Sen. David Hoyle says he thinks the Senate will vote on a budget next week. That gives conference less than two weeks before the June 30th deadline. Can they do it? They are pretty darn pushy about getting it done by that date and get home but that's not a lot of time either.
In the meantime, involuntary annexation opponenets got a small victory today but still face an uphill battle. Here's the script from my story...
RALEIGH -- A legislative committee approved a one year ban on involuntary annexations today.
Involuntary annexation is when a town or city forces outlying residents to become city residents. One by one opponents of involuntary annexation pleaded their case to lawmakers.
"I got involved in annexation after the mayor of selma decided that he needed to fix the town,' Tony Terrington from Johnston County said. "He had a very unlawful annexation and i was successful in fighting it."
With involuntary annexation, the new residents must pay taxes but get city services like water, transportation and police. City leaders across the state say annexation is necessary as town and cities grow, but homeowners often say they already have those services and don't want to pay more taxes.
"Our community is a gated, private community," Moore County resident Doug Aitken said. "We have every single service the law talks about."
Thursday the House Finance Committee approved a one year ban on forced annexations to study the law.
"There are some problems with the law," Rep. Paul Luebke (D-Durham) said. "It's 49 years old and there have been some excesses and we have some good suggestions that we have talked about in our committee."
Cities and towns are against the moratorium but agree some changes to the law are necessary.
"I think the issue that probably has to be looked at is water and sewer," Andy Romanet from the League of Municipalities said.
Opponents are hoping lawmakers would require a vote by residents for all annexations. They also want more supervision of cities trying to annex new residents.
The bill must still pass another House committee then a full vote on the House floor. It then heads to the Senate where leaders are reportedly not likely to hear the bill.
North Carolina is one of just five states that allow involuntary annexations.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Realtors pledge more...
Despite a 20-0 record against counties, the NC Realtor's Association has pledged a $10 million dollar campaign to continue it's fight against any land transfer tax increase.
Here's my story from today..
RALEIGH -- Realtors across the state are stepping up their efforts to fight any tax increase on the sale of a house.
The North Carolina Association of Realtors pledged a multi million dollar fight against what's known as the land transfer tax. It comes as lawmakers battle over the future of the tax as well.
Hundreds of realtors filled the halls of the state legislature Wednesday with one simple goal, to let lawmakers know they are serious.
"The Realtors Association has made a $10 million commitment to continue the fight against the home tax as well as other assaults against private property rights," Tim Kent from the NC Realtor's Association said.
Realtors are fighting what's known as the land transfer tax. It's a tax on the person selling a home. Last year counties were given permission by lawmakers to put an increase of that tax on the ballot to help raise money to build schools and roads.
"The people have already had a chance to vote on this," Kent added. "20 times, 3 out of 4 voters have said absolutely no to the home tax."
Realtors say it unfairly targets homeowners but counties say without it, they would have to hike property taxes. Realtors are getting help from some lawmakers in trying to keep land transfer tax increases off voter ballots.
"Anything that we add to the cost of selling or transferring real estate is just counterproductive," Sen. David Hoyle (D-Gaston) said. "We're trying to do things to spur people to buy not discourage it."
While realtors continue their expensive campaign against the tax and the Senate appears poised to possibly vote against the tax as well, there is some strong support from one of the state's top leaders for the counties.
House Speaker Joe Hackney wants it to remain an option for counties and other leadership in the house appears to agree.
"As long as you require voter approval, I don't see any need for major changes," House Majority Leader Hugh Holliman said.
With the House opposing changes, that likely means there will be no change in law and it could end up on ballots in future elections.
So far, only Polk county plans to put the land transfer tax on the November ballot.
Despite a 20-0 record against counties, the NC Realtor's Association has pledged a $10 million dollar campaign to continue it's fight against any land transfer tax increase.
Here's my story from today..
RALEIGH -- Realtors across the state are stepping up their efforts to fight any tax increase on the sale of a house.
The North Carolina Association of Realtors pledged a multi million dollar fight against what's known as the land transfer tax. It comes as lawmakers battle over the future of the tax as well.
Hundreds of realtors filled the halls of the state legislature Wednesday with one simple goal, to let lawmakers know they are serious.
"The Realtors Association has made a $10 million commitment to continue the fight against the home tax as well as other assaults against private property rights," Tim Kent from the NC Realtor's Association said.
Realtors are fighting what's known as the land transfer tax. It's a tax on the person selling a home. Last year counties were given permission by lawmakers to put an increase of that tax on the ballot to help raise money to build schools and roads.
"The people have already had a chance to vote on this," Kent added. "20 times, 3 out of 4 voters have said absolutely no to the home tax."
Realtors say it unfairly targets homeowners but counties say without it, they would have to hike property taxes. Realtors are getting help from some lawmakers in trying to keep land transfer tax increases off voter ballots.
"Anything that we add to the cost of selling or transferring real estate is just counterproductive," Sen. David Hoyle (D-Gaston) said. "We're trying to do things to spur people to buy not discourage it."
While realtors continue their expensive campaign against the tax and the Senate appears poised to possibly vote against the tax as well, there is some strong support from one of the state's top leaders for the counties.
House Speaker Joe Hackney wants it to remain an option for counties and other leadership in the house appears to agree.
"As long as you require voter approval, I don't see any need for major changes," House Majority Leader Hugh Holliman said.
With the House opposing changes, that likely means there will be no change in law and it could end up on ballots in future elections.
So far, only Polk county plans to put the land transfer tax on the November ballot.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Hey all...
Not much to report on my front. I'm caught up doing a lot of non-legislative work again. This week seems to be filled with a lot of interesting bills in committees. I took up a driver's license bill today. Here's the text...
RALEIGH -- A new plan to change drivers licenses is cruising toward approval at the state legislature.
Monday, a senate committee approved the idea that changes the look of licenses for those under 21 years old. Advocates hope the idea will cut down on under age drinking.
At John Hernly's restaurant, his company goes the extra mile to help prevent his employees from serving minors.
"We have a bars program," the Champps General Manager said. "We have undercovers that we pay coming in here to check up on us constantly so we're always aware of that."
Lawmakers are working on a way to make it easier for bars and restaurants to check id's.
"It simply changes anyone's driving license from horizontal with which you're familiar with to vertical because the number of complaints and sales to minors of alcohol," Sen. Stan Bingham (R-Davidson) said.
Those complaints come from ALE. This year, during 700 compliance checks, ALE officers found that under age drinkers were able to buy alcohol 18-percent of the time.
21 states already use the vertical id for people under 21 including Virginia, where Hernly use to work.
"It's a lot easier for the staff to recognize under 21 you know and I think it's harder to alter the id," Hernly said.
North Carolina currently uses color coding systems to identify those under 21 and 18 but retailers believe this new id is a better solution.
So far, there has been no vocal opposition to the proposals. Supporters understand it won't cure underage drinking but it will help.
The bill still needs approval on the House and Senate floors and from Governor Easley. If it passes, the new licenses will start in October.
Not much to report on my front. I'm caught up doing a lot of non-legislative work again. This week seems to be filled with a lot of interesting bills in committees. I took up a driver's license bill today. Here's the text...
RALEIGH -- A new plan to change drivers licenses is cruising toward approval at the state legislature.
Monday, a senate committee approved the idea that changes the look of licenses for those under 21 years old. Advocates hope the idea will cut down on under age drinking.
At John Hernly's restaurant, his company goes the extra mile to help prevent his employees from serving minors.
"We have a bars program," the Champps General Manager said. "We have undercovers that we pay coming in here to check up on us constantly so we're always aware of that."
Lawmakers are working on a way to make it easier for bars and restaurants to check id's.
"It simply changes anyone's driving license from horizontal with which you're familiar with to vertical because the number of complaints and sales to minors of alcohol," Sen. Stan Bingham (R-Davidson) said.
Those complaints come from ALE. This year, during 700 compliance checks, ALE officers found that under age drinkers were able to buy alcohol 18-percent of the time.
21 states already use the vertical id for people under 21 including Virginia, where Hernly use to work.
"It's a lot easier for the staff to recognize under 21 you know and I think it's harder to alter the id," Hernly said.
North Carolina currently uses color coding systems to identify those under 21 and 18 but retailers believe this new id is a better solution.
So far, there has been no vocal opposition to the proposals. Supporters understand it won't cure underage drinking but it will help.
The bill still needs approval on the House and Senate floors and from Governor Easley. If it passes, the new licenses will start in October.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Dems support Obama...
**update**
Gov. Easley introduced Obama basically saying better late than never. John and Elizabeth Edwards are here as well.
So, I'm here covering the Barack Obama speech at the state fairgrounds in Raleigh. It seems most of the top Democrats in the state are here. There's probably 500 people maybe. It's an invite only event. It's clear there are volunteers and supporters in addition to the public officials. There are people of all ages.
The list includes....
House Speaker Joe Hackney
Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand
State Treasurer Richard Moore
Rep. Ty Harrell
Rep. Dan Blue
U.S. Rep. GK Butterfield
U.S. Rep Bob Etheridge
Rep. Linda Coleman
Sec. of State Elaine Marshall
Sen. Vernon Malone
Ed Turlington (Edwards 04 Campaign Chair)
Hampton Dellinger (Frm. Lt. Gov. candidate)
NC NAACP Prez William Barber
Rep. Jennifer Weiss
Rep. Floyd McKissick
Rep. Verla Insko
Rep. Fisher
So far no sign of Gov. Easley or Sen. President Pro Tem Marc Basnight
Keep you posted!
**update**
Gov. Easley introduced Obama basically saying better late than never. John and Elizabeth Edwards are here as well.
So, I'm here covering the Barack Obama speech at the state fairgrounds in Raleigh. It seems most of the top Democrats in the state are here. There's probably 500 people maybe. It's an invite only event. It's clear there are volunteers and supporters in addition to the public officials. There are people of all ages.
The list includes....
House Speaker Joe Hackney
Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand
State Treasurer Richard Moore
Rep. Ty Harrell
Rep. Dan Blue
U.S. Rep. GK Butterfield
U.S. Rep Bob Etheridge
Rep. Linda Coleman
Sec. of State Elaine Marshall
Sen. Vernon Malone
Ed Turlington (Edwards 04 Campaign Chair)
Hampton Dellinger (Frm. Lt. Gov. candidate)
NC NAACP Prez William Barber
Rep. Jennifer Weiss
Rep. Floyd McKissick
Rep. Verla Insko
Rep. Fisher
So far no sign of Gov. Easley or Sen. President Pro Tem Marc Basnight
Keep you posted!
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Will Easley veto budget?
Hello again! I'm back from a great five day trip to the Outer Banks.
I spent a short time at the General Assembly today because I had some meetings. What's interesting is the buzz I heard about the House budget and what's next.
We'll have to see what the Senate does with the budget and teacher pay in particular, but there is a lot of talk about the governor's reaction.
If you missed my interview with the Gov this past weekend I asked him if he would veto a budget that doesn't help teachers reach the national average in pay. He paused, grinned, then said he would have to see what the rest of the budget looks like.
Several lawmakers posed the question today about Easley potentially vetoing the legislature's budget. Some believe he would to make a point since he's leaving office and does not face an election. Others believe he won't because he doesn't want to worry about tarnishing his reputation if his veto was overruled.
Either way, it is interesting to chat about and creates some interesting chit chat as lawmakers figure out their budget.
Hello again! I'm back from a great five day trip to the Outer Banks.
I spent a short time at the General Assembly today because I had some meetings. What's interesting is the buzz I heard about the House budget and what's next.
We'll have to see what the Senate does with the budget and teacher pay in particular, but there is a lot of talk about the governor's reaction.
If you missed my interview with the Gov this past weekend I asked him if he would veto a budget that doesn't help teachers reach the national average in pay. He paused, grinned, then said he would have to see what the rest of the budget looks like.
Several lawmakers posed the question today about Easley potentially vetoing the legislature's budget. Some believe he would to make a point since he's leaving office and does not face an election. Others believe he won't because he doesn't want to worry about tarnishing his reputation if his veto was overruled.
Either way, it is interesting to chat about and creates some interesting chit chat as lawmakers figure out their budget.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Just a reminder to check out Political Connections this weekend.
The entire show is an interview with Gov. Easley. It's pretty interesting and covers a wide range of topics. It airs on News 14 Carolina tonight at 6pm and Sunday morning at 11am. It should wind up on the website at www.news14.com as well.
We talk about the budget, controversial issues, his style of governing, why he prefers his work over fundraising, his future, etc. etc. etc.
Check it out if you get a chance. I aired a story on part of the interview today and will post the script below.
In the meantime, I'm counting down the hours to a 5 day vacation so have a great weekend and I'll be back next Thursday. Happy House Budgeting!
RALEIGH -- A big budget battle is shaping up between the governor's office and the legislature.
The State House will likely vote on their version of the budget next week. Early indications are that it will look much different than the governor's budget.
Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum sat down with the governor this week. When Governor Easley unveiled his budget three weeks ago, it included a 20-cent cigarette tax hike and a four cent increase on alcohol.
Next week the House will unveil its version of the budget. It will not include those tax proposals.
"I don't care if they pass them or not," Gov. Easley said. "I'm just looking for a means to an end."
That end is an expensive mental health reform package and a seven percent teacher pay raise.
"We have to get teachers to the national average," Easley added. "We said we were going to do it in 2005, we raised them five percent, eight percent, five percent over the last three years and we're looking at 6.9-percent short this year."
The House budget will include a three percent raise instead of seven percent.
"Is that something you would send the budget back if they didn't?" Boyum asked.
"You know, I would want to look at the entire budget before I ever said that I would look at that," Gov. Easley said. "The thing for me to do now is work with the legislators and try to help them get there."
But lawmakers want lower teacher pay to help give state employees a 2.75-percent raise compared to Easley's 1.5-percent.
Easley says state employees deserve a large raise but he promised teachers they would get to the national average by the end of the year.
"If you say you're going to do it you should do it," Easley added. "That's what we teach kids and we can start by paying their teachers so that's why I started with the sin taxes.
It's a pay battle that will play out over the next month. After the House budget, the Senate must come up with their version then all three sides must compromise on a final budget by June 30th.
To see the entire interview watch Political Connections. It airs Friday nights at 6:00 and Sunday mornings at 11:00.
The entire show is an interview with Gov. Easley. It's pretty interesting and covers a wide range of topics. It airs on News 14 Carolina tonight at 6pm and Sunday morning at 11am. It should wind up on the website at www.news14.com as well.
We talk about the budget, controversial issues, his style of governing, why he prefers his work over fundraising, his future, etc. etc. etc.
Check it out if you get a chance. I aired a story on part of the interview today and will post the script below.
In the meantime, I'm counting down the hours to a 5 day vacation so have a great weekend and I'll be back next Thursday. Happy House Budgeting!
RALEIGH -- A big budget battle is shaping up between the governor's office and the legislature.
The State House will likely vote on their version of the budget next week. Early indications are that it will look much different than the governor's budget.
Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum sat down with the governor this week. When Governor Easley unveiled his budget three weeks ago, it included a 20-cent cigarette tax hike and a four cent increase on alcohol.
Next week the House will unveil its version of the budget. It will not include those tax proposals.
"I don't care if they pass them or not," Gov. Easley said. "I'm just looking for a means to an end."
That end is an expensive mental health reform package and a seven percent teacher pay raise.
"We have to get teachers to the national average," Easley added. "We said we were going to do it in 2005, we raised them five percent, eight percent, five percent over the last three years and we're looking at 6.9-percent short this year."
The House budget will include a three percent raise instead of seven percent.
"Is that something you would send the budget back if they didn't?" Boyum asked.
"You know, I would want to look at the entire budget before I ever said that I would look at that," Gov. Easley said. "The thing for me to do now is work with the legislators and try to help them get there."
But lawmakers want lower teacher pay to help give state employees a 2.75-percent raise compared to Easley's 1.5-percent.
Easley says state employees deserve a large raise but he promised teachers they would get to the national average by the end of the year.
"If you say you're going to do it you should do it," Easley added. "That's what we teach kids and we can start by paying their teachers so that's why I started with the sin taxes.
It's a pay battle that will play out over the next month. After the House budget, the Senate must come up with their version then all three sides must compromise on a final budget by June 30th.
To see the entire interview watch Political Connections. It airs Friday nights at 6:00 and Sunday mornings at 11:00.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Gov. Easley one on one...
I had a chance to sit down with Gov. Easley for a lengthy interview this morning. We hit a number of topics ranging from the budget to his style of governing. The entire interview will air on Political Connections this weekend but here's a short story we're airing today on a couple topics. I'll try to update some other highlights from the interview as well later.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley says there's no need for lawmakers to get involved in the illegal immigrant community college issue.
Easley made the comments during a one-on-one interview that will air on Political Connections this weekend. Easley believes its time for the federal government to fix immigration and gas price issues.
Those two topics are among the top concerns to North Carolina voters in most polls.
Gov. Easley still supports illegal immigrants in community colleges if they pay out of state tuition.
"The reason is you have so many undocumented workers that are working in the state's now all across the country that you're building your economy on those people so do you want them better educated or less educated and we could make that decision better if we knew what the heck Washington is going to do," Gov. Easley said. "So, I'd like for Washington to take some action. They have defacto legalized illegal immigrants."
The community college system ordered all campuses last year to admit illegal immigrants, but it reversed the policy recently while federal officials formally weigh in on the matter.
Earlier this month, Attorney General Roy Cooper's office recommended community colleges drop the lenient admissions policy.
Several lawmakers have filed bills to either disqualify or allow illegal immigrants in community colleges.
"It's not a legislative issue at this point," Easley said. "What the attorney general was reacting to was the perceived federal regulation but the federal regulation isn't what they thought it was. It's way beyond the state legislature at least at this point."
On the gas price front, Easley believes the answers will come from Washington.
"There's not a lot the state can do in terms of immediate help on the gas price," Gov. Easley said. "That's set by OPEC and we're not members of OPEC.
Easley believes the state must focus on public transportation and research on battery powered cars to limit our need for oil.
We will show the entire interview with Governor Mike Easley this weekend on Political Connections.
He talks about everything from the state budget to his future after office. It airs Friday night at 6:00 and Sunday morning at 11:00 only on News 14 Carolina.
I had a chance to sit down with Gov. Easley for a lengthy interview this morning. We hit a number of topics ranging from the budget to his style of governing. The entire interview will air on Political Connections this weekend but here's a short story we're airing today on a couple topics. I'll try to update some other highlights from the interview as well later.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley says there's no need for lawmakers to get involved in the illegal immigrant community college issue.
Easley made the comments during a one-on-one interview that will air on Political Connections this weekend. Easley believes its time for the federal government to fix immigration and gas price issues.
Those two topics are among the top concerns to North Carolina voters in most polls.
Gov. Easley still supports illegal immigrants in community colleges if they pay out of state tuition.
"The reason is you have so many undocumented workers that are working in the state's now all across the country that you're building your economy on those people so do you want them better educated or less educated and we could make that decision better if we knew what the heck Washington is going to do," Gov. Easley said. "So, I'd like for Washington to take some action. They have defacto legalized illegal immigrants."
The community college system ordered all campuses last year to admit illegal immigrants, but it reversed the policy recently while federal officials formally weigh in on the matter.
Earlier this month, Attorney General Roy Cooper's office recommended community colleges drop the lenient admissions policy.
Several lawmakers have filed bills to either disqualify or allow illegal immigrants in community colleges.
"It's not a legislative issue at this point," Easley said. "What the attorney general was reacting to was the perceived federal regulation but the federal regulation isn't what they thought it was. It's way beyond the state legislature at least at this point."
On the gas price front, Easley believes the answers will come from Washington.
"There's not a lot the state can do in terms of immediate help on the gas price," Gov. Easley said. "That's set by OPEC and we're not members of OPEC.
Easley believes the state must focus on public transportation and research on battery powered cars to limit our need for oil.
We will show the entire interview with Governor Mike Easley this weekend on Political Connections.
He talks about everything from the state budget to his future after office. It airs Friday night at 6:00 and Sunday morning at 11:00 only on News 14 Carolina.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Welcome back after a long holiday weekend!
I don't have much to report since I'm swamped working on a potentially big show this weekend (hopefully more on that tomorrow).
Last week Sen. Rand said he thought the House might unveil its budget this week. I'd say that is unlikely. I just got a number of notices from appropriation subcommittees that are working on Thursday, so I'd say it won't happen this week.
That would put House members at the earliest voting next week which would give the Senate and Conference roughly 3 weeks to come up with another version and compromise by the July 1 deadline. Can it happen? The answer is almost always, if they really want it to they can.
I'll hopefully have more to report tomorrow. In the meantime here's my story today on U.S. Senate candidate Kay Hagan's roundtable on 287 g with sheriffs today. One thing not in the story is the fact that none of the people on her roundtable were actually using the 287 g program yet and I believe at least most of them were Democrats just like her. Not sure what that may or may not mean but just throwing information out there for you to know.
P.S. I was in Arizona this weekend and saw the Red Rocks in Sedona. Holy smokes if you haven't seen them you should! And no, I didn't make it out to McCain's house to BBQ with the Veep candidates!
Anyway..here's the story
RALEIGH -- Immigration is quickly becoming a hot topic in North Carolina's U.S. Senate race.
Today, Democratic candidate Kay Hagan met with a half dozen sheriffs to talk about the 287 g program. Hagan's opponent, current Senator Elizabeth Dole has tried to convince sheriffs to join the program for more than a year.
Mecklenburg County started the 287 g program in 2006 and its sheriff says it works.
"In the stats we've looked at the DWI stats for Hispanics has gone down every year since 287 g came in," Sheriff Chip Bailey said. "And if you look at the DWLR, driving while license revoked, its gone down every year.
The 287 g program trains sheriff's deputies to identify illegal immigrants who commit crimes and start the deportation process.
Hagan supports the program but only if the federal government pays for 100-percent of it.
"My problem with it is that it's an unfunded federal mandate," Hagan said. "As I've stated last year the state of North Carolina spent $750,000 on this program and this is really something that is an ICE situation which is an immigration situation."
Dole has been a big supporter of the program. In fact she spent the past year touring the state trying to get sheriffs on board.
"We're looking at every possibility to stay focused on this issue of criminals who are illegal aliens who repeat and repeat and causing great angst among our citizens in North Carolina," Dole said at one of her own roundtables last August.
Dole's stance may be paying off in some ways.
In the most recent Public Policy Polling poll, she leads Hagan by five points with ten percent still undecided.
However voters who are most concerned with immigration overwhelmingly pick Dole by an 89% to 8% margin.
Hagan hopes her public stance on the issue will turn those numbers around.
I don't have much to report since I'm swamped working on a potentially big show this weekend (hopefully more on that tomorrow).
Last week Sen. Rand said he thought the House might unveil its budget this week. I'd say that is unlikely. I just got a number of notices from appropriation subcommittees that are working on Thursday, so I'd say it won't happen this week.
That would put House members at the earliest voting next week which would give the Senate and Conference roughly 3 weeks to come up with another version and compromise by the July 1 deadline. Can it happen? The answer is almost always, if they really want it to they can.
I'll hopefully have more to report tomorrow. In the meantime here's my story today on U.S. Senate candidate Kay Hagan's roundtable on 287 g with sheriffs today. One thing not in the story is the fact that none of the people on her roundtable were actually using the 287 g program yet and I believe at least most of them were Democrats just like her. Not sure what that may or may not mean but just throwing information out there for you to know.
P.S. I was in Arizona this weekend and saw the Red Rocks in Sedona. Holy smokes if you haven't seen them you should! And no, I didn't make it out to McCain's house to BBQ with the Veep candidates!
Anyway..here's the story
RALEIGH -- Immigration is quickly becoming a hot topic in North Carolina's U.S. Senate race.
Today, Democratic candidate Kay Hagan met with a half dozen sheriffs to talk about the 287 g program. Hagan's opponent, current Senator Elizabeth Dole has tried to convince sheriffs to join the program for more than a year.
Mecklenburg County started the 287 g program in 2006 and its sheriff says it works.
"In the stats we've looked at the DWI stats for Hispanics has gone down every year since 287 g came in," Sheriff Chip Bailey said. "And if you look at the DWLR, driving while license revoked, its gone down every year.
The 287 g program trains sheriff's deputies to identify illegal immigrants who commit crimes and start the deportation process.
Hagan supports the program but only if the federal government pays for 100-percent of it.
"My problem with it is that it's an unfunded federal mandate," Hagan said. "As I've stated last year the state of North Carolina spent $750,000 on this program and this is really something that is an ICE situation which is an immigration situation."
Dole has been a big supporter of the program. In fact she spent the past year touring the state trying to get sheriffs on board.
"We're looking at every possibility to stay focused on this issue of criminals who are illegal aliens who repeat and repeat and causing great angst among our citizens in North Carolina," Dole said at one of her own roundtables last August.
Dole's stance may be paying off in some ways.
In the most recent Public Policy Polling poll, she leads Hagan by five points with ten percent still undecided.
However voters who are most concerned with immigration overwhelmingly pick Dole by an 89% to 8% margin.
Hagan hopes her public stance on the issue will turn those numbers around.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
The Prez..
So, I spent the day on Fort Bragg covering President Bush. You can check out www.news14.com to see the story itself.
What a day. I arrived there around 6:45 this morning. We checked in and sat around until 8:15 when they put us on a coach bus and took us to the site. When we got there we went through another 25 minutes of security.
Finally about 9:00 we were all set and it was sunny and hot! But as it always is with President Bush, it started right on time and his speech was even 5 minutes earlier than expected.
He was almost in a campaign mode after the event. He avoided the stage and walked within 10 feet of us and shook hands with the crowd, which was mostly families of paratroopers.
I have to say it was quite a sight to see 16,000 parartroopers lined up in a field. It was incredible to see them all march by knowing what they have seen and where they have been. Many of them still have acne problems which reminds you how young some of these troops are.
One of those days that makes you think.
I'm off until Tuesday..a late post election trip/late anniversary trip!
Until then...
So, I spent the day on Fort Bragg covering President Bush. You can check out www.news14.com to see the story itself.
What a day. I arrived there around 6:45 this morning. We checked in and sat around until 8:15 when they put us on a coach bus and took us to the site. When we got there we went through another 25 minutes of security.
Finally about 9:00 we were all set and it was sunny and hot! But as it always is with President Bush, it started right on time and his speech was even 5 minutes earlier than expected.
He was almost in a campaign mode after the event. He avoided the stage and walked within 10 feet of us and shook hands with the crowd, which was mostly families of paratroopers.
I have to say it was quite a sight to see 16,000 parartroopers lined up in a field. It was incredible to see them all march by knowing what they have seen and where they have been. Many of them still have acne problems which reminds you how young some of these troops are.
One of those days that makes you think.
I'm off until Tuesday..a late post election trip/late anniversary trip!
Until then...
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Unfortunately I'm swamped trying to get my show done because I'm on vacation Friday and covering President Bush tomorrow so all I got is my story from today...
RALEIGH -- It appears North Carolina will put gang laws on the books for the first time in state history.
Mayors, police, and lawmakers joined forces Wednesday to announce they are close to an agreement. Right now, North Carolina law does not address gangs specifically.
Statewide there are an estimated 550 gangs with more than 14,000 members.
"Gangs are recruiting better than law enforcement agencies are," Gastonia Police Chief Terry Sult said. "These bills before the legislature address that recruiting effort on the gang level."
Wednesday the Senate passed those bills unanimously inching them closer to becoming law.
The proposals define gangs for the first time, make it illegal to belong to a gang, and target gang leaders.
"This has been a four year battle and I'm glad to see a lot of converts," Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory said. "The four letter word gang is now being confronted in the state capitol and I'm glad to see a lot of people get on board and recognize this is a life and death issue."
Mayor McCrory is making it a top issue in his campaign for governor. Tuesday his opponent, Lieutenant Governor Beverly Perdue said it's on the top of her legislative list as well.
While the news conference was essentially billed as a celebration that these new gang laws are likely going to pass, not everyone is supportive of these ideas.
One concern still undecided is how to punish gang members under 16 years old and if these laws will have an impact beyond filling up already crowded prisons.
"We're talking about severe criminal sanctions and I would argue that the acts we're trying to prevent are already illegal," NC Policy Watch's Chris Fitzsimon said. "If we need more police officers, more district attorneys, more magistrates, more prison beds, then we should do those things."
Attorney General Roy Cooper supports gang legislation but wants gang prevention funding as well.
"We are in a battle with gangs for the hearts and minds of our children and we must invest in education," Cooper said. "We must invest in after school programs."
Despite concerns, it appears after years of negotiations, lawmakers will make it illegal to belong to a gang in North Carolina.
Lawmakers are expected to negotiate differences between the House and Senate bills next week. It would also need the governor's signature.
RALEIGH -- It appears North Carolina will put gang laws on the books for the first time in state history.
Mayors, police, and lawmakers joined forces Wednesday to announce they are close to an agreement. Right now, North Carolina law does not address gangs specifically.
Statewide there are an estimated 550 gangs with more than 14,000 members.
"Gangs are recruiting better than law enforcement agencies are," Gastonia Police Chief Terry Sult said. "These bills before the legislature address that recruiting effort on the gang level."
Wednesday the Senate passed those bills unanimously inching them closer to becoming law.
The proposals define gangs for the first time, make it illegal to belong to a gang, and target gang leaders.
"This has been a four year battle and I'm glad to see a lot of converts," Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory said. "The four letter word gang is now being confronted in the state capitol and I'm glad to see a lot of people get on board and recognize this is a life and death issue."
Mayor McCrory is making it a top issue in his campaign for governor. Tuesday his opponent, Lieutenant Governor Beverly Perdue said it's on the top of her legislative list as well.
While the news conference was essentially billed as a celebration that these new gang laws are likely going to pass, not everyone is supportive of these ideas.
One concern still undecided is how to punish gang members under 16 years old and if these laws will have an impact beyond filling up already crowded prisons.
"We're talking about severe criminal sanctions and I would argue that the acts we're trying to prevent are already illegal," NC Policy Watch's Chris Fitzsimon said. "If we need more police officers, more district attorneys, more magistrates, more prison beds, then we should do those things."
Attorney General Roy Cooper supports gang legislation but wants gang prevention funding as well.
"We are in a battle with gangs for the hearts and minds of our children and we must invest in education," Cooper said. "We must invest in after school programs."
Despite concerns, it appears after years of negotiations, lawmakers will make it illegal to belong to a gang in North Carolina.
Lawmakers are expected to negotiate differences between the House and Senate bills next week. It would also need the governor's signature.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
*update with quotes below*
Couple interesting notes from today's Rules Committee in the NC Senate.
That committee is powerful and can send bills directly to the floor. They took up the Street Gang Prevention Act today and approved it.
Coincidentally that is a huge issue GOP Gov candidate Pat McCrory has been pushing and criticizing the legislature about for not taking it up.
The Senate has sat still on the bill. It just so happens that McCrory has plans to come lobby the bill on Wednesday (as in tomorrow).
The Lt. Gov. staff (who just happens to be McCrory's opponent) made sure to make a public statement that Lt. Gov. Perdue supports the legislation.
Sen. Rand who chairs the committee said it's not politics and it was fast tracked because they had to with money in the bill that needs to be in the budget both chambers are working on now.
You be the judge.
Speaking of that, Sen. Rand said it's his belief the House will roll out its version of the budget next week.
Stay tuned.
**here's my story from today on the subject
RALEIGH -- The war on gangs has become a focus for the candidates for governor.
State Senate leaders put anti-gang legislation on the fast track toward approval Tuesday. It comes just one day before one gubernatorial candidate planned to lobby against his opponent on the issue.
Last July, the State House passed a bill defining gangs in state law for the first time. Nearly a year later, it appears the Senate will do the same this week.
"It certainly is a long time coming," Sen. Malcolm Graham (D-Mecklenburg) said. "Gang activity across the state of North Carolina is increasing. We need to make sure that we have legislation in place that protects the citizens and that's what we did here today."
The bill defines a gang, makes it a felony to belong to one, and will target gang leaders. The Senate and House must still settle differences over punishing gang members under 16.
The bill was pushed through one of the few committees that can fast track a bill to the Senate floor. It's also just one day before gubernatorial candidate Pat McCrory is scheduled to be in Raleigh.
The current Charlotte mayor plans to lobby lawmakers Wednesday to pass gang legislation.
Tuesday the staff of his opponent Lieutenant Governor Beverly Perdue made a point to speak before the committee voted.
"This legislation is one of the lieutenant governor's top priorities for the coming legislative session," Perdue's Chief of Staff Don Hobart said. "We're very pleased the committee has agreed to take it up quickly and hopefully it will find itself into conference and in law. "
Committee Chair Tony Rand says the meeting was not about politics.
"It has to do with we're trying to get the budget passed and we're trying to adjourn and this has to move forward as you know the provision in this it doesn't go into effect unless there's money in the budget so we're trying to do it together," Sen. Rand (D-Cumberland) said.
The full Senate could vote on the bill as soon as Wednesday. Supporters hope for final approval next week.
A recent report shows there are nearly 15,000 gang members in North Carolina. That's up from an estimated nine thousand just four years ago.
Couple interesting notes from today's Rules Committee in the NC Senate.
That committee is powerful and can send bills directly to the floor. They took up the Street Gang Prevention Act today and approved it.
Coincidentally that is a huge issue GOP Gov candidate Pat McCrory has been pushing and criticizing the legislature about for not taking it up.
The Senate has sat still on the bill. It just so happens that McCrory has plans to come lobby the bill on Wednesday (as in tomorrow).
The Lt. Gov. staff (who just happens to be McCrory's opponent) made sure to make a public statement that Lt. Gov. Perdue supports the legislation.
Sen. Rand who chairs the committee said it's not politics and it was fast tracked because they had to with money in the bill that needs to be in the budget both chambers are working on now.
You be the judge.
Speaking of that, Sen. Rand said it's his belief the House will roll out its version of the budget next week.
Stay tuned.
**here's my story from today on the subject
RALEIGH -- The war on gangs has become a focus for the candidates for governor.
State Senate leaders put anti-gang legislation on the fast track toward approval Tuesday. It comes just one day before one gubernatorial candidate planned to lobby against his opponent on the issue.
Last July, the State House passed a bill defining gangs in state law for the first time. Nearly a year later, it appears the Senate will do the same this week.
"It certainly is a long time coming," Sen. Malcolm Graham (D-Mecklenburg) said. "Gang activity across the state of North Carolina is increasing. We need to make sure that we have legislation in place that protects the citizens and that's what we did here today."
The bill defines a gang, makes it a felony to belong to one, and will target gang leaders. The Senate and House must still settle differences over punishing gang members under 16.
The bill was pushed through one of the few committees that can fast track a bill to the Senate floor. It's also just one day before gubernatorial candidate Pat McCrory is scheduled to be in Raleigh.
The current Charlotte mayor plans to lobby lawmakers Wednesday to pass gang legislation.
Tuesday the staff of his opponent Lieutenant Governor Beverly Perdue made a point to speak before the committee voted.
"This legislation is one of the lieutenant governor's top priorities for the coming legislative session," Perdue's Chief of Staff Don Hobart said. "We're very pleased the committee has agreed to take it up quickly and hopefully it will find itself into conference and in law. "
Committee Chair Tony Rand says the meeting was not about politics.
"It has to do with we're trying to get the budget passed and we're trying to adjourn and this has to move forward as you know the provision in this it doesn't go into effect unless there's money in the budget so we're trying to do it together," Sen. Rand (D-Cumberland) said.
The full Senate could vote on the bill as soon as Wednesday. Supporters hope for final approval next week.
A recent report shows there are nearly 15,000 gang members in North Carolina. That's up from an estimated nine thousand just four years ago.
As a follow up to yesterday's post on a potential gas tax holiday. I was contacted by Civitas and given an early preview of their upcoming poll. Here's the section about the gas tax holiday from Civitas.
DO YOU SUPPORT A PROPOSED GAS TAX HOLIDAY OVER THE SUMMER
MONTHS OR BELIEVE THESE FUNDS SHOULD BE KEPT FOR ROAD
CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE IN NORTH CAROLINA?
# %
1. GAS HOLIDAY 224 28
2. KEPT FOR CONSTRUCTION 481 60
98. NOT SURE 95 12
TOTAL 800
DO YOU SUPPORT A PROPOSED GAS TAX HOLIDAY OVER THE SUMMER
MONTHS OR BELIEVE THESE FUNDS SHOULD BE KEPT FOR ROAD
CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE IN NORTH CAROLINA?
# %
1. GAS HOLIDAY 224 28
2. KEPT FOR CONSTRUCTION 481 60
98. NOT SURE 95 12
TOTAL 800
Monday, May 19, 2008
To gas tax or not to gas tax?
State Rep. Joe Boylan wants a state gas tax holiday. Clinton and McCain want one too on the federal level. Will it happen? Probably not. Below is the script from my story today. Richard Burr definitely supports it nationally but wants the bill tied to other long term goals.
RALEIGH -- Gas prices continue to set records with Memorial Day weekend approaching.
Leaders in North Carolina are proposing changes to help fix the high price at the pump, but will these proposals make a difference?
On the national level, Hillary Clinton and John McCain have proposed a three month gas tax holiday. Barack Obama opposes the idea and calls it a Washington gimmick and he wants to focus on long term solutions.
U.S. Senator Richard Burr doesn't believe it would pass Congress anyway.
"The leadership won't take up the gas tax," Sen. Burr said. "Does it make a big difference? 25-cents to a family that is struggling today is a big difference. Is it the optimal direction for us? Not in isolation."
Senator Burr also wants to focus on alternative fuels but he does support immediate help.
"I'd be very supportive of a temporary moratorium but it has to be mashed with an investment in the right technologies," Sen. Burr added. "It has to be matched with a commitment on this country's part to invest in new exploration but our goal should be to eliminate our need for foreign oil in the future."
On the state level, most state leaders don't have an appetite to take up the gas tax but there are some who want changes.
Moore County Representative Joe Boylan wants to suspend the state gas tax for 90 days starting June 15th.
Currently the state gas tax is 30.2 cents. It's the sixth highest rate in the country. The state revenue department estimates the state would lose out on about $425 million dollars for road projects.
Gov. Easley supports Hillary Clinton's national gas tax holiday proposal but recently said he would never recommend it on the state level.
"If they can do it like she did which is paying for it by taxes from windfall profits from oil companies but I don't think we could do that on the state level," Easley said.
While there is some support on the state and national level for a gas tax holiday this summer, Republicans and Democrats generally agree it is unlikely.
Easley has proposed to keep a current cap on the gas tax in his budget. It's unclear at this point if lawmakers will keep the cap in their versions of the budget.
State Rep. Joe Boylan wants a state gas tax holiday. Clinton and McCain want one too on the federal level. Will it happen? Probably not. Below is the script from my story today. Richard Burr definitely supports it nationally but wants the bill tied to other long term goals.
RALEIGH -- Gas prices continue to set records with Memorial Day weekend approaching.
Leaders in North Carolina are proposing changes to help fix the high price at the pump, but will these proposals make a difference?
On the national level, Hillary Clinton and John McCain have proposed a three month gas tax holiday. Barack Obama opposes the idea and calls it a Washington gimmick and he wants to focus on long term solutions.
U.S. Senator Richard Burr doesn't believe it would pass Congress anyway.
"The leadership won't take up the gas tax," Sen. Burr said. "Does it make a big difference? 25-cents to a family that is struggling today is a big difference. Is it the optimal direction for us? Not in isolation."
Senator Burr also wants to focus on alternative fuels but he does support immediate help.
"I'd be very supportive of a temporary moratorium but it has to be mashed with an investment in the right technologies," Sen. Burr added. "It has to be matched with a commitment on this country's part to invest in new exploration but our goal should be to eliminate our need for foreign oil in the future."
On the state level, most state leaders don't have an appetite to take up the gas tax but there are some who want changes.
Moore County Representative Joe Boylan wants to suspend the state gas tax for 90 days starting June 15th.
Currently the state gas tax is 30.2 cents. It's the sixth highest rate in the country. The state revenue department estimates the state would lose out on about $425 million dollars for road projects.
Gov. Easley supports Hillary Clinton's national gas tax holiday proposal but recently said he would never recommend it on the state level.
"If they can do it like she did which is paying for it by taxes from windfall profits from oil companies but I don't think we could do that on the state level," Easley said.
While there is some support on the state and national level for a gas tax holiday this summer, Republicans and Democrats generally agree it is unlikely.
Easley has proposed to keep a current cap on the gas tax in his budget. It's unclear at this point if lawmakers will keep the cap in their versions of the budget.
Friday, May 16, 2008
I was off politics today but did an interesting story on Segways (at least I think interesting!).
I'll leave it below because I frankly don't have much else to report on. Next week will heat up with increased budget talks and I'm already getting numerous press conference invitiations by groups hoping to get their agenda taken up at the legislature. Should be fun, plus I'm headed to Fayetteville Thursday to cover the Prez..
Have a good weekend!
RALEIGH -- Soaring gas prices have led to another new Segway dealership in North Carolina.
The two wheeled battery powered transporters are gaining popularity from police and tour guides. Dealers are now even marketing Segways for commuting.
Todd Masinter swears Segways will not only save you on gas money, but it will add years to your life.
"There's definitely this perverse enjoyment when you're passing people on a sidewalk at 12 1/2 mph and in gridlock cars everyone is staring at you it's just a phenomenal feeling knowing you're not wasting any gas," Triangle Segway owner Todd Masinter said.
Two months ago he and his wife moved from California to North Carolina. They decided to open up a Segway dealership to offer tours and sales.
"A number of people during and after a tour will ask about a purchase and how they can obtain one and how quickly," tour guide Bruce Miller said. "We had one the other day said how quickly can I get one, not just can I get one."
The two wheeled battery powered vehicles can go 24 miles on a single charge. It takes eight hours to recharge in a standard outlet.
41 states including North Carolina say they are legal on sidewalks and have the same rights as an electric wheelchair.
There are two models, a commuter and one with larger tires. One model even comes equipped for the golf course.
The price varies from $5100 to $5600 and Masinter says the rise in gas prices have turned skeptics into buyers.
"There are folks in downtown Raleigh who have purchased from us who go from their condo into the elevator down through the lobby out the doors and onto their job and repeat their process and take it to their desk and plug it into the outlet," Masinter added.
"Well if you live downtown it actually makes a lot of sense not having to drive your car from place to place, and it's a pretty convenient device," Tour customer David New said.
Segway now has authorized dealerships in Raleigh, Charlotte, and Wilmington.
I'll leave it below because I frankly don't have much else to report on. Next week will heat up with increased budget talks and I'm already getting numerous press conference invitiations by groups hoping to get their agenda taken up at the legislature. Should be fun, plus I'm headed to Fayetteville Thursday to cover the Prez..
Have a good weekend!
RALEIGH -- Soaring gas prices have led to another new Segway dealership in North Carolina.
The two wheeled battery powered transporters are gaining popularity from police and tour guides. Dealers are now even marketing Segways for commuting.
Todd Masinter swears Segways will not only save you on gas money, but it will add years to your life.
"There's definitely this perverse enjoyment when you're passing people on a sidewalk at 12 1/2 mph and in gridlock cars everyone is staring at you it's just a phenomenal feeling knowing you're not wasting any gas," Triangle Segway owner Todd Masinter said.
Two months ago he and his wife moved from California to North Carolina. They decided to open up a Segway dealership to offer tours and sales.
"A number of people during and after a tour will ask about a purchase and how they can obtain one and how quickly," tour guide Bruce Miller said. "We had one the other day said how quickly can I get one, not just can I get one."
The two wheeled battery powered vehicles can go 24 miles on a single charge. It takes eight hours to recharge in a standard outlet.
41 states including North Carolina say they are legal on sidewalks and have the same rights as an electric wheelchair.
There are two models, a commuter and one with larger tires. One model even comes equipped for the golf course.
The price varies from $5100 to $5600 and Masinter says the rise in gas prices have turned skeptics into buyers.
"There are folks in downtown Raleigh who have purchased from us who go from their condo into the elevator down through the lobby out the doors and onto their job and repeat their process and take it to their desk and plug it into the outlet," Masinter added.
"Well if you live downtown it actually makes a lot of sense not having to drive your car from place to place, and it's a pretty convenient device," Tour customer David New said.
Segway now has authorized dealerships in Raleigh, Charlotte, and Wilmington.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
When?
That's the question being asked by pretty much everyone at the legislature. When will the budget get wrapped up.
Regardless of big issues on the table, it appears the honorables are 100% intent on putting together a budget and watching Raleigh in the rear view mirror as fast as possible.
All signs point to that happening. It was indeed a very quiet first week. No major surprises as lawmakers remain focus in various appropriation and subcommittee meetings.
I'm told both chambers have worked together for nearly two months and are pretty close to an agreement on big subjects. Governor Easley's surprise budget with sin taxes threw a small wrenth in that plan but lawmakers seem intent on doing what they want to do.
Most believe (hope) lawmakers will wrap up and be out of town by the middle of July if not sooner. Keep in mind they are supposed to be done with the budget by July 1st.
The House goes first and we could see their version sooner than later based on reports and how fast and furious these committee meetings are happening.
That's the question being asked by pretty much everyone at the legislature. When will the budget get wrapped up.
Regardless of big issues on the table, it appears the honorables are 100% intent on putting together a budget and watching Raleigh in the rear view mirror as fast as possible.
All signs point to that happening. It was indeed a very quiet first week. No major surprises as lawmakers remain focus in various appropriation and subcommittee meetings.
I'm told both chambers have worked together for nearly two months and are pretty close to an agreement on big subjects. Governor Easley's surprise budget with sin taxes threw a small wrenth in that plan but lawmakers seem intent on doing what they want to do.
Most believe (hope) lawmakers will wrap up and be out of town by the middle of July if not sooner. Keep in mind they are supposed to be done with the budget by July 1st.
The House goes first and we could see their version sooner than later based on reports and how fast and furious these committee meetings are happening.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
I'm off to moderate a panel this afternoon so you're stuck with just my story from today again...
RALEIGH -- The governor and lawmakers will soon battle over so called sin taxes.
Gov. Easley wants to increase the tax on cigarettes and alcohol. He says the money's needed to pay for teacher pay increases and mental health reform. Sin taxes are increasingly popular proposals to raise money.
As a tobacco state, raising the cigarette tax was political suicide in the past but times have changed.
Lawmakers bumped the cigarette tax three cents a pack in 1991. 14 years later it was increased from five cents to 30-cents in 2005. Just one year later it was raised five more cents. The tax still remains the seventh lowest in the U.S.
Now Gov. Easley wants to increase the tax again by 20-cents to 55-cents a pack. That would make North Carolina's tax tied for 12th lowest in the country.
"Certainly North Carolina is not as tobacco dependent in terms in the number of farmers involved," Sen. Richard Stevens (R-Wake) said. "We're still producing a lot of tobacco in North Carolina, but it doesn't have the same political impact it once did so I guess it's an easier target at that point."
The beer and wine industry finds itself on the flip side. The beer tax for instance hasn't been raised in decades but it is still one of the highest in the nation.
Right now the tax is roughly four cents a can which leaves North Carolina with the fourth highest beer tax in the nation. Gov. Easley's proposal would increase it to nine cents a can and the second highest in the nation.
"Our beer taxes and wine taxes are some of the highest in the nation and this type of proposal falls most heavily on North Carolina consumers who can at this time when the economy is not in great shape," Dean Plunkett from the NC Beer and Wine Association said.
While the beer tax hasn't changed since 1969, Plunkett says it comes up nearly every year.
"It tends to be that way," Plunkett added. "The legislature will always look for new funding sources and we tend to be the choice a lot of the time.
North Carolina's not alone. Many other states are proposing sin tax increases as well. Supporters say it's a volunteer tax and having that choice to drink or smoke is better than forcing a tax on everyone.
Both Democrats and Republicans at the legislature appear to oppose Easley's tax proposals. A final budget must be approved by July 1st.
RALEIGH -- The governor and lawmakers will soon battle over so called sin taxes.
Gov. Easley wants to increase the tax on cigarettes and alcohol. He says the money's needed to pay for teacher pay increases and mental health reform. Sin taxes are increasingly popular proposals to raise money.
As a tobacco state, raising the cigarette tax was political suicide in the past but times have changed.
Lawmakers bumped the cigarette tax three cents a pack in 1991. 14 years later it was increased from five cents to 30-cents in 2005. Just one year later it was raised five more cents. The tax still remains the seventh lowest in the U.S.
Now Gov. Easley wants to increase the tax again by 20-cents to 55-cents a pack. That would make North Carolina's tax tied for 12th lowest in the country.
"Certainly North Carolina is not as tobacco dependent in terms in the number of farmers involved," Sen. Richard Stevens (R-Wake) said. "We're still producing a lot of tobacco in North Carolina, but it doesn't have the same political impact it once did so I guess it's an easier target at that point."
The beer and wine industry finds itself on the flip side. The beer tax for instance hasn't been raised in decades but it is still one of the highest in the nation.
Right now the tax is roughly four cents a can which leaves North Carolina with the fourth highest beer tax in the nation. Gov. Easley's proposal would increase it to nine cents a can and the second highest in the nation.
"Our beer taxes and wine taxes are some of the highest in the nation and this type of proposal falls most heavily on North Carolina consumers who can at this time when the economy is not in great shape," Dean Plunkett from the NC Beer and Wine Association said.
While the beer tax hasn't changed since 1969, Plunkett says it comes up nearly every year.
"It tends to be that way," Plunkett added. "The legislature will always look for new funding sources and we tend to be the choice a lot of the time.
North Carolina's not alone. Many other states are proposing sin tax increases as well. Supporters say it's a volunteer tax and having that choice to drink or smoke is better than forcing a tax on everyone.
Both Democrats and Republicans at the legislature appear to oppose Easley's tax proposals. A final budget must be approved by July 1st.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
RALEIGH -- Lawmakers returned to work in Raleigh Tuesday and it's clear there will be a battle over the state budget.
Monday, Gov. Easley proposed large teacher pay raises but he also wants to raise taxes. So far, Republican and Democratic lawmakers are opposing some of the governor's ideas.
Easley wants to raise teacher pay to the national average. To do that, it requires a 7-percent pay increase. To pay for those raises and a pricey mental health reform he wants to raise the tax on cigarettes by 20 cents and the tax on alcohol by 4 cents.
One might expect a negative reaction from Republicans but even fellow Democrats are not on board with Easley's ideas.
"We're a little concerned in this economic downturn which we find ourselves in to raise taxes right now," Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand (D-Cumberland) said.
Republicans believe the governor's budget plan focuses too much on spending and taxing.
"In tough economic times it is not the time to raise taxes, particularly, taxes that hit the poorest people," Senate Minority Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) said.
House Speaker Joe Hackney also has concerns about state employee pay. While the governor wants a 7-percent increase for teachers, he's offering just a 1.5-percent pay increase and a thousand dollar bonus for all other state employees.
"The House historically does not pass a budget with that kind of disparity between state employees and teachers and I would predict for you there would not be that kind of disparity this time either," Speaker Hackney (D-Orange) said.
While the budget is the main issue there are several other issues that remain on the table, however many lawmakers say they may not get to those this summer.
"The theory of this session in which we find ourselves is to examine the budget," Sen. Rand added. "We need to examine the budget and go home."
That could mean little movement on major issues like transportation, the drought, and gang legislation.
In an election year, few lawmakers want to rock the boat and will likely wait to address controversial issues in 2009.
Monday, Gov. Easley proposed large teacher pay raises but he also wants to raise taxes. So far, Republican and Democratic lawmakers are opposing some of the governor's ideas.
Easley wants to raise teacher pay to the national average. To do that, it requires a 7-percent pay increase. To pay for those raises and a pricey mental health reform he wants to raise the tax on cigarettes by 20 cents and the tax on alcohol by 4 cents.
One might expect a negative reaction from Republicans but even fellow Democrats are not on board with Easley's ideas.
"We're a little concerned in this economic downturn which we find ourselves in to raise taxes right now," Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand (D-Cumberland) said.
Republicans believe the governor's budget plan focuses too much on spending and taxing.
"In tough economic times it is not the time to raise taxes, particularly, taxes that hit the poorest people," Senate Minority Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) said.
House Speaker Joe Hackney also has concerns about state employee pay. While the governor wants a 7-percent increase for teachers, he's offering just a 1.5-percent pay increase and a thousand dollar bonus for all other state employees.
"The House historically does not pass a budget with that kind of disparity between state employees and teachers and I would predict for you there would not be that kind of disparity this time either," Speaker Hackney (D-Orange) said.
While the budget is the main issue there are several other issues that remain on the table, however many lawmakers say they may not get to those this summer.
"The theory of this session in which we find ourselves is to examine the budget," Sen. Rand added. "We need to examine the budget and go home."
That could mean little movement on major issues like transportation, the drought, and gang legislation.
In an election year, few lawmakers want to rock the boat and will likely wait to address controversial issues in 2009.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Working on prepping for the first day of the General Assembly so sorry for the lack of original post-but here's my story today on Gov. Easley's budget proposal released this morning.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Mike Easley wants to raise taxes on cigarettes and alcohol to help pay for teacher raises and mental health reform.
That's the highlight of a $21.5 billion budget the governor released Monday morning. It's the last budget of his administration before he leaves office in January.
Four years ago, Easley promised to help teacher pay reach the national average. His proposal does just that with a 7% raise.
"We do this by focusing on our strategy of helping beginning teachers," Gov. Easley said. "It will be an average of $36,000-36,500 when enacted. I'm sure many of you can recall when $30,000 sounded like a lot for teachers."
NC Association of Educator's Eddie Davis added, "To be able to say to people we are making the commitment to people to increase our teachers salaries as well as those mid career is a good connection and a good commitment for the people of North Carolina."
Gov. Easley also proposes $68 million dollars to help fix the mental health crisis. To pay for mental health and teacher raises, Easley wants to raise the cigarette tax by 20 cents a pack and four cents on alcohol.
"My thought is if 4 cents a can, if that causes somebody economic hardship, then they are probably drinking too much and are going to be customers of mental health/substance abuse centers anyway," Gov. Easley said.
Some feel those taxes target the poor and want taxes raised elsewhere.
"For example, we just eliminated an income tax on the wealthiest North Carolinians just last year which if you put that into place that would raise just as much money as they are going to raise from cigarette and alcohol taxes," Elaine Mejia from the NC Budget and Tax Center said.
While teachers and Gov. Easley are happy to get teacher's salaries up to the national average the state employees association is not so happy about their recommendations.
Easley's proposal offers state employees a 1.5% pay increase plus a one time $1000 bonus.
"This 1.5% can't put gas in your tank, as you know the cost of living is skyrocketing, gas food everything they need to just subsist is going through the roof and 1.5% won't come close to catching it," Ardis Watkins from the State Employees Association said.
Here's a look at some other recommendations. He returns $25 million in transportation funding to the highway trust fund. Easley gives four million dollars to improve probation problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case. He also give money to help families facing foreclosure and creates a drought task force.
Keep in mind these are simply the governor's proposals. The House and Senate must come up with their own versions, then all three sides must negotiate a final budget by June 30th.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Mike Easley wants to raise taxes on cigarettes and alcohol to help pay for teacher raises and mental health reform.
That's the highlight of a $21.5 billion budget the governor released Monday morning. It's the last budget of his administration before he leaves office in January.
Four years ago, Easley promised to help teacher pay reach the national average. His proposal does just that with a 7% raise.
"We do this by focusing on our strategy of helping beginning teachers," Gov. Easley said. "It will be an average of $36,000-36,500 when enacted. I'm sure many of you can recall when $30,000 sounded like a lot for teachers."
NC Association of Educator's Eddie Davis added, "To be able to say to people we are making the commitment to people to increase our teachers salaries as well as those mid career is a good connection and a good commitment for the people of North Carolina."
Gov. Easley also proposes $68 million dollars to help fix the mental health crisis. To pay for mental health and teacher raises, Easley wants to raise the cigarette tax by 20 cents a pack and four cents on alcohol.
"My thought is if 4 cents a can, if that causes somebody economic hardship, then they are probably drinking too much and are going to be customers of mental health/substance abuse centers anyway," Gov. Easley said.
Some feel those taxes target the poor and want taxes raised elsewhere.
"For example, we just eliminated an income tax on the wealthiest North Carolinians just last year which if you put that into place that would raise just as much money as they are going to raise from cigarette and alcohol taxes," Elaine Mejia from the NC Budget and Tax Center said.
While teachers and Gov. Easley are happy to get teacher's salaries up to the national average the state employees association is not so happy about their recommendations.
Easley's proposal offers state employees a 1.5% pay increase plus a one time $1000 bonus.
"This 1.5% can't put gas in your tank, as you know the cost of living is skyrocketing, gas food everything they need to just subsist is going through the roof and 1.5% won't come close to catching it," Ardis Watkins from the State Employees Association said.
Here's a look at some other recommendations. He returns $25 million in transportation funding to the highway trust fund. Easley gives four million dollars to improve probation problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case. He also give money to help families facing foreclosure and creates a drought task force.
Keep in mind these are simply the governor's proposals. The House and Senate must come up with their own versions, then all three sides must negotiate a final budget by June 30th.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
From my story today..
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley will unveil his final budget Monday morning and he says teacher pay will reach the national average.
Lawmakers get back to work in Raleigh on Tuesday and will come up with their budget proposals as well. Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum has a sneak peak of what we can expect.
Two months ago Gov. Easley proposed a massive package to help prevent future droughts.
"We currently believe we really have a 19th century water system in place in the 21st century and we have to make changes and improve on those," Easley said in March.
Aides say his budget will call for a drought task force and a sales tax holiday in october on energy efficient products. The estimated $22 billion budget will equal a four percent increase. Easley will once again focus on education.
"It's the national economy that's causing us concern and we think it's only going to be investing in education that we give people the ability to get the jobs that are going to be here in the future," Easley Senior Aide Dan Gerlach said.
That includes enough teacher pay increases to reach the national average.
"That's what the governor said he would do and he's accomplishing that," Gerlach added. "There's nothing more important than getting the best and brightest into our classrooms. These teachers spend hours with these kids every day."
State employees will get raises as well but it's unclear how much. Easley will call for mental health reform and more money for probation staffing to fix problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case.
On transportation, he will keep a cap on the gas tax and begin shifting money back to the highway trust fund that's been used for other purposes.
"Given the needs of transportation, the governor feels it's time to start the phaseout and bring some of that money in the highway trust fund," Gerlach said.
Despite requests for billion dollar bonds for transportation, school construction, and water and sewer, Gov, Easley will not recommend borrowing big bucks for those projects.
The governor will make no changes to the lottery which expects to reach its financial goals this year. He also plans to expand a program offering free college to military kids who lost their parents.
Keep in mind this is simply Gov. Easley's proposal. The State House and Senate will come up with their own ideas. Then all three sides must negotiate a final plan by the end of June.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley will unveil his final budget Monday morning and he says teacher pay will reach the national average.
Lawmakers get back to work in Raleigh on Tuesday and will come up with their budget proposals as well. Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum has a sneak peak of what we can expect.
Two months ago Gov. Easley proposed a massive package to help prevent future droughts.
"We currently believe we really have a 19th century water system in place in the 21st century and we have to make changes and improve on those," Easley said in March.
Aides say his budget will call for a drought task force and a sales tax holiday in october on energy efficient products. The estimated $22 billion budget will equal a four percent increase. Easley will once again focus on education.
"It's the national economy that's causing us concern and we think it's only going to be investing in education that we give people the ability to get the jobs that are going to be here in the future," Easley Senior Aide Dan Gerlach said.
That includes enough teacher pay increases to reach the national average.
"That's what the governor said he would do and he's accomplishing that," Gerlach added. "There's nothing more important than getting the best and brightest into our classrooms. These teachers spend hours with these kids every day."
State employees will get raises as well but it's unclear how much. Easley will call for mental health reform and more money for probation staffing to fix problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case.
On transportation, he will keep a cap on the gas tax and begin shifting money back to the highway trust fund that's been used for other purposes.
"Given the needs of transportation, the governor feels it's time to start the phaseout and bring some of that money in the highway trust fund," Gerlach said.
Despite requests for billion dollar bonds for transportation, school construction, and water and sewer, Gov, Easley will not recommend borrowing big bucks for those projects.
The governor will make no changes to the lottery which expects to reach its financial goals this year. He also plans to expand a program offering free college to military kids who lost their parents.
Keep in mind this is simply Gov. Easley's proposal. The State House and Senate will come up with their own ideas. Then all three sides must negotiate a final plan by the end of June.
From my story today..
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley will unveil his final budget Monday morning and he says teacher pay will reach the national average.
Lawmakers get back to work in Raleigh on Tuesday and will come up with their budget proposals as well. Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum has a sneak peak of what we can expect.
Two months ago Gov. Easley proposed a massive package to help prevent future droughts.
"We currently believe we really have a 19th century water system in place in the 21st century and we have to make changes and improve on those," Easley said in March.
Aides say his budget will call for a drought task force and a sales tax holiday in october on energy efficient products. The estimated $22 billion budget will equal a four percent increase. Easley will once again focus on education.
"It's the national economy that's causing us concern and we think it's only going to be investing in education that we give people the ability to get the jobs that are going to be here in the future," Easley Senior Aide Dan Gerlach said.
That includes enough teacher pay increases to reach the national average.
"That's what the governor said he would do and he's accomplishing that," Gerlach added. "There's nothing more important than getting the best and brightest into our classrooms. These teachers spend hours with these kids every day."
State employees will get raises as well but it's unclear how much. Easley will call for mental health reform and more money for probation staffing to fix problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case.
On transportation, he will keep a cap on the gas tax and begin shifting money back to the highway trust fund that's been used for other purposes.
"Given the needs of transportation, the governor feels it's time to start the phaseout and bring some of that money in the highway trust fund," Gerlach said.
Despite requests for billion dollar bonds for transportation, school construction, and water and sewer, Gov, Easley will not recommend borrowing big bucks for those projects.
The governor will make no changes to the lottery which expects to reach its financial goals this year. He also plans to expand a program offering free college to military kids who lost their parents.
Keep in mind this is simply Gov. Easley's proposal. The State House and Senate will come up with their own ideas. Then all three sides must negotiate a final plan by the end of June.
RALEIGH -- Gov. Easley will unveil his final budget Monday morning and he says teacher pay will reach the national average.
Lawmakers get back to work in Raleigh on Tuesday and will come up with their budget proposals as well. Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum has a sneak peak of what we can expect.
Two months ago Gov. Easley proposed a massive package to help prevent future droughts.
"We currently believe we really have a 19th century water system in place in the 21st century and we have to make changes and improve on those," Easley said in March.
Aides say his budget will call for a drought task force and a sales tax holiday in october on energy efficient products. The estimated $22 billion budget will equal a four percent increase. Easley will once again focus on education.
"It's the national economy that's causing us concern and we think it's only going to be investing in education that we give people the ability to get the jobs that are going to be here in the future," Easley Senior Aide Dan Gerlach said.
That includes enough teacher pay increases to reach the national average.
"That's what the governor said he would do and he's accomplishing that," Gerlach added. "There's nothing more important than getting the best and brightest into our classrooms. These teachers spend hours with these kids every day."
State employees will get raises as well but it's unclear how much. Easley will call for mental health reform and more money for probation staffing to fix problems highlighted by the Eve Carson murder case.
On transportation, he will keep a cap on the gas tax and begin shifting money back to the highway trust fund that's been used for other purposes.
"Given the needs of transportation, the governor feels it's time to start the phaseout and bring some of that money in the highway trust fund," Gerlach said.
Despite requests for billion dollar bonds for transportation, school construction, and water and sewer, Gov, Easley will not recommend borrowing big bucks for those projects.
The governor will make no changes to the lottery which expects to reach its financial goals this year. He also plans to expand a program offering free college to military kids who lost their parents.
Keep in mind this is simply Gov. Easley's proposal. The State House and Senate will come up with their own ideas. Then all three sides must negotiate a final plan by the end of June.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Another NC superdelegate for Obama?
I had an interesting conversation with Muriel Offerman, who is a North Carolina superdelegate.
Here's her response when I asked if she's still truly remained undecided?
"Yes, yes I have. I will say that I'm probably leaning more toward a decision now after the vote has been taken in North Carolina because that definitely tells me which candidate this state is backing."
She said she will not make any decision official or public though until after June 3rd when every state has held a vote. She said it will come some time in June, not necessarily the day after the final vote.
She has had only one call this week and it was from the Obama campaign. The rest came from reporters like myself!
She said the day Gov. Easley endorsed Hillary Clinton that Clinton asked her directly for her support but she told Sen. Clinton that she would not until the primary races were all over. She said Obama asked her on the phone for her support as well at one point.
In all, she has met with Clinton 3 times, Barack Obama once, Michelle Obama once and had numerous phone conversations with surrogates.
Should be interesting!
I had an interesting conversation with Muriel Offerman, who is a North Carolina superdelegate.
Here's her response when I asked if she's still truly remained undecided?
"Yes, yes I have. I will say that I'm probably leaning more toward a decision now after the vote has been taken in North Carolina because that definitely tells me which candidate this state is backing."
She said she will not make any decision official or public though until after June 3rd when every state has held a vote. She said it will come some time in June, not necessarily the day after the final vote.
She has had only one call this week and it was from the Obama campaign. The rest came from reporters like myself!
She said the day Gov. Easley endorsed Hillary Clinton that Clinton asked her directly for her support but she told Sen. Clinton that she would not until the primary races were all over. She said Obama asked her on the phone for her support as well at one point.
In all, she has met with Clinton 3 times, Barack Obama once, Michelle Obama once and had numerous phone conversations with surrogates.
Should be interesting!
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Obama wins NC..
I don't think anyone will be surprised by results in NC. What was interesting was Obama's speech. If you didn't see it, you should.
He spent about 2 minutes talking about NC and then went on for 25 minutes as if he was the nominee.
He even went as far as to call North Carolina a swing state in November if he was the nominee. History will have a say in that. NC hasn't picked a Democrat since 1976.
I don't think anyone will be surprised by results in NC. What was interesting was Obama's speech. If you didn't see it, you should.
He spent about 2 minutes talking about NC and then went on for 25 minutes as if he was the nominee.
He even went as far as to call North Carolina a swing state in November if he was the nominee. History will have a say in that. NC hasn't picked a Democrat since 1976.
Oh what a night....
I'll be at Obama headquarters in Raleigh tonight. I'll be posting more as the night goes on but I need to get there first so I'll be offline for a little bit.
I'll tell you what, if Obama loses it won't be because of his grassroots efforts. On several street corners there were tents with people selling T-shirts and pictures and pushing for votes.
In my neighborhood over the last several days people have canvassed the neighborhood and left literature on door knobs.
Should be interesting..come back for updates..probably anytime after 6!
I'll be at Obama headquarters in Raleigh tonight. I'll be posting more as the night goes on but I need to get there first so I'll be offline for a little bit.
I'll tell you what, if Obama loses it won't be because of his grassroots efforts. On several street corners there were tents with people selling T-shirts and pictures and pushing for votes.
In my neighborhood over the last several days people have canvassed the neighborhood and left literature on door knobs.
Should be interesting..come back for updates..probably anytime after 6!
Monday, May 05, 2008
Sorry I've been MIA on the blog lately..my my my has it been busy busy busy trying to do the TV end of things little alone do all my web work as well.
On top of that I had my first wedding anniversary this weekend!
Anywho..I'm in a mad dash tonight as well but in case you haven't heard Obama will be in Raleigh Tuesday night (Clinton is in Indiana). I had a few minutes with him as well this afternoon. Here's the script for your reading pleasure..
GREENSBORO -- News 14 Carolina Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum had a chance to talk with Barack Obama just minutes before he left North Carolina Monday night.
The Democratic presidential candidate held no public events in the state but did hold three private meetings with voters.
Posing for pictures just moments before takeoff, Obama leaves the state confident his message about the economy and gas prices will lead to victory.
"I think the Democratic party needs to be the party of the future and not the party of the past and that's what's going to be at stake tomorrow and I hope North Carolinians take the opportunity to seize that moment," Sen. Obama said.
Polls have him ahead as well. He wants Tar Heel voters to know that he believes he's the candidate to beat John McCain in November.
"If you elect Senator Clinton as the nominee then we're going to have the same election we had in 2000 and 2004," Obama added. "We've been bringing in new people in the process getting them excited and so I believe we can reach independents and even some Republicans that Senator Clinton simply cannot do."
Obama believes there are key differences between him and Clinton that will help propel him to victory Tuesday night.
"Are we going to tell the american people the truth about how we solve problems like high gas prices?" Obama asked. "On one hand Senator Clinton is talking about a gas tax holiday that her own husband when it was before him in 2000 said it was a gimmick."
Just in case you're curious,despite so many delegates at stake on Tuesday, he sleeps just fine the night before big votes.
"I tend to sleep like a rock the night before because we've been working so hard to get as many votes as possible," Sen. Obama said. "obviously on the day of the election you're out there scrambling trying to figure out what's going on. That's why we have the tradition of playing some basketball on election day just to get some of the nerves out."
With that the six week campaign ends, Obama boards plane, hoping he's done enough to secure a victory in North Carolina.
Senator Obama and his wife Michelle will watch Tuesday's results at Reynolds Coliseum in Raleigh. It is not open to the public. it is for invited guests only.
On top of that I had my first wedding anniversary this weekend!
Anywho..I'm in a mad dash tonight as well but in case you haven't heard Obama will be in Raleigh Tuesday night (Clinton is in Indiana). I had a few minutes with him as well this afternoon. Here's the script for your reading pleasure..
GREENSBORO -- News 14 Carolina Senior Political Reporter Tim Boyum had a chance to talk with Barack Obama just minutes before he left North Carolina Monday night.
The Democratic presidential candidate held no public events in the state but did hold three private meetings with voters.
Posing for pictures just moments before takeoff, Obama leaves the state confident his message about the economy and gas prices will lead to victory.
"I think the Democratic party needs to be the party of the future and not the party of the past and that's what's going to be at stake tomorrow and I hope North Carolinians take the opportunity to seize that moment," Sen. Obama said.
Polls have him ahead as well. He wants Tar Heel voters to know that he believes he's the candidate to beat John McCain in November.
"If you elect Senator Clinton as the nominee then we're going to have the same election we had in 2000 and 2004," Obama added. "We've been bringing in new people in the process getting them excited and so I believe we can reach independents and even some Republicans that Senator Clinton simply cannot do."
Obama believes there are key differences between him and Clinton that will help propel him to victory Tuesday night.
"Are we going to tell the american people the truth about how we solve problems like high gas prices?" Obama asked. "On one hand Senator Clinton is talking about a gas tax holiday that her own husband when it was before him in 2000 said it was a gimmick."
Just in case you're curious,despite so many delegates at stake on Tuesday, he sleeps just fine the night before big votes.
"I tend to sleep like a rock the night before because we've been working so hard to get as many votes as possible," Sen. Obama said. "obviously on the day of the election you're out there scrambling trying to figure out what's going on. That's why we have the tradition of playing some basketball on election day just to get some of the nerves out."
With that the six week campaign ends, Obama boards plane, hoping he's done enough to secure a victory in North Carolina.
Senator Obama and his wife Michelle will watch Tuesday's results at Reynolds Coliseum in Raleigh. It is not open to the public. it is for invited guests only.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Obama via satellite..
I had a chance to talk to Sen. Obama via satellite from Indiana today...
Here's a litte bit of what we talked about..
Short term gas price fix- He opposes 3 month gas tax holiday, supports $1000 middle class tax "cut"
Rev. Wright - believes it has hurt him in recent polls but hopes next 4-5 days will get back to the issues and it won't impact him any more.
Easley - wasn't surprised that he endorsed Clinton then went on to praise his own superdelegates (Reps. Watt, Price, Butterfield) and said Americans are more concerned with gas prices.
Missing layup against Hansbrough - upset he missed that moment and said it was really tough to keep up with "thoroughbreds"
You can see the full interview at news14.com or check out an hour long edition of Political Connections Friday at 6pm and Sunday at 11am.
Tomorrow I'll be working the late shift to cover the Jefferson-Jackson dinner. I believe we are planning on carrying the Obama, Clinton speeches on News 14 Carolina if you couldn't get a ticket.
I had a chance to talk to Sen. Obama via satellite from Indiana today...
Here's a litte bit of what we talked about..
Short term gas price fix- He opposes 3 month gas tax holiday, supports $1000 middle class tax "cut"
Rev. Wright - believes it has hurt him in recent polls but hopes next 4-5 days will get back to the issues and it won't impact him any more.
Easley - wasn't surprised that he endorsed Clinton then went on to praise his own superdelegates (Reps. Watt, Price, Butterfield) and said Americans are more concerned with gas prices.
Missing layup against Hansbrough - upset he missed that moment and said it was really tough to keep up with "thoroughbreds"
You can see the full interview at news14.com or check out an hour long edition of Political Connections Friday at 6pm and Sunday at 11am.
Tomorrow I'll be working the late shift to cover the Jefferson-Jackson dinner. I believe we are planning on carrying the Obama, Clinton speeches on News 14 Carolina if you couldn't get a ticket.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Obama and Heels...
So, I was one of the journalists taken along on the bus ride to see Sen. Obama play hoops with the Tar Heels.
We had to meet in Chapel Hill by 6am. By 6:45 we were security swept and put on a bus to the Dean Dome. Once inside the players started flowing in about 7:05 and Sen. Obama followed with Coach Williams.
It was interesting to watch the players as much as Sen. Obama. They were very relaxed and for the most part did not see overly star struck by any means. Granted, 3-4 of them will be NBA players so maybe that means nothing but you have to remember no matter how big and old some may look they are 18-21 years old only.
One by one they came over and shook his hand individually. Ty Lawson really seemed to get the biggest kick out of it.
Obama eventually got a pretty decent shot off just out of the reach of Hansbrough but missed and as Hansbrough dribbled up court he had a smile on his face as did Obama.
The players played like it was any other scrimmage though and it was clear that Obama was tired as he took himself out of the game.
It was a pretty good press opportunity for video. Particularly, because we were just arriving back to the hotel when Sen. Clinton was about to be endorsed by Gov. Easley. I would be incredibly surprised if this event wasn't meant to deflect a little attention away from the event! That's why most of us were surprised when the campaign allowed no comments on the pickup game from Sen. Obama and the team was not made available either.
UNC guard Marc Campbell from Raleigh guarded Obama the most-some story to tell the kids some day if Obama wins huh?
So, I was one of the journalists taken along on the bus ride to see Sen. Obama play hoops with the Tar Heels.
We had to meet in Chapel Hill by 6am. By 6:45 we were security swept and put on a bus to the Dean Dome. Once inside the players started flowing in about 7:05 and Sen. Obama followed with Coach Williams.
It was interesting to watch the players as much as Sen. Obama. They were very relaxed and for the most part did not see overly star struck by any means. Granted, 3-4 of them will be NBA players so maybe that means nothing but you have to remember no matter how big and old some may look they are 18-21 years old only.
One by one they came over and shook his hand individually. Ty Lawson really seemed to get the biggest kick out of it.
Obama eventually got a pretty decent shot off just out of the reach of Hansbrough but missed and as Hansbrough dribbled up court he had a smile on his face as did Obama.
The players played like it was any other scrimmage though and it was clear that Obama was tired as he took himself out of the game.
It was a pretty good press opportunity for video. Particularly, because we were just arriving back to the hotel when Sen. Clinton was about to be endorsed by Gov. Easley. I would be incredibly surprised if this event wasn't meant to deflect a little attention away from the event! That's why most of us were surprised when the campaign allowed no comments on the pickup game from Sen. Obama and the team was not made available either.
UNC guard Marc Campbell from Raleigh guarded Obama the most-some story to tell the kids some day if Obama wins huh?
Monday, April 28, 2008
Hunt at Wilson Obama event.
It's been reported that Gov. Easley will endorse Hillary Clinton in Raleigh on Tuesday. Monday night, former Gov. Jim Hunt was at a Barack Obama speech in Wilson and Sen. Obama pointed it out to the audience.
Is it an endorsement or just someone who wanted to see the event?
I'm going to try and get to him after the event but we're practically caged in a media area so it will be hard!
It's been reported that Gov. Easley will endorse Hillary Clinton in Raleigh on Tuesday. Monday night, former Gov. Jim Hunt was at a Barack Obama speech in Wilson and Sen. Obama pointed it out to the audience.
Is it an endorsement or just someone who wanted to see the event?
I'm going to try and get to him after the event but we're practically caged in a media area so it will be hard!
Umbrellas for Obama...
I'm at the Wilson event for Sen. Obama and the weather is having a huge impact here! A couple thousand people have been waiting in line and it just started pouring. Not like up and down pouring...like sideways pouring! People are now filling in the gym here at the Beddington High School and they are soaked! It will be interesting to see if Obama mentions their efforts to see him tonight.
I'm working a night shift covering this event so I haven't had a lot of time to work on other election related items. These days it seems like I don't know know what I'll be doing ten minutes to the next!!
Anywho, I'll try to update on the event as the night goes on!
I'm at the Wilson event for Sen. Obama and the weather is having a huge impact here! A couple thousand people have been waiting in line and it just started pouring. Not like up and down pouring...like sideways pouring! People are now filling in the gym here at the Beddington High School and they are soaked! It will be interesting to see if Obama mentions their efforts to see him tonight.
I'm working a night shift covering this event so I haven't had a lot of time to work on other election related items. These days it seems like I don't know know what I'll be doing ten minutes to the next!!
Anywho, I'll try to update on the event as the night goes on!
Friday, April 25, 2008
Good morning!I was fortunate enough to get an exclusive 10 minute interview with Sen. Hillary Clinton in Jacksonville. That may not seem long but in the world of television and politics it's a lifetime.
Click on the picture of Hillary to watch the entire interview!
She talks about everything from the economy to faith to, yes, even dealing with the fallout from her family struggles in the White House!
Have a great weekend because it's about to get wild on the Presidential Primary campaign trail!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Happy Thursday!
Anybody else tired yet? It's getting quite insane here trying to cover all these races. I don't have much to report except I will have a lot to report tomorrow (Friday).
Make sure to watch Political Connections Friday night at 6 and Sunday at 11am and you'll see what I'm working on.
Check back tomorrow morning and I'll have an update.
Will we matter? The interesting debate now is how much will NC matter? Rob Christensen over at the N&O says not much compared to Indiana now. I tend to agree. We have many more delegates but Obama smells blood as he trails by just two in recent Indiana polls. I think he thinks if he can win that state and North Carolina it will be the last nail in the coffin of Clinton's campaign.
Proof? I don't really have any. However, the PA primary was Tuesday and our states our next and has no scheduled events in this state until next Friday.
Should be interesting.
Talk to you tomorrow!
Anybody else tired yet? It's getting quite insane here trying to cover all these races. I don't have much to report except I will have a lot to report tomorrow (Friday).
Make sure to watch Political Connections Friday night at 6 and Sunday at 11am and you'll see what I'm working on.
Check back tomorrow morning and I'll have an update.
Will we matter? The interesting debate now is how much will NC matter? Rob Christensen over at the N&O says not much compared to Indiana now. I tend to agree. We have many more delegates but Obama smells blood as he trails by just two in recent Indiana polls. I think he thinks if he can win that state and North Carolina it will be the last nail in the coffin of Clinton's campaign.
Proof? I don't really have any. However, the PA primary was Tuesday and our states our next and has no scheduled events in this state until next Friday.
Should be interesting.
Talk to you tomorrow!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Bill Clinton playing the field...
Okay maybe that's a bad headline considering the past, but he was on a little league field today campaigning for his wife.
The stop in Hillsborough took place on the small baseball field. He stood in the back of a pick up truck with one leg propped up on the side of the truck. The truck was parked over home plate with an American flag draped over the backstop.
Clinton says Barack Obama won't debate in North Carolina because Pennsylvania voters overwhelmingly believed that Hillary Clinton won that debate.
He's focusing on the economy at the moment. More later...
Okay maybe that's a bad headline considering the past, but he was on a little league field today campaigning for his wife.
The stop in Hillsborough took place on the small baseball field. He stood in the back of a pick up truck with one leg propped up on the side of the truck. The truck was parked over home plate with an American flag draped over the backstop.
Clinton says Barack Obama won't debate in North Carolina because Pennsylvania voters overwhelmingly believed that Hillary Clinton won that debate.
He's focusing on the economy at the moment. More later...
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Power of suggestion???
Beverly Perdue missed her public appearance as Lieutenant Governor announcing a new plan among seven groups to help educators become healthier and, in turn, help students become healthier as well.
We were told Perdue could not make it because of her appearance in tonight's debate.
Anywho, an aide of Perdue's spoke on her behalf and called her Governor Perdue at least twice and I believe I caught a third time as well.
Those of us in the media all noticed it, but I couldn't see any other audience members perking up to respond.
______________________________________
Strong statement...
At a news conference today announcing a new program to help schools become healthier State School Board Chairman Howard Lee had this to say about what he's seen in some kids during visits to schools across North Carolina.
"And I'm quite struck by the number of plump kids who waddle into these auditoriums. And then I ask why and the why is because we know they are eating a lot of junk food. We know they are not exercising."
Beverly Perdue missed her public appearance as Lieutenant Governor announcing a new plan among seven groups to help educators become healthier and, in turn, help students become healthier as well.
We were told Perdue could not make it because of her appearance in tonight's debate.
Anywho, an aide of Perdue's spoke on her behalf and called her Governor Perdue at least twice and I believe I caught a third time as well.
Those of us in the media all noticed it, but I couldn't see any other audience members perking up to respond.
______________________________________
Strong statement...
At a news conference today announcing a new program to help schools become healthier State School Board Chairman Howard Lee had this to say about what he's seen in some kids during visits to schools across North Carolina.
"And I'm quite struck by the number of plump kids who waddle into these auditoriums. And then I ask why and the why is because we know they are eating a lot of junk food. We know they are not exercising."
Monday, April 21, 2008
Back in the saddle...
Well, after a one on one with Sen. Obama Thursday night I headed to Pennsylvania to see the in-laws. It was pretty interesting to see all the coverage. I was in western PA which is pretty much Clinton territory. In fact, this morning Bill Clinton held a rally at my wife's former high school in Greensburg which is about 40 minutes outside of Pittsburgh.
Anywho, the NC Dem Party cancelled the Presidential debate because Sen. Obama couldn't agree on it. In a one on one interview I had with him last Thursday, he said despite calls from two superdelegates (Gov. Easley and Hunt) to debate, he wasn't concerned about losing support from NC Democrats.
He wasn't kidding as the debate was cancelled.
Think about this as well...everyone is waiting for Wednesday and the beginning of craziness in this state after the Pennsylvania primary.
What if Sen. Obama pulss off an upset? Most pundits will practically declare Obama the nominee. Will everyone close shop and move out of state? Some pundits believe turnout would cut in half and that could have an enormous impact on state races.
Pretty wild to think about but most believe Clinton will win.
Well, after a one on one with Sen. Obama Thursday night I headed to Pennsylvania to see the in-laws. It was pretty interesting to see all the coverage. I was in western PA which is pretty much Clinton territory. In fact, this morning Bill Clinton held a rally at my wife's former high school in Greensburg which is about 40 minutes outside of Pittsburgh.
Anywho, the NC Dem Party cancelled the Presidential debate because Sen. Obama couldn't agree on it. In a one on one interview I had with him last Thursday, he said despite calls from two superdelegates (Gov. Easley and Hunt) to debate, he wasn't concerned about losing support from NC Democrats.
He wasn't kidding as the debate was cancelled.
Think about this as well...everyone is waiting for Wednesday and the beginning of craziness in this state after the Pennsylvania primary.
What if Sen. Obama pulss off an upset? Most pundits will practically declare Obama the nominee. Will everyone close shop and move out of state? Some pundits believe turnout would cut in half and that could have an enormous impact on state races.
Pretty wild to think about but most believe Clinton will win.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Hey all! I know I promised a longer entry but last night was a late night and I'm now in Pennsylvania. No, I'm not covering the primary. It's a quick trip to see the in-laws.
Anyway, last night was a late night because we were fortunate to get a sit down interview with Sen. Obama in Greenville.
I just wanted to post real quick to let you know the entire interview will air on Political Connections tonight at 6pm and Sunday again at 11.
Have a great weekend! I can't wait to see how the news is covering the primary here in Pittsburgh!
Anyway, last night was a late night because we were fortunate to get a sit down interview with Sen. Obama in Greenville.
I just wanted to post real quick to let you know the entire interview will air on Political Connections tonight at 6pm and Sunday again at 11.
Have a great weekend! I can't wait to see how the news is covering the primary here in Pittsburgh!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Hey all...sorry for the lack of entries. Life is a little hectic on many fronts! I'll have some great stuff tomorrow night or Friday so stay tuned. In the mean time here's my story from today...
RALEIGH -- The May primary is still more than two weeks away but you can start voting as early as Thursday.
Early one stop voting opens up across the state at limited locations and if you forgot to register, for the first time in a statewide election, you can still vote during early voting.
voter registration has jumped 13-percent from 2004 and some elections officials believe turnout could reach 50-percent on May 6th.
It's exciting for voter advocates but it's causing some concern as well.
"This is a big election," Bob Hall from Democracy North Carolina said. "This is going to be a record shattering election. We want to be sure that all those early voting sites have adequate staffing."
That's why Hall and others are hoping you'll use one stop early voting that starts Thursday and continues until May 3rd.
"People that can vote early should try to vote early particularly on a weekday in the mid morning mid afternoon if they have that kind of flexibility, that's going to be the times with the least long lines," Hall added.
To help with higher turnout there are more early voting sites than ever across the state. Wake County added eight new sites for this election alone. Mecklenburg County added five for a total of 17. Guilford County officials believe they have enough with 12.
A new law allows you to register and vote on the same day during early voting, but you still cannot vote on election day.
Same day voters must bring a photo ID like a driver's license, bank statement, utility bill, or student i-d.
"Most people don't get excited about elections until right up to the time to really vote and so that's why we feel this would be something that would help to make sure those people who are thinking about that and would say I haven't registered yet and I want to vote and they will be able to do that," Lynice Williams from the Same Day Voter Coalition said.
Advocates hope the changes will lead to a smooth voting experience from now through May 6th. Each county controls the number of early voting sites and hours.
RALEIGH -- The May primary is still more than two weeks away but you can start voting as early as Thursday.
Early one stop voting opens up across the state at limited locations and if you forgot to register, for the first time in a statewide election, you can still vote during early voting.
voter registration has jumped 13-percent from 2004 and some elections officials believe turnout could reach 50-percent on May 6th.
It's exciting for voter advocates but it's causing some concern as well.
"This is a big election," Bob Hall from Democracy North Carolina said. "This is going to be a record shattering election. We want to be sure that all those early voting sites have adequate staffing."
That's why Hall and others are hoping you'll use one stop early voting that starts Thursday and continues until May 3rd.
"People that can vote early should try to vote early particularly on a weekday in the mid morning mid afternoon if they have that kind of flexibility, that's going to be the times with the least long lines," Hall added.
To help with higher turnout there are more early voting sites than ever across the state. Wake County added eight new sites for this election alone. Mecklenburg County added five for a total of 17. Guilford County officials believe they have enough with 12.
A new law allows you to register and vote on the same day during early voting, but you still cannot vote on election day.
Same day voters must bring a photo ID like a driver's license, bank statement, utility bill, or student i-d.
"Most people don't get excited about elections until right up to the time to really vote and so that's why we feel this would be something that would help to make sure those people who are thinking about that and would say I haven't registered yet and I want to vote and they will be able to do that," Lynice Williams from the Same Day Voter Coalition said.
Advocates hope the changes will lead to a smooth voting experience from now through May 6th. Each county controls the number of early voting sites and hours.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Voter registration number crunching...
Math typically makes my head hurt and wow is my head hurting right now! I should have never said in school "when will I ever need this anyway in the real world?".
Anyway, new registration numbers from the State Board of Elections are out.
First glance shows a huge number of Democrats and unaffiliated but if you compare it to 2004 you see a different picture.
Since January 1
2.6% increase
76,131 Democrats (53%)
53, 732 unaffiliated (37%)
14,911 Republican (10%)
So, you might think wow the Republicans are having issues but the numbers since January 1st are clearly representing the desire to vote in this particular primary.
If you compare registration numbers in May 2004 to today's numbers (last Presidential primary year to this year)...
Democrats - 180,036 more now (7.5% increase)
Republicans - 184,063 more now (10.5% increase)
Unaffiliated - 317,014 more now (34.9% increase)
Overall numbers show still more Democrats are registered but I thought it was interesting to note in the last four years more Republicans have registered than Democrats even including this recent push. Obviously, the wow factor sits with the unaffiliated numbers.
By the way overall there are 671,014 more registered since 04 which makes a 13.2% increase.
Math typically makes my head hurt and wow is my head hurting right now! I should have never said in school "when will I ever need this anyway in the real world?".
Anyway, new registration numbers from the State Board of Elections are out.
First glance shows a huge number of Democrats and unaffiliated but if you compare it to 2004 you see a different picture.
Since January 1
2.6% increase
76,131 Democrats (53%)
53, 732 unaffiliated (37%)
14,911 Republican (10%)
So, you might think wow the Republicans are having issues but the numbers since January 1st are clearly representing the desire to vote in this particular primary.
If you compare registration numbers in May 2004 to today's numbers (last Presidential primary year to this year)...
Democrats - 180,036 more now (7.5% increase)
Republicans - 184,063 more now (10.5% increase)
Unaffiliated - 317,014 more now (34.9% increase)
Overall numbers show still more Democrats are registered but I thought it was interesting to note in the last four years more Republicans have registered than Democrats even including this recent push. Obviously, the wow factor sits with the unaffiliated numbers.
By the way overall there are 671,014 more registered since 04 which makes a 13.2% increase.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Hey all..sorry for the lack of entries today but I was on the road and busy covering Cesar Laurean's arrest. I was in Jacksonville doing a story on the investigators.
Anywho...back to politics on Monday.
In the meantime..check out Political Connections Sunday at 11am. I have an interview with Michelle Obama and will talk about the gubernatorial race a little as well..
Have a great weekend!
Anywho...back to politics on Monday.
In the meantime..check out Political Connections Sunday at 11am. I have an interview with Michelle Obama and will talk about the gubernatorial race a little as well..
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Obama full court press...
Hillary Clinton's campaign is known for having incredible organization and a great ground force. She has powerful surrogates in Bill and Chelsea Clinton.
However, Obama is turning on the full court press with surrogates and supporters. Last week he had Wisconsin's Governor campaigning in NC. Today and tomorrow Kansas' Governor will campaign.
He had the Wayans brothers helping with voter registration. He's also getting help from Tatyana Ali and Sophia Bush (our younger friends will know them!) helping with voter drives across the state.
It seems we are constantly getting press releases about events going on. At the same time, Clinton's camp is sending out press releases about campaign offices that are just now having grand openings.
Hillary Clinton's campaign is known for having incredible organization and a great ground force. She has powerful surrogates in Bill and Chelsea Clinton.
However, Obama is turning on the full court press with surrogates and supporters. Last week he had Wisconsin's Governor campaigning in NC. Today and tomorrow Kansas' Governor will campaign.
He had the Wayans brothers helping with voter registration. He's also getting help from Tatyana Ali and Sophia Bush (our younger friends will know them!) helping with voter drives across the state.
It seems we are constantly getting press releases about events going on. At the same time, Clinton's camp is sending out press releases about campaign offices that are just now having grand openings.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
I had a chance to interview Michelle Obama this afternoon. Here's just a few snipits. Check out the full interview this week on Political Connections.
Her thoughts on her role in the campaing..
"My goal is to give people a better sense of who Barack is not just as a candidate but as a man. What are his values, his character that I think make him stand out not just as a candidate, but as a potential president."
Her thoughts on staying out of the spats between Bill Clinton and her husband...
"Barack is the candidate and on tough issues, policy, any skirmishes you know he's the one that has got to battle it out because he's the one who's going to be the person in the oval office so as far as I'm concerned as I look at this as a citizen, I don't want to know what Michelle Obama thinks, I want to know what Barack Obama thinks."
Her thoughts on the race here in NC...
"As far as I'm concerned Barack Obama is the underdog until he is in the oval office. People need to listen and keep their hearts, minds, and ears open because I know there is still people who are undecided who supported another candidate who is no longer in the race."
Her thoughts on her role in the campaing..
"My goal is to give people a better sense of who Barack is not just as a candidate but as a man. What are his values, his character that I think make him stand out not just as a candidate, but as a potential president."
Her thoughts on staying out of the spats between Bill Clinton and her husband...
"Barack is the candidate and on tough issues, policy, any skirmishes you know he's the one that has got to battle it out because he's the one who's going to be the person in the oval office so as far as I'm concerned as I look at this as a citizen, I don't want to know what Michelle Obama thinks, I want to know what Barack Obama thinks."
Her thoughts on the race here in NC...
"As far as I'm concerned Barack Obama is the underdog until he is in the oval office. People need to listen and keep their hearts, minds, and ears open because I know there is still people who are undecided who supported another candidate who is no longer in the race."
Mrs. Obama in Winston-Salem...
So, I'm at the Michelle Obama event in Winston-Salem this afternoon. We're about 45 minutes away from her arriving.
Lt. Gov. candidate Hampton Dellinger was outside working the line and handing out campaing materials. Inside, Rep. Larry Womble (D-Forsyth) is sitting in the front row. So far, that's the political types I've seen.
UPDATE- I just saw Lt. Gov. candidate Dan Besse as well. Rep. Earline Parmon is here as well.
I'm getting a chance to interview Mrs. Obama afterward so that should be interesting to get her perspective on the race here in North Carolina. I interviewed her in Columbia, SC in January but a lot has changed.
So, I'm at the Michelle Obama event in Winston-Salem this afternoon. We're about 45 minutes away from her arriving.
Lt. Gov. candidate Hampton Dellinger was outside working the line and handing out campaing materials. Inside, Rep. Larry Womble (D-Forsyth) is sitting in the front row. So far, that's the political types I've seen.
UPDATE- I just saw Lt. Gov. candidate Dan Besse as well. Rep. Earline Parmon is here as well.
I'm getting a chance to interview Mrs. Obama afterward so that should be interesting to get her perspective on the race here in North Carolina. I interviewed her in Columbia, SC in January but a lot has changed.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Wright guilty...
As you've probably heard by now, a jury has convicted Thomas Wright on 3 counts of fraud and he will get at least 5 years and 10 months behind bars. He was also kicked out of the state legislature a couple weeks ago.
You can check out the story at www.news14.com.
There was very little, if any, emotion from Wright and his family in court today. When the verdict was read he barely moved. After the first count was read he did slightly shake his head. His wife sat in the front row and barely moved as well without shedding a tear or showing any outright emotion. One of their sons looked similar sitting in the bench behind his mother.
His attorney, Doug Harris, said he did tell the family to expect a guilty verdict so maybe that's why they reacted the way they did. Harris did say his wife asked if Wright would go home during the appeals process and he told her no.
Wright guaranteed a victory on appeal by the way!
As you've probably heard by now, a jury has convicted Thomas Wright on 3 counts of fraud and he will get at least 5 years and 10 months behind bars. He was also kicked out of the state legislature a couple weeks ago.
You can check out the story at www.news14.com.
There was very little, if any, emotion from Wright and his family in court today. When the verdict was read he barely moved. After the first count was read he did slightly shake his head. His wife sat in the front row and barely moved as well without shedding a tear or showing any outright emotion. One of their sons looked similar sitting in the bench behind his mother.
His attorney, Doug Harris, said he did tell the family to expect a guilty verdict so maybe that's why they reacted the way they did. Harris did say his wife asked if Wright would go home during the appeals process and he told her no.
Wright guaranteed a victory on appeal by the way!
Friday, April 04, 2008
Exhaustion has set in after a long week of covering the Wright trial and I need to spend some quality time with the wife so sorry for the short entry.
No verdict..back at it Monday morning.
Here's my story from today..
RALEIGH -- No verdict after a day of deliberations in the Thomas Wright trial.
The former lawmaker faces four criminal counts of fraud relating to a bank loan and charitable donations.
As closing arguments began, Wright sat quiet and calm as his attorney told juror that's he's on trial because of politics.
"Tom Wright supported a Republican in the 2006 Senate election in his county," Wright's attorney Harris said. "And what happened next? One month later, one month later, Joe Sinsheimer filed a complaint with the elections board that led to all of this."
All of this includes four felony fraud charges. Investigators believe he pocketed nearly $9000 in charitable donations.
"How could you do this? You're an educated man," Wake County District Attorney Colon Willoughby said. "How could you do this? You're an elected official."
Wright maintains it was simply slopping bookkeeping. Investigators also believe Wright used a bogus letter promising money to help secure a $150,000 loan.
Harris told jurors that Wright committed no fraud because he gained nothing.
"What kind of idiot would set up a corporation, get a federal tax id number, get three other people in the corporation, borrow $150,000 and not get any money out of the deal? What kind of idiot," Harris said.
The DA admitted to jurors that Wright has done good deeds but somehow went down the wrong path.
"His community needed his help, and he did help some folks but somewhere along the way he got his values mixed up," Willoughby added.
The jury did ask a couple questions and did ask the judge for some evidence and deliberated for about four hours but could not come up with a verdict. They will come back first thing Monday morning at 9:30am.
Wright also faces an obstruction of justice charge that he will defend in a separate trial. Investigators believe Wright failed to report $180,000 in campaign donations.
No verdict..back at it Monday morning.
Here's my story from today..
RALEIGH -- No verdict after a day of deliberations in the Thomas Wright trial.
The former lawmaker faces four criminal counts of fraud relating to a bank loan and charitable donations.
As closing arguments began, Wright sat quiet and calm as his attorney told juror that's he's on trial because of politics.
"Tom Wright supported a Republican in the 2006 Senate election in his county," Wright's attorney Harris said. "And what happened next? One month later, one month later, Joe Sinsheimer filed a complaint with the elections board that led to all of this."
All of this includes four felony fraud charges. Investigators believe he pocketed nearly $9000 in charitable donations.
"How could you do this? You're an educated man," Wake County District Attorney Colon Willoughby said. "How could you do this? You're an elected official."
Wright maintains it was simply slopping bookkeeping. Investigators also believe Wright used a bogus letter promising money to help secure a $150,000 loan.
Harris told jurors that Wright committed no fraud because he gained nothing.
"What kind of idiot would set up a corporation, get a federal tax id number, get three other people in the corporation, borrow $150,000 and not get any money out of the deal? What kind of idiot," Harris said.
The DA admitted to jurors that Wright has done good deeds but somehow went down the wrong path.
"His community needed his help, and he did help some folks but somewhere along the way he got his values mixed up," Willoughby added.
The jury did ask a couple questions and did ask the judge for some evidence and deliberated for about four hours but could not come up with a verdict. They will come back first thing Monday morning at 9:30am.
Wright also faces an obstruction of justice charge that he will defend in a separate trial. Investigators believe Wright failed to report $180,000 in campaign donations.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
**UPDATE**
Wright is done testifying and the defense has rested and the prosecution has no more evidence. The jury has gone home and the attorneys and judge are working on jury instructions.
Attorneys will give closing arguments first thing in the morning then Wright's fate will rest in the hands of the jury!
**PREVIOUSLY**
Wright's wife takes the stand..he's on the stand now!
The prosecution has rested in the Thomas Wright fraud trial. His attorney, Doug Harris asked the judge to remove himself from this trial and future trials then asked to have the case dismissed.
Both motions were denied.
Harris then called Wright's wife to the stand. She said he's very unorganized and she has found checks written out for nearly $4000 sitting around the office in their home.
Wright's main defense is sloppy bookkeeping led to the charges and he's innocent. His wife also said she gets upset that he spends so much of their own money on his health charities and initiatives.
Wright is going through his background on the stand now.
Wright is done testifying and the defense has rested and the prosecution has no more evidence. The jury has gone home and the attorneys and judge are working on jury instructions.
Attorneys will give closing arguments first thing in the morning then Wright's fate will rest in the hands of the jury!
**PREVIOUSLY**
Wright's wife takes the stand..he's on the stand now!
The prosecution has rested in the Thomas Wright fraud trial. His attorney, Doug Harris asked the judge to remove himself from this trial and future trials then asked to have the case dismissed.
Both motions were denied.
Harris then called Wright's wife to the stand. She said he's very unorganized and she has found checks written out for nearly $4000 sitting around the office in their home.
Wright's main defense is sloppy bookkeeping led to the charges and he's innocent. His wife also said she gets upset that he spends so much of their own money on his health charities and initiatives.
Wright is going through his background on the stand now.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Doyle won't budge on Easley conversation...
Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle is campaigning on behalf of Barack Obama in NC today and tomorrow. He was one of the first governors to endorse Obama.
At an event in Raleigh, a fellow reporter asked during a press conference if he had conversations with Gov. Easley about the presidential race. I pushed Gov. Doyle on the question as well in a later interview.
He says he's been friends with Gov. Easley since they were both Attorneys General and now as governors. He says they have talked about the presidential race but would not say an ounce of what was in that conversation.
Governor Easley, a superdelegate, has not said who he supports. He has said he will vote for who he wants to and previous results or pressure from the public will have not influence on his vote.
Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle is campaigning on behalf of Barack Obama in NC today and tomorrow. He was one of the first governors to endorse Obama.
At an event in Raleigh, a fellow reporter asked during a press conference if he had conversations with Gov. Easley about the presidential race. I pushed Gov. Doyle on the question as well in a later interview.
He says he's been friends with Gov. Easley since they were both Attorneys General and now as governors. He says they have talked about the presidential race but would not say an ounce of what was in that conversation.
Governor Easley, a superdelegate, has not said who he supports. He has said he will vote for who he wants to and previous results or pressure from the public will have not influence on his vote.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Most creative campaign material?
So, I got back from covering the Thomas Wright trial and there was an overnight pkg on my desk. I shook it and it rattled a little bit. Needless to say I was nervous! You never know what can be sent to a reporter.
I opened it up and inside was a mini trash can, a mini broom, and a rug. It was from Republican Attorney General candidate Bob Crumley. The objects were meant as visual aids to represent his belief that current Attorney General Roy Cooper is sweeping under the rug any concern over potential violations of state public records law concerning Governor Easley's Press office.
Get it..sweeping it under the rug..he sent a mini rug, broom, and trash can.
Seriously. I've never met the man, but that was one of the most creative campaign pkg's I've received. Particularly, since it wasn't a gubernatorial or Senate race.
I'll try to get a pic out of it for you to see.
So, I got back from covering the Thomas Wright trial and there was an overnight pkg on my desk. I shook it and it rattled a little bit. Needless to say I was nervous! You never know what can be sent to a reporter.
I opened it up and inside was a mini trash can, a mini broom, and a rug. It was from Republican Attorney General candidate Bob Crumley. The objects were meant as visual aids to represent his belief that current Attorney General Roy Cooper is sweeping under the rug any concern over potential violations of state public records law concerning Governor Easley's Press office.
Get it..sweeping it under the rug..he sent a mini rug, broom, and trash can.
Seriously. I've never met the man, but that was one of the most creative campaign pkg's I've received. Particularly, since it wasn't a gubernatorial or Senate race.
I'll try to get a pic out of it for you to see.
Obama surrogates coming...
Sen. Clinton has her husband and daughter campaigning here, now Sen. Obama is bringing his own star power.
Wisconsin's governor will travel to North Carolina Wednesday and Thursday to push Obama's middle class plans.
And, aiming for the youth vote (Chelsea visited several colleges this week), the Wayan brothers will campaign on several campusus this weekend. The Wayans are comedians and actors for those of you who have not seen In Living Color or any of their movies!
The Obama campaign is also the first to campaign outside of the 4 major TV markets. Wisconsin's Gov. will head down east to Goldsboro and Wilmington as well as Raleigh.
Sen. Clinton has her husband and daughter campaigning here, now Sen. Obama is bringing his own star power.
Wisconsin's governor will travel to North Carolina Wednesday and Thursday to push Obama's middle class plans.
And, aiming for the youth vote (Chelsea visited several colleges this week), the Wayan brothers will campaign on several campusus this weekend. The Wayans are comedians and actors for those of you who have not seen In Living Color or any of their movies!
The Obama campaign is also the first to campaign outside of the 4 major TV markets. Wisconsin's Gov. will head down east to Goldsboro and Wilmington as well as Raleigh.
Wright trial-Day 2
I'm at the Wake County Courthouse covering Thomas Wright's criminal trial. If you don't know, he's the former State Representative from Wilmington who was kicked out of the General Assembly 10 days ago.
It stems from the fraud charges he now faces in court. Basically, investigators believe he used a fake letter to get a loan for a health non-profit that never really existed in the first place. There were no by-laws and there were never any meetings. He's also accused of pocketing nearly $9000 in charitable donations.
Wright's attorney, Doug Harris, has said he wanted the legislative hearing and trial delayed because he didn't have time to get a defense together.
In the first days of this trial it's becoming clear what his defense is in the case. He's maintained the money mix-up was simply sloppy bookkeeping. In opening statements, Harris said the health foundation was a failure and every man deserves a failure. He's pointed out several times to the jury that no one has complained about being ripped off by Wright. He's said several times that the bank didn't lose out on the loan.
Harris is essentially saying to the jury, Wright made some mistakes but nobody was hurt and Wright deserves to be forgiven for his mistakes.
Problem is, Prosecutors believe those mistakes broke the law and they believe he deserves to be forgiven after serving time behind bars.
I'm at the Wake County Courthouse covering Thomas Wright's criminal trial. If you don't know, he's the former State Representative from Wilmington who was kicked out of the General Assembly 10 days ago.
It stems from the fraud charges he now faces in court. Basically, investigators believe he used a fake letter to get a loan for a health non-profit that never really existed in the first place. There were no by-laws and there were never any meetings. He's also accused of pocketing nearly $9000 in charitable donations.
Wright's attorney, Doug Harris, has said he wanted the legislative hearing and trial delayed because he didn't have time to get a defense together.
In the first days of this trial it's becoming clear what his defense is in the case. He's maintained the money mix-up was simply sloppy bookkeeping. In opening statements, Harris said the health foundation was a failure and every man deserves a failure. He's pointed out several times to the jury that no one has complained about being ripped off by Wright. He's said several times that the bank didn't lose out on the loan.
Harris is essentially saying to the jury, Wright made some mistakes but nobody was hurt and Wright deserves to be forgiven for his mistakes.
Problem is, Prosecutors believe those mistakes broke the law and they believe he deserves to be forgiven after serving time behind bars.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Bev Perdue proposes debate...
I'll put the full release below but I just wanted to point out that News 14 Carolina already proposed a debate in conjunction with Peace College and the NC Cable Association that would have aired statewide. We proposed the debate last fall and were denied earlier this year.
Here's her release this morning..
"In a letter to the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters, Bev Perdue has challenged Richard Moore to a seventh debate. Perdue has asked the broadcasters’ association to oversee the process to ensure a statewide televised audience.
“After seeing the sleazy personal attacks in Richard Moore’s most recent ad, I want an opportunity to look him in the eye to confront him with the facts,” said Perdue.
“And because the debate is supposed to be about our ideas and our records, I call on Richard to release all of the public documents we have requested – documents that he has failed to provide for more than eight months. If we’re going to have a debate about our records, then it’s time for Richard Moore to come clean regarding the missing public records and the sweetheart deal he gave to State Insurance Services.”
Missing public records:
(* denotes documents first requested July 20, 2007)
Copies of the daily schedules and/or visitor logs for State Treasurer Richard Moore -from January 6, 2001 to the present.*
Travel and expense reimbursements (including copies of receipts) submitted by or paid to Richard Moore from January 6, 2001 to the present. *
Records of any state-owned or state-leased vehicles used by Richard Moore, including but not limited to mileage logs and accident reports from January 6, 2001 to the present*
unclaimed property contracts*
legal services contracts*
pr/lobbying contracts*
Letters declaring support or opposition to legislation*
Records regarding the contract awarded to State Insurance Services and any complaints that have been filed regarding policies sold by SIS "
I'll put the full release below but I just wanted to point out that News 14 Carolina already proposed a debate in conjunction with Peace College and the NC Cable Association that would have aired statewide. We proposed the debate last fall and were denied earlier this year.
Here's her release this morning..
"In a letter to the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters, Bev Perdue has challenged Richard Moore to a seventh debate. Perdue has asked the broadcasters’ association to oversee the process to ensure a statewide televised audience.
“After seeing the sleazy personal attacks in Richard Moore’s most recent ad, I want an opportunity to look him in the eye to confront him with the facts,” said Perdue.
“And because the debate is supposed to be about our ideas and our records, I call on Richard to release all of the public documents we have requested – documents that he has failed to provide for more than eight months. If we’re going to have a debate about our records, then it’s time for Richard Moore to come clean regarding the missing public records and the sweetheart deal he gave to State Insurance Services.”
Missing public records:
(* denotes documents first requested July 20, 2007)
Copies of the daily schedules and/or visitor logs for State Treasurer Richard Moore -from January 6, 2001 to the present.*
Travel and expense reimbursements (including copies of receipts) submitted by or paid to Richard Moore from January 6, 2001 to the present. *
Records of any state-owned or state-leased vehicles used by Richard Moore, including but not limited to mileage logs and accident reports from January 6, 2001 to the present*
unclaimed property contracts*
legal services contracts*
pr/lobbying contracts*
Letters declaring support or opposition to legislation*
Records regarding the contract awarded to State Insurance Services and any complaints that have been filed regarding policies sold by SIS "
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Clinton: North Carolina an "uphill climb"
I was fortunate to get a one on one with Sen. Clinton this afternoon. She said she never makes predictions but she says she does face an uphill climb in this state because of Obama's ground support in this state. That was her answer when I asked if NC was a must win.
She said her staff is still working on details of a debate in North Carolina but she hopes they will.
I also asked her what she thought about the possibility of her and Bev Perdue both breaking the female barrier. Clinton as the first female president and Perdue as the first female govennor. She had some interesting comments which you can see in my story tonight and on Political Connections Friday at 6 and Sunday at 11am. Perdue has endorsed Obama, by the way.
She also said she would love to have John Edwards' endorsement but she said when she had talked with them in "recent months" which makes me think they may not have talked recently. She said she respects their decision making whatever it may be. Yesterday, Sen. Obama said he was still actively seeking Edwards endorsement.
I was fortunate to get a one on one with Sen. Clinton this afternoon. She said she never makes predictions but she says she does face an uphill climb in this state because of Obama's ground support in this state. That was her answer when I asked if NC was a must win.
She said her staff is still working on details of a debate in North Carolina but she hopes they will.
I also asked her what she thought about the possibility of her and Bev Perdue both breaking the female barrier. Clinton as the first female president and Perdue as the first female govennor. She had some interesting comments which you can see in my story tonight and on Political Connections Friday at 6 and Sunday at 11am. Perdue has endorsed Obama, by the way.
She also said she would love to have John Edwards' endorsement but she said when she had talked with them in "recent months" which makes me think they may not have talked recently. She said she respects their decision making whatever it may be. Yesterday, Sen. Obama said he was still actively seeking Edwards endorsement.
Hillary in Fayetteville,
I'm sitting in a high school gym in Cumberland County this afternoon waiting for Hillary Clinton. I'm hanging out here instead of Raleigh for a reason I'll write about later.
Anywho, we're still an hour or more away I'm guessing because of her tardiness in Raleigh. So far, I've seen State Sen. Julia Boseman who represents the 9th district. Cumblend County's sheriff Moose Butler is here but he was at Obama's event last week as well. I'll try to keep you posted on any other notables.
There's probably close to 1500 people already inside waiting. I think most know she is running late.
Cookies anyone? If you're keeping score on feeding the media it's 2-0 Clinton. I laugh to myself because they don't have to feed us and some might say they shouldn't. At Obama's events there was no media room with refreshments. Last Friday at Bill Clinton's event there was cookies and soda. At Hillary Clinton's event they let the media dig into the traveling press corp's food.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I had a Pepsi-with ice.
I'm sitting in a high school gym in Cumberland County this afternoon waiting for Hillary Clinton. I'm hanging out here instead of Raleigh for a reason I'll write about later.
Anywho, we're still an hour or more away I'm guessing because of her tardiness in Raleigh. So far, I've seen State Sen. Julia Boseman who represents the 9th district. Cumblend County's sheriff Moose Butler is here but he was at Obama's event last week as well. I'll try to keep you posted on any other notables.
There's probably close to 1500 people already inside waiting. I think most know she is running late.
Cookies anyone? If you're keeping score on feeding the media it's 2-0 Clinton. I laugh to myself because they don't have to feed us and some might say they shouldn't. At Obama's events there was no media room with refreshments. Last Friday at Bill Clinton's event there was cookies and soda. At Hillary Clinton's event they let the media dig into the traveling press corp's food.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I had a Pepsi-with ice.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Chelsea Clinton coming to NC...
After Saturday the entire Clinton campaign will have visited North Carolina. I just got word that Chelsea Clinton will campaign on behalf of her mom at the Young Democrats of North Carolina Convention.
It's unclear if she will hold other events in the state but she will make at least that one appearance.
The Young Democrats is honoring John Edwards and James Carville (Clinton supporter as well) will appear too.
After Saturday the entire Clinton campaign will have visited North Carolina. I just got word that Chelsea Clinton will campaign on behalf of her mom at the Young Democrats of North Carolina Convention.
It's unclear if she will hold other events in the state but she will make at least that one appearance.
The Young Democrats is honoring John Edwards and James Carville (Clinton supporter as well) will appear too.
Monday, March 24, 2008
The Gov's 21st Century Transportation committee is close to making final recommendations to the General Assembly. You'll remember the committee was formed last fall to find solutions to a growing crisis in the state.
Here's the crisis... sky rocketing costs to build roads, decreasing federal funding, decreasing gas tax revenues, and more people moving here means more congestion.
Estimates show the state could fall $65 billion or more short in funding projects over the next 25 years.
Chair Brad Wilson told me today that he expects the group to recommend gap funding for toll roads and to stop the transfers from the highway trust fund. He expects the final vote on April 24th.
The group will then work on long term solutions (funding in particular) this summer and fall to make recommendations by the end of the year.
An interesting tidbit with those recommendations. This Easley committee will report to a new governor and legislature in 09'. Some I spoke with say it could make a huge difference and create challenges but others say just about everyone is on board with the committee's work.
Here's the crisis... sky rocketing costs to build roads, decreasing federal funding, decreasing gas tax revenues, and more people moving here means more congestion.
Estimates show the state could fall $65 billion or more short in funding projects over the next 25 years.
Chair Brad Wilson told me today that he expects the group to recommend gap funding for toll roads and to stop the transfers from the highway trust fund. He expects the final vote on April 24th.
The group will then work on long term solutions (funding in particular) this summer and fall to make recommendations by the end of the year.
An interesting tidbit with those recommendations. This Easley committee will report to a new governor and legislature in 09'. Some I spoke with say it could make a huge difference and create challenges but others say just about everyone is on board with the committee's work.
More on Bill Clinton visit...
So, after candidates, or a spouse in this case, give their speeches they walk to the crowd and shake hands, kiss babies, sign autographs, and pose for pictures.
Typically they allow the TV and still cameras to capture the moments up close. Friday, in Cary, we got down and tried to get the shot as normal but only still cameras were allowed.
I'm not sure why, but I wonder if it has to do with all the impromptu question and answer sessions that got President Clinton in trouble in January and early February?
It didn't really bother me that we couldn't move up and get the video but it is interesting why still cameras could go up there but not tv cameras.
So, after candidates, or a spouse in this case, give their speeches they walk to the crowd and shake hands, kiss babies, sign autographs, and pose for pictures.
Typically they allow the TV and still cameras to capture the moments up close. Friday, in Cary, we got down and tried to get the shot as normal but only still cameras were allowed.
I'm not sure why, but I wonder if it has to do with all the impromptu question and answer sessions that got President Clinton in trouble in January and early February?
It didn't really bother me that we couldn't move up and get the video but it is interesting why still cameras could go up there but not tv cameras.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Hillary Clinton coming to NC...
I'm at a Bill Clinton event in Cary and he just said that Hillary Clinton will be coming to North Carolina and expects she will be here many days in the weeks ahead leading to the May 6th primary.
He also said he believes North Carolinians could make the difference in the election and could be a deciding state.
Most political experts would disagree but still it's an interesting comment considering reports are that Hillary Clinton has put little attention to the state believing it's not in play.
I'm at a Bill Clinton event in Cary and he just said that Hillary Clinton will be coming to North Carolina and expects she will be here many days in the weeks ahead leading to the May 6th primary.
He also said he believes North Carolinians could make the difference in the election and could be a deciding state.
Most political experts would disagree but still it's an interesting comment considering reports are that Hillary Clinton has put little attention to the state believing it's not in play.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Wright expelled...
There is great coverage all over the web regarding today's action by the House of Representatives, particularly Under the Dome, but I just wanted to add another observation.
Curiosity apparently got the best of the Senate as well. At least 10 Senators sat in the back of the House Chamber at one time or another. That included Majority Leader Tony Rand, Sen. Brock, and Sen. Jenkins among others.
Speaker Hackney said afterward that he didn't care if Wright's court case had moved forward or not. He says the legislative process is at least as important if not more important. Even if Wright is found innocent, Rep. Hackney says he doesn't regret one bit the decision made today.
Wright could still end up in office again too and as soon as next year. If he is found innocent in court and reelected on May Sixth, he will be back in office next January. However, Hackney did not rule out that there could be action by the House again if that happened.
Never a dull moment!
There is great coverage all over the web regarding today's action by the House of Representatives, particularly Under the Dome, but I just wanted to add another observation.
Curiosity apparently got the best of the Senate as well. At least 10 Senators sat in the back of the House Chamber at one time or another. That included Majority Leader Tony Rand, Sen. Brock, and Sen. Jenkins among others.
Speaker Hackney said afterward that he didn't care if Wright's court case had moved forward or not. He says the legislative process is at least as important if not more important. Even if Wright is found innocent, Rep. Hackney says he doesn't regret one bit the decision made today.
Wright could still end up in office again too and as soon as next year. If he is found innocent in court and reelected on May Sixth, he will be back in office next January. However, Hackney did not rule out that there could be action by the House again if that happened.
Never a dull moment!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
What a week for politics! Tomorrow, I'm headed to Fayetteville to cover Sen. Obama's "major" speech on Iraq. No doubt, the location was strategic with Fort Bragg. It says there will be military families there. I'm curious to see if any active duty members will be there. I can't imagine too many active duty soldiers going to an anti-war speech whether or not they believe in Obama's plan.
Then on Thursday, the House of Representatives could vote to kick out a member (Rep. Wright) for the first time since 1880! Yes that's an eight not a nine!
The Legislative Black Caucus is meeting tomorrow and supposedly Rep. Wright is on their agenda. There have been reports some members want to ask their colleagues to vote for censure instead of kicking him out of office. It will be interesting to see how that plays out.
We do know the plans are to wrap this up in one day Thursday. Friday's a state holiday and members don't want to drag this out any longer than necessary. By the way only a simple majority vote is needed.
Then on Thursday, the House of Representatives could vote to kick out a member (Rep. Wright) for the first time since 1880! Yes that's an eight not a nine!
The Legislative Black Caucus is meeting tomorrow and supposedly Rep. Wright is on their agenda. There have been reports some members want to ask their colleagues to vote for censure instead of kicking him out of office. It will be interesting to see how that plays out.
We do know the plans are to wrap this up in one day Thursday. Friday's a state holiday and members don't want to drag this out any longer than necessary. By the way only a simple majority vote is needed.
Update on Obama..
Here's the info I have..at 12:30, Amy Brundage from the Obama campaign said it would be a public speech.
Speech on Iraq and National Security
Tony Rand Student Center
Fayetteville Technical Community College
2201 Hull Road
Fayetteville, NC
10:15am
{{{update}}}
It is not a private meeting but is an invitation only event according to the community college
Here's the info I have..at 12:30, Amy Brundage from the Obama campaign said it would be a public speech.
Speech on Iraq and National Security
Tony Rand Student Center
Fayetteville Technical Community College
2201 Hull Road
Fayetteville, NC
10:15am
{{{update}}}
It is not a private meeting but is an invitation only event according to the community college
The Chair of the Cumberland County Democratic Party is reporting on their website that Obama will only be heading to Fayetteville for a private meeting Wednesday morning.
At 12:30 this afternoon Amy Brundage, a spokesperson for Obama, told us by phone that is NOT true. She said they are misinformed and there WILL be a public event.
Whether that happens or not I can't say, I can only say what they are telling us.
At 12:30 this afternoon Amy Brundage, a spokesperson for Obama, told us by phone that is NOT true. She said they are misinformed and there WILL be a public event.
Whether that happens or not I can't say, I can only say what they are telling us.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
No Moore bus trips..
On the way out of a press conference held by Richard Moore, I asked him several questions about the campaign.
He says he's already traveling the state and invited us to go with him in the northeast part of the state on Friday, but as his campaign trips ramp up he says he will not get one of those buses you often see and head from county to county. He said it will be more event driven rather than taking bus tour.
Candidates often like to take those 100 county bus tours. Sen. Fred Smith, on the GOP, is doing a BBQ tour across the counties, for example.
On the way out of a press conference held by Richard Moore, I asked him several questions about the campaign.
He says he's already traveling the state and invited us to go with him in the northeast part of the state on Friday, but as his campaign trips ramp up he says he will not get one of those buses you often see and head from county to county. He said it will be more event driven rather than taking bus tour.
Candidates often like to take those 100 county bus tours. Sen. Fred Smith, on the GOP, is doing a BBQ tour across the counties, for example.
The North Carolina lottery had its highest one day sales total Wednesday since the first week in 2006. No doubt, a $238 million jackpot drove the sales (now $275 for Saturday's drawing since no one won).
Executive Director Tom Shaheen says he believes sales will be higher for the year than last as well.
Recently, lottery officials were able to increase prize payouts for scratch off tickets as well. Shaheen says there are weeks with sales over $20 million dollars. Before the payout changes sales were less than $9 million.
Executive Director Tom Shaheen says he believes sales will be higher for the year than last as well.
Recently, lottery officials were able to increase prize payouts for scratch off tickets as well. Shaheen says there are weeks with sales over $20 million dollars. Before the payout changes sales were less than $9 million.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Tim who?
I sometimes wish you could be in a newsroom when breaking news is unfolding. As you probably know, an arrest has been made in the Eve Carson murder. We're currently waiting for a news conference and there is also a standoff with another potential suspect in Durham.
As a political and statewide reporter, I don't typically cover local stories that can only air in one market or another. Therefore, crimes like this are usually not in my hands. Today, I did a drought follow story from Easley's news conference Tuesday. It focused on tiered water pricing. If you're interested in seeing it, check out www.news14.com.
The entire newsroom has been in a tizzy all day waiting for a news conference. Usually there's yelling by a minimum of three people all the way across our newsroom. Typically, at least one person is running and barely misses someone else as they turn a corner. The phones are ringing like crazy and producers are trying to make sense of it all. Our desk is calling five people at once trying to make sure reporters and photographers are in the right spot. When we get a suspects name it then becomes a treasure hunt through electronic public records, phone calls, myspace, and google to find out as much as possible.
I typically help out with the latter. Over the years, I've learned ways to get information about people using those tools.
It's good and bad for me. I mean who doesn't want to be involved in the big story of the day. On the other hand, I have plenty of "big" days and it's nice to just do my story and go home and no more worries.
It's kind of nice to just sit back and watch the chaos unravel. Don't get me wrong, I help if I can but generally too many hands in the cookie jar can cause a logjam too.
With that, I need to wrap up and get home to make dinner for the wife and watch our great coverage at home! It's a quiet end to the day for me on a crazy day for the station but don't worry with the election coming up there will be plenty of days when I'm the one running across the newsroom screaming out to people!
I sometimes wish you could be in a newsroom when breaking news is unfolding. As you probably know, an arrest has been made in the Eve Carson murder. We're currently waiting for a news conference and there is also a standoff with another potential suspect in Durham.
As a political and statewide reporter, I don't typically cover local stories that can only air in one market or another. Therefore, crimes like this are usually not in my hands. Today, I did a drought follow story from Easley's news conference Tuesday. It focused on tiered water pricing. If you're interested in seeing it, check out www.news14.com.
The entire newsroom has been in a tizzy all day waiting for a news conference. Usually there's yelling by a minimum of three people all the way across our newsroom. Typically, at least one person is running and barely misses someone else as they turn a corner. The phones are ringing like crazy and producers are trying to make sense of it all. Our desk is calling five people at once trying to make sure reporters and photographers are in the right spot. When we get a suspects name it then becomes a treasure hunt through electronic public records, phone calls, myspace, and google to find out as much as possible.
I typically help out with the latter. Over the years, I've learned ways to get information about people using those tools.
It's good and bad for me. I mean who doesn't want to be involved in the big story of the day. On the other hand, I have plenty of "big" days and it's nice to just do my story and go home and no more worries.
It's kind of nice to just sit back and watch the chaos unravel. Don't get me wrong, I help if I can but generally too many hands in the cookie jar can cause a logjam too.
With that, I need to wrap up and get home to make dinner for the wife and watch our great coverage at home! It's a quiet end to the day for me on a crazy day for the station but don't worry with the election coming up there will be plenty of days when I'm the one running across the newsroom screaming out to people!
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Easley's drought proposals made headlines all over the news outlets so I'm going to blog about something else. If you want to see my coverage of the drought check it out here.
I interviewed Libertarian gubernatorial candidate Mike Munger today for a show that will air next week. He says if he doesn't get the 2% required to keep the Libs on the ballot in 2012 without getting 100,000 signatures it "will be a disaster".
His goal is to get significantly more than that to show there are voters out there looking for a third choice.
He spoke about three major issues of his campaign. That included making sure a marriage amendment limiting same sex marriage never passes. He also wants to see a moratorium on capital punishment and a lift on the cap for charter schools.
The show with his interview will air on the 21st.
I interviewed Libertarian gubernatorial candidate Mike Munger today for a show that will air next week. He says if he doesn't get the 2% required to keep the Libs on the ballot in 2012 without getting 100,000 signatures it "will be a disaster".
His goal is to get significantly more than that to show there are voters out there looking for a third choice.
He spoke about three major issues of his campaign. That included making sure a marriage amendment limiting same sex marriage never passes. He also wants to see a moratorium on capital punishment and a lift on the cap for charter schools.
The show with his interview will air on the 21st.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Happy Monday!
I just wrapped up my story and desperately need to pay attention to a little planning. I don't know if you heard but there's this primary election coming up. It has some big state races and, by the way, now includes an unresolved Democratic Presidential primary. Last week I was stuck in the Wright hearings and got nothing done.
Anywho, I wanted to make you aware that News 14 Carolina aired Lt. Gov. and GOP gubernatorial debates this weekend. They should be on Carolina Ondemand (Ch. 1234) by Wednesday. In the meantime if you want to see it head to the address below at www.news14.com to see it on the web!
Click here to watch the debates!
I just wrapped up my story and desperately need to pay attention to a little planning. I don't know if you heard but there's this primary election coming up. It has some big state races and, by the way, now includes an unresolved Democratic Presidential primary. Last week I was stuck in the Wright hearings and got nothing done.
Anywho, I wanted to make you aware that News 14 Carolina aired Lt. Gov. and GOP gubernatorial debates this weekend. They should be on Carolina Ondemand (Ch. 1234) by Wednesday. In the meantime if you want to see it head to the address below at www.news14.com to see it on the web!
Click here to watch the debates!
Friday, March 07, 2008
I'm working on a million things today so I don't have a ton of time to add much new here after being caught in the Wright ethics hearing all week.
A few things..
Friday 6pm - Political Connections - GOP Lt. Gov. Race
Sunday 11am - Special Political Connections - Dem. Lt. Gov. debate taped last night
Sunday 1pm - Special Political Connections - Airing GOP Governor's race debate in Meck. Co.
Still working on a few Wright things as well..here's my piece from today. Have a great weekend! I have to work tomorrow but will be done in just enough time to get a nap and watch the big game!!!
RALEIGH -- For the first time in more than 120 years lawmakers could kick out one of their own.
Thursday, a House ethics panel voted to remove Representative Thomas Wright from office. This comes after former House Speaker Jim Black pleaded guilty to corruption charges last year. So, is this the beginning of the end for public corruption cases?
After thE committee found the Wilmington Democrat guilty on six counts of ethical misconduct, he walked out and spoke out.
"So woe onto my colleagues because this will just come back to bite them squarely where they sit," Rep. Wright said. "How dare they pass judgement on me not knowing the facts but drawing conclusions."
The controversy surrounds allegations that Wright misused more than $350,000 in campaign donations, charitable donations, and loans.
That includes not reporting thousands of dollars in campaign cash. Wright maintains it was sloppy bookkeeping and he believes he's not alone.
"What make an example out of me?" Wright added. "Let the show begin because this is just the beginning. They've set the precedent."
But is it a precedent of further problems that exist or is this the end of an era of public corruption?
"So I think we're still seeing what happened in the state legislature six years ago in the Jim Black era," Chris Fitzsimon from NC Policy Watch said. "I'm not sure we've seen everything but I feel relatively sure that we're not seeing that kind of thing going on now."
Thomas Wright's political future it rests in the hands of the House of Representatives. Lawmakers must decide to keep wright or kick him out of office. At least some of the leadership is hoping to wait until a March 31st criminal trial for Thomas Wright ends, because if he's found guilty he can not serve in the legislature as a convicted felon.
He has filed for re-election but faces two opponents in the May sixth primary. This year's legislative session starts on may 13th.
A few things..
Friday 6pm - Political Connections - GOP Lt. Gov. Race
Sunday 11am - Special Political Connections - Dem. Lt. Gov. debate taped last night
Sunday 1pm - Special Political Connections - Airing GOP Governor's race debate in Meck. Co.
Still working on a few Wright things as well..here's my piece from today. Have a great weekend! I have to work tomorrow but will be done in just enough time to get a nap and watch the big game!!!
RALEIGH -- For the first time in more than 120 years lawmakers could kick out one of their own.
Thursday, a House ethics panel voted to remove Representative Thomas Wright from office. This comes after former House Speaker Jim Black pleaded guilty to corruption charges last year. So, is this the beginning of the end for public corruption cases?
After thE committee found the Wilmington Democrat guilty on six counts of ethical misconduct, he walked out and spoke out.
"So woe onto my colleagues because this will just come back to bite them squarely where they sit," Rep. Wright said. "How dare they pass judgement on me not knowing the facts but drawing conclusions."
The controversy surrounds allegations that Wright misused more than $350,000 in campaign donations, charitable donations, and loans.
That includes not reporting thousands of dollars in campaign cash. Wright maintains it was sloppy bookkeeping and he believes he's not alone.
"What make an example out of me?" Wright added. "Let the show begin because this is just the beginning. They've set the precedent."
But is it a precedent of further problems that exist or is this the end of an era of public corruption?
"So I think we're still seeing what happened in the state legislature six years ago in the Jim Black era," Chris Fitzsimon from NC Policy Watch said. "I'm not sure we've seen everything but I feel relatively sure that we're not seeing that kind of thing going on now."
Thomas Wright's political future it rests in the hands of the House of Representatives. Lawmakers must decide to keep wright or kick him out of office. At least some of the leadership is hoping to wait until a March 31st criminal trial for Thomas Wright ends, because if he's found guilty he can not serve in the legislature as a convicted felon.
He has filed for re-election but faces two opponents in the May sixth primary. This year's legislative session starts on may 13th.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Rep. Wright to committee "How dare they"
A legislative ethics committee has found Rep. Thomas Wright guilty on six out of seven counts of unethical conduct.
It has also voted to recommend kicking him out of office. Rep. Wright left before even finding that part out. Before he left though he spoke out. To see that click on the following link.
http://news14.com/content/top_stories/593636/panel--wright-committed-misconduct/Default.aspx
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Wild Wright scenario..
So, Rep. Thomas Wright is facing his ethics hearing this week that could result in the long run in his dismissal as a lawmaker. It stems from an alleged misuse in $350,000+ in campaign donations, charitable donations, and loans.
Even if Wright is kicked out there is a scenario where he could be back in his lawmakers chair in 2009.
Let's say Rep. Wright is kicked out of the state House. For argument sake, let's say his criminal case is pushed back past May 6. He has filed and will be on the ballot for re-election. Speaker Hackney's office says his removal only counts for the current session. That means if he won his primary and went on to win the general election he could be back in office in 2009.
Of course, in the meantime he could be convicted in criminal court. That would mean he's out of office for good because a convicted felon cannot serve in state office.
Still, crazier things have happened!
I also found out today that Gov. Easley will not be unveiling his extensive drought legislation plan at tomorrow's Drought Management Advisory Council meeting. You may remember a couple weeks ago, Easley aide Franklin Freeman said he might propose the changes at tomorrow's meeting. The proposals will include more oversight of private wells, a statewide mandatory drought water restriction plan, and more extensive emergency powers for the Governor.
Perhaps the proposal was moved back since Easley is taking so much heat this week?
So, Rep. Thomas Wright is facing his ethics hearing this week that could result in the long run in his dismissal as a lawmaker. It stems from an alleged misuse in $350,000+ in campaign donations, charitable donations, and loans.
Even if Wright is kicked out there is a scenario where he could be back in his lawmakers chair in 2009.
Let's say Rep. Wright is kicked out of the state House. For argument sake, let's say his criminal case is pushed back past May 6. He has filed and will be on the ballot for re-election. Speaker Hackney's office says his removal only counts for the current session. That means if he won his primary and went on to win the general election he could be back in office in 2009.
Of course, in the meantime he could be convicted in criminal court. That would mean he's out of office for good because a convicted felon cannot serve in state office.
Still, crazier things have happened!
I also found out today that Gov. Easley will not be unveiling his extensive drought legislation plan at tomorrow's Drought Management Advisory Council meeting. You may remember a couple weeks ago, Easley aide Franklin Freeman said he might propose the changes at tomorrow's meeting. The proposals will include more oversight of private wells, a statewide mandatory drought water restriction plan, and more extensive emergency powers for the Governor.
Perhaps the proposal was moved back since Easley is taking so much heat this week?
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
RALEIGH -- Race once again took center stage at Representative Thomas Wright's legislative ethics hearing.
The hearing could result in his removal from public office. It stems from felony fraud and obstruction of justice charges Wright faces in criminal court.
His attorneys believe he's being treated differently because he's black.
Wright's attorneys targeted the ethics committee chairman, asking him to step down from his position. They are upset that an ethics complaint against a white lawmaker was dropped while Wright's case is moving forward.
"It will be something talked about for years," Wright's attorney Doug Harris said. "People will say look what they did to that black man who got into a position of power from New Hanover County. Look at what they did to him and how nothing happened to his counterpart who is white."
Attorneys representing the state argue that wright faces criminal charges while the other lawmaker did not.
"All this is is a bold allegation about race without any facts to support it," William Hart from the NC Attorney General's office said.
After listening to arguments the committee chairman sent a strong message to Representative Wright and his attorneys.
"I find in this case of this motion was patently without a good faith basis in law and fact and is in my opinion below the indignity of those who raise it," Committee chairman Rep. Rick Glazier (D-Cumberland) said. "I deny the motion as frivolous, groundless, and meritless.
Wright's accused of misusing more than $350,000 in campaign donations, charitable donations, and loans. Wright maintains it was sloppy bookkeeping.
This committee must decide to take no further action or recommend removing wright from public office. The hearing could go into Thursday.
Wright's criminal trial is now scheduled for March 31st. He has filed for re-election and faces two opponents in the Democratic primary.
The hearing could result in his removal from public office. It stems from felony fraud and obstruction of justice charges Wright faces in criminal court.
His attorneys believe he's being treated differently because he's black.
Wright's attorneys targeted the ethics committee chairman, asking him to step down from his position. They are upset that an ethics complaint against a white lawmaker was dropped while Wright's case is moving forward.
"It will be something talked about for years," Wright's attorney Doug Harris said. "People will say look what they did to that black man who got into a position of power from New Hanover County. Look at what they did to him and how nothing happened to his counterpart who is white."
Attorneys representing the state argue that wright faces criminal charges while the other lawmaker did not.
"All this is is a bold allegation about race without any facts to support it," William Hart from the NC Attorney General's office said.
After listening to arguments the committee chairman sent a strong message to Representative Wright and his attorneys.
"I find in this case of this motion was patently without a good faith basis in law and fact and is in my opinion below the indignity of those who raise it," Committee chairman Rep. Rick Glazier (D-Cumberland) said. "I deny the motion as frivolous, groundless, and meritless.
Wright's accused of misusing more than $350,000 in campaign donations, charitable donations, and loans. Wright maintains it was sloppy bookkeeping.
This committee must decide to take no further action or recommend removing wright from public office. The hearing could go into Thursday.
Wright's criminal trial is now scheduled for March 31st. He has filed for re-election and faces two opponents in the Democratic primary.
Monday, March 03, 2008
RALEIGH -- Representative Thomas Wright's attorneys believe race is behind a hearing that could lead to his removal from office.
Criminal charges for fraud and obstruction of justice are the basis for the legislative ethics hearing that started Monday. Wrights attorneys were blunt and bold in their accusation of racial bias. They point to a 2007 ethics complaint against a white lawmaker that was dismissed without a hearing. With Wright facing this public hearing, they believe he's being treated differently.
"I find it ironic that Rep. Wright represents New Hanover County, Wrightsville, which is the very place of the 1898 race riot took place which began the Jim Crow era and this is a Jim Crow proceeding if he gets treated differently," Wright attorney Doug Harris said.
This hearing stems from felony fraud and obstruction of justice charges Wright faces in criminal court. Investigators believe he misused more than $350,000 in campaign donations, loans, and charitable donations.
"That between the years between 2000-2006, Representative Thomas wright engaged in a pattern of improper, unethical, and criminal conduct while a legislator in this General Assembly," William Hart from the NC Attorney General's office said.
Wright maintains it was simply sloppy bookkeeping. Last week a judge granted a delay in his criminal case and his attorneys consistently pushed for the same during Monday's ethics hearing.
"There has not been adequate time for myself, or Mr. Joyner, for Tom Wright to go over these matters to form an adequate and as the chairman has noted we don't in fact have a defense is noted," Harris added.
His motions were denied but the committee did agree to accept a written argument on the racial bias. In between the arguments several witnesses did take the stand. Testimony will continue Tuesday morning.
At the end of this hearing, the committee can either take no further action or recommend to the full state House to remove him from office. A lawmaker has not been removed from office since 1880.
Wright's criminal trial is now scheduled for March 31st. He has filed for re-election and faces two opponents in the Democratic primary.
Criminal charges for fraud and obstruction of justice are the basis for the legislative ethics hearing that started Monday. Wrights attorneys were blunt and bold in their accusation of racial bias. They point to a 2007 ethics complaint against a white lawmaker that was dismissed without a hearing. With Wright facing this public hearing, they believe he's being treated differently.
"I find it ironic that Rep. Wright represents New Hanover County, Wrightsville, which is the very place of the 1898 race riot took place which began the Jim Crow era and this is a Jim Crow proceeding if he gets treated differently," Wright attorney Doug Harris said.
This hearing stems from felony fraud and obstruction of justice charges Wright faces in criminal court. Investigators believe he misused more than $350,000 in campaign donations, loans, and charitable donations.
"That between the years between 2000-2006, Representative Thomas wright engaged in a pattern of improper, unethical, and criminal conduct while a legislator in this General Assembly," William Hart from the NC Attorney General's office said.
Wright maintains it was simply sloppy bookkeeping. Last week a judge granted a delay in his criminal case and his attorneys consistently pushed for the same during Monday's ethics hearing.
"There has not been adequate time for myself, or Mr. Joyner, for Tom Wright to go over these matters to form an adequate and as the chairman has noted we don't in fact have a defense is noted," Harris added.
His motions were denied but the committee did agree to accept a written argument on the racial bias. In between the arguments several witnesses did take the stand. Testimony will continue Tuesday morning.
At the end of this hearing, the committee can either take no further action or recommend to the full state House to remove him from office. A lawmaker has not been removed from office since 1880.
Wright's criminal trial is now scheduled for March 31st. He has filed for re-election and faces two opponents in the Democratic primary.
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