Economy

Timid Thom, Tariff Thom

By Matt Schlosser / April 4, 2025 / Comments Off on Timid Thom, Tariff Thom

The only thing more excruciating than Trump’s tariff policy has been Senator Thom Tillis’ weak response as the president intentionally turns the global economy into a raging dumpster fire.

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Trouble Brewing

By Matt Schlosser / March 21, 2025 / Comments Off on Trouble Brewing

Contrary to Trump’s view, trade wars involve very real, very painful consequences for everyday people. And while we’re currently the ones left paying the price, MAGA Republicans should know that we’ll remember this pain when we’re at the ballot box next November.

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What It Means to Be North Carolina Strong (3/14)

By Matt Schlosser / March 21, 2025 / Comments Off on What It Means to Be North Carolina Strong (3/14)

The theme of Stein’s State of the State address was “North Carolina Strong,” a motto Stein has used to rally North Carolinians who are in the midst of a hurricane rebuild, rising costs, and a chaotic presidential administration. 

Stein contrasted the divisive national political scene with a more hopeful, bipartisan vision for North Carolina. He centered everyday people in each policy proposal and every argument. He even showcased his sense of humor while taking a shot or two at Elon Musk.

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Democrats Are Crafting Impactful Legislation, Republicans Aren’t Listening

By Matt Schlosser / March 7, 2025 / Comments Off on Democrats Are Crafting Impactful Legislation, Republicans Aren’t Listening

Amidst the stream of legislative proposals are also some progressive gems– legislation proposed by Democrats who are still trying to support working class families, rural communities, and the environment. These bills don’t get as much attention, but they provide us with an idea of how Democrats are crafting a countervision for North Carolina.

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How Trump’s Flurry of Executive Orders Could Impact North Carolina

By Matt Schlosser / January 24, 2025 / Comments Off on How Trump’s Flurry of Executive Orders Could Impact North Carolina

The first week of Trump’s second term has been a storm of absurd statements and dangerous policies. We’ll highlight some of the most significant actions Trump took this week, and the impact they could have on North Carolina moving forward.  Attempting to Restrict Birthright Citizenship Hours after swearing to protect the Constitution, Trump attempted to…

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Gov. Roy Cooper releases 2024-25 budget proposal that calls for $1B+ for public schools, 8.5% raise for teachers

By Patrick Zarcone / May 3, 2024 / Comments Off on Gov. Roy Cooper releases 2024-25 budget proposal that calls for $1B+ for public schools, 8.5% raise for teachers

Gov. Cooper’s budget proposal includes an 8.5% pay raise for teachers, an investment of over $1 billion in public schools – “instead of more taxpayer-funded private school vouchers” – and tax relief for small businesses and working families.

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NC Senate, House budget bills released – and they fail to address the state’s biggest needs

By Patrick Zarcone / June 1, 2023 / Comments Off on NC Senate, House budget bills released – and they fail to address the state’s biggest needs

“This Republican Senate budget is a historic disaster for public education. It fails to fund basic needs and will force school leaders to cut everything from bus routes to courses … the Senate budget slaps veteran teachers … in the face,” Gov. Cooper said.

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Gov. Cooper’s budget will raise teacher pay, cut taxes for the middle class, fully fund the Leandro Plan

By Patrick Zarcone / March 24, 2023 / Comments Off on Gov. Cooper’s budget will raise teacher pay, cut taxes for the middle class, fully fund the Leandro Plan

The governor’s budget proposal calls for an average teacher pay raise of 18%, which would make North Carolina’s teacher pay tops in the Southeast, instead of one of the worst.

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Democrats pass signature legislation addressing climate change, health care, taxes

By Patrick Zarcone / August 12, 2022 / Comments Off on Democrats pass signature legislation addressing climate change, health care, taxes

While many critical investments are needed, this bill marks one of the many steps to tackle climate change, make health care affordable and ensure corporations are paying their fair share.

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State Republicans unveil another lackluster budget

By Alanna Joyner / July 6, 2022 / Comments Off on State Republicans unveil another lackluster budget

State Republican legislative leaders released their state budget proposal on Tuesday, with measly pay raises for educators and state employees and no mention of Medicaid expansion. The proposed budget also fails to deliver on one of our state’s key constitutional obligations in fully funding our public schools.The budget increases pay for state employees by 1…

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