Politics stories in Raleigh–Durham

The Manhattan district attorney's office is challenging Donald Trump's appeal of his 2024 hush money conviction, arguing that the charges stem from unofficial conduct. Trump's claims of presidential immunity and judicial bias are also contested by prosecutors.

Former Sheriff Mike Roberson, now a Chatham County Commissioner, shared insights about his law enforcement career and motivations for public service. He spoke with Andrew Stuckey on 97.9 The Hill about his transition to this new role.

Rani Dasi has been appointed to the Orange County Board of Commissioners, bringing valuable strengths to the role. Chair Jean Hamilton discussed this appointment and other agenda items during a recent interview.

Dr. Anthony Fauci declined to testify in a Republican-led Senate hearing, invoking the Fifth Amendment amid accusations regarding his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision intensifies ongoing partisan tensions surrounding the pandemic's origins and response.

Dr. Anthony Fauci is set to testify before the Senate's HSGAC, where Senator Rand Paul will question him about his COVID-19 response and private journal entries. Paul has accused Fauci of misleading the public and has previously called for his imprisonment.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro School Board member Rani Dasi has been appointed to the Orange County Board of Commissioners. Meanwhile, UNC's new social work program and the urgent call for blood donations from the Red Cross highlight significant local developments.

Civil rights organizations have alleged that immigration agents used racial slurs during raids in Los Angeles last summer. The claims, revealed in court filings, include evidence from body camera footage and text messages.

North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson joins a bipartisan group of AGs in urging the FCC to strengthen rules against illegal robocalls. The initiative aims to cut off scammers' access to phone networks and protect consumers from fraud.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are set to meet with President Trump at the White House, coinciding with the funeral of Sen. Lindsey Graham. The meetings come as both leaders seek to advance their agendas amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.

The death of Senator Lindsey Graham has left a significant gap in Republican foreign policy leadership, particularly in relations with Ukraine. His unique ability to bridge the gap between traditional hawkish views and the Trump administration's non-interventionist stance is now absent, leaving the GOP to reassess its foreign policy direction.

A number of Duke University graduates have played significant roles in shaping policies during Donald Trump's presidency, particularly in areas like immigration and nationalism. This trend highlights the unexpected political influence of a university known for its apolitical stance.

With 99 days until the midterm elections, North Carolina candidates and parties are ramping up efforts to engage voters. Key races, particularly the U.S. Senate contest, are drawing attention amid concerns about voter turnout and economic issues.

Senator Mitch McConnell will miss the upcoming Fancy Farm event in Kentucky as he continues his rehabilitation following a fall. His office confirmed he is not yet medically cleared to leave the rehab facility.

Zebulon's municipal government is under fire as the Board of Commissioners grapples with accusations of incompetence and untrustworthiness. Recent developments include a lawsuit settlement, a new interim town manager, and challenges to the eligibility of a commissioner in the upcoming elections.

The settlement aimed at reducing prison populations during COVID-19 has sparked controversy as it is linked to violent crimes. Governor Roy Cooper faces criticism from Republicans as he campaigns for a U.S. Senate seat.

The United States and Iran have paused attacks for a second consecutive day as both nations seek to return to negotiations for an interim ceasefire. This development comes after recent exchanges of fire have complicated efforts for a lasting agreement.

The U.S. military fired on a merchant vessel attempting to breach a blockade of Iranian ports, escalating tensions in the region. Iran continues to target American positions, while diplomatic negotiations remain uncertain.

A member of Vice President JD Vance's protective detail is under investigation for allegedly compromising security protocols. The inquiry follows reports of dissatisfaction among agents regarding hastily arranged travel.

The Trump administration is pushing to rename New York's Penn Station as part of an $8 billion redesign of the transit hub. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has hinted at the possibility of the station being named after President Trump, although no official decision has been made yet.

Republican Senate leader Phil Berger's campaign spent over $12.6 million in an unsuccessful bid for reelection, significantly outpacing his opponent Sam Page's $943,000. This spending reflects the high stakes of the race and the efforts to maintain Berger's influence in North Carolina politics.

Cary residents expressed outrage at town leaders during a Town Hall meeting, questioning findings from a state auditor's report on excessive spending. The investigation, linked to former Town Manager Sean Stegall, revealed questionable expenditures, prompting calls for reform and accountability.

Residents of Cary expressed their anger during a Town Council meeting following a state audit that uncovered millions in excessive spending. The audit's findings have raised concerns about the town's financial management.

The U.S. military has launched its 13th night of strikes against Iran as tensions rise over shipping routes, particularly following attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels on Saudi oil tankers. The situation has led to a spike in oil prices, with Brent crude surpassing $100 a barrel.

North Carolina's new state budget includes significant pay raises averaging 16.2% for state law enforcement and introduces state-funded bonuses for local officers. Governor Josh Stein emphasized this as a historic investment in public safety.

President Trump is imposing new tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on imports from 60 countries, citing inadequate enforcement of forced labor bans. This move follows the expiration of temporary tariffs and aims to address human rights abuses and trade distortions.

Governor Josh Stein visited the Raleigh Police Department to emphasize the state's new budget, which includes significant funding increases for law enforcement. The budget features pay raises for various law enforcement officers to enhance recruitment and retention efforts.

President Trump has added a condition to the Saudi Arabia nuclear agreement, requiring the kingdom to normalize relations with Israel. This unexpected stipulation complicates the deal, which was initially announced without such a condition.

President Trump promotes $1,000 accounts for newborns aimed at helping families invest in their children's futures. While over 7 million accounts are active, some parents report delays in receiving funds.

A number of Duke University graduates have played significant roles in shaping Donald Trump's presidency and the MAGA movement. This includes individuals involved in controversial policies such as immigration enforcement and white nationalism.

The anticipated U.S. Senate race between Democrat Roy Cooper and Republican Michael Whatley is underwhelming in fundraising, with Cooper raising $16.1 million compared to Whatley's $5.8 million. Despite predictions of a record-breaking campaign, spending in North Carolina lags behind other states.