impact. You’ll hear some of the exchanges that occurred between the candidates who debated before a massive viewership of nearly 23 million on CNN.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 23 September 2015 17:16 |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 11 September 2015 05:54 |
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This week, Republican presidential candidate Jeb Bush chose North Carolina for a policy speech on the economy and taxes in an effort to jumpstart a campaign that has been outshined by entrepreneur Donald Trump. You’ll hear Bush’s comments about helping the middle class in remarks made before supporters in Garner. Then host Donna Martinez talks the managing editor of a newspaper that covered the Bush speech. Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal describes the dynamics of the room, as seen by his reporters, and the tug-of-war between Bush and Trump. The two also discuss the upcoming visit to Greensboro by Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, a self-described socialist who has been drawing thousands of supporters to his rallies and who now leads Hillary Clinton in the critical state of Iowa. Martinez also finds out about a familiar name who’s landed a job with a member of North Carolina’s congressional delegation and the two discuss the growing list of Democrats seeking the party’s nomination to challenge Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Forest for the #2 job in our state. Henderson also comments on potential ethical problems for two congressmen. Then Martinez talks with former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour about his new book, “America’s Great Storm,” which chronicles the devastation of Hurricane Katrina on Barbour’s state and the efforts to rebuild from the disaster. That’s followed by NC State professor Andy Taylor, who comments on the key states in the 2016 presidential cycle. Finally, Martinez provides the latest voter registration statistics for North Carolina, which show Democrats continuing to dominate registration. |
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 16 September 2015 12:38 |
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People In Politics
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Tuesday, 08 September 2015 13:04 |
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The court battle continues. This week, the North Carolina Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case of the state’s election maps, which were redrawn by Republicans in 2011. The high court previously ruled the maps were legal, but a ruling from the nation’s highest court advised North Carolina to reconsider its maps case in light of the Supreme Court’s opinion in an Alabama case. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells host Donna Martinez about the issues being litigated and the potential impact if the court were to rule in favor of the opponents of the maps. The two also discuss the legislature’s wavering this week on exactly how many primary races should appear on the ballot in March 2016. The presidential primary had been headed for a March 15 ballot, but some lawmakers want to save money by putting all the primaries on the March ballot, rather than in May. Henderson also gives Martinez the latest details in the continuing problems for Rep. Robert Pittenger of North Carolina’s 9th congressional district. Pittenger has now drawn a primary challenger. Then we turn to comments made by Gov. Pat McCrory about working with legislators on the state budget, comments made during a media briefing this week. That’s followed by Martinez’s discussion with Don van der vaart, secretary of the state’s Department of Environment and Natural Resources, about the battle between the Obama administration’s EPA and many states, including North Carolina, over who controls waters and streams. Next is a talk with a senior North Carolina advisor to Republican Jeb Bush’s presidential campaign. Jonathan Felts tells Martinez why Bush will be, in his estimation, the nominee of the Republican Party. And finally, NC State Professor Andy Taylor talks about North Carolina’s influence as a battleground state, and the changing role and power of the state’s two major political parties. |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 28 August 2015 05:50 |
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This week, the fight over North Carolina’s new law to require a photo I.D. to vote was back in court. Host Donna Martinez gets the details from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson, who is following the multiple cases filed against the election law change that opponents say is discriminatory. This week’s case was before a state judge and focused solely on whether recent legislative changes to the I.D. law make the detractors’ case moot. Then we hear about the national story that spurred North Carolina Republican Party Chairman Hasan Harnett to rebut scuttlebutt that the party is considering forcing GOP candidates to commit to supporting the eventual presidential nominee in order to gain access to the state’s primary ballot. That’s followed by comments from State Rep. Dean Arp about one of the most hotly debated political issues of the General Assembly session: whether voters will be able to cast a ballot for or against infrastructure bonds. Arp explains a compromise with the governor that is being considered by legislative leaders. Then we hear from Gov. McCrory as he shares his personal memories of being a student teacher at a Rowan County high school. His message was released to honor teachers heading back to school for the new year. Then Martinez gets the latest polling data on the presidential contenders from Tom Jensen of Public Policy Polling. The two discuss the slate of Republican candidates, where Donald Trump has the lead in North Carolina, and the growing challenges for Democratic Party frontrunner Hillary Clinton. |
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 02 September 2015 17:13 |
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People In Politics
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Thursday, 20 August 2015 13:15 |
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This week former state legislator Stephen LaRoque entered a federal prison in Butner. The Kinston Republican received a prison sentence for his misdeeds related to use of federal taxpayer dollars meant for a nonprofit he ran but was used, in part, on items for himself and his family. Host Donna Martinez talks with Sarah Ovaska, the investigative reporter for N.C. Policy Watch who broke the story. She recounts the investigation and a letter LaRoque sent to media just days before he entered prison in which he calls his prosecution a “witch hunt.” Then we hear remarks from the Rev. William Barber, head of North Carolina’s NAACP, about the group’s’ continuing efforts toward equality and justice. He made the comments at a news conference this week. That’s followed by comments from Gov. Pat McCrory as he signed a bill into law that allows National Guard members with concealed carry permits to carry guns at state buildings including recruiting offices. The governor explains his support for the law and addresses the special burdens of military families. Then we get an update on the politics at play in the General Assembly as negotiations continue over funding the state’s spending and taxing plan. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson tells Martinez about an agreement on spending levels between the governor and Senate and House leadership. The two also discuss the hiring of former Raleigh mayor Paul Coble as the new manager of the General Assembly, as well as the latest in the FBI inquiry of 9th District Congressman Robert Pittenger’s business dealings and the latest speculation about which Democrat will step forward to challenge Republican incumbent Sen. Richard Burr. |
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Last Updated on Friday, 21 August 2015 06:03 |
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People In Politics
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Tuesday, 18 August 2015 05:36 |
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This week we learn about the FBI conducting an inquiry into the business dealings of 9th District Congressman Robert Pittenger. Host Donna Martinez gets the details from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson, who says Pittenger confirmed the inquiry to Charlotte media but says he’s not sure why questions are being asked about the real estate operation he left upon taking his seat in Congress in 2013. Then the two discuss the role Congressman Patrick McHenry is playing in the presidential campaign of former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, and buzz that former state legislator Deborah Ross is in discussions about a potential run against Sen. Richard Burr. Henderson also updates Martinez on the race for Lt. Governor, as at least one more Democrat considers seeking the party’s nomination to challenge Republican Dan Forest. Then Martinez talks with Catawba College political science professor Michael Bitzer about the presidential race. With media focusing on the Republicans and the first major televised debate, what does it all mean for Democrats? At least four Democrats are now in the race for the party’s nomination, with former Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders drawing thousands to his rallies, turning on its head the conventional wisdom about a Clinton cakewalk to the nomination. Bitzer assesses the challenge Clinton faces in fending off Sanders, a self-identified socialist with appeal to the party’s left wing, and Jim Webb, Lincoln Chafee and Martin O’Malley, who appeal to centrist and pro-business Democrats. |
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 19 August 2015 15:54 |
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People In Politics
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Thursday, 30 July 2015 16:32 |
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He’s gone! Transportation Secretary Tony Tata’s resignation has policy wonks debating his legacy and political pundits buzzing about a potential run for U.S. Congress. You’ll hear Tony Tata discuss why he left his job and what could come next for him in light of a big book deal from his publisher. Then host Donna Martinez gets reaction to the Tata departure and the political rumors from Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal, who tells Martinez what he’s heard about Tata’s desire for a seat in Congress. The two also discuss a potential primary challenge for 12th District Democratic Congresswoman Alma Adams, and the political intrigue created on Capital Hill by N.C. Congressman Mark Meadows, who has called for the immediate ouster of House Speaker John Boehner. Martinez and Henderson talk about reaction from Meadow’s fellow Republicans in the North Carolina delegation and where the lines of loyalty to the Speaker could be drawn. They also look at new fundraising numbers for Wake County Sen. Josh Stein, the Democrat widely rumored to be eyeing a run for Attorney General if and when Roy Cooper makes it official that he will seek the Democratic Party’s nomination for governor. Then we hear the fiery rebuke against North Carolina Republicans issued by the Reverend William Barber, head of the N.C. NAACP. Barber made his comments at a news conference. That’s followed by Martinez’s talk with one Democrat who doesn’t like that pundits believe the Democrat’s gubernatorial nomination is Roy Cooper’s if he wants it. Durham attorney Ken Spaulding tells Martinez why he’s running for the nomination and how he differs from Cooper. And finally, Martinez and Jane Pinsky discuss the continuing efforts across the ideological spectrum to change the way North Carolina draws its election districts. Pinsky’s group, the N.C. Coalition for Lobbying and Government Reform, has waged the effort for a decade.
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Last Updated on Friday, 31 July 2015 06:05 |
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People In Politics
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Friday, 24 July 2015 06:16 |
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As Democrat Hillary Clinton lands in Raleigh for a high-dollar fundraiser, legislators move closer to a date for North Carolina’s presidential primary. It’s all part of an effort to give North Carolina a bigger impact on choosing the nominees for president. Host Donna Martinez gets the latest on the “when will it be” question from Rick Henderson of Carolina Journal. The two also discuss the “who’s who” of the Democratic Party elite who were on hand to greet Clinton in Raleigh – with former governors Beverly Perdue and Jim Hunt leading the pack. Henderson also delves into the public disagreement over sales tax distribution between Gov. Pat McCrory and state Sen. Harry Brown, and Martinez and Henderson look at fundraising totals for two North Carolina Congressmen – David Price of the 4th District and Virginia Foxx of the 5th. That’s followed by Martinez’ conversation with Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills, who offers perspective on the Democrats’ challenge to the state election law changes and the likely turnout among Democrats for the 2016 presidential race. And finally, we look at the intersection of politics and policy in a high-profile dispute over an EPA rule. Ross Eisenberg of the National Association of Manufacturers tells Martinez why his group opposes the new regulation and how the issue breaks down in political terms.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 29 July 2015 16:55 |
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People In Politics
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Tuesday, 21 July 2015 05:53 |
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A clash outside a Winston-Salem courtroom this week as opponents and proponents of North Carolina’s 2013 election law changes made their cases to the media as the legal wrangling got underway inside.You’ll hear comments from the NAACP-led opposition about their view that Republican lawmakers intentionally changed voting laws to try and keep minorities, the elderly, and the poor from voting. That’s followed by comments from Hasan Harnett, the first African-American chairman of the N.C. Republican Party, who defends the law and calls out the opposition for what he says is simply political maneuvering with union help. Then host Donna Martinez gets perspective on the legal case from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. The two also discuss news that yet another state Democrat – Sen. Josh Stein of Wake County – is taking a pass on challenging Sen. Richard Burr for re-election to his U.S. Senate seat. Meantime, fundraising records show Burr is hauling in the cash, as Henderson explains. And finally, Gov. Pat McCrory talks about why the importance of a new mental health task force to providing help to North Carolinians. His comments came at the signing ceremony for an Executive Order. |
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 22 July 2015 16:56 |
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People In Politics
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Thursday, 09 July 2015 16:35 |
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It’s prison time for a former state legislator! This week, former Republican lawmaker Stephen LaRoque of Kinston heard his fate from a District Court Judge as he was sentenced for using taxpayer funds on himself rather than the nonprofit rural economic development organization he operated. Host Donna Martinez gets details of the sentence and the crime from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. Then the two discuss the new election filing period, which began this week for fall municipal elections, as well as news that Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton will visit North Carolina for a fundraiser, and polling data that shows Gov. Pat McCrory with a lead over his presumed Democratic gubernatorial opponent Roy Cooper. That’s followed by a look at the fascinating Republican primary race that’s underway for North Carolina’s 2nd District congressional seat. Incumbent Renee Ellmers has already drawn a challenge from two fellow Republicans who say she was elected as a conservative but isn’t governing to those principles. Martinez talks with Jim Duncan, the former head of the Chatham County Republican Party, about why he believes he’s a better fit for the district.
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Last Updated on Friday, 10 July 2015 05:59 |
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People In Politics
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Monday, 06 July 2015 09:39 |
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He wants to oust Gov. Pat McCrory from office, but he’ll have to get past fellow Democrat and presumed gubernatorial candidate Roy Cooper before he can take on McCrory. Host Donna Martinez talks with Democrat Ken Spaulding, a Durham attorney and former state legislator, about his quest for his party’s nomination, his view that Republicans have taken the state in the wrong direction, and his disagreements with the Attorney General Cooper. Then we turn to the continued debate over what constitutes a fair and competitive election map. Martinez talks with Jane Pinsky of the North Carolina Coalition for Lobbying and Government Reform about a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision on the subject of redistricting. Pinsky explains the Arizona decision, the indirect implications it has for North Carolina, and why it is so difficult to convince the political party in charge -- Democrats or Republicans – to give up the power to draw districts to an independent commission. Next is a look the controversy over which of the nearly 20 presidential candidates will make it into network television debates. Paul Bedard of the Washington Examiner tells Martinez why some of the GOP candidates are unhappy and why it will be tougher for some to increase their name recognition. That’s followed by remarks from Gov. Pat McCrory about his proposal to put two bond packages on the November ballot, and what he most appreciates about being governor. He made his comments to Don Curtis on a recent edition of Carolina Newsmakers. |
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Last Updated on Thursday, 09 July 2015 16:27 |
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People In Politics
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Thursday, 25 June 2015 05:52 |
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After a hard-fought battle to reform the state’s election law, the General Assembly surprised many when it changed the rules to the requirement that North Carolinians present a photo identification to vote beginning in 2016. A key Senate leader, Bob Rucho of Mecklenburg County, explains why lawmakers revised the law following howls of complaints from Democrats and their allied groups. Then host Donna Martinez gets analysis of the changes from Rick Henderson, managing editor of Carolina Journal. The two also discuss the continuing tug-of-war between Gov. Pat McCrory and the legislature over whether two transportation and infrastructure bonds will be put on the November ballot, and news that Sen. Kay Hagan has finally said she will not seek to challenge Sen. Richard Burr for his Senate seat. They also discuss the power play in Congress that saw North Carolina Congressman Mark Meadows booted from his subcommittee chairmanship over his trade authority vote, which went against House Speaker John Boehner. Then Martinez talks with candidate Heather Grant about her run to be the next state Insurance Commissioner. Grant is a Republican military veteran who previously sought the GOP nomination for U.S. Senate. They discuss Grant’s background in insurance and views on the Affordable Care Act and the duties of the insurance post. Democrat Wayne Goodwin now holds the job. |
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 01 July 2015 16:09 |
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