North Carolina Republicans Push Power Grab Ahead of Veto Loss

In a strategic move ahead of losing their supermajority, North Carolina Republicans have introduced a sweeping bill that ostensibly aims to provide disaster relief following Hurricane Helene but primarily serves to diminish the powers of the newly elected Democratic officials. The legislation, SB 382, passed along party lines and would transfer significant authority from the governor to the state auditor, a position now held by Republican Dave Boliek, particularly concerning the state election board. Democratic leaders have condemned the bill as a blatant power grab and political retribution, with incoming Gov. Josh Stein characterizing it as an effort to undermine the electoral process. This legislative maneuver is reminiscent of similar actions taken by Republicans after the 2016 elections, which sought to curtail the powers of Democratic officials. As Republican control wanes, they are pushing through this bill while they still can, despite previous attempts to alter the election board structure facing judicial obstacles. The implications of this legislation could significantly reshape governance in North Carolina as the political landscape shifts.