Under the Dome

2026 NCGA session begins with Medicaid deal, party switching

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

On this April 28, 2026 episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with her fellow legislative reporters Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Esther Frances about the major news out of the start of the North Carolina General Assembly session, including two House Democrats changing parties to unaffiliated and what's in the Medicaid bill that lawmakers will send to the governor's desk after votes this week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Esther Frances

Producer: Kevin Keister

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New NCGA session and downzoning

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

On this April 21, 2026 episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with reporters Brian Gordon and Kyle Ingram about the start of the NC General Assembly's short session, with a focus on downzoning law and data centers, and potential legislation. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Brian Gordon & Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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America250 in North Carolina

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

On this April 14, 2026 episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with Congressional impact reporter Danielle Battaglia about the 250th anniversary of the Halifax Resolves and America250 events in NC. Plus the latest in the US Senate race and their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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US Sen. Thom Tillis' unfiltered tenure

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

On this April 7, 2026 episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with Congressional reporter Danielle Battaglia about outgoing US Sen. Thom Tillis, a Republican who has become nationally known for his unfiltered take on those advising President Donald Trump, and other issues. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Outgoing Senate leader Phil Berger's expansive influence in higher education

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

On this March 31, 2026 episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with higher education reporter Jane Winik Sartwell about how outgoing Senate leader Phil Berger's influence extends across UNC and state government, including several former staff. Plus who wants to replace Berger, the lastest on NC State and our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Jane Winik Sartwell

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Counting again: Latest on Berger Page recounts

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

On this March 24, 2026 episode of The News & Observer's North Carolina politics podcast, Under the Dome, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics reporters Esther Frances and Kyle Ingram for the latest news on the still-undecided primary election between Republican Senate leader Phil Berger and Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page. The race is in a second recount.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Kyle Ingram & Esther Frances

Producer: Kevin Keister

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VP JD Vance in NC and what it means for NC-01

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

On this March 17, 2026, episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with Congressional reporter Danielle Battaglia about Vice President JD Vance's recent trip to Rocky Mount, what it means for the NC-01 Congressional race and why we'll get more campaign stops. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Still the primary to watch: Sen. Berger vs. Sheriff Page

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

On this March 10, 2026 episode of Under the Dome, The News & Observer's North Carolina politics podcast, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by reporters Nathan Collins and Kyle Ingram to talk about the primary that isn't decided yet: Senate leader Phil Berger vs. Sheriff Sam Page. From what it was like being in the room with the candidates on election night to the latest in ballot counting and what's next.

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NC primary prep: Berger/Page, Foushee/Allam and U.S. Senate primaries

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Gear up for today's North Carolina primary on this new episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast for March 3, 2026. Host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with reporters Danielle Battaglia and Kyle Ingram about three major primary races: Republican Senate leader Phil Berger vs. Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page; both the GOP and Democratic primaries for U.S. Senate, and in the Durham area, the Democratic Congressional primary between U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee and Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Danielle Battaglia & Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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NC GOP State Auditor Dave Boliek on futures of DMV, Dean Dome

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

On this new Feb. 24, 2026 episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome podcast about North Carolina politics, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with Republican State Auditor Dave Boliek about the growing auditor's office, DMV as its own agency, ROI on Smith Center location and what he's targeted next in audits, including the lottery and local bonds.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: State Auditor Dave Boliek

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Mecklenburg County sheriff faces lawmakers in Raleigh

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast for Feb. 17, 2026, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with Charlotte Observer politics reporter Mary Ramsey about how a NC House Oversight and Reform Committee about public safety turned into a grilling of Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden, and what the fallout may be. Plus what to watch as primary early voting is underway, and Vaughan and Ramsey's picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Mary Ramsey

Producer: Kevin Keister

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NC primaries to watch: GOP U.S. Senate and Durham U.S. House races

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

On this Feb. 10, 2026 episode of The News & Observer's politics podcast, Under the Dome, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with politics reporters Danielle Battaglia and Kyle Ingram about the Republican primary for U.S. Senate and the Democratic primary for U.S. House District 4 in Durham and Orange counties.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Danielle Battaglia & Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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UNC budget cuts and DC budget, ICE battles

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

On this latest episode of The News & Observer's North Carolina politics podcast, Under the Dome, for Feb. 3, 2026, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with higher education reporter Jane Sartwell and Congressional reporter Danielle Battaglia. The UNC System and its schools are cutting job positions and programs to save money. In Washington, Congress is battling over the Trump administration's handling of ICE in Minnesota, which is factoring into the federal shutdown debates.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Jane Sartwell & Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Changes in early voting days in NC, UNC cuts

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0000

On this latest episode of The News & Observer's North Carolina politics podcast, Under the Dome, for Jan. 27, 2026: Host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with democracy reporter Kyle Ingram and new higher education reporter Jane Sartwell about changes in early voting days at some voting sites, as well as a dispute over a candidate's party status. Plus UNC Trustees consider program cuts, and what to expect at the Board of Governors and House Oversight meetings this week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Kyle Ingram & Jane Sartwell

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Charlotte goes to Raleigh for Oversight hearing on public safety

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0000

On our latest episode of The News & Observer's North Carolina politics podcast, Under the Dome, for Jan. 20, 2026, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with Charlotte Observer local government reporter Mary Ramsey about the mayor and Mecklenburg County sheriff being called to Raleigh for a legislative oversight hearing on public safety. Plus more about Sheriff Garry McFadden and scrunity of his time in office, including from House Democratic Rep. Carla Cunningham.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Mary Ramsey

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Vacant jobs and costs in NC state government

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0000

On this latest episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with politics reporter Kyle Ingram about a state auditor report of vacant state government jobs and the costs of lapsed salaries. Plus what to expect this week at the General Assembly and our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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An interview with NC Gov. Josh Stein on 2026 legislative battles on taxes, budget, Medicaid funding

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Under the Dome for Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan sits down with North Carolina's Democratic Gov. Josh Stein to talk about the lack of a state budget, the fight over taxes, when Medicaid might get funding and working with GOP leaders.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Gov. Josh Stein

Producer: Kevin Keister

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How the big NC politics stories of 2025 may shape 2026

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

On this latest episode of Under the Dome for Dec. 23, 2025, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with reporters Kyle Ingram about the big statewide news of 2025 and Danielle Battaglia about the big federal news that impacted North Carolina. The big stories include the budget stalemate, failed attempt to overturn the NC Supreme Court election and Lumbee recognition. Plus what those 2025 issues mean for 2026.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Kyle Ingram & Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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NC Congressional primary candidates, and weight of a Trump endorsement

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

On this new Dec. 16, 2025 episode of The News & Observer politics podcast, Under the Dome, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with Washington correspondent Danielle Battaglia about candidates who have already filed to run for Congress, and how the Eastern District 1 is the race to watch, with a slew of Republicans vying in the primary to face off with incumbent Democratic Rep. Don Davis. And how a Trump endorsement can change a primary. Trump has already gotten into NC politics this primary by endorsing Senate leader Phil Berger. More on the Berger primary plus our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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NC candidates file in Raleigh mayor, Wake commissioners and Supreme Court races

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

On this latest episode of Under the Dome for Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks with City of Raleigh reporter Anna Roman and politics reporter Kyle Ingram about candidate filing for the 2026 election in the Raleigh mayor, Wake County Commissioners and N.C. Supreme Court races. And the latest on the new city hall in downtown Raleigh, plus our picks for Headliner of the Week, which cover a Cary town manager mystery, K&W Cafeteria and festive lights.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Anna Roman & Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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What to know as North Carolina candidate filing for 2026 begins

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Candidate filing for the 2026 election has begun in North Carolina. Under the Dome politics podcast host Dawn Vaughan talks with politics reporters Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Kyle Ingram about what to know as filing gets underway, plus races we are watching. Plus new state laws, how the feds impact the hemp industry and our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Thanksgiving travel, RDU and the NC DMV

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0000

On the latest episode of the Under the Dome podcast for Nov. 25, 2025, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and host Dawn Vaughan talks with transportation reporter Richard Stradling about what's changed at the NC DMV, what's coming soon at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, and what to expect as you travel in North Carolina this Thanksgiving week. Plus stayed tuned for their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Richard Stradling

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Federal shutdown ends, impact on NC lingers

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 13:43:00 -0000

On this new episode of The News & Observer's Under the Dome politics podcast for Nov. 18, 2025, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with DC correspondent Danielle Battaglia about the end to the federal government shutdown and funding restarting, plus how Rep. Don Davis' vote factored in.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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How NC’s state budget delay is impacting K-12 education, teachers

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0000

This week, host Dawn Vaughan and News & Observer K-12 education reporter T. Keung Hui discuss how the long-delayed new comprehensive state budget is impacting education funding, including raises for teachers and other school employees.

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The federal shutdown hits 36 days. What is NC’s delegation doing?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 13:18:00 -0000

This week, host Dawn Vaughan and McClatchy DC correspondent Danielle Battaglia discuss the ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its 36th day with no signs of a resolution. As The News & Observer has previously reported, the shutdown is affecting federal workers and social safety net programs, like SNAP and WIC, and public reception of the White House renovations during the shutdown haven’t been great.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Nearing November, here’s why NC budget talks remain stalled

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Just days away from November, North Carolina still does not have a new comprehensive budget. As Capitol bureau chief and host Dawn Vaughan explains, the battle is actually between Republicans this time — not Republicans and Democrats. The team discusses the reasons for the holdup, including tax fights, plus why a clean Medicaid rebase bill couldn’t make it across the finish line.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Monitoring the progress of the new GOP-backed congressional map

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, host Dawn Vaughan and reporter Kyle Ingram discuss (so far, successful) efforts by Republicans in the legislature to redraw the state’s congressional map.

There’s a long history of redistricting and gerrymandering in North Carolina. In Monster: Maps, Math & Power in North Carolina — a four-part podcast series by former investigative reporter Tyler Dukes — The N&O explores how maps are drawn, their political impact on the state and the ongoing fight against gerrymandering. Find all four episodes here, or listen to them individually:

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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A Conversation with Gabe Esparza, NC Department of Administration Secretary

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

As Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month comes to a close, host Dawn Vaughan sat down with North Carolina Department of Administration secretary Gabe Esparza, the first Latino member of Gov. Josh Stein’s cabinet. The two discuss Esparza’s journey from the private sector to public service and his background as a third-generation Mexican-American.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Gabe Esparza

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Why the budget stalemate also creates uncertainty in higher ed funding

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, host Dawn Vaughan talks to higher ed reporter Korie Dean about the lack of a state budget impacting performance funding for universities, a new funding method recently approved by UNC Board of Governors. Vaughan and Dean also talk about how a lack of a budget affects current university employees and retirees.

Stick to the end for Headliner of the Week, and a professional update from Dean.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Why lawmakers didn’t fund Medicaid ahead of deadline, or pass a budget

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:09:00 -0000

This week, Dawn Vaughan, Avi Bajpai, and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi discuss the ongoing disagreement between House and Senate lawmakers over Medicaid funding. They also cover the state budget impasse, which some link to a disconnect between Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Destin Hall, who has voiced his opposition to funding a new children's hospital. What are the potential consequences of cuts to Medicaid providers? And what’s the latest on the comprehensive state budget? Listen now.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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How Iryna’s Law could impact NC’s judicial system

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan and politics reporter Avi Bajpai discuss the omnibus crime bill that Republicans filed late Sunday, also known as Iryna’s Law, in response to the fatal stabbing of Iryna Zarutska in Charlotte last month. They also talk about other legislative happenings, including mini budget bills awaiting House action, including law enforcement raises and bonuses for the National Guard. Plus, a controversial bill to defund Planned Parenthood.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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The political ramifications of the Charlotte light rail stabbing

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, host Dawn Vaughan is joined by reporters Mary Ramsey and Julia Coin from our sister paper The Charlotte Observer. Ramsey covers Charlotte area politics, and Coin covers courts and public safety.

Last month’s fatal stabbing of 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on the Charlotte light rail by DeCarlos Brown Jr. has drawn national attention. Coin and Ramsey have been part of the team at the Observer covering the situation, including the Charlotte Area Transit System’s release of video footage, the police response, and the political ramifications at the local, state and federal level.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Julia Coin, Mary Ramsey

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Counting down the days to a potential government shutdown

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, host Dawn Vaughan talks to McClatchy D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia about what she’s keeping tabs on on Capitol Hill, namely the impending Sept. 30 deadline for Congress to pass 12 appropriations bills in order to prevent a government shutdown. They break down the potential impacts of the federal budget on North Carolina. You’ll also hear about the latest developments in North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District race.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Charlotte-Mecklenburg political figures in the spotlight

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 13:00:00 -0000

This week, Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan and Mary Ramsey discuss prominent figures in Charlotte-Mecklenburg politics, particularly Republican Rep. Tricia Cotham and Democratic Rep. Carla Cunningham: From Cunningham's controversial speech on immigration, which could lead to a primary challenge, to Cotham's undisclosed surgery and changed political standing and key issues in Charlotte's local elections.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Mary Ramsey

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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NC universities ramp up congressional lobbying spending

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan talks to higher ed reporter Korie Dean about why North Carolina universities like UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke University and Davidson College have significantly increased their spending on lobbying in the first six months of Donald Trump’s second term amid federal funding cuts.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Korie Dean

Producer: Kevin Keister

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Want even more North Carolina politics news? Our Under the Dome newsletter dives deep into all things #ncpol and legislative happenings. It’s sent to your inbox Sunday to Friday. Sign up here.

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Catching up on North Carolina’s anticipated U.S. Senate race

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, state politics reporter Kyle Ingram is your guest host. He talks to D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia about the anticipated matchup between two high profile candidates in the North Carolina U.S. Senate race: Former Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper and Republican Party leader Michael Whatley.

Host: Kyle Ingram

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Could NC colleges see fewer international students this fall?

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The Trump administration has enacted several policies and procedures that are making it more difficult for students to obtain visas. That could mean some students aren’t able to make it to the U.S., or North Carolina, in time for fall classes. On the podcast, Korie Dean and Sophia Bailly discuss the short- and long-term impacts of a potential drop in enrollment, covering the implications for on the state’s economy, research and global standing.

Host: Korie Dean

Guest: Sophia Bailly

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Rep. Brian Turner talks veto overrides and his return to the House

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan is joined by Rep. Brian Turner, a Democrat from Buncombe County. First elected in 2014, Turner served the House and then took a term off, then came back. We talk about why he left and why he came back, and his career from Mills Manufacturing to UNC Asheville. More than a decade later, Turner has a unique perspective of serving under different Democratic House leadership, different governors and with a lot of different legislators.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Rep. Brian Turner

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Veto override chances at the NCGA

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Dawn Vaughan, Capitol bureau chief and host of Under the Dome is joined by politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Ronni Butts to talk about the incredibly busy day of veto override votes expected Tuesday in both the House and the Senate of the North Carolina General Assembly.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai and Ronni Butts

Executive Producer: Kevin Keister

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All things state employees with State HR director Staci Meyer

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week on Under the Dome, host Dawn Vaughan interviews Staci Meyer, director of the North Carolina Office of State Human Resources. Meyer has spent her entire career in public service across various state agencies. Vaughan and Meyer talk about vacancy rates, recruitment and retention efforts by the state, plus the latest on state employee pay raises.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Staci Meyer

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Tillis’ exit shakes up North Carolina's Senate race and DC politics

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

On this week’s Under the Dome podcast, Kyle Ingram and Danielle Battaglia break down the aftermath of Thom Tillis dropping out of the 2026 Senate race and the impacts of Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” on Medicaid, SNAP and other social safety net programs.

Host: Kyle Ingram

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Breaking down potential overrides on DEI and other vetoes

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 08:45:00 -0000

This week on the Under the Dome podcast, join host Dawn Vaughan and reporters Avi Bajpai and Korie Dean for a deep dive into veto overrides, diversity, equity and inclusion conflicts, and swing votes shaping state policies this summer.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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What Thom Tillis’ decision to leave the Senate race means for NC

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan talks to politics team colleague Kyle Ingram and N&O summer interns, Ronni Butts and Sophia Bailly, about U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis announcing he won’t be running for reelection, what this could mean for the remainder of Tillis’ term, and who could step into the race next.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Sophia Bailley, Ronni Butts, Kyle Ingram

Producer: Gabi Hartlaub

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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It’s crunch time for the North Carolina legislature

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week at the North Carolina General Assembly is going to be jam packed. We are in the final week of the legislative long session — sort of. Most policy will be passed during this last week, but not the biggest bill of all: the state budget. Host Dawn Vaughan breaks it all down with politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Korie Dean.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Changes at the NCGA in 2025, with WUNC’s Colin Campbell

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan and WUNC's Colin Campbell talk about how the 2025 long legislative session is going, especially with Republican House Speaker Destin Hall at the helm for the first time. They discuss what and how policy, procedures, politics — and yet, even the schedule — is different under Hall compared to former House Speaker Tim Moore, who is now in Congress.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Colin Campbell

Producer: Gabriella Hartlaub

Want even more North Carolina politics news? Our Under the Dome newsletter dives deep into all things #ncpol and legislative happenings. It’s sent to your inbox Tuesday to Friday and Sunday. Sign up here.
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GOP Rep. Allen Chesser on how 9/11 and COVID-19 rules shaped his life

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan interviews North Carolina Rep. Allen Chesser of Nash County about the family tragedy that led to his run for the state House, and the status of his bill about foster care, and why he recruited Democratic Rep. Vernetta Alston to cosponsor.

Stay tuned until the end for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Rep. Allen Chesser

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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What’s next for Trump's ‘big beautiful bill’ and what it means for North Carolina

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:31:00 -0000

On this episode, host Dawn Vaughan talks with McClatchy DC correspondent Danielle Battaglia about Congress’ Big Beautiful Bill and what it means for the state, plus the roles of Sens. Thom Tillis and Ted Budd.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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A Q&A with Paul Tine, North Carolina’s new DMV commissioner

Tue, 27 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Paul Tine became North Carolina’s Division of Motor Vehicles commissioner on May 6, taking over a state agency known mostly these days for long lines and poor customer service. This episode includes highlights from an interview with Tine. He sat down with The News & Observer's transportation reporter Richard Stradling on Friday, May 9, 2025, his fourth day in office. The interview has been edited for clarity.

Reporter: Richard Stradling

Guest: Paul Tine

Recording: Kaitlin McKeown

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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NC House’s budget plan for education and public safety

Tue, 20 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan is joined by K-12 education reporter T. Keung Hui and politics reporter Avi Bajpai to discuss what’s in the NC House budget, including cuts, a UNC System tuition increase, and what the House wants to do in the areas of education and public safety.

Host: ⁠Dawn Vaughan⁠

Guests: T. Keung Hui & Avi Bajpai

Executive Producer: Kevin Keister ⁠

Please consider supporting local journalism with a ⁠subscription to The N&O⁠. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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Rep. Jake Johnson on budget, oversight and his journey from Polk County to the House

Tue, 13 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan interviews Rep. Jake Johnson, a Polk County Republican, about his early start in politics and what’s going on in the North Carolina House of Representatives, from the upcoming state budget to crossover to his role on the House Oversight Committee.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest:

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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NC’s crossover deadline is here. Here's what bills have a chance.

Tue, 06 May 2025 11:09:00 -0000

This is crossover week, the busy time at the North Carolina General Assembly that leads up to the May 8 crossover deadline. That’s a self-imposed cutoff date for legislation to pass at least one chamber. Host Dawn Vaughan talks to politics editor Jordan Schrader and politics reporter Kyle Ingram and break down what that means for North Carolina laws.

Host: ⁠⁠Dawn Vaughan⁠⁠

Guest: Kyle Ingram, Jordan Schrader

Executive Producer: ⁠⁠Laura Brache⁠⁠

Want even more North Carolina politics news? Our Under the Dome newsletter dives deep into all things #ncpol and legislative happenings. It’s sent to your inbox Monday to Friday and Sunday. Sign up ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

Please consider supporting local journalism with a ⁠⁠subscription to The N&O⁠⁠. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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The NC elections board control and power shifts lawsuit, explained

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

The North Carolina General Assembly is back in session after a weeklong break, with a packed schedule of bills moving through various committees.

While legislators were away last week, a lawsuit resulting from a bill they passed in December was in court.

Host Dawn Vaughan talks to politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram discuss a ruling in that lawsuit over governor and auditor appointments to the North Carolina State Board of Elections.

Host: ⁠Dawn Vaughan⁠

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: ⁠Laura Brache⁠

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NC Senate Democrats vote for the GOP state budget

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Four Senate Democrats voted for the Republican-written Senate budget last week, setting up seats at the negotiating table for them as the budget progresses. Host Dawn Vaughan talks to legislative reporting colleague Avi Bajpai and higher education reporter Korie Dean to break down the budget, including how the Senate’s budget impacts the UNC System.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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What the latest NC Supreme Court election ruling means for voters

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

North Carolina is getting closer to a resolution in the N.C. Supreme Court case between Allison Riggs and Jefferson Griffin. Host Dawn Vaughan and politics reporters Kyle Ingram and Avi Bajpai talk extensively about the latest in the race between Riggs, who is the Democratic incumbent on the court, and Griffin, the Republican candidate and a Court of Appeals judge. Plus, another court case about the composition of the State Board of Elections and what to expect at the General Assembly this week.

Stay tuned to the end for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Trump’s tariffs — who in Congress is talking, and why others aren’t

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan and McClatchy DC's Danielle Battaglia discuss how President Donald Trump’s tariffs are costing Americans money, and not all Republicans are falling in line behind the president’s costly decisions.

So what do North Carolina’s members of Congress say about the tariffs? And who’s not talking yet, and what does that mean?

Stay tuned to the end for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Freshman Sen. Woodson Bradley on concealed carry & being on ‘team normal’

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Democratic Sen. Woodson Bradley from Mecklenburg County discusses a debate over concealed carry gun permits on the Senate floor. Bradley talks about how she won a close, and closely watched, race last year in a swing district, and her priorities in office.

Stay tuned to the end for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Sen. Woodson Bradley

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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The latest on the (still) unresolved NC Supreme Court race

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan talks to fellow political reporters Kyle Ingram and Avi Bajpai about new developments in the still-unresolved North Carolina Supreme Court race and how a Senate floor debate showed what how debate may go the rest of this session may look like. Vaughan shares that the governor’s budget proposal has landed on lawmakers’ desks.

Stay tuned to the end for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Breaking down NC Gov. Josh Stein’s first State of the State address

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of March 10, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks to politics team colleague Avi Bajpai and higher education reporter Korie Dean. They discuss Democratic Gov. Josh Stein’s State of the State speech and House Speaker Destin Hall’s Republican response, and what’s going on in the UNC System scrubbing language related to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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A closer look at upcoming Senate action on the attorney general, DEI in K-12 and immigration

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of March 10, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks to colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram about upcoming Senate action on legislation about the attorney general and President Donald Trump executive orders, diversity, equity and inclusion in K-12 schools, along with immigration bills moving in both chambers.

Plus, what to expect with the upcoming Democratic Gov. Josh Stein’s State of the State Address, and the Trump firing of the head of the Office of Special Counsel, North Carolina native Hampton Dellinger.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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The NC DMV, DOGE and DEI come up in House Oversight Committee

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of March 3, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks to politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram about the latest news from the North Carolina General Assembly and what to expect this week.

The House Oversight Committee has started a series of hearings about state agencies, particularly the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles and agencies using any diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs or practices. House Oversight is taking a detailed look at efficiency in agencies, something that has been tied in these discussions to the Trump administration’s new Department of Government Efficiency.

Stay tuned to the end for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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What to know about a new cryptocurrency bill at the N.C. General Assembly

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Feb. 24, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks to politics team colleague Avi Bajpai and newsroom colleague Brian Gordon, who is The N&O’s business and technology reporter.

New Republican House Speaker Destin Hall’s cryptocurrency bill. House Bill 92 would allow State Treasurer Brad Briner to invest in “qualified digital assets.” Gordon explains why Republicans and others are supporters of Bitcoin, what it actually is, and what risk is involved in investing the state’s money.

Plus, Bajpai has details on the latest move by Attorney General Jeff Jackson and Republicans related to his power, and we talk about what else to expect at the General Assembly this week. Spoiler: a lot of Appropriations committees.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Brian Gordon

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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New N.C. Labor Commissioner Luke Farley talks elevators, raises, and DEI

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Feb. 17, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks to new N.C. Labor Commissioner Luke Farley, a Republican about everything from elevators, the Labor Building itself, the 10% raises he wants for inspectors, eliminating DEI in his agency to getting Cherie Berry’s endorsement and more.

Stay tuned until the end for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: N.C. Commissioner of Labor Luke Farley

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Trump's fire hose of executive orders, federal workers and the D.C. aircraft crash

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 17:18:00 -0000

For the week of Feb. 10, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks to Washington correspondent Danielle Battaglia about the fire hose of President Donald Trump orders, comments and decisions over the past few weeks, including giving Elon Musk power, and the subsequent protest in downtown Raleigh against it all. Plus what people should know about Washington-area federal employees.

After the break, they talk about the recent Black Hawk helicopter and commercial airliner crash at National Airport, and the North Carolinians who were killed in the tragedy.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Upcoming redistricting trial, UNC BOG’s requests

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Dawn Vaughan, The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by her politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram along with Korie Dean, who covers higher education to talk about the General Assembly session business beginning for 2025, the redistricting trial, and UNC Board of Governors.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean and Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Under the shadow of Helene and Trump, legislative work begins in North Carolina

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Jan. 27, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks with legislative team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram about the General Assembly beginning its work and what's first on deck.

They also talk about the recent death of Rep. Joe John and President Donald Trump’s flurry of executive orders during the first week of his term, and a trickle-down effect in state government.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Donald Trump's second inauguration, presidential trivia and NC’s new treasurer

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 17:03:00 -0000

For the week of Jan. 20, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks to N&O politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi about what North Carolina and the country can expect in the first weeks of the new Trump administration. Some of the issues at play include immigration, taxes and the pressure to lower costs for Americans. After the break, Guinassi shares what she’s learned from an interview with new State Treasurer Brad Briner, and what that means for the State Health Plan.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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North Carolina’s congressional GOP freshmen & Trump's immigration plans

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Jan. 13, 2025, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks to Washington D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia about the five new members of North Carolina’s congressional delegation. They also discuss President-elect Donald Trump’s plans for immigration policy and how that may impact our state.

Stay tuned to the end for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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The long legislative session, inauguration and our 2025 In/Out list

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Jan. 6, 2025, host Dawn Vaughan talks with reporters Kyle Ingram and Korie Dean about what you need to know this week with the General Assembly and new governor beginning their work with ceremonial events. They talk about what we are already seeing about how the legislature may interact with new Gov. Josh Stein.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Korie Dean, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Headliners of the Year for 2024

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan and reporters Avi Bajpai and Korie Dean talk about their picks for Headliners of the Year, from the UNC protests to Gov. Cooper leaving office to changes at the legislature.

Guests: Korie Dean and Avi Bajpai

Producer: Kevin Keister

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The NC GOP's latest veto override and a look ahead to immigration in 2025

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Host Dawn Vaughan talks with Claudia Rivera Cotto, a reporter at Enlace Latino NC who covers political, government and immigration issues, about concerns facing immigrants in North Carolina with recent legislation and president-elect Donald Trump's campaign promises.

Stay tuned to the end for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Claudia Rivera Cotto

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Another veto override is on the horizon. What does it mean for the power balance?

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:55:00 -0000

For the week of Dec. 9, 2024, Dawn Vaughan talks to News & Observer colleagues Korie Dean and Kyle Ingram about what you can expect this week on the House override vote of Senate Bill 382, the bill that adds money to the Helene relief fund and takes powers away from the executive branch, primarily appointment power on the State Board of Elections.

Plus, Ingram catches you up on the latest in the still-ongoing election results of of the N.C. Supreme Court race between Allison Riggs and Jefferson Griffin.

Stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Korie Dean, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Senate Bill 382: The bill that’s less about Helene disaster relief and more about taking power

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Nov. 25, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan talks with News & Observer colleagues Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram and Adam Wagner about the veto override of House Bill 10 on immigration and vouchers, as well as Senate Bill 382, the bill that is sort of about Helene disaster relief but mostly about taking power away from Gov.-elect Josh Stein and the next attorney general, Jeff Jackson, who are both Democrats.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram, Adam Wagner

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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What to expect from North Carolina's new superintendent + a legislative session preview

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Nov. 18, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team colleague Avi Bajpai and News & Observer K-12 schools reporter Keung Hui.

For the first half of the episode, Hui explains the win and what to expect from the leadership of the winner of the superintendent of public instruction statewide race — Democrat Mo Green.

After the break, we talk about what we know is happening at the General Assembly this week as they return for a weeklong session, including a planned override of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto of House Bill 10, which combines funding for the private school voucher backlog with a requirement for sheriffs to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainers.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Keung Hui

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Talking downballot NC races from Election Day: Courts, Council of State & General Assembly

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Nov. 11, 2024, Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team colleagues Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi, Kyle Ingram and Korie Dean in part two of our post-Election Day look at the North Carolina races that were on the ballot. They talk about the N.C. Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, the General Assembly and the rest of the Council of State, from auditor to agriculture commissioner. Plus what the “working supermajority” means for swing Democrats in the House.

Stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Kyle Ingram, Korie Dean, Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Bonus Episode - Another North Carolina split ticket: The presidential, governor's & attorney general races

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 18:30:00 -0000

In this post-Election bonus episode of the Under the Dome podcast, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan talks to D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia, state politics reporter Avi Bajpai and The Charlotte Observer's Josh Bergeron and Ryan Oehrli about the 2024 general election results. What do the outcomes of North Carolina's presidential, governor's, attorney general and legislative races tell us about the state? Plus, stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Election.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia, Avi Bajpai, Josh Bergeron, Ryan Oehrli

Producer: Kevin Keister

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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Election Week is finally here, and we’re ready for it. Here's what to know.

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In our latest Under the Dome podcast episode for the week of Nov. 4, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan talks to politics team colleagues Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Kyle Ingram about all the last minute information you need to know. From statewide voting information, the impact of Helene on voting in Western North Carolina and the flurry of presidential candidate campaign visits.

Stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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Under the Dome: Live! An Election 2024 Preview feat. NCCU's Jarvis Hall

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of Oct. 28, 2024, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by N.C. Central University political science professor Jarvis Hall, for a conversation about the upcoming election.

This episode was recorded in front of a live audience on Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, at the NCCU School of Education auditorium.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Jarvis Hall

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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An early look at Early Voting turnout + presidential campaign visits in North Carolina

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of Oct. 21, 2024, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram to break down the totals from the first day of in-person early voting and bring a behind-the-scenes look at recent presidential campaign visits. Plus, the latest on two lawsuits.

Stay tuned to the end for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

ICYMI: Join The N&O for a live recording of the Under the Dome podcast on the campus of North Carolina Central University. RSVP here.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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North Carolina lawmakers publicly address Helene response, relief and helping

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0000

On the latest episode of Under the Dome for the week of Oct. 14, 2024, host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team colleagues Kyle Ingram and Avi Bajpai. share what it was like on the floor of the Senate and House as lawmakers put the focus not on themselves, but on the people of Western North Carolina. They also bring you up to speed on the latest in lawsuits.

ICYMI: Join The N&O for a live recording of the Under the Dome podcast on the campus of North Carolina Central University. RSVP here.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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What we know, and what we don’t, about Helene’s devastating flooding and damage in NC

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of Oct. 7, 2024, host and Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by N&O colleague Adam Wagner, who covers the environment and climate change to talk about what we know, and what we don’t, about Helene's impact. Plus, what recovery might look like.

You can read all News & Observer coverage of Hurricane Helene with no paywall at newsobserver.com/topics/helene-nc.

Host and Executive Producer: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Adam Wagner

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Polls, policy and politics with Elon University pollster Jason Husser

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of Sept. 30, 2024, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by Jason Husser of the Elon University Poll. Vaughan and Husser talk about the latest polls in North Carolina on the governor’s race and presidential race, plus what issues are important to people being polled. They also break down what is involved in doing a serious poll.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Jason Husser

Producer: Kevin Keister

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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How Robinson scandal may impact Trump, presidential campaign in NC

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Sept. 23, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by our Washington correspondent Danielle Battaglia, to discuss the continued fallout over a CNN report alleging Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson made many vulgar, racist and sexually explicit comments on a pornography website.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

Executive Producers: Laura Brache

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Return of the mini budget at the NC legislature

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Sept. 9, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief is joined by her politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram. to talk about the mini budget and Rep. Destin Hall, the champion of a significant element of the mini budget: requiring sheriffs to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, known as ICE.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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A politics and sports crossover episode with Steve Wiseman

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Sept. 9, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by News & Observer assistant sports editor Steve Wiseman, who is also a reporter on the Duke University sports beat. They discuss how sports and politics intersect on the regular, from state laws to state championship celebrations.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Steve Wiseman

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Politics professor Chris Cooper on the governor’s race, elections

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Sept. 2, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by Western Carolina University political science professor Chris Cooper. They talk about the North Carolina’s governor race and the latest news about where the campaign stands for Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson and Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Chris Cooper

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Trump and Vance in NC, DNC hype show

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Aug. 26, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and Capitol bureau chief, is joined by politics reporter Kyle Ingram and metro intern William Tong to talk about former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance's campaign rally in Asheboro, a counter-programming to the week of Democratic National Convention news.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Kyle Ingram and William Tong

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Presidential polling, Destin Hall’s fundraising, third parties

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of August 19, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by her politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram to discuss the latest presidential poll, fundraising in the NC House, third party candidates, and, seasoning salt news.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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UNC chooses Lee Roberts as chancellor

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of August 12, 2024. Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief is joined by higher education reporter Korie Dean and summer intern Emmy Martin. to talk about UNC-Chapel Hill’s Friday announcement that interim Chancellor Lee Roberts has been chosen as the permanent chancellor.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Korie Dean and Emmy Martin

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Return of the NC House and what’s next for Cooper

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of August 5, 2024. Dawn Vaughan your podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief is joined by her politics team colleague Avi Bajpai to talk about what the rest of Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s time as governor will bring, and what happened at the General Assembly during the House’s one-day voting session last week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai

Producer: Kevin Keister

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The state of the presidential race

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of July 29, 2024. Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief is joined by our Washington, D.C., correspondent Danielle Battaglia to talk about the state of the presidential race, and what a whirlwind of news the month of July has been.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Bonus episode: Gov. Roy Cooper, how NC knows him

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

N&O producer/intern Gabi Hartlaub and Capitol Bureau Chief Dawn Vaughan talk about what it's like covering Cooper and what he's known for, from Covid response to budget battles with the NCGA.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Producer: Gabi Hartlaub

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Changes to downtown Raleigh, including a new mayor this year

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of July 22, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by Raleigh politics and government reporter Anna Roman to talk about who is running in local Raleigh races this fall.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Anna Roman

Producer: Kevin Keister

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An exit interview with Republican NC Sen. Jim Perry

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of July 15, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, your podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by now-former state Sen. Jim Perry, Kinston Republican. Perry had powerful influence in the General Assembly, particularly finance, health care and the budget, and in his former role as majority whip.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Former State Senator Tim Perry

Producer: Gabriella Hartlaub

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How lawmakers, not just the governor, control abortion law

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of July 8, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, your podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by politics reporter Avi Bajpai, higher education reporter Korie Dean and summer intern Emmy Martin. They discuss how abortion is a major issue in the governor’s race between candidates Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson and Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean, Emmy Martin

Producer: Gabriella Hartlaub

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Legislature goes home, what bills made it over the finish line

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of July 1, 2024, Kyle Ingram, this week’s podcast host and politics reporter for The News & Observer, is joined by his politics team colleagues Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Avi Bajpai, to discuss the House and Senate adjourning their short session on Thursday after passing a flurry of bills.

Host: Kyle Ingram

Guests: Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Avi Bajpai

Producer: Gabriella Hartlaub

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Budget summer cooling, and environmental policy

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of June 24, 2024, Dawn Vaughan, your podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief, is joined by her politics team colleague Kyle Ingram and N&O environment and climate change reporter Adam Wagner to discuss this summer’s budget stalemate and environmental policy changes.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Kyle Ingram, Adam Wagner

Producer: Kevin Keister

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The House’s budget move, UNC leadership search and voters

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Start your week in North Carolina politics with our latest Under the Dome podcast, for the week of June 17, 2024. Dawn Vaughan here, your podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief. On this episode, I’m joined by my politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean and Danielle Battaglia to talk about UNC System chancellor searches, the House’s budget move and voters.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean and Danielle Battaglia

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Drama in the Senate over surprise mask/campaign finance bill

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of June 10, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan talks with her legislative team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram about Democrats walking out in the senate, early voting, and the abortion lawsuit.

You’ll also hear a clip from Senate leader Phil Berger talking about what he would want for any future abortion legislation.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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It’s already June and the NCGA still has a long to-do list

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Start your week in North Carolina politics with our latest Under the Dome podcast, for the week of June 3, 2024. Dawn Vaughan here, your podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief. On this episode, I’m joined by my legislative team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai and Kyle ingram

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Asheville Rep. Caleb Rudow on bipartisan singing and his future

Mon, 27 May 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Start your week in North Carolina politics with our latest Under the Dome podcast, for the week of May 27, 2024. Dawn Vaughan here, your podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief. On this episode, I’m joined by Asheville Democratic Rep. Caleb Rudow.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Rep. Caleb Rudow

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Masks, ICE and skydiving coming up at the legislature

Mon, 20 May 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Start your week in North Carolina politics with our latest Under the Dome podcast, for the week of May 20, 2024. Dawn Vaughan here, your podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief. On this episode, I’m joined by my colleagues Avi Bajpai and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

Producer: Kevin Keister

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Masks legislation and the Shalom Act are pending after UNC protests

Mon, 13 May 2024 13:34:00 -0000

For the week of May 13, 2024 Dawn Vaughan talks with colleagues Avi Bajpai and Korie Dean about how the recent protests at UNC-Chapel Hill factor in to significant legislation moving through the General Assembly right now: the SHALOM Act and a mask bill.

You’ll also hear a clip from Senate leader Phil Berger about why he supports a new mask bill post-pandemic and in the wake of protesters wearing masks.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Under the Dome: Live! feat. Sens. Sawyer and Murdock on police, UNC protests and transit

Mon, 06 May 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of May 6, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan talks to Republican Sen. Vickie Sawyer and Democratic Sen. Natalie Murdock during our Under the Dome: Live! event at the N.C. Museum of History in downtown Raleigh.

They discuss everything from the protesters at UNC to the law enforcement officers killed in Charlotte to transportation policy, the budget, this legislative session and the controversial bills passed last session.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Sens. Natalie Murdock and Vickie Sawyer

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video producer: Kevin Keister

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With the session underway, the budget and guns are already issues

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of April 29, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan talks with fellow state politics reporters Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram about how the General Assembly budget process is already underway: you’ll hear audio from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s budget proposal and Senate leader Phil Berger’s reaction. You’ll also hear Republican Rep. Jason Saine’s take on child care funding, as that issue is also integral to this year’s budget process.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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A legislative session preview, plus more NC eCourts problems

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of April 22, 2024, host and News & Observer Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by fellow state politics reporter Avi Bajai and investigative reporter Tyler Dukes. Previewing the upcoming legislative session, they discuss potential bills addressing video lottery terminals and the state budget. Tied to the budget are the needs of the Judicial Branch and the troubled rollout of the eCourts system.

Stay tuned until the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Tyler Dukes

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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DEI politics in higher ed, the upcoming NCGA session and the actual Dome

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week on the Under the Dome politics podcast, host Dawn Vaughan and higher education reporter Korie Dean talk about the possibility of legislation that could defund diversity, equity and inclusion programs at public universities in North Carolina.

After the break, we talk about the new copper dome and roof on the state Capitol building, and what Legislative Services Officer Paul Coble would like to happen, including the chances of getting some of the old copper.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Recording: Kevin Keister

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Immigration and the return of the ICE-sheriffs bill in North Carolina

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of April 8, 2024, podcast host and The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team reporters Avi Bajpai and Danielle Battaglia to talk about a major issue at the state and national levels: immigration.

The two have written stories about the issue that will publish this week. It’s part of a national series of stories that McClatchy newspapers is publishing on immigration.

Bajpai has stories coming about detention requests that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, known as ICE, makes of jails, and legislation planned for this year’s General Assembly session that would require sheriffs to cooperate with those requests.

After the break, Battaglia talks about her coverage of a new facility for immigrant children in Greensboro and all the unanswered questions about it. Plus, how the immigration issue is playing out in Washington.

Stay tuned to the end for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Trump and Biden target NC for 2024 wins and a new NCGOP leader elected

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of April 1, 2024, Kyle Ingram fills in as week’s host for Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan and is joined by politics team colleagues DC correspondent Danielle Battaglia and state politics reporter Avi Bajpai. They talk about North Carolina’s perennial status as a "purple state" and what each party's campaign strategies may be to sway the vote.

Plus, a shakeup at the Republican National Committee resulted in NC GOP Chair Michael Whatley taking the reins with Donald Trump’s support. Now, a Trump-backed replacement has won the state party’s top leadership position.

Host: Kyle Ingram

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Rep. Maria Cervania on life as a freshman Democratic lawmaker

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 12:13:27 -0000

For the week of March 25, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan here is joined by a state lawmaker as guest: Rep. Maria Cervania, a Cary Democrat.

Cervania is a freshman representative who previously served on the Wake County Board of Commissioners. She’s also the first Filipino person to serve in the General Assembly, elected in 2022 along with a historic wave of other Filipino Americans winning elections across the country. Cervania talked about how local and state government are “diametrically different,” from demographics to how governing happens. As a Democrat, her party is in the superminority.

Listen to the full podcast to hear more about her retelling of a conversation with Rep. Donnie Loftis, as well as how she became a Democrat growing up in a Republican household, and how she approaches her work because of it. Plus, Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Rep. Maria Cervania

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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What primary results mean for the NCGA short session feat. WUNC's Colin Campbell

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0000

We are about a month out from the start of the 2024 legislative short session, which is always held during an election year, so that changes the tone of the entire session. First, it’s usually shorter not just by design of the work itself, since there’s a budget adjustment bill to pass, but also because lawmakers want to have time to go out and campaign.

And the results of the primary earlier this month changes that up.

Case in point, House Speaker Tim Moore, who’s a short-timer now and heading to Congress assuming he wins his Republican-favored U.S. House district. During the first half, we talk about the Republicans dynamics that may play out this year, including between Moore and Senate leader Phil Berger, who is not leaving the legislature.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Colin Campbell

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Primary results in NC court races and what it means for the general election

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of March 11, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan is joined by fellow state politics reporters Avi Bajpai, Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Kyle Ingram. The four break down post-primary analysis of the N.C. Supreme Court and Court of Appeals primary elections, as well as General Assembly races. The legislative primaries had some surprises, and some races hinge on the final canvass to determine their outcomes. Plus, hear about the general election for attorney general.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram, Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Bonus Episode: Surprises, upsets and takeaways from the 2024 NC Primary Election

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:00:00 -0000

In this post-primary bonus episode, originally recorded live on X (formerly Twitter), Charlotte Observer and News & Observer politics reporters share their biggest takeaways from Election Night: From some surprises in the Council of State primaries, to what last night’s results tell us about how NC’s congressional delegation might look different in 2025, to possible runoffs.

This recording was edited from its original version for brevity and clarity.

Featuring: Josh Bergeron, Danielle Battaglia, Mary Ramsey, Dawn Vaughan, and Keung Hui.

X Space produced by: Zach Dennis, Andrew Nantais, and Laura Brache

Podcast episode edited by: Laura Brache

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NC Primary Day is here: Frontrunner fundraising, candidates and campaigns to watch

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of March 4, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan is joined by fellow politics reporters Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram to discuss the latest fundraising numbers for the gubernatorial primary frontrunners and what it means for the general election. We also talk about the primary for attorney general, looks ahead to the probable candidates for the general election in that race, as well as lieutenant governor. Plus, legislative primary races to watch.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Learn more about the candidates running in the primary at The News & Observer’s Voter Guide.

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Republican gubernatorial candidate Dale Folwell on what conservatism means to him

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

fFor the week of Feb. 26, 2024, podcast host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan shares outtakes from a recent interview with State Treasurer Dale Folwell, a longshot candidate in the Republican gubernatorial primary. Folwell talks about his views on abortion restriction legislation, his primary opponent Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson and what he thinks of former President Donald Trump. I also asked Folwell about how he would work with Republican legislative leaders as governor, and what he plans to do on primary Election Day and whatever happens after it.

Stay tuned to the end for Dawn's pick for Headliner of the Week, which has to do with the governor’s office and who has power when the leader is out of state.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Dale Folwell

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Interview recorded by: Travis Long

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Josh Stein talks labor issues, his opponents, and why he wants to be governor

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Feb. 19, 2024, host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan shares excerpts of a recent interview Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein, who is running for governor. Hear Stein talk about the primary election, his friend and mentor Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, and his likely general election opponent: Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Josh Stein

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

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Breaking down NC's upcoming primary: Endorsements, races to watch and the Black voter bloc

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:14:00 -0000

Ready or not, we’re days away from the North Carolina polls opening for the 2024 Primary Election. Early voting begins Feb. 15 with the primary on March 5. With that comes a deluge of information — often in the form of TV ads — about candidates, their positions and their endorsements. It can be hard for the average voter to discern who is behind the endorsements and how important they really are. To break it all down, McClatchy D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia joins Under the Dome, along with The Charlotte Observer's Kendrick Marshall and Mary Ramsey.

Host: Kyle Ingram

Guests: Danielle Battaglia, Kendrick Marshall, Mary Ramsey

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Recording: Kevin Keister

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What we found in campaign finance reports, plus border politics

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0000

On this latest episode for the week of Feb. 5, 2024, host Dawn Vaughan and N&O politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram talk about campaign finance reports, the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy, and much more. Stay tuned to the end for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video Producer: Kevin Keister

Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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Goings-on at UNC-Chapel Hill, NC elections bills, and Oscar noms

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 13:39:00 -0000

On this latest episode for the week of Jan. 29, 2024, Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean, and Kyle Ingram talk about Lee Roberts, the new interim chancellor at UNC-Chapel Hill, and some important discussions that took place at last week’s meeting of the UNC System’s Board of Governors.

We also talk about recent developments in a legal challenge against one of the two major elections bills GOP lawmakers passed over Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto at the end of last year’s legislative session.

Host: Avi Bajpai

Guests: Korie Dean, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Audio edited by: Kevin Keister

Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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The people's business: Inside The N&O’s reporting on government transparency in North Carolina

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In mid-October, The News & Observer requested communications from all 170 members of the North Carolina General Assembly, after GOP state lawmakers moved to shield all former and current legislators from having to comply with the state’s public records law.

Reporting this story involved several steps: filing initial requests, following up with lawmakers, reviewing and processing their records, and publication. Here’s a breakdown of what went into this story.

Stick around after the break for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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What gridlock in Congress could mean for government shutdown, plus NC primary endorsements

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Snow is expected up in Washington, D.C., in the coming days, but it is unlikely to chill out the gridlock in Congress right now. Capitol Hill correspondent Danielle Battaglia explains the latest drama related to the impending federal government shutdown and what that means going forward.

Yearning to be part of that congressional scene are several primary candidates who want to represent North Carolina. Will turnover mean more or less influence from the Old North State? We talk about that, plus the Trump factor.

After the break, we move on to the latest endorsements for both Republicans and Democrats, and how that could play out with primary voters. The primary is March 5.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests:

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video Producer: Kevin Keister

Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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Primary primer: What to expect in NC primary ballots this election season

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In our first episode of the new year, we bring you up to speed with a primary primer. Host Dawn Vaughan is joined by legislative team colleagues Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Kyle Ingram to talk about primary ballots.

They both recently wrote about the top of the ticket, which will, in the North Carolina primary on March 5, include incumbent President Joe Biden as the only Democrat, and among Republicans, include former President Donald Trump, who faces various criminal and civil charges related to the 2020 election.

We also discuss the latest news from the N.C. Board of Elections and Wake County Board of Elections, as well as primary polling and legislative candidates.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests:

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video Producer: Kevin Keister

Please consider supporting local journalism with a subscription to The N&O. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you!

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The 10 moments we’ll remember from 2023 in NC politics news

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Our end-of-the-year Under the Dome podcast has the full News & Observer Capitol Press Corps team that covers the General Assembly. That’s host Dawn Vaughan, along with Avi Bajpai, Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Kyle Ingram.

Listen to hear our list of 10 moments we’ll remember, and the conversation around each news story.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram, Luciana Pérez Uribe Guinassi

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video: Kevin Keister, Kaitlin McKeown

For more North Carolina government and politics news, subscribe to the Under the Dome politics newsletter from The News & Observer at newsobserver.com/newsletters and NC Insider at ncinsider.com. Qualified business users are eligible for a short free trial of the daily NC Insider newsletter, as well as a demo account for our Insider Legislative Tracking service. Submit this form: t.co/2ivpV5NSuY

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Parallels with Florida seen in political influence on NC higher ed

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In the latest episode, for the week of Dec. 11, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan talks with reporters Korie Dean and Makiya Seminera about political interference in higher education in North Carolina, and how that compares to Florida, another state that has had partisan influence in universities.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Korie Dean, Makiya Seminera

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Recording: Kevin Keister, Kaitlin McKeown

Video Producer: Kevin Keister

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Who’s in and who’s out for Congress as candidate filing starts

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In the latest episode, for the week of Dec. 4, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan talks with our Washington, D.C., correspondent Danielle Battaglia. They discuss what we know, and what we don’t, about who will file to run for Congress in North Carolina’s 14 U.S. House districts.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video Producer: Kevin Keister

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Filling up on NC candidates filing for election for Thanksgiving

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In the latest episode, for the week of Nov. 20, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan talks about the latest in the run-up to candidate filing with N&O politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram.

Stayed tuned until the end for our picks for Headliner of the Week, which include a Press Corps departure, how to pronounce Gov. Roy Cooper’s last name and a bit of Thanksgiving gratitude.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video Producer: Kevin Keister

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Big leadership changes in local government, housing a key issue

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

For the week of Nov. 13, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan is joined by News & Observer colleagues Mary Helen Moore, who covers Durham; Tammy Grubb, who covers Orange County; and Kristen Johnson, who covers western Wake County.

Big changes on the local government scene arrived with last week’s Election Day. Overall, the three areas still have a common major issue: the cost of housing. Listen to Moore, Grubb and Johnson talk about how housing and other issues played out in the elections, plus races that aren’t yet resolved and a parks bond that failed.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Tammy Grubb, Kristen Johnson, Mary Helen Moore

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video and audio edited by: Kevin Keister

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Higher ed meets politics, plus the latest on statewide elections

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0000

For the week of Nov. 6, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team colleague Avi Bajpai and Korie Dean, who covers higher education.

Even with the General Assembly out of session, there is still plenty of news in state government and politics to discuss. Both Bajpai and Dean have been covering the latest in HBCU funding.

More higher education and politics crossover: why there have been additional appointments made to the UNC-Chapel Hill and N.C. State boards of trustees?

We also talk about the latest in the Council of State races, and who is and isn’t running in 2024.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video by: Kevin Keister

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U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross talks about new congressional maps and DC drama

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In the latest episode, for the week of Oct. 30, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan sat down with U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross, a Raleigh Democrat who just returned from quite the wild time in Congress this past month. Aside from the drawn out election of a Republican House speaker, the big news for the North Carolina congressional delegation, and potential candidates, was passage of new congressional district maps. Ross’ district changed a little but is still a safe blue seat for her in 2024, while other Democrats were given less favorable districts by Republicans state legislators who drew the maps.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Rep. Deborah Ross

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video by: Kevin Keister

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A conversation with a Johnston County freshman lawmaker in the GOP supermajority

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 09:35:00 -0000

In the latest episode, for the week of Oct. 23, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and host Dawn Vaughan sat down with state Sen. Benton Sawrey, a Johnston County Republican.

Sawrey talks about his beginnings in politics, being a freshman in the supermajority party. He also talks about his first, unsuccessful run for state Senate, how he won in 2022 and why he’s not impacted by redistricting this year.

Looking ahead to the 2024 elections, Sawrey also talks about who he sees getting Republican votes in the gubernatorial and presidential primaries.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Sen. Benton Sawrey

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video edited by: Kevin Keister

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Power, the environment and new state laws after veto overrides in NC

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 11:16:00 -0000

For the week of Oct. 16, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team colleague Kyle Ingram and environment and N&O climate change reporter Adam Wagner.

Our discussion centers around power: veto overrides, boards and commission appointments, elections and the environment. The Republicans’ supermajority in the General Assembly gives them the ability to overturn veto after veto from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Kyle Ingram, Adam Wagner

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Videography: Kaitlin McKeown

Video and audio edited by: Kevin Keister

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New congressional and legislative maps on the horizon & what to expect this week at the NCGA

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 10:28:00 -0000

In the latest episode, for the week of Oct. 9, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team colleague Kyle Ingram and N&O investigative reporter Tyler Dukes to talk about redistricting and what it means. By the end of the week, the public might get to see some of the new maps drawn by lawmakers for the 2024 General Assembly and congressional races.

Stay tuned after the break for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Kyle Ingram, Tyler Dukes

Executive Producer and audio editor: Laura Brache

Video shot and edited by: Kevin Keister, Kaitlin McKeown

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NC’s DHHS secretary Kody Kinsley on Medicaid expansion, COVID and the budget. Plus, the federal government shutdown

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 12:06:00 -0000

It’s three months late, but today is the day for the long-awaited North Carolina state budget to become law.

Dawn Vaughan here, The News & Observer’s Capitol bureau chief and host of Under the Dome. Along with the budget comes Medicaid expansion. So our guest for this week’s episode of the Under the Dome podcast for Oct. 2, 2023, is the man leading the major health care change.

I talked with N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kody Kinsley in his office in the Adams Building on the DHHS campus at Dix Park last week. Earlier that day he joined Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper to announce Medicaid expansion would launch Dec. 1. He also got his COVID-19 and flu vaccinations that day.

After the break, I’m joined by our Washington correspondent, Danielle Battaglia. She shares the latest on the federal government shutdown and the Senate dress code. And stay tuned for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Kody Kinsley, Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video shot and edited by: Kevin Keister

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The budget has left The Building with policy, raises and power plays

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of Sept. 25, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan is joined (again) by politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram.

The General Assembly is full of surprises, not just policy provisions hidden deep in the state budget, but we cover that part, too. This past week brought the final, actually here, budget deal, and casinos weren’t in it.

Within a week, the budget will become law.

We break down some of the play-by-play, a lot of analysis, and even get to Moore reassigning Rep. Terence Everitt, a Wake County Democrat, to the Legislative Building basement, where his new neighbors include the press corps.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer and audio editor: Laura Brache

Video shot and edited by: Kevin Keister

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North Carolina’s state budget drama-rama over casinos

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In the latest episode, for the week of Sept. 18, 2023, Dawn Vaughan, your News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host, is joined by politics team colleagues Avi Bajpai and Kyle Ingram. As much as everyone — especially state employees and teachers waiting on raises — wished for final budget votes last week, they didn’t happen. Will they happen this week? Don’t hold your breath.

After the break, gun laws after the recent gun violence on the UNC-Chapel Hill campus, and what Berger and Moore’s responses have been.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Avi Bajpai, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Shot and edited by: Kevin Keister

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What the state budget arrival this week would mean for North Carolinians

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of Sept. 11, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan is joined by politics team colleagues Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Avi Bajpai to talk about the potential for the long-awaited, much anticipated arrival of the state budget.

Stayed tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week, which range from political soda to the weather to downtown Raleigh music.

Host: Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan

Guest: Kyle Ingram, Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Audio and video edited by: Kevin Keister

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What’s next for online sports gambling in North Carolina?

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of Sept. 4, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan talks about the future of sports gambling in North Carolina with Scott Ward, vice president of the Sports Betting Alliance. The alliance is comprised of sports betting companies Draft Kings, FanDuel, BetMGM and Fanatics Sportsbook.

After the break, Korie Dean, who covers higher education, and politics reporter Kyle Ingram, who also writes our Under the Dome newsletter, share more #ncpol updates from the week.

Host: Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan

Guest: Scott Ward, Korie Dean, Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

Video: Kevin Keister, Kaitlin McKeown

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How ‘I Can’t Breathe’ ended up at NC Freedom Park

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of Aug. 28, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan talks with retired UNC Chapel Hill history professor Reginald Hildebrand and N.C. Sen. Natalie Murdock about the new North Carolina Freedom Park in downtown Raleigh. Hildebrand and Murdock, who both served key roles on the park’s planning, discuss the site selection to why “I Can’t Breathe,” the words said by George Floyd before being killed by Minneapolis police in 2020, is among the quotations inscribed on the walls of the new park.

Stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Reginald Hildebrand, N.C. Sen. Natalie Murdock

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Kevin Keister, Kaitlin McKeown

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Boards, overrides and elections power plays

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 14:16:22 -0000

For the week of Aug. 21, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast Dawn Vaughan talks with N&O politics team colleagues Kyle Ingram and Korie Dean about the busy one-day voting session last week — from the veto overrides of bills about transgender youth and athletes to new bills.

Stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week. Spoilers: they range from new music to the collegiate return to campus and the opening of North Carolina Freedom Park.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Kyle Ingram, Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Kevin Keister, Kaitlin McKeown

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Talking state employees with SEANC lobbyist Suzanne Beasley

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0000

For the week of Aug. 14, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan talks with Suzanne Beasley, the government relations director for the State Employees Association of North Carolina (SEANC).

She’s been through delayed budgets before, which means a delay in raises for tens of thousands of state employees. But it’s not just about the wait on raises, according to Beasley, it’s about what the amount will be.

Host: Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan

Guest: Suzanne Beasley (SEANC)

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Shot and edited by: Kevin Keister

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What’s next for Tim Moore, plus NC connections to Donald Trump's indictment

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 15:36:00 -0000

For the week of Aug. 7, 2023, N&O politics reporter Kyle Ingram is podcast host for Dawn Vaughan. First up is a look into the North Carolina Speaker of the House position, which longtime Speaker Tim Moore recently said he does not plan to run for again. After the break, DC Correspondent Danielle Battaglia joins to discuss former President Donald Trump’s latest criminal indictment.

Plus, stick to the end of each segment for their Headliners of the Week.

Host: Kyle Ingram

Guest: Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi, Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

Video: Kevin Keister, Kaitlin McKeown

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2023 local elections in Durham and Wake counties, ALEC and Florida vs. NC

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

For the week of July 31, 2023, we broke down our episode into two segments. First up are two of our local government reporters, because while statewide elections are more than a year away, local ones are coming up this fall.

After the break, I’m joined by our summer politics interns: Makiya Seminera with The N&O and Jazper Lu with NC Insider, one of our two daily politics newsletters.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Kristen Johnson, Mary Helen Moore, Jazper Lu, Makiya Seminera

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video: Kaitlin McKeown, Kevin Keister

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Stalled budgets of yore feat. WUNC’s Colin Campbell

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 10:54:00 -0000

For the week of July 24, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan talked with WUNC Capitol Bureau Chief Colin Campbell, a longtime legislative reporter.

The NC state budget is delayed again this summer. How often has the General Assembly delayed the budget? Plus, stay tuned to the end for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Colin Campbell

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Video: Kaitlin McKeown, Kevin Keister

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Rep. Marcia Morey, a Durham Democrat, on court decisions, athletes and guns

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:42:00 -0000

For the week of July 17, 2023, News & Observer Capitol bureau chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan interviews N.C. Rep. Marcia Morey, a Durham Democrat who is also a former judge and Olympian, and the House Democratic whip.

Stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week about the timing of the legislative session and what can be done about it.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Rep. Marcia Morey

Executive Producer: Laura Brache

Editing and video: Kevin Keister

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Three vetoed transgender bills are up for override and what else to expect at the General Assembly this week

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 09:30:00 -0000

For the week of July 10, 2023, Under the Dome politics podcast host and News & Observer Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with her politics team colleagues, legislative correspondent Kyle Ingram and summer intern Makiya Seminera, about three significant bills vetoed by Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper.

All three impact transgender North Carolinians, from sports to health care to public schools.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Kyle Ingram and Makiya Seminera

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

Video: Laura Brache and Kevin Keister

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Two major SCOTUS rulings for NC and update on the gubernatorial race

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

On this episode for the week of July 3, 2023, host Lars Dolder talks with politics team colleagues Korie Dean and Avi Bajpai about two landmark rulings delivered by the U.S. Supreme Court that have direct North Carolina connects.

Plus, hear about a prominent North Carolina Democrat who is eyeing a gubernatorial campaign, and Headliner of the Week.

Host: Lars Dolder

Guests: Avi Bajpai, Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced by: Laura Brache

Video: Kevin Keister and Kaitlin McKeown

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Catching up with NC House Majority Leader John Bell

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

For the week of June 26, 2023, N&O Capitol Bureau Chief and podcast host Dawn Vaughan interviews N.C. House Republican Majority Leader John Bell about avoiding the camera, his pick for U.S. president and the lawsuit against House Speaker Tim Moore. Plus, hear Bell’s menu item of choice from the Legislative Cafeteria and stay tuned to the end for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Rep. John Bell (R)

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

Video: Laura Brache and Kevin Keister

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Why bills about NC boards are a big deal

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

On this episode for the week of June 19, 2023, host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with N&O legislative correspondent Kyle Ingram about why bills about boards are nowhere near boring. That’s because they are about control over elections, separation of powers, the role of the governor and how the legislature is trying to shift power.

Plus, hear about another elections bill that would make a variety of changes to how you cast your vote.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Kyle Ingram

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

Video: Kevin Keister and Kaitlin McKeown

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NC Sen. Todd Johnson on budget, raises, biscuits and what his dad told him

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 12:22:00 -0000

On this episode for the week of June 12, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan, The News & Observer's state Capitol bureau chief interviewed Sen. Todd Johnson, a Union County Republican. They discuss budget priorities, including raises, and the timeline for passing the state budget. Johnson is on the Senate Appropriations/Base Budget Committee and chairs one of the subcommittees.

Listen to what Johnson’s favorite item in the Legislative Cafeteria is, and stick to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Sen. Todd Johnson (R)

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

Video: Laura Brache, Kevin Keister

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Why North Carolina played a key role in the federal debt ceiling

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

On this episode for the week of June 5, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan talks with Washington, D.C., correspondent Danielle Battaglia about how North Carolina’s congressional delegation factored into the federal government’s debt ceiling dealings and deadline.

Plus, what to expect at the General Assembly this week, including final votes on legalizing online sports betting.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

Video: Kevin Keister and Kaitlin McKeown

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The head of SEANC talks what’s at stake for NC state employees

Mon, 29 May 2023 11:00:00 -0000

On this episode for the week of May 29, 2023, state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan interviews Ardis Watkins, executive director of the State Employees Association of North Carolina.

SEANC and Republican state agency leaders are the latest to sound the alarm about the impact of North Carolina state employees’ vacancy rate, which is is nearing 25%.

Stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliner of the Week, both about remembering those who have gone before us.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Ardis Watkins

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

Video: Kevin Keister and Kaitlin McKeown

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Wrapping up a tense week at the N.C. General Assembly

Mon, 22 May 2023 07:00:00 -0000

On the latest episode of Under the Dome, The News & Observer’s politics podcast, for the week of May 22, 2023, host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan talks with politics reporters Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Avi Bajpai about the abortion veto override, tension on the House floor and what it means for the atmosphere at the Legislative Building. Listen to audio from the final, dramatic moment that a supermajority of Republicans overturned Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto of the abortion restrictions bill. Vaughan, Guinassi and Bajpai were all in the chamber when it happened. And that wasn’t the last moment of tension on the House floor a few days ago. Plus listen to what’s coming up this week in legislation.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Avi Bajpai

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

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Triangle Democratic Sen. Mary Wills Bode on the abortion veto and override vote

Mon, 15 May 2023 08:00:00 -0000

On the May 15, 2023 episode of Under the Dome, The News & Observer’s politics podcast, host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan interviews state Sen. Mary Wills Bode about the abortion bill veto and debate.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guest: Sen. Mary Wills Bode

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Produced and edited by: Laura Brache

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Behind the scenes of the legislative abortion debate and crossover week

Mon, 08 May 2023 14:00:00 -0000

On the latest episode of Under the Dome, The News & Observer’s politics podcast, for the week of May 8, 2023, host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan discusses what’s happening in North Carolina politics with colleagues Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Avi Bajpai.

Vaughan, Perez Uribe and Bajpai talked about the House and Senate debate over Senate Bill 20, the abortion restrictions bill. From parliamentary procedure to the timing of debate, hear what it was like to be in the room.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Avi Bajpai

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Producers and editor: Laura Brache and Scott Sharpe

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Voting rights rulings, ‘compelled speech’ and a bill deadline

Mon, 01 May 2023 08:00:00 -0000

On the latest episode of Under the Dome, The News & Observer’s politics podcast, for the week of May 1, 2023, host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan discusses what’s happening in North Carolina politics with colleagues Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Korie Dean.

Monday is busier than usual in the legislature, and a big reason is a deadline known as crossover on May 4, when most bills need to pass at least one chamber in order to move ahead in the current session.

Dean talks about the latest on bills dealing with “compelled speech” and university faculty tenure, and Perez Uribe and Vaughan give you a quick rundown of the three big N.C. Supreme Court decisions on Friday.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Korie Dean

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Producers and editor: Laura Brache and Scott Sharpe

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Whipping the votes with Republican Rep. Jon Hardister

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0000

On this new episode of Under the Dome, The News & Observer's North Carolina politics podcast, host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan interview Republican Rep. Jon Hardister about being the House GOP caucus whip, caucus changes with Rep. Tricia Cotham joining the party, education issues and more. Plus Hardister's cafeteria go-to and their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Guests: North Carolina Rep. Jon Hardister

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Producer and editor: Laura Brache

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TikTok Jackson and a different NCGA this week

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 10:10:00 -0000

On this Under the Dome episode for the week of April 17, 2023, host and Capitol Bureau Chief Dawn Vaughan talks with D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia about Congressman Jackson's TikTok drama and what's ahead at the legislature now that Rep. Tricia Cotham is a Republican. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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How Rep. Tricia Cotham's move will have major ramifications for NC state politics

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 09:54:00 -0000

On this episode of The News & Observer's politics podcast, Under the Dome, NC Insider editor Lars Dolder fills in as host for Dawn Vaughan and talks to politics team freelancer Kyle Ingram, Charlotte Observer local news editor Josh Bergeron and congressional correspondent Danielle Battaglia about Rep. Tricia Cotham defection from the Democratic Party to the NC GOP House caucus. Plus an update on the state budget and their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Lars Dolder

Guests: NC politics freelance reporter Kyle Ingram, The Charlotte Observer local news editor Josh Bergeron and congressional correspondent Danielle Battaglia

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Producer and editor: Laura Brache

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House veto override drama and budget Easter eggs

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 10:32:00 -0000

On this latest episode of the News & Observer's North Carolina politics podcast, host Dawn Vaughan talks with politics teammate Lars Dolder about the dramatic House veto override, shining a light on a budget item and their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Producer: Laura Brache

Audio editor: Laura Brache

For more North Carolina government and politics news, subscribe to the Under the Dome politics newsletter from The News & Observer at newsobserver.com/under-the-dome/ and NC Insider at ncinsider.com. Qualified business users are eligible for a short free trial of the daily NC Insider newsletter, as well as a demo account for our Insider Legislative Tracking service. Submit this form: t.co/2ivpV5NSuY

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Sports betting bill and corporate tax talk with Sen. Lisa Grafstein

Sat, 25 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0000

On this episode of The News & Observer's politics podcast, Under the Dome, host Dawn Vaughan talks about the sports betting bill and corporate taxes with Sen. Lisa Grafstein, a Raleigh Democrat. Plus what's coming up this week at the legislature and their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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NC Supreme Court cases, power plays, the budget and gun debate

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 10:03:00 -0000

On this episode of the News & Observer’s NC politics podcast, host Dawn Vaughan and the rest of the state politics team talk about the N.C. Supreme Court, Cooper's budget, gun debate, plus Headliner of the Week.

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Sports, State of the State and the GOP Senate supermajority, with Sen. Vickie Sawyer

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 13:20:36 -0000

On this episode of Under the Dome for the week of March 13, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan interviews Republican Sen. Vickie Sawyer of Iredell County. They talk mostly about high school sports, as well as the Senate Republican supermajority, abortion, the CROWN Act and more. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week, both about Senate words.

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Medicaid expansion, marijuana and Democratic chairs

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:08:00 -0000

On this episode of Under the Dome for the week of March 6, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan talks with Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi about the big Medicaid expansion deal between the House and the Senate. Plus the Senate puff-puff-passing medical marijuana, the upcoming State of the State and what else is coming up. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week, state symbols edition.

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Interview with Senate Minority Dan Blue, also NC's first Black Speaker of the House

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 10:36:00 -0000

On this Under the Dome episode for the week of Feb. 27, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan talks to Senate Minority Dan Blue about how he became the first Black speaker of the House in North Carolina, what it means today, what he thinks should happen with the long-stalled African Americans monument on the Capitol grounds and more. Plus what he said about playing basketball with Roy Cooper, what's good at the cafeteria and Vaughan and Blue's picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Teaching Black history and not using it as 'a political football' (with Rep. Amos Quick)

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 12:58:36 -0000

On this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Feb. 20, 2023, News & Observer Capitol Bureau Chief Dawn Vaughan interviews Rep. Amos Quick about how he learned Black history, how he thinks it should be taught, how he'll decide to vote with Republicans, and why he's a pastor. Plus Quick's favorite snack bar food and Headliner of the Week.

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There's a new caucus at the NCGA. What that could mean for NCCU and other HBCUs.

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Feb. 13, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan shares what the launch of the HBCU Caucus means for the lawmakers, the state and one of the schools: NCCU. Plus Headliner of the Week with Vaughan, Jordan Schrader and Avi Bajpai.

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Black History Month with lawmakers who are living it: Sen. Murdock and Rep. Alston

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Under the Dome is celebrating Black History Month with episodes about Black history, lawmakers and legislation. Host and News & Observer reporter Dawn Vaughan interviews N.C. Sen. Natalie Murdock and Rep. Vernetta Alston about themselves, their families, their stance on legislation and more. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week, and a bonus question about what lawmakers' get at the Legislative Cafeteria.

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Congress, Cinnamon Toast Crunch and the NC delegation

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Jan. 30, 2023, host Dawn Vaughan and DC correspondent Danielle Battaglia talk about what North Carolina's 14 U.S. House members have been up to lately, including the Speaker Kevin McCarthy drama. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Producer: Laura Brache

Audio editor: Laura Brache

For more North Carolina government and politics news, subscribe to the Under the Dome politics newsletter from The News & Observer and the NC Insider at newsobserver.com/under-the-dome/

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Bonus episode: NC Insider's legislative preview with Tim Moore and Phil Berger

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 20:00:00 -0000

Didn't get a seat to The NC Insider/News & Observer's sold-out Legislative Preview event with House Speaker Tim Moore and Senate leader Phil Berger? Listen to the entire, unedited conversation here.

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For more North Carolina government and politics news, subscribe to the Under the Dome politics newsletter from The News & Observer and the NC Insider at newsobserver.com/under-the-dome and ncinsider.com

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How Senate Republicans will operate in 2023 (feat. former GOP staffer Pat Ryan)

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Jan. 23, 2023, N&O reporter Dawn Vaughan talks with former Republican Senate staffer Pat Ryan about what the supermajority means and his former boss, Senate leader Berger. Plus Vaughan and Ryan's picks for Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Producer: Laura Brache

Audio editor: Laura Brache

For more North Carolina government and politics news, subscribe to the Under the Dome politics newsletter from The News & Observer and the NC Insider at newsobserver.com/under-the-dome/

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What’s happening with the North Carolina State Health Plan?

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 18:19:52 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Jan. 16, 2023, News & Observer politics reporter and podcast host Dawn Vaughan talks with health reporter Teddy Rosenbluth and politics reporter Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi about the latest developments with changing from Blue Cross NC to Aetna in the State Health Plan. Plus the start of the NCGA session and Headliner of the Week.

Host: Dawn Vaughan

Executive Producer: Jordan Schrader

Producer: Laura Brache

Audio editor: Laura Brache

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First episode of 2023: The NC General Assembly is back this week!

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Jan. 9, 2023, News & Observer politics reporters Dawn Vaughan and Will Doran tell you what to expect as the North Carolina General Assembly comes back for its long session. Plus what factors are at play in legislation, maps and 2024 — and their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Outgoing Democratic Sen. Kirk deViere talks about his party's "political machine"

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Dec. 26, 2022, News & Observer reporter Dawn Vaughan interviews outgoing Cumberland County Sen. Kirk deViere, a Democrat who served four years. He lost his primary after Gov. Roy Cooper endorsed his opponent. What deViere says about the "political machine" and his time in office. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Senate Republican Whip Jim Perry talks budget forecast, abortion and Medicaid legislation in 2023

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 09:15:00 -0000

Content warning: The following episode contains discussions of rape and abortion. Listener discretion advised.

On this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Dec. 19, 2022, News & Observer politics reporter Dawn Vaughan talks with Sen. Jim Perry, a Kinston, NC Republican, about his views about legislation on Medicaid expansion, abortion, the state budget and more looking ahead to the 2023 legislative session. Plus how he became a senator, what he knows about Rep. John Bell, and Perry and Vaughan's picks for Headliner of the Week.

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What U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross says about NC Congressional freshmen, Moore v. Harper

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 09:30:00 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Dec. 12, 2022, News & Observer politics reporter talks with U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross, a Raleigh Democrat, about North Carolina's Congressional freshmen, what it was like inside the U.S. Supreme Court last week, what's in common between state and federal lawmakers and more. Plus our picks for Headliner of the Week.

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The politics of NC's Big Poultry and its impact on neighbors and the environment

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 10:20:00 -0000

This week on the Under the Dome politics podcast, host Dawn Vaughan talks with the main reporting team behind a project by The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer, “Big Poultry.” Plus a sneak peek of what’s to come in their coverage. Listen to the end for our picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Write-ins, freshmen and vetoes. Oh, my!

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 09:30:00 -0000

In this episode for the week of Nov. 28, 2022, N&O reporters Dawn Vaughan and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi talk about write-in votes, the former state senators who are now Congressional freshmen and Gov. Cooper's vetoes. Plus our picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Enough 2022 rehash, what's next? (Feat. politics professor Chris Cooper)

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Nov. 21, 2022, N&O politics reporter Dawn Vaughan talks with Western Carolina University politics professor Chris Cooper. Cooper is oft-quoted by reporters, but they talk more about what the legislative session dynamic will look like in 2023... And that time he shot hoops with Hubert Davis. Plus, both their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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From mayoral race to Congress, N&O reporters share their Election Night dispatches from the field

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 09:16:00 -0000

In another post-election episode, host Dawn Vaughan talks with several more folks on our Election Night coverage team to get behind-the-scenes looks at candidate watch parties. Plus what Raleigh Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin's reelection means, including her new fellow City Council members. With N&O reporters Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi, Anna Johnson, Colleen Hammond and Korie Dean. And, of course, our Headliners of the Week, including the latest on lead found on the UNC campus.

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Bonus episode: The biggest takeaways from Election Night

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 23:06:00 -0000

In this bonus episode of Under the Dome on Nov. 9, 2022, Dawn Vaughan, Danielle Battaglia, Will Wright and Will Doran give the big takeaways from Election Night in North Carolina politics.

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Election Day Eve: Crunch time for US Senate and downballot races

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 12:13:27 -0000

Election Day has arrived! In this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Nov. 7, 2022, we look at the US Senate race and downballot races, and what to expect. Dawn Vaughan, Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Danielle Battaglia break it down for you. Plus our picks for Headliner of the Week

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The Sups: Chances of a GOP legislature supermajority and the NC Supreme Court races

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 15:19:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome podcast episode for the week of Oct. 31, 2022, News & Observer reporters Dawn Vaughan, Will Doran and Lars Dolder give the latest on chances of a General Assembly supermajority and what to know about NC Supreme Court races, a week before Election Day. Plus Headliners of the Week about NC State vs. Virginia Tech, Halloween and Twitter.

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Election final stretch: Early voting turnout, Charlotte races and political ads

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome episode for the week of Oct. 24, 2022, News & Observer reporters Dawn Vaughan and Avi Bajpai, and Charlotte Observer reporter Will Wright talk about early voting turnout so far, the races to watch in Charlotte, fact checking political ads, common ground on gun bills and their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Violence in the news: January 6th Committee investigation of lawmakers' actions and remembering Raleigh shooting victims

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 08:10:00 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Oct. 17, 2022, News & Observer politics reporter Dawn Vaughan and D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia talk about the recent violence in the news: both the January 6th Committee hearing that gave details of violence and response at the U.S. Capitol; as well as the names of the people shot and killed in the mass shooting in Raleigh. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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What happens if Republicans win a supermajority in the NCGA and NC Supreme Court?

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 08:16:00 -0000

In this episode, News & Observer reporters Dawn Vaughan and Will Doran talk about the N.C. Supreme Court, Voter ID and judges' races, plus what Democratic and Republican legislative leaders are saying about how the election results will impact their governing in 2023. Plus Headliners of the Week: marijuana and Kernersville!

PROJECT 170:

As part of our 2022 election coverage, we sent out hundreds of candidate questionnaires for all 170 races for the North Carolina General Assembly. Compiling these responses is a lengthy process, but a grant from the American Press Institute is helping make this special coverage possible. We’re calling it Project 170.

Read more at: https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article266610351.html#storylink=cpy

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Project 170: Questioning candidates of all 170 General Assembly races

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome for the week of Oct. 3, 2022, News & Observer politics reporter Dawn Vaughan talks with Kyle Ingram about our Project 170, which brings coverage of legislative races statewide. Hear previews of three significant races plus our picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Loan taxes, beach pizza politics, and what Reps. Saine and Reives are doing

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 10:46:00 -0000

On Under the Dome for the week of Sept. 26, 2022, find out what N&O reporters Dawn Vaughan and Lars Dolder said about the latest in Medicaid expansion, what you missed at Politics at the Pub with Rep. Saine and Leader Reives, loan taxes, beach pizza and golf.

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Scouting Out a Former President

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome for Sept. 19, 2022, News & Observer politics reporters Dawn Vaughan and Will Doran talk about why former President George W. Bush was in Raleigh, plus the latest on Voter ID and our Headliners of the Week.

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Why Don't You Just Meet Me in the Middle?

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 08:15:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome for the week of Sept. 12, 2022, N&O politics reporter Dawn Vaughan talks with Congressional reporter Danielle Battaglia about candidates moving toward the middle -- or are they? -- as Election Day gets closer. Plus our picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Elections countdown: Why Democrats need Kamala Harris, plus the Trusted Elections Tour

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 08:30:00 -0000

In Under the Dome for Sept. 5, 2022, Dawn Vaughan and Avi Bajpai talk about why Vice President Kamala Harris made yet another trip to North Carolina and what that means, plus the Trusted Elections Tour and our picks for Headliner of the Week. Spoiler: Dogs and basketball.

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Look Ahead: First Day of School and Eyes on Midterms

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome Look Ahead for Monday, Aug. 29, 2022, Dawn Vaughan and Lars Dolder discuss education as the school year begins and what legislative leaders are saying about top of mind midterms issues like abortion. Plus their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Look ahead: NC's 20-week abortion ban and a farewell to N&O politics intern Kyle Ingram

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 08:30:00 -0000

In this episode, reporter Luciana Pérez Uribe Guinassi dives into the 20-week abortion ban reinstated by a federal judge in North Carolina last week. Plus, Danielle Battaglia sends off summer politics intern Kyle Ingram on his last day at The News & Observer.

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Look ahead: Women and children first?

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 08:30:00 -0000

Longtime News & Observer reporter Tammy Grubb joins Under the Dome to talk about her new series Women & Children First? highlighting single mothers raising children under the age of 18 who make up more than a third of the families meeting outdated federal poverty guidelines in North Carolina. Read the first installment of the series here https://www.newsobserver.com/news/state/north-carolina/article263097898.html

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Special episode: Politics at the Pub

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0000

The News & Observer and NC Insider kicked off a new "Politics at the Pub" event series Wednesday. Our first gathering was at The Raleigh Times and was sponsored by Randolph Cloud & Associates and Fidelity Investments. Listen in on the discussion with our Under the Dome politics team.

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Look ahead: Mo Money Mo Problems? The latest campaign finance reports tell all

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0000

New federal and state campaign finance reports show money is rolling in for candidates... Some more than others. The News & Observer's Will Doran and Washington DC correspondent Danielle Battaglia dive into what the numbers say about key races. Plus, Headliner of the Week!

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Look ahead: North Carolina named No. 1 in Business

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 08:35:00 -0000

Danielle Battaglia and Will Doran discuss how North Carolina is honored with the distinction as the best state for business and lawmakers are credited with putting partisan politics aside.

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Look Ahead: Ballot drama and control of the legislature

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome, N&O politics reporters Dawn Vaughan and Kyle Ingram discuss the Green Party ballot drama, Democrats' midterm strategy and more North Carolina political news. Plus our picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Look Ahead for July 5, 2022

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 18:21:45 -0000

In this week's Under the Dome episode, Dawn Vaughan and Lars Dolder of The N&O and Insider discuss the final votes of the state budget bill now on Gov. Cooper's desk and what happens next. Plus our picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Look Ahead: What does SCOTUS overturning Roe vs. Wade mean for NC?

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 10:16:00 -0000

The U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade, leaving the question of whether abortion is legal for the states to answer. The News & Observer's Will Doran spoke to The Charlotte Observer's Hannah Smoot about North Carolinians' reactions and the future of abortion rights in the state.

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Look ahead: LGBTQ caucus and the fast-track budget

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this look ahead for the week of June 20, N&O reporter Dawn Vaughan and N&O politics intern Kyle Ingram discuss his interviews with the NCGA's LGBTQ members, plus what to expect as the state budget process moves forward. And, of course, our Headliners of the Week.

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Look ahead: From Capitol Hill, gun control and immigration laws with Congresswoman Deborah Ross

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0000

After the shootings in Buffalo, New York and Uvalde, Texas, gun control remains the biggest topic of conversation on Capitol Hill. Danielle Battaglia from McClatchy DC talks to North Carolina Congresswoman Deborah Ross about gun laws, "Dreamers," plus her favorite spots on Capitol Hill and in her district.

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Look Ahead: What's next for these 3 bills passed by the NC Senate?

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Medicaid expansion, legalization of medical marijuana and a ban on instruction of LGBTQ issues in K-3 classrooms were all approved by the North Carolina Senate last week. Reporters Avi Bajpai and Will Doran break down the latest developments with each bill and their chances of being signed into law.

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Look Ahead: NC Republicans torn over Medicaid expansion debate

Mon, 30 May 2022 08:00:00 -0000

NC lawmakers have a full agenda this summer and reporter Will Doran walks us through Medicaid expansion, medical marijuana, the “Parents Bill of Rights,” and more.

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Look Ahead: The General Assembly is back!

Mon, 23 May 2022 14:00:00 -0000

Preview of the 2022 "short" legislative session with Dawn Vaughan and Will Doran.

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Bonus Episode: Breaking down the 2022 primary results

Thu, 19 May 2022 08:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporters Will Doran and Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan break down what happened with Madison Cawthorn, the successes Black Democrats had, and Gov. Roy Cooper’s big gamble.

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Look Ahead: It's primary week! Who's on the ballot and what's at play?

Mon, 16 May 2022 08:00:00 -0000

It's finally primary week! In this episode of Under the Dome, Dawn Vaughan and Danielle Battaglia talk about the big races in the North Carolina primary on May 17 and what's at play. Plus stay tuned for their picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Closer look: How the SCOTUS leak could impact local elections

Mon, 09 May 2022 08:00:00 -0000

The News & Observer's Danielle Battaglia and Avi Bajpai discuss the ways in which the leaked ruling from the United States Supreme Court could impact midterm elections here in North Carolina.

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Look Ahead: Drip, drip, drip — impact of early voting turnout, growth in southern Wake and Headliner of the Week

Mon, 02 May 2022 08:00:00 -0000

With early voting underway, News & Observer reporter Dawn Vaughan and Insider editor Brian Murphy talk about how turnout will impact the primary, what growth in Southern Wake County means, plus their picks for Headliner of Week.

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Look ahead: The Democratic primary for U.S. House in District 4

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Brian Murphy discusses the open Democratic primary for U.S. House in District 4 with former state Sen. Floyd McKissick and Asher Hildebrand, the former chief of staff for retiring Rep. David Price.

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Look Ahead: How much will endorsements matter in the NC primary?

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome episode for the week of April 18, 2022, News & Observer reporters Dawn Vaughan and Will Doran talk about the power of major endorsements in the North Carolina primary and what other factors are at play for the upcoming election. Plus Dawn and Will's picks for Headliner of the Week.

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Closer look: Trump and friends in Selma, North Carolina

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 14:25:22 -0000

News & Observer reporters Avi Bajpai and Lars Dolder check in from former President Donald J. Trump's political rally in Selma, North Carolina, on Saturday night.

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Look ahead: Economic incentives, big companies and North Carolina

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Brian Murphy and News & Observer business reporter Lars Dolder discuss the VinFast announcement, economic incentives, and how the state's chase for a car manufacturer led to this point.

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Look ahead: A new system to combat the opioid crisis in NC

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporter Avi Bajpai talks with Nabarun Dasgupta, an epidemiologist at UNC-Chapel Hill, about the current state of the opioid crisis in North Carolina, and a new drug assessment program Dasgupta and other researchers have developed to detect dangerous drugs and warn communities about them.

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Look ahead: Are Lt. Gov Mark Robinson and U.S. Rep. Madison Cawthorn the future of the Republican Party?

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

Danielle Battaglia from McClatchy DC and Will Wright from the Charlotte Observer discuss recent reporting about the degree to which Lt. Gov Mark Robinson and U.S. Rep. Madison Cawthorn might represent the future of the Republican Party.

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Look ahead: Madison Cawthorn, the GOP primary in western NC and the longest session

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Brian Murphy and Western Carolina University political science and public affairs professor Chris Cooper discuss how Rep. Madison Cawthorn's latest controversies could impact the chances of other candidates in the crowded 11th Congressional District field, plus why mountain districts might be most impacted by the ever-expanding length of North Carolina's legislative sessions.

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Look Ahead: Masks off, primary candidates and session adjournment

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0000

In this Week Ahead episode of Under the Dome for March 7, Dawn Vaughan and Will Doran talk about masks coming off in schools, the final primary showdowns of candidates and if the legislature might actually adjourn. Plus we shared a Dome favorite: Headliner of the Week.

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The week ahead: February 28, 2022

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Brian Murphy and News & Observer reporter Will Doran discuss the most competitive legislative districts for 2022 in North Carolina's new maps.

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The week ahead: February 21, 2022

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporters Will Doran and Dawn Vaughan take a look at what's on deck in North Carolina politics for the week of February 21, 2022.

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The week ahead: February 14, 2022

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0000

The News & Observer's D.C. reporter Danielle Battaglia discusses the top three things in North Carolina politics this week: the state House map, the state Senate map and the Congressional map.

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Under the Dome: Sports Wagering

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0000

NC insider editor Brian Murphy discusses the latest on North Carolina legislation to legalize online sports gambling with News & Observer reporter Avi Bajpai on this week's episode of Under the Dome.

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The week ahead: January 31, 2022

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporter Will Doran takes a look at what's on deck in North Carolina politics for the week of January 31, 2022.

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The week ahead: January 24, 2022

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 14:19:01 -0000

News & Observer reporter Danielle Battaglia looks ahead at the week in politics, including a possible veto to a change in the primary date, whether Mark Walker will change races and what we can expect as candidates begin filing their financial paperwork to the boards of elections.

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The week ahead: January 17, 2022

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Brian Murphy and News & Observer reporter Will Doran explore what next in the North Carolina redistricting saga, including the Supreme Court's hearing.

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The week ahead: January 10, 2022

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0000

On this Week Ahead for Jan. 10, 2022, Under the Dome host Dawn Vaughan talks with Danielle Battaglia about what to watch for in North Carolina politics: when the General Assembly might come back for a day depending on the redistricting trial, and what moves Congress is making soon.

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The week ahead: January 3, 2022

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with Will Doran about several redistricting lawsuits going to trial in North Carolina this week.

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The week ahead: December 13, 2021

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporter Will Doran and Insider editor Brian Murphy evaluate the state of affairs in North Carolina redistricting litigation.

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The week ahead: December 6, 2021

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporter Will Doran looks aheads to the week in North Carolina politics.

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The week ahead: November 29, 2021

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome Week Ahead for Monday, Nov. 29, 2021, host Dawn Vaughan talks with our D.C. correspondent Danielle Battaglia about Build Back Better and other upcoming Congressional news, as well as more campaign moves at the state level.

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The week ahead: November 22, 2021

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Insider editor Brian Murphy and McClatchy DC reporter Danielle Battaglia discuss how the races for North Carolina's congressional seats are shaping up.

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The week ahead: November 15, 2021

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Reporters Lucille Sherman and Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan of The News & Observer discuss the potential close of budget negotiations and an early shakeup in the 2022 congressional matchups.

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The week ahead: November 8, 2021

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Insider editor Brian Murphy and News & Observer reporter Will Doran take a look at the issues likely to make political news in the coming week.

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The week ahead: November 1, 2021

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0000

News & Observer politics reporter Dawn Vaughan tells you what to Look Ahead for -- more money and maps! -- in North Carolina politics for the week of Nov. 1, 2021.

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Closer look: A Conversation with U.S. Rep. David Price

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Brian Murphy and U.S. Rep. David Price discuss the Chapel Hill Democrat's decision not to run for another term in 2022, his long career in Congress, his hopes for the rest of his term and whether he'll get involved in selecting a successor.

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The week ahead: October 25, 2021

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporter Will Doran looks ahead to a legislative week expected to be taken up with redistricting matters.

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Closer look: Big changes in NC’s energy future

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with climate change and environmental reporter Adam Wagner about a new North Carolina energy law and how it came to be.

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The week ahead: October 18, 2021

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporter Will Doran discussed what to expect from the North Carolina General Assembly the week of Oct. 18, 2021.

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Monster, Part 4: All eyes on Raleigh

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

In the fourth episode of this special Under the Dome series, we unravel the politics of mapmaking today, the potential for reform and how the choices state legislators make will impact the legal fight over district lines for years.

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The week ahead: Monday, Oct. 11, 2021

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

In this week's Under the Dome Look Ahead for Monday, Oct. 11, 2021, Dawn Vaughan and Will Doran tell you the biggest things to watch: Redistricting and budget negotiations, both of which are well underway.

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Monster, Part 3: Math on the front lines

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

In the third episode, we dive deep into the mathematics that could be the key to quantifying and fighting gerrymandering. Some of that math dates back to secret U.S. atomic bomb labs. And although complex, its inner workings are built on some familiar ideas.

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The week ahead: October 4, 2021

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Under the Dome, News & Observer politics reporter Danielle Battaglia and NCInsider editor Brian Murphy touch briefly on topics under consideration at the North Carolina General Assembly and also look back at a momentous night in North Carolina politics one year ago.

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Monster, Part 2: What gerrymandering isn't

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0000

In the second episode of this special Under the Dome series, we examine why defining gerrymandering is harder than it appears. Bizarre shapes don’t always translate to political shenanigans. And some of our own choices – about who we are and where we live – complicate the picture.

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The week ahead: September 27

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with Republican state Sen. Brent Jackson about the next steps in the North Carolina General Assembly's budget negotiation process.

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Monster, Part 1: So you want to make a map...

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 08:00:00 -0000

In the first episode of this special Under the Dome series, we explore the rules of redistricting – the drawing of new electoral maps. Those rules often conflict, and that friction is a prime reason why North Carolina sits center stage during battles over gerrymandering.

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The week ahead: September 20

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Brian Murphy and state politics reporter Dawn Vaughan preview this week in North Carolina politics, with predictions of when the budget may be finalized, if marijuana legislation will pass and what's next for redistricting.

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Closer look: The debate over school mask mandates

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Will Doran talks with education reporter T. Keung Hui about Congressman Madison Cawthorn's visits to school board meetings and the heated debate about whether to require masks in schools.

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The week ahead: September 13, 2021

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In the Week Ahead for Sept. 13, 2021, The News & Observer's Dawn Vaughan tells you about the three big things to pay attention to in North Carolina politics this week: redistricting public hearings, vaccination and mask mandate decisions made at the local level, and our perennial favorite: the state budget process.

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Closer look: Mo money, less problems?

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with Western Carolina University political science professor Chris Cooper about whether North Carolina's state legislature should get a pay raise.

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The week ahead: September 6, 2021

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

What kind of ripple effects do we expect the Texas abortion case to have here in North Carolina? How can the public get involved in redistricting? And what’s next in the voting rights court case we’ve been following?

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The week ahead: August 30, 2021

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome Look Ahead episode for Aug. 30, reporters Danielle Battaglia and Dawn Vaughan discuss where things stand in NCGA budget negotiations and touch on other legislative topics.

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Closer look: Kids in court

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Brian Murphy and News & Observer reporter Virginia Bridges discuss her reporting about North Carolina's lowest-in-the-nation age for having young children appear in court and state lawmakers' attempts to raise the age.

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The week ahead: August 23

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 19:15:02 -0000

State politics reporter Will Doran gives us a preview of what's happening in North Carolina politics.

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Closer look: Ending the longest war, from the perspective of one NC lawmaker and Afghanistan veteran

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with NC state Rep. Grier Martin and Afghanistan veteran, a Democrat from Wake County, about the Taliban's takeover of the country following President Joe Biden's ending the U.S.'s military involvement in Afghanistan.

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The week ahead: August 16

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Dawn Vaughan and outgoing NC Insider Editor Colin Campbell give us a preview of what's happening in North Carolina politics, including but not limited to: budget talks, a confirmation for Democrat Gov. Roy Cooper's second appointee for DEQ secretary and a bill, sponsored by House Speaker Tim Moore, that would harshen penalties for rioters.

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Closer look: History of the Legislative Building

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Visitors to North Carolina's 1960s-era Legislative Building often get lost and comment on the unusual architecture. Host Colin Campbell talks with Gerry Cohen, a retired legislative attorney who worked there for nearly four decades, about how the building was built and how it's changed over time.

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The week ahead: August 9

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome Look Ahead episode for Aug. 9, host Danielle Battaglia discusses what's on deck at the North Carolina legislature for the week.

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Closer look: An interview with state Sen. Natalie Murdock

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporter Brian Murphy talks to state Sen. Natalie Murdock, D-Durham, about a recent rally in Washington, DC, where she and other state lawmakers pressured the U.S. Senate to address voting rights legislation before they leave town for August recess. The two also discuss proposed legislation in North Carolina, as well as the 2022 U.S. Senate race in the state.

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The week ahead: August 2

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome Look Ahead episode for Aug. 2, host Dawn Vaughan tells you about what the August budget process could look like as well as things to watch this week on Critical Race Theory, high school sports and potential legislation.

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Closer look: Legislative scrutiny of the state's high school athletic association

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter talks with fellow News & Observer reporter Avi Bajpai about Republican lawmakers' attempt to dissolve and replace the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, citing the association's neglect of its member schools.

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The week ahead: July 26, 2021

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The legislature won’t be doing much this week, since lots of top Republicans are heading to Utah for the national ALEC conference. But while they’re gone, there are potentially massive changes in the works for high school sports and who gets to run them in North Carolina. Is it about politics? Money? Racism? Transgender issues? We examine the many angles to this bill.

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Closer look: The case of Dontae Sharp

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Reporters Will Doran and Nina Pasquini examine the case of Dontae Sharp. He was wrongfully convicted of murder in Greenville and spent 26 years in prison before being freed two years ago. But Gov. Roy Cooper has not given him a formal pardon, which means he can't get even a penny in restitution for all the years of his life that the state took from him. The governor is now facing increasing pressure from Black Lives Matter activists to act.

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The week ahead: July 19th

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome Look Ahead for Monday, July 19, 2021, reporters Danielle Battaglia and Will Doran discuss what's on deck at the North Carolina General Assembly.

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Closer look: A Conversation with U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The N&O's Washington correspondent Brian Murphy talks with U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross, a Wake County Democrat, about the Capitol riot of Jan. 6, how she has approached her first months in office, the ongoing controversies at the University of North Carolina and what it will take for a Democrat to win a Senate race in the state.

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The week ahead: July 12

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this Under the Dome Look Ahead for Monday, July 12, 2021, host Dawn Vaughan, with Colin Campbell, tell you the important North Carolina politics things to watch for this week: medical marijuana, House budget watch and cobra-like surprises.

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What happened June 30: The day Nikole Hannah-Jones was finally granted tenure at UNC

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with The News & Observer’s higher education reporter Kate Murphy about what happened June 30, the day UNC’s Board of Trustees voted to give Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones tenure after months of declining to take the issue up.

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The week ahead: July 5

Sat, 03 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The News & Observer's Will Doran looks ahead to the legislative topics on deck at the North Carolina General Assembly. We've got an interview with NC Attorney General Josh Stein on medical marijuana, the latest on a budget fight that could lead to criminal charges against lawmakers, and the latest on what the NCAA and NIL rules are changing for local universities

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Closer look: Is a budget compromise possible?

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Colin Campbell talks with Sen. Kirk deViere, who was one of four Democrats who voted in favor of the Senate budget. He explains why he voted yes, and why he’s optimistic about a bipartisan budget compromise rather than a repeat of 2019’s stalemate.

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Closer look: The governor's powers

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 11:58:57 -0000

State politics reporter talks with House majority leader Rep. John Bell and gubernatorial expert and beat reporter Dawn Vaughan about the legislature's attempt to limit the governor's powers in a state of emergency, and Gov. Roy Cooper's arguments for keeping the current coronavirus state of emergency in place.

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Closer Look: Election laws in North Carolina

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Reporters Brian Murphy and Will Doran discuss proposed changes to election laws in North Carolina and how those changes fit into the larger national debate over how elections should be conducted.

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The week ahead: June 14

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In the Under the Dome Week Ahead for June 14, Colin Campbell hosts and talks with Dawn Vaughan about what you need to know in North Carolina politics this week: transparency legislation, election changes and a new official state trail.

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Closer Look: A 'dumpster fire' of a school year?

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Dawn Vaughan hosts this Closer Look for June 11, joined by N&O K-12 education reporter Keung Hui. Most North Carolina students are finishing up their school years this week, and year-round students start the new year in July. Listen to what Hui has to say about all the school drama this year at the state and local level, from virtual and in person issues, to critical race theory and teacher raises.

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The week ahead: June 7

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In the Under the Dome Week Ahead for June 7, Danielle Battaglia scans the legislative horizon at the North Carolina General Assembly.

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Closer look: North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Reporter Brian Murphy interviews North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson in this episode. Robinson, a Republican and the state's first Black lieutenant governor, discusses his political future, his push against the state's new social studies standards, the state's vaccination efforts and more.

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The week ahead: May 31

Mon, 31 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In Under the Dome for May 31, News & Observer reporter Will Doran takes a look at the week ahead in North Carolina politics.

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Closer look: Pandemic immunity for nursing homes and other health care facilities

Fri, 28 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with former ProPublica fellow Sean Campbell about a provision that provides sweeping immunity for health care facilities and providers during the pandemic. Read Sherman’s latest story on a facility that is likely immune from civil liability for the slow, painful death of an adult care home resident: https://www.newsobserver.com/news/politics-government/article251178409.html

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The week ahead: May 24

Mon, 24 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In the Under the Dome Week Ahead for May 24, Dawn Vaughan hosts and talks with Will Doran about what you need to know in North Carolina politics: jobs, budget limbo and COVID-19 federal relief.

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Closer look: Firefighters seek help from the legislature

Fri, 21 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

NC Insider editor Colin Campbell speaks with Scott Mullins of Professional Fire Fighters & Paramedics of North Carolina about proposed legislation to help firefighters deal with cancer related to occupational hazards, post-traumatic stress -- and why they want to put blue lights on fire trucks.

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The week ahead: May 17

Mon, 17 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

With the all-important legislative crossover week in the rearview mirror, News & Observer reporter Danielle Battaglia breaks down what to expect at the North Carolina General Assembly in the week ahead.

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Closer look: The looming redistricting process

Fri, 14 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

News & Observer reporter Brian Murphy speaks with bill drafting veteran Gerry Cohen about his three decades drawing districts in North Carolina.

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The week ahead: May 10

Mon, 10 May 2021 11:31:50 -0000

This week is one of the most important at the legislature all year: Crossover week. It’s the last chance, for most bills, to determine if they’re dead until the next session, or if they still have a shot at passing this year. We break down what some of the biggest bills are that are pushing up against the deadline. Will Doran hosts.

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Closer look: Deregulating the practice of some NC nurses

Fri, 07 May 2021 14:46:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with Rep. Gale Adcock, a Democrat representing Wake County, about a health care bill supported by a majority of North Carolina legislatures, yet the legislation still hasn't come up for a vote.

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Closer Look: Ground View of Protests

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

News & Observer politics reporter Dawn Vaughan hosts this Closer Look at what covering protests on the ground is like for N&O visual journalist Julia Wall, and what people should know about the tension in the air, protesters, police and the role of the free press.

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Closer Look: The Improvement Association - The Final Chapter

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 16:38:00 -0000

NCInsider editor Colin Campbell speaks with Zoe Chace about the making of The Improvement Association podcast from Serial and The New York Times, and what the troubled elections history of Bladen County, North Carolina, might have to tell us about U.S. elections moving forward.

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The week ahead: April 26

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 11:54:00 -0000

State politics reporter Danielle Battaglia talks with reporter Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan about what's coming up in North Carolina politics this week.

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Closer Look: The Improvement Association - Chapter Four

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 16:23:00 -0000

News & Observer journalists Brian Murphy, Tyler Dukes and Will Doran discuss Episode Four of The Improvement Association podcast, including their own experiences writing about elections in North Carolina's Bladen and Robeson counties.

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Closer Look: The Improvement Association - Chapter Three

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, coinciding with the release of Chapter Three of The Improvement Association podcast from the makers of Serial and The New York Times, The News & Observer's Brian Murphy and NCInsider editor Colin Campbell share views on the podcast and clips from Colin's interview of its creator, Zoe Chace.

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The week ahead: April 19

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

State politics reporter Lucille Sherman talks with Rep. Destin Hall, Republican House Rules Chairman, about what's coming up in North Carolina politics.

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Closer Look: The Improvement Association - Chapter Two

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 13:30:00 -0000

Coinciding with the release of Chapter Two of The Improvement Association podcast from the makers of Serial and The New York Times, The News & Observer digs into the complicated history of race and elections in North Carolina with an interview of Irving Joyner, a professor at North Carolina Central University School of Law who specializes in civil rights and race and the law. Reporter Carli Brosseau hosts.

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Closer Look: The Improvement Association - Chapter One

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 15:24:00 -0000

In this discussion of Chapter One of The Improvement Association podcast from the makers of Serial and The New York Times, reporters from The News & Observer dig into the episode and share insights from their own coverage of Bladen County, North Carolina's complex and troubled elections history. Brian Murphy, WIll Doran and Carli Brosseau discuss the 2018 elections scandal that undid the apparent victory of a congressional candidate and the constant murmur of rumors concerning something called "The Improvement Association."

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The week ahead: April 12

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan hosts the Under the Dome Week Ahead for April 12. She and Colin Campbell tell you big things to watch for this week in the state legislature after a flurry of recent bill filings, and what could bring an HB2-like spotlight on North Carolina.

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Closer look: Nursing home visitors and "Clifford's Law"

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The North Carolina House voted nearly unanimously to ensure that each resident of a nursing home or similar facility can have at least two visits a month during a public health emergency. It's a sign that both parties see harm in the visitor bans of the past year. Insider editor Colin Campbell talks with Carolina Public Press reporter Kate Martin about the pandemic's impacts on residents and their families.

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The week ahead (sort of): April 5

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Lawmakers discuss bills they’re passionate about this session including a Medicaid expansion that Democrats think Republicans may pass under a different name. Danielle Battaglia hosts.

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Closer Look: Where NCAA sports and public policy intersect

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In a week that saw the U.S. Supreme Court hear arguments over NCAA rules limiting the education-related compensation of student athletes, McClatchy DC reporter Brian Murphy and News & Observer sports columnist Luke DeCock found time to discuss the sometimes hard-to-figure intersection between sports and public policy. The court case centers on how colleges might reward athletes with an expanded definition of education-related expenses if NCAA rules are weakened. But on the horizon is the question of broader rule changes that would allow student-athletes to receive compensation for the use of their name, image and likeness.

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The week ahead: March 29

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Everything you need to know about what's happening in the North Carolina legislature this week, with Will Doran and Danielle Battaglia.

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Closer Look: Persistent problems at NC DHHS leave unsafe doctors treating patients

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0000

One health professional had two felony convictions for possession of controlled substances. Another had been suspended from the federal Medicare program. A third had a revoked license, later restored, stemming from a fraudulent billing case. Here's what State Auditor Beth Wood found in one of her latest audits. News & Observer reporters Will Doran and Lucille Sherman dig into the problem in Episode 15 of Under the Dome.

For full coverage of the issue, visit The News & Observer.

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The week ahead: March 22

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Everything you need to know about what's happening in the North Carolina legislature this week, with Colin Campbell and Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan.

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Closer Look: The Reopening of North Carolina Schools

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this Closer Look episode, host Dawn Vaughan talks with EducationNC reporter Alex Granados about schools reopening, and what the past year has been like for educators, students and elected officials as they managed major changes in public education during coronavirus. After a year since schools were first closed, all North Carolina students are now returning to the classroom.

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The week ahead: March 15

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 16:57:29 -0000

Everything you need to know about what's happening in the North Carolina legislature this week. Danielle Battaglia hosts with Lucille Sherman.

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Closer look: Changing the game for kids with autism

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0000

A pair of bills that would remove supervisory requirements for some therapists are making their way through North Carolina's legislature. Rep. Zack Hawkins talks about what those bills would do, and what impact they would have. Lucille Sherman hosts.

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The week ahead: March 8

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0000

News & Observer politics reporter Will Doran walks listeners through potential N.C. General Assembly topics ranging from school reopenings to the regulation of jello shots and alcohol-infused ice cream.

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Closer Look: NC bars struggle to survive COVID restrictions

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0000

What's it like to own a shuttered bar in the time of COVID? Zack Medford of the N.C. Bar and Tavern Association discusses the unique challenges posed to his industry by government restrictions in North Carolina. NC Insider editor Colin Campbell hosts.

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The week ahead: March 1

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0000

The week ahead for March 1 is hosted by Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan, with Colin Campbell. They'll tell you what's going to happen at the legislature this week around COVID-19, reopening and more.

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Closer look: Biden's EPA nominee, NC's Michael Regan

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Everything you need to know about former North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Michael Regan, now President Joe Biden's nominee for the Environmental Protection Agency. Our Washington correspondent Brian Murphy hosts, with hurricane recovery, environmental and now vaccine reporter Adam Wagner.

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The week ahead: Feb. 22

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

The school reopening debate continues this week as we await Gov. Roy Cooper's action -- and possible veto -- on a legislation that would force schools to resume in-person classes within weeks. Legislators will also take action on a proposed summer school program for kids who have fallen behind. Danielle Battaglia hosts, with Dawn Vaughan.

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Closer look: About an oversight agency being dissolved

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

A look at an oversight agency being eliminated by North Carolina Republican legislative leaders . The Program Evaluation Division is tasked with targeting waste, fraud and abuse. State politics reporter Lucille Sherman hosts.

Read more from Sherman and the rest of The News & Observer's politics team at newsobserver.com.

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The week ahead: Feb. 15

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

In our look ahead at the week of Feb. 15, we'll discuss what might happen as the school reopening bill nears final passage and action from Gov. Roy Cooper. And we'll take a look at prospects for marijuana legalization in North Carolina. Will Doran hosts.

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Closer Look: The latest data from the 2020 election

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 12:13:00 -0000

The majority of voters in the swingiest of swing states, North Carolina voted for former President Donald Trump. But there's more to that story. We discuss our findings from the most detailed yet on the 2020 election. State politics reporter Lucille Sherman hosts with investigative reporter Tyler Dukes.

Read more from Sherman and the rest of The News & Observer's politics team at newsobserver.com.

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The week ahead: Feb. 8

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

In our look ahead at the week of Feb. 8, we'll discuss what's next in the legislature's effort to reopen public schools and pass COVID-19 aid. And we'll take a look at how the "consensus revenue forecast" due out this week could affect those efforts. Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan hosts, with Colin Campbell.

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Rural Broadband: NC's Billion-Dollar Challenge

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 14:00:00 -0000

A year of remote work and virtual schooling has exposed the inequities in broadband internet access in North Carolina. What will it take to get every rural corner of the state online with high-speed connections? "North Carolina probably has a billion-dollar broadband need gap," says Jody Heustess, this week's guest on the podcast. He's a vice president at ATMC, which has received several of the state's "GREAT" grants to help private internet providers expand service in rural areas. Insider editor Colin Campbell hosts.

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