Governor Stein has vetoed three bills, including measures focused on nonprofit donor privacy, squatter removal, and regulatory changes. The city of Mebane is facing a crisis following widespread damage from Tropical Storm Chantal. Nine individuals have been charged in North Carolina after a major health care fraud bust. Meanwhile, State Auditor Dave Boliek says the long-awaited DMV audit is just “days to weeks” from being released.

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Governor Stein visited flood-damaged areas in Alamance and Orange counties, urging residents to stay cautious as recovery begins. In response to a growing backlog, North Carolina drivers will now have a two-year grace period for license renewals. Former Representative Michael Wray has announced a bid to reclaim his House seat. Meanwhile, debate continues over the future of Medicaid expansion in the state—Stein is calling for its preservation after the "Big Beautiful Bill," which could reverse the policy, was signed into law.

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The U.S. has extended a trade deadline while increasing tariffs on goods from Japan and South Korea. Tropical Storm Chantal has caused historic flooding across central North Carolina, leaving behind widespread damage. Congressman Don Davis is reportedly exploring a run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Thom Tillis. In Davidson County, a student has won a free speech case after being disciplined for using the term “illegal aliens” in class. Meanwhile, the Democrat-controlled State Board of Education is pushing back against a new charter school bill.

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Tropical Storm Chantal has made landfall in the Carolinas, bringing heavy rain and wind to the region. Governor Stein has vetoed a series of anti-DEI bills but signed new legislation on licensure agreements and parental rights. As recovery from Hurricane Helene continues, communities like Black Mountain and Lake Lure face a long rebuilding process, though Chimney Rock is expected to reopen within a month.

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A special Independence Day edition of the Carolina Journal News Hour with Nick Craig.

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Governor Stein is urging North Carolina’s congressional delegation to oppose a federal reconciliation bill, citing concerns over its impact on the state. He also vetoed three pieces of legislation, including a money-saving energy bill. A new poll shows mixed public opinion in North Carolina on both President Trump and outgoing Senator Thom Tillis. Meanwhile, a court has ruled that parents may proceed with a lawsuit against Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and school officials over a child sexual assault case.

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Governor Stein has signed six new bills into law, including legislation granting Mecklenburg County the authority to impose a transit tax. One of the newly signed measures also elevates the Highway Patrol to a cabinet-level agency, following a 2024 veto override. Meanwhile, the so-called "Big Beautiful Bill" could reverse Medicaid expansion in North Carolina, sparking significant debate. A recent audit revealed a serious deficit in the State Health Plan, raising concerns about its long-term stability.

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North Carolina has entered a new fiscal year without a finalized state budget, as negotiations remain deadlocked. Governor Stein vetoed the REINS Act, which aimed to limit bureaucratic rulemaking power. Meanwhile, he signed the Hurricane Helene recovery bill during a visit to Chimney Rock State Park. With Senator Tillis not seeking re-election, Democrats are setting their sights on the now-open U.S. Senate seat. The U.S. Supreme Court has vacated a lower court ruling against the NC State Health Plan in a transgender coverage case. In other news, the DMV is expanding walk-in availability at more locations statewide.

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Senator Thom Tillis has announced he will not seek re-election in 2026, sparking immediate speculation about potential Republican successors. Mitch Kokai and Donna King discussed the implications of his departure and the latest Carolina Journal poll showing favorability ratings for both Tillis and Governor Cooper. Audio from Tillis’ remarks on the Senate floor Sunday night.

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Budget negotiations remain at a standstill in the North Carolina General Assembly, with lawmakers still divided over key spending priorities. Possible changes could be on the horizon for North Carolina’s Medicaid program if the federal government moves forward with a work requirement. Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department and the State Board of Elections are opposing outside efforts to intervene in the ongoing lawsuit over alleged inaccuracies in the state's voter rolls.

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