October 9th is the Deadline for Voter Registration
Please Register to Vote at the link below.
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Final Canvassing Before the ElectionSaturday, Oct. 10, 11am - 2pmLocation Polk County Democratic HQ 64 Ward St Columbus, NC 28722 To Volunteer Contact Bill Herrera- [email protected], 972-249-8322 or Chris Reynolds- [email protected], 802-893-9920 Sign up for Canvassing |
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Polk NC Dems Fall Rally!Candidates, BBQ, Cider, Music and Fun!Come join us for an evening of fun and conversation with your local Democrats! Mingle and have some yummy BBQ, sip some cider and clear your mind with the dulcet tones of the Saluda Grade Band. Look forward to seeing you there!
Polk High School Oct. 11th 4-6pm • Meet the Candidates! • Barbeque by Twiggs! • Cider from TK Farms! • Music by Saluda Grade! • Door Prizes and More! Featured Speakers: Anderson Clayton - NC Dems Chair J John Arrowood - NC Appeals Court Meet Candidates: LaKesha Womack - US House Reps Doyle Brown - NC State Senate John Morgan - NC State House Ray Gasperson - Polk Commissioner Jon Klimstra - Polk Commissioner J John Arrowood - NC Appeals Judge Keenan Nesbitt - Polk County Sheriff Directions: Polk County High School |
POLKLORE talks with Keenan Nesbitt
The Unaffiliated Candidate for Polk County Sheriff
It’s fair to say that Keenan Nesbitt's campaign has managed to gain a little more traction than many observers expected, if the number of lawn signs and attendance at his community events mean anything. And in a typical mid-term election year,, the smart money would probably still be on the current sheriff keeping his job. Incumbent sheriffs are hard to beat.
But this is not an ordinary election year. In this episode, round 2 with the independent who wants to be the new sheriff of the county.
Link here
But this is not an ordinary election year. In this episode, round 2 with the independent who wants to be the new sheriff of the county.
Link here
US Supreme Court blocks Trump vote by mail rule
Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito dissented
Jacob Fischler for NC Newsline - September 14, 2026
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday kept in place a lower court’s order blocking President Donald Trump’s embattled plan to place new restrictions on mail ballots for this year’s midterm elections.
The unsigned, one-paragraph order upheld a Massachusetts federal court’s injunction on a U.S. Postal Service rule until after Nov. 3 and did not decide whether the rule itself was lawful. But a majority of the court said the Democratic state officials and voting rights groups challenging the rule were likely to succeed. Two of the court’s stalwart conservatives, Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, dissented from the decision. Alito wrote that the Postal Service has “broad authority to regulate the mail” and that at this preliminary stage of the suit challenging the rule, its policy should remain in place.
“I express no view on whether the Government would be likely to succeed on de novo review of the Postal Service’s powers,” he wrote. “But for now, the Government has satisfied its burden of making a strong showing that the plaintiff States’ … claim is not likely to succeed.”
“There is at least a fair prospect that the final rule falls within the Postal Service’s statutory authority,” he wrote. “But applying the rule in the 2026 elections would be arbitrary and capricious … because state and local election officials do not have sufficient time to reasonably implement the rule before the elections.”
The rule’s challengers argued, in part, that the regulations would be impossible to install ahead of Election Day. Several election administrators, pro-democracy groups and others declared to the court that they agreed with that argument. The Postal Service did not bring any evidence against those claims. Democrats and voting rights advocates also argued the rule was illegal and unconstitutional. The executive branch has virtually no role in elections administration, which is a state responsibility with congressional oversight under the U.S. Constitution, they said. The case, tried before President Barack Obama appointee U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani, will continue to evaluate the legality of the rule for future elections.
Challengers react
“Today’s order from our nation’s highest court makes clear that states cannot be forced to undermine their mail voting systems and risk voter disenfranchisement because of the President’s political agenda,” Massachusetts Attorney General Joy Campbell said. “Mail voting is safe, secure, and reliable, and I will continue to stand up for Massachusetts residents who rely on mail ballots to ensure that they can have their voices heard in the November election.”
Virginia Kase Solomón, the president and CEO of Common Cause, one of the groups suing to block the rule, called the decision “a major win for the millions of everyday Americans,” including elderly and rural voters, and those with disabilities, who depend on vote-by-mail.
“This executive order was a blatant power grab designed to silence voters and undermine our elections, but it failed because the people and the law were on our side,” she said in a statement. “Our Constitution is clear: states run our elections, and voters choose their leaders—not the other way around. No administration can strip the people of their power.”
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, whose state was the lead plaintiff in the case, said the rule was part of Trump’s “attacks on democracy” for the past 20 months.
“California stood up for democracy and we won,” Newsom wrote on social media. “Today is a good day for democracy, the rule of law, and the American people looking to exercise their Constitutional right to vote.”
Phil Weiser, Colorado’s attorney general and Democratic nominee for governor, said the court “just sent the message that President Trump and the Postal Service need to stay the hell away from our elections.”
California and Colorado are among the eight states that send ballots to every registered voter. Spokespeople for the White House, Postal Service and U.S. Department of Justice, which represented the administration in the case, did not respond to emails seeking comment late Monday.
In the hour following the ruling, Trump posted on his social media platform in opposition to slowing artificial intelligence development, the poor condition of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts building and his promise to send every voter $5,000 if Republicans win the upcoming midterms, but did not address the ruling.
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Campaigning with Doyle Brown
Our campaign continues to connect with voters across Rutherford, Polk and Henderson Counties building a people-powered movement focused on affordability, fully funded public schools, workforce housing and good-paying jobs across WNC. Together, we are fighting for a government that puts Your Street Over Wall Street and delivers for the working families of NC Senate District 48.
https://www.brownforncsenate.com |
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Postcard & Potluck
The Democratic Women of Polk County will host. Bring a dish to share and a pen to use to fill out postcards. Help get voters to the polls this election!
September 28 at 6pm Meeting Place, 75 Carmel Lane, Columbus |
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Sample Ballots Now AvailableYou can Download a pdf of a sample ballot for the upcoming Nov. 3rd mid-term elections. Just input your name, and other info in the provided form. Option click to save a pdf of the ballot.
Download a sample Ballot |
Why the Judges on the Ballot This Election REALLY Matter
A Note from Judge Toby Hampson, NC State Court of Appeals
From CAROLINA DEMOCRACY - JUL 21, 2026
Yesterday, I got the email below from Judge Toby Hampson’s campaign. He is one of the candidates on our 2026 NC Judicial Slate. I edited it slightly to highlight the key takeaway — if we want a Democratic majority in our North Carolina appellate courts, which is possible by 2028, we must defend all four state-wide judicial seats that Democrats currently hold.
Democrats currently hold 2 of the 7 seats on the Supreme Court and 3 of the 15 seats on the Court of Appeals. Four of those 5 seats held by Democrats are on the ballot this year. If Democrats win all four races this year, that clears a path to restoring majorities on both courts that will protect and defend democratic norms.
Unfortunately, that also means that if we lose all 4 of those races, Justice Allison Riggs will be the only remaining Democrat serving on a North Carolina appellate court at any level. I am a huge fan of Justice Riggs, but even she cannot do this alone!
So, if we want to protect the rule of law and democratic norms, we must elect all 4 judges on the 2026 NC Judicial Slate. Please consider supporting them today if you haven’t already (or again, that’s great too)!
Unfortunately, that also means that if we lose all 4 of those races, Justice Allison Riggs will be the only remaining Democrat serving on a North Carolina appellate court at any level. I am a huge fan of Justice Riggs, but even she cannot do this alone!
So, if we want to protect the rule of law and democratic norms, we must elect all 4 judges on the 2026 NC Judicial Slate. Please consider supporting them today if you haven’t already (or again, that’s great too)!
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Justice Anita Earls NC Supreme Court
https://earls4justice.com/ J. John Arrowood NC Appeals Court 1 https://www.keepjudgearrowood.com/ |
J. Toby Hampson NC Appeals Court 2
https://www.judgetobyhampson.com/ J. Christine Walczyk NC Appeals Court 3 https://www.judgechristine.org |
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Want to help make a real
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Canvassing - The Reviews are in!★★★★★ Oh, no, not me—I’ll never canvass! Then I read somewhere that resistance calls us to “step outside our comfort zone.” That phrase really struck a chord with me. I have now canvassed three times. We go in pairs to democratic-leaning households to stress the importance of voting in the midterms. It’s very rewarding and a great way to reach people. -Beth Child ★★★★★ I have never done canvassing before this election cycle. It felt intimidating. I decided to participate because I feel this midterm election is the most important one of my life. My first time out, I was pleasantly surprised. Almost all the folks that we contacted were cordial. Several people thanked us for asking their opinions. I saw beautiful scenery and felt good about doing my part. Becoming friends with my canvassing partner was a bonus. -Carrie Federici Knox ★★★★★ I had never canvassed before, but this year is different. Trump is involved in so much corruption and with few exceptions, the Republican legislators are complicit and/or participate in the corruption (e.g., U.S. Rep. Tim Moore, District 14). It is critical that everyone pitch in. I feel better knowing that I helped turn out the vote. The list we're working with is targeted at people who voted for Democrats in the past, so the reception has been positive with many of the conversations being very enjoyable. -John Thurow |
Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) listens during a House Budget Committee meeting on Capitol Hill on May 16, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
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Republicans, Democrats agree Rep. Edwards made right call withdrawing from NC-11 race
Chuck Edwards withdrew from his re-election campaign following censure by the U.S. House Ethics Committee. He is meeting on August 10 to select a replacement.
Christine Zhu for NC Newsline - August 5, 2026
Democrats and Republicans alike applauded U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards’ withdrawal from his reelection campaign Wednesday after the U.S. House Ethics Committee recommended his censure, followed by pressure from his party. Edwards, who has represented North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District since 2023, dropped out of the race after the committee’s Monday report, which detailed his inappropriate conduct toward two young women who worked in his office. “After much prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to withdraw from my re-election campaign,” Edwards said in a statement early Wednesday morning. “I will complete my current term. Serving Western North Carolina has been the honor of my life.” Both of the state’s Republican senators praised that move. Read more ... Also see- Republicans search for a replacement nominee for Congress in Western NC |
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Judges Hampson & Walczyk lead the bill at Dems Candidate ForumMatt Pickett for the Polk County Dems - July 25, 2026
It was a great turn-out at Polk Middle School in Mill Spring for our seven Democratic Candidates. Each one spoke and answered voter's questions throughout the 2 hour long event. Concerns about about how the Republican controlled board of elections will make it harder to vote come November was on people's minds. Everyone left feeling inspired and eager to do their part to assure victory for Democratic candidates come November. Please use the links to view Judge Toby Hampon's speech and Judge Christine Walczyk's speech on YouTube. Judge Walczyk's Speech Judge Hampson's Speech Candidate Web Sites:
J. Toby Hampson NC Appeals Court 2 https://www.judgetobyhampson.com/ J. Christine Walczyk NC Appeals Court 2 https://www.judgechristine.org Jon Klimstra - County Commissioner https://klimstra4polknc.com Ray Gasperson - County Commissioner https://ray4polk.com LaKesha Womack - US Congress NC-14 https://www.womack4nc14.com Doyle Brown - NC Senate 48 https://www.brownforncsenate.com John Morgan - NC House 113 https://www.johnmorgan113.com Keenan Nesbitt Polk County Sheriff https://nesbittforsheriff.com |
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Full video of Justice Earls remarks and Q&A session
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Anita Earls Rally with Polk Dems at Veteran's Park
"A Good Turnout Can Win Against a Bad Gerrymander"
On an overheated July 18th in Columbus, Anita Earls delivered a hopeful message. But Earls also wasted no time in outlining what was on the line come November. That we must play the long game. Right now Democrats are indeed a minority on the NC Supreme Court. First, we need to get Justice Earls reelected in November. Then, during the presidential election cycle in 2028 we have to elect Democrats to the court. Then the court can end gerrymandered voting maps and fund our schools properly the way our state constitution mandates. About 50 people braved the sweltering heat to hear the NC Supreme Court Justice speak. Click on the video to hear Justice Earls' inspiring remarks. YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/AUpfImFiQ7w Justice Anita Earls NC Supreme Court https://earls4justice.com/ |
Tate - the Dems Coon -dog leads the way at the 2026 Coon Dog Day Parade.
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Coon Dog Day Was a Huge Success!Matt Pickett for the Polk County Dems - July 11, 2026
The weather threatened to be a spoiler on this day, but spirits were too high to be quelled by the trivia of weather. Dems and other blindly enthusiastic Coon-Dog fans assembled for what will surely be remembered as one of the best Coon-Dog days in Saluda ever! The crowd, diverse - the message singular - Coon Dogs RULE! Polk Dems mustered to showcase their amazing candidates. And we did. Mere crickets of response when our Republican opponents were introduced - but when the Dems were named by the announcer, the crowd burst with applause! It was heartening. Nary a boo was heard amongst the parade goers. All-in-all it was a great day and a beacon of hope for the good guys (us, the Dems) who have worked so hard to get just this far. But we still need to get to yonder hill! Help us won't you? With a donation, by volunteering or to encourage a friend to not just vote "straight ticket" - to think, perchance to dream of an America we can all once again recognize. |
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Columbus Celebrates America's 250th BirthdayMain Street Turns into a Festival of all Things American
Food, games, amusement rides, music and vendors of every sort clogged Main Street in Downtown Columbus. People of all ages showed up to celebrate America. The mayor and the color guard got things kicked off then a rendition of the National Anthem set the mood for a scorching afternoon. Despite all the preparation and attractions people stayed away more than in other recent years due to the high temperatures. The Polk County Democrats were there in numbers at their booth answering questions about the upcoming mid-term elections. LaKesha Womack (candidate NC 14 US Congress) was at our booth weathering the heat and answering questions from voters as was Ray Gasperson (candidate Polk County Commissioner). All went really well and people were very much in the mood to eat cotton candy and celebrate America. Later after the sun set the crowds returned for the annual fireworks display. |
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Justice Anita Earls to Hold Rally in Columbus
Meet Justice Earls July 18 at Veterans Park 10-11:30am
Our courts are the last bulwark against a cruel and unjust legislature. Often, the courts are our only redress available when we are wronged. That is why it is critically important that people of unimpeachable character be elected as justices to our state's supreme court. Anita Earls is such a person. Her long and distinguished career is the story of a person dedicated to justice for all. Currently the NC State Supreme Court is majority Republican. Which is why our heavily gerrymandered electoral map is allowed to stand. Justices should not be partisan! How our representatives are elected and who they end up being is determined by our electoral district map. WE should choose our representatives not Raleigh. If we can re-elect Justice Earls to the NC Supreme Court, this will open the door to securing more seats in the next election and ultimately filling the majority on the court with justices who favor an electoral map that reflects the true nature of the electorate. Please join us welcoming Justice Earls to our own Veterans Park in Columbus on July 18th where she will speak about our court system and the challenges facing us all in NC. There will be a Q&A session after. Justice Anita Earls NC Supreme Court https://earls4justice.com/ You can also meet several of the candidates running for office in the upcoming November election!
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Judges Hampson & Walczyk to Hold Rally at Polk Middle School
Meet the candidates for the NC Court of Appeals
Our courts are the last bulwark against a cruel and unjust legislature. Often, the courts are our only redress available when we are wronged. That is why it is critically important that people of unimpeachable character be elected as judges to our state's supreme court. Please join us welcoming Judges Toby Hampson and Christine Walczyk. There will be snacks and a Q&A session after. J. Toby Hampson NC Appeals Court 2 https://www.judgetobyhampson.com/ J. Christine Walczyk NC Appeals Court 3 https://www.judgechristine.org July 25th, 4-6pm Polk Middle School 321 Wolverine Way Mill Spring You can also meet several of the candidates running for office in the upcoming November election!
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From left, Adam Smith, creator of Savage Freedom Relief Operations, N.C. Rep. Tim Moffitt, and U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards wait for former President Donald Trump's appearance in Swannanoa, Oct. 21, 2024 Angela Wilhelm/Citizen Times.
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WNC Senator who drafted NC's appraisal moratorium may be among those to benefit from itWill Hofmann for the Asheville Citizen Times - July 8, 2026
ASHEVILLE - North Carolina Republican state legislators have pushed for a property appraisal moratorium in nine counties across the state, citing rising costs and weary taxpayers anticipating higher bills during the 2027 fiscal year. But as an amended moratorium passed the General Assembly June 30, local officials, Democratic state legislators and tax professionals have described the possibility of a moratorium in Buncombe County as benefitting luxury homeowners and unevenly impacting community members. Sen. Tim Moffitt, who represents parts of Henderson, Polk and Transylvania counties, confirmed to the Citizen Times July 6 that he helped draft and pass the legislation and an analysis of his properties in Buncombe indicates he will pay less in county taxes under the moratorium. At the same time, roughly a third of property owners would pay more in taxes — not less — under a tax rate proposed by the county to keep its $484 million budget, according to a Citizen Times analysis. READ MORE...
NC Sen. Tim Moffitt's properties include a collection of parcels held by SCCP, LLC that were rezoned to become a 304-unit housing development by Asheville City Council in 2024, seen here in a 2024 file photo. Angela Wilhelm/Citizen Times
Passed on June 30, Senate Bills 889 and 474 have forced Buncombe County to revisit its 2027 fiscal year budget and gauge whether it wants to maintain its 2026 appraised values and go revenue neutral or revert to 2021's values but maintain its already passed budget by raising tax rates. The bills have generated confusion, hesitation and frustration among county elected officials and municipal leaders. Buncombe is the only county out of 100 that is offered a specific, restrictive exemption to the moratorium in SB474. The narrow exemption requires the county to go revenue neutral rounded up to the closest cent and would lead to over $24 million in budget cuts, according to estimates from Buncombe County. Presented to Gov. Josh Stein on July 2, the bill has yet to become law. Buncombe County Commissioners have called a special meeting for July 14 to amend the budget but have not signaled which direction they will take. In a July 2 Facebook post to Asheville Politics, Rep. Lindsey Prather was specific in who she believed crafted the amendment to present the two paths: Republican N.C. Senators Warren Daniel, who represents Buncombe, Burke and McDowell counties, and Moffitt, who represents Henderson Polk, and Rutherford counties, but owns land in Buncombe. "Your anger should be directed at Sen. Warren Daniel, Sen. Tim Moffitt, and the other Republicans in Raleigh who refused to stand up for WNC," Prather wrote, noting that Buncombe was the only county impacted by Tropical Storm Helene not previously omitted from the bill. Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards told the Citizen Times July 7 that she attempted to call Moffitt about the bill, but he "did not ever return my call." County officials had warned the moratorium may impede its ability to recover from the storm. In a July 6 statement to the Citizen Times, Moffitt confirmed he "supported and helped advance" the legislation. Daniels was the conference chair for the bill in the Senate. The provision limiting Buncombe to go revenue neutral "was about basic fairness and preventing an unchecked tax increase on families and small businesses still reeling from the storm," Moffitt said, describing the measure as protecting "constituents from excessive burdens during recovery." Prather's went on to say that Moffitt drafted the legislation as he tried "to save a few hundred bucks in property taxes." Moffitt denied the allegation, but according to a Citizen Times analysis of his South Asheville properties using a proposed tax rate under the moratorium, he stands to save $2,316 in county taxes under the moratorium rather than being taxed under the originally proposed 2027 fiscal year budget. He called Prather's statement "false and unfortunate." Moffitt's properties include a collection of parcels held by SCCP, LLC that were rezoned to become a 304-unit housing development by Asheville City Council in 2024. "Even with the new valuations, I will pay more under either scenario—not less. Personal tax savings were never a factor; I had not even calculated my own numbers when these decisions were made," Moffitt told the Citizen Times. Prather was out of the state not able to respond to Citizen Times request for response to Moffitt's statement July 7. Moratorium will likely impact homeowners unevenly If the county decides to fall under the moratorium, keep its budget and enact a 63.89 cent per $100 tax rate proposed during a May 5 budget meeting, not all property owners will save money under the state legislated property appraisal moratorium. Based on a Citizen Times analysis of county tax costs using a sample of 25 single-family homes in Oakley, Shiloh, West Asheville, Montford and Biltmore Forest and only using county tax costs, only 14 saved money using the proposed tax rate under the moratorium compared to staying under the already approved schedule of values. One homeowner would be expected to pay $3,700 more while another just pay $6 more in taxes. Average savings among the sample properties was just $60, with the highest savings, another home in Biltmore Forest, at $2,129. But if it decided to keep its budget, the county would also be postponing its measures to increase equity that stem from a period of reform in the tax assessor's office. The 2021 schedule of values was criticized by residents of Asheville's historic neighborhoods and by urban development professionals as unequally burdening low-income neighborhoods with taxes while cutting luxury homeowners a break, the Citizen Times reported. After Joe Minicozzi, the founder of the Asheville-based urban development firm Urban3, presented his analysis of the 2021 reappraisal process, Buncombe launched the Ad Hoc Reappraisal Committee, which studied the county's appraisal practices and produced an extensive report examining processes and producing recommendations. That report was followed by a $60,000 2024 study from Keene Mass Appraisal Consulting, which called the county's appraisal process "blind and fair," but noted "distortions" that led to undervalued luxury appraisals and overvalued manufactured home appraisals. That year, the county said it would revisit how it values luxury properties, the Citizen Times reported. During the county's July 2 press conference, Edwards described SB889 and SB474 as protecting luxury homeowners who are "subsidized by modest- and low-income residents" and forcing the county to use "outdated market values." Now, the county has to decide whether to temporarily abandon the work done in the 2026 appraisal year and keep its budget, or face service reductions and "perpetuate inequity," Minicozzi told the Citizen Times. Going to revenue neutral might be the most equitable decision for the county to make, Minicozzi said. If the county went revenue neutral and kept its values, most properties sampled — 19 of them — would still pay more than they did in 2025 taxes, but all would save money compared to the already approved rates for fiscal year 2027. Average savings compared to fiscal year 2027's pre-moratorium rates came in at $333. Opting for revenue neutral would require the county to cut $24.8 million from its budget, or roughly 5%, which would "negatively impact" services and programs in Buncombe, County Manager Avril Pinder said during a July 2 press conference. Costs were already expected to increase as state and federal legislation put additional burden on the county government to pay for social services, the Citizen Times reported. "These are tough choices, but a 5% trimming would send a strong message that we value equity — that we value fairness in the tax system," Minicozzi told the Citizen Times. Moffitt, who would pay less under the moratorium than under the proposed 2027 fiscal year tax rate, stands by his decision to support the bill, he told the Citizen Times. "I am proud to stand up for limited, responsible government that prioritizes affordability and recovery over ever-increasing budgets. I will continue advocating for meaningful property tax relief and reforms that actually help the people of District 48 and Western North Carolina," Moffitt said. |
NC Legislature Finally Passes Budget
Theo Nollert for Carolina Forward - July 1, 2026
Well, it finally happened: after more than a thousand days, the North Carolina General Assembly is voting on a budget. So what’s in it?
There’s a lot to unpack. We can’t cover it all in one post. But here’s some of what grabbed our attention–and should grab yours. Below, you’ll find information about the biggest expenditures, the biggest cuts, and what kinds of policies and laws have been bundled into the budget.
General Assembly rules prohibit amendments to conference reports, and the majority party has issued this budget as a conference report, meaning it will receive a single yes-or-no vote and then, if passed, head to the Governor’s desk. He’ll have ten days to veto it. If he doesn’t, it will become law with or without his signature.
READ MORE...
Well, it finally happened: after more than a thousand days, the North Carolina General Assembly is voting on a budget. So what’s in it?
There’s a lot to unpack. We can’t cover it all in one post. But here’s some of what grabbed our attention–and should grab yours. Below, you’ll find information about the biggest expenditures, the biggest cuts, and what kinds of policies and laws have been bundled into the budget.
General Assembly rules prohibit amendments to conference reports, and the majority party has issued this budget as a conference report, meaning it will receive a single yes-or-no vote and then, if passed, head to the Governor’s desk. He’ll have ten days to veto it. If he doesn’t, it will become law with or without his signature.
READ MORE...
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Summer Solstice
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Candidate Web Sites:
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Jon Klimstra - County Commissioner
https://klimstra4polknc.com Ray Gasperson - County Commissioner https://ray4polk.com LaKesha Womack - US Congress NC-14 https://www.womack4nc14.com Jamie Ager - US Congress NC-11 https://agerforcongress.com Doyle Brown - NC Senate 48 https://www.brownforncsenate.com John Morgan - NC House 113 https://www.johnmorgan113.com |
Roy Cooper - US Senate
https://roycooper.com Justice Anita Earls - NC Supreme Court https://earls4justice.com/ J. John Arrowood - NC Appeals; Seat 1 https://www.keepjudgearrowood.com/ J. Toby Hampson - NC Appeals; Seat 2 https://www.judgetobyhampson.com/ J. Christine Walczyk - NC Appeals; Seat 3 https://www.judgechristine.org Keenan Nesbitt - Polk County Sheriff https://nesbittforsheriff.com |
Republicans Load the Ballot with Bait to lure Republicans to Polls
Flurry of new NC constitutional amendments piling up for November ballot
Analysis: NC lawmakers consider six more constitutional amendments as midterms loom
LAURA LESLIE for Democracy Docket - May 14, 2026North Carolina’s Republican legislative leaders filed two new constitutional amendments Thursday, aiming to load up this fall’s ballot with proposals tailored to attract conservative voters to the polls.
The two new amendments were filed in the Senate and are already scheduled for an unusual Monday meeting of the Senate Agriculture committee. Senate Bill 1081 would guarantee North Carolinians the constitutional right “to engage in farming and forestry.” Senate Bill 1082 would guarantee a constitutional “right to work,” banning any requirement to join a labor union or organization.
The office of Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) did not immediately respond to NC Newsline’s inquiry about the reasoning behind the proposed amendments. However, in statements posted on social media late Thursday, the bills’ respective sponsors claimed both rights are under threat.
A third constitutional amendment, Senate Bill 1080, was part of the budget deal announced earlier this week by Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Destin Hall. It would cap the state’s income tax at 3.5% beginning in 2027. That bill will be heard in Senate Finance on Tuesday.
In the meantime, state House Republicans are backing House Bill 1089, a constitutional amendment to impose limits on property tax increases. It will likely be heard on the House floor next week as well. All four, should they pass, would be on the ballot Nov. 3.
Meredith Poll director and political scientist David McLennan says it’s reminiscent of 2018, when Republicans were facing a blue wave in the midterm after Trump’s first election and responded by putting six constitutional amendments on the ballot.
“The cynic in me says this is just an attempt to ramp up Republican votes in the fall,” McLennan told NC Newsline. “The right to farm? I don’t know what that really means … there’s no big threat to it.”
McLennan noted that a Carolina Journal poll released Thursday shows Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Roy Cooper widening his lead over Republican nominee Michael Whatley to 11 points, while President Donald Trump’s approval rating in North Carolina slid to 41.5%, the lowest point the poll has recorded in Trump’s second term.
He said the amendments might be a bid to overcome what could be low GOP turnout in November.
“It’s not really about establishing constitutional rights as much as it is to signal to their voters, ‘Hey, look, we could have some trouble this year, but these things might bring you out because you care about taxes and property taxes and farming,’” he said.
Another reason, McLennan said, might be to circumvent Stein’s veto. Constitutional amendments, once passed by a three-fifths vote of the state House and Senate, are not subject to the governor’s veto. If they’re approved by a majority of voters, they become law.
Even conservative amendments, however, don’t always guarantee a boost to Republicans’ odds. In 2018, voters passed four of the six constitutional amendments on the ballot: voter photo ID, a 7% income tax cap, victims’ rights and a constitutional right to hunt and fish. But Democrats still broke the Republican supermajority in the state House that year.
It’s also not clear whether the House will agree to vote on the Senate’s amendments or vice-versa. Each chamber has passed amendments in recent years that the other chamber has declined to consider.
Also see - Analysis: NC lawmakers consider six more constitutional amendments as midterms loom
LAURA LESLIE for Democracy Docket - May 14, 2026North Carolina’s Republican legislative leaders filed two new constitutional amendments Thursday, aiming to load up this fall’s ballot with proposals tailored to attract conservative voters to the polls.
The two new amendments were filed in the Senate and are already scheduled for an unusual Monday meeting of the Senate Agriculture committee. Senate Bill 1081 would guarantee North Carolinians the constitutional right “to engage in farming and forestry.” Senate Bill 1082 would guarantee a constitutional “right to work,” banning any requirement to join a labor union or organization.
The office of Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) did not immediately respond to NC Newsline’s inquiry about the reasoning behind the proposed amendments. However, in statements posted on social media late Thursday, the bills’ respective sponsors claimed both rights are under threat.
A third constitutional amendment, Senate Bill 1080, was part of the budget deal announced earlier this week by Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Destin Hall. It would cap the state’s income tax at 3.5% beginning in 2027. That bill will be heard in Senate Finance on Tuesday.
In the meantime, state House Republicans are backing House Bill 1089, a constitutional amendment to impose limits on property tax increases. It will likely be heard on the House floor next week as well. All four, should they pass, would be on the ballot Nov. 3.
Meredith Poll director and political scientist David McLennan says it’s reminiscent of 2018, when Republicans were facing a blue wave in the midterm after Trump’s first election and responded by putting six constitutional amendments on the ballot.
“The cynic in me says this is just an attempt to ramp up Republican votes in the fall,” McLennan told NC Newsline. “The right to farm? I don’t know what that really means … there’s no big threat to it.”
McLennan noted that a Carolina Journal poll released Thursday shows Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Roy Cooper widening his lead over Republican nominee Michael Whatley to 11 points, while President Donald Trump’s approval rating in North Carolina slid to 41.5%, the lowest point the poll has recorded in Trump’s second term.
He said the amendments might be a bid to overcome what could be low GOP turnout in November.
“It’s not really about establishing constitutional rights as much as it is to signal to their voters, ‘Hey, look, we could have some trouble this year, but these things might bring you out because you care about taxes and property taxes and farming,’” he said.
Another reason, McLennan said, might be to circumvent Stein’s veto. Constitutional amendments, once passed by a three-fifths vote of the state House and Senate, are not subject to the governor’s veto. If they’re approved by a majority of voters, they become law.
Even conservative amendments, however, don’t always guarantee a boost to Republicans’ odds. In 2018, voters passed four of the six constitutional amendments on the ballot: voter photo ID, a 7% income tax cap, victims’ rights and a constitutional right to hunt and fish. But Democrats still broke the Republican supermajority in the state House that year.
It’s also not clear whether the House will agree to vote on the Senate’s amendments or vice-versa. Each chamber has passed amendments in recent years that the other chamber has declined to consider.
Also see - Analysis: NC lawmakers consider six more constitutional amendments as midterms loom
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Polk Lore - No Kings Protest at Stearns Park, Columbus
The Revolution Will Not be Amplified (in Columbus)
Did you miss the third No Kings rally in Columbus? This episode of Polk Lore is a condensed version of the event, with four speakers and some (hopefully) helpful context. For example, it was easily the biggest political gathering in recent memory in our county, but how important was the turnout? Link to the Podcast - Well worth the listen |
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Polk Dems Convene to Elect Delegates
Matt Pickett for the Polk County Dems - March 29, 2026
Following a hugely successful rally at Stearns Park with over 700 participants the Polk County Dems held their annual convention at the packed to capacity Steps to Hope Community room. After a pizza social to get everyone fed, Polk Dems Chair Ted Owen kicked off the meeting with a few opening remarks about upcoming elections. A video was shown that underscores the importance of the upcoming judicial elections in NC. Below is a link to that video. Then the invocation was read by Lakesha Womack. Below are links to videos of the candidates remarks. Videos:
Field Team Justice Video |
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No Kings 3 Protest Draws Huge Crowds Worldwide and at Stearns Park in Columbus!
An Estimated 8-9 million People at 3,300 Locations Protested
Matt Pickett for the Polk County Dems - March 29, 2026 Saturday, March 28th saw an estimated 8-9 million people - according to organizers of the No Kings protest march - take to the streets all over the world at an estimated 3,300 locations to voice their opposition to the Trump regime and their policies. Foremost on the minds of protesters was the Trump administration's war of choice in Iran and ICE deportation operations. Here in tiny (population 1,064) Columbus, NC at Stearns Park the local Indivisible Chapter organized a No Kings protest so that our citizenry could vent their anger with the Trump administration. Chants were led by organizers as an estimated 700 people created quite a spectacle for the passing traffic on East Mills Street. Enthusiastic beeping and cheering filled the warm March air lifting the protesters spirits. The fact that so many people in such a small community, felt the need to protest their government is a sign of how seriously distressed our nation is. The long planned for protest was hobbled by Polk County and Columbus Police being suddenly very particular about the permit which was in hand. They gave organizers the bad news that neither the megaphone or the PA system could be used by their guest speakers. A complaint against the police is planned by Indivisible the event organizers. Local Turnout Columbus at Stearns Park - 700 people Spindale at Spindale House - 451 people Asheville - 11,000 people Hendersonville - 5,000 people Black Mountain - 1,500 people Nationally NYC - Over 100,000 in the 5 boroughs Boston - 180,000 to 200,000 people Chicago - 250,000 people San Francisco Bay Area - 160,000 people No Kings Web Site |
An artists rendering of the proposed Polk County Democrats new HQ
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Polk Dems to Build a New HQ
Matt Pickett for the Polk County Dems, Feb. 9, 2026 - In the weeks and months to come the Polk County Democrats will erect a new headquarters (HQ) and community center at the site of their current HQ on Ward Street in downtown Columbus. This long planned and overdue upgrade will see their much loved and well used 85 year old HQ replaced with a larger, more modern building better suited to both their needs and as a place for community gatherings of all sorts.
Building Details Here... Funds to fully complete our new HQ are still badly needed. If you would like to donate, please make your check out to: PCDP Building Fund and send it to: Polk Democratic Party Post Office Box 602 Columbus, NC 28722 Donate Using ActBlue... |
Poll Observer and Greeter Recruiting
If you would like to help with our upcoming 2026 primary and mid-term elections by being a poll observer or greeter, please contact Bill Herrera at [email protected]. These jobs are critical to assuring free and fair elections. But they are very easy to do. All training is provided and it is a great way to meet your neighbors. Please help!
Extrajudicial Execution in Minneapolis
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Matt Pickett for Polk NC Dems - January 26, 2026
Minneapolis, Minnesota, The United States - A feral horde of masked, heavily armed and armored federal agents tackled, disarmed and then executed at close to point-blank-range a peaceful protester. Alex Pretti, was shot in the back upwards of 10 times by masked federal agents. His only "crime" was recording the actions of ICE agents and trying to help a woman whom ICE agents had just violently shoved to the ground. Alex Pretti was then hit with pepper or bear spray by an ICE agent. The situation quickly escalated from there. Agents then tackled Pretti who was legally carrying a pistol. One agent can be seen in the videos leaving the tackling pile of agents with Pretti's gun. AFTER he was disarmed agents can be heard yelling "gun" they then opened fire, killing the VA nurse on the street in cold blood. Below is a link to CNN analysis of the incident. READ MORE... |
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Preston Lewis White, former Green Creek Chair has Passed Away
Preston Lewis White passed away on January 15, 2026 in Tryon, N.C. at the age of 80.
Preston was a longtime V/C and Chair of Green Creek precinct. He had PSP, a disease very few people ever get or have even heard of (Progressive Supranuclear palsy). He spent his last weeks at the White Oak nursing facility and many of us got to visit with him. Preston was born on August 9, 1945 in Rutherfordton, N.C. to Bill and Bernice White. He worked as a lineman for BellSouth/AT&T for 26 years. During that time, he served as a union representative for the Communications Workers of America and was a president of the Shelby chapter. After retiring, Preston became the owner and operator of AAA airport shuttle services. Before long, many of his loyal customers became close friends. If there was an opportunity to get involved with the community, Preston was there. He was a volunteer with the Green Creek Fire Department and a first responder, and was a member in good standing with the Polk County Unity Lodge. Preston also chartered the first four Little League baseball teams in Green Creek in 1980. READ MORE...
Preston had a lifelong love for agriculture. He was proud to carry on his father’s legacy as a small family farmer raising cattle. He was always engaged in the local farming community from the time he was a leader of the Polk County 4-H Dairy Club in high school to his membership in the Ruritan Club. Famously outgoing, nothing made Preston happier than when he’d happen to see an old friend out and about and he’d get to catch up with them. He was also always ready to talk politics (whether you wanted to or not). Preston was a valued, longtime member of the Polk County Democratic Party, and was elected Chair of the Green Creek precinct from 2015-2025. But out of everything he did throughout his life, Preston would say his greatest achievement was marrying his wife, Margaret Bell, in 1974. They each brought two children to the marriage: Preston’s sons, Thomas and Keith White (Marsha); and Maggie’s daughters, Wendi Owens (Dale) and Kerry Arrowood (Jeff). Preston is preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Bernice; first cousin, Elliott Johnson; and grandson, Trevor Arrowood. He is survived by his spouse, Maggie; first cousin, Teresa Taylor Whitt; and four grandchildren, Sherry White Wilson, Madison Arrowood, Lily Owens Painter, and Holden Owens. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. at McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon, N.C. on Saturday, January 17, 2026. The family will receive friends before the service from 9:00-9:45 a.m. Burial will be at Green Creek First Baptist Church Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity organization Preston founded in memory of his grandson, Trevor’s Gift Scholarship Program or to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills. |
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State Board Rubber-stamps Jackson Early Voting PlanCollege Campus and Sunday Voting are Cut By Republican led BOE
The Republican-led North Carolina State Board of Elections voted 3-2 along party lines to allow the closure of a Democrat-leaning early voting site at Western Carolina University, against overwhelming opposition from the people the closure would affect.
“It’s a war on students,” board member Siobhan O’Duffy Millen, a retired attorney from Raleigh, said shortly after the board voted Jan. 13 to strip early voting sites from historically Black NCA&T University and UNC-Greensboro in Guilford County and shortly before doing the same thing to WCU. After Republicans lost the 2024 governor’s race in North Carolina, the GOP-controlled General Assembly moved swiftly in a post-election lame-duck session to strip the incoming Democratic governor of key appointment powers over elections administration and transfer them to the Republican state auditor in a bill that was purportedly for Hurricane Helene relief — a move critics described as a retaliatory power grab. READ MORE...
Through changes folded into broader elections and governance legislation, lawmakers removed the governor’s longstanding authority to appoint a majority of members to the State Board of Elections and instead reassigned that power to the auditor, an office that had remained in Republican control. The shift fundamentally altered the balance of power over election oversight in North Carolina, insulating the board from gubernatorial influence and ensuring continued Republican leverage over election administration despite losing the executive branch, a maneuver Democrats warned at the time undermined democratic norms and voter confidence. The Jackson County early voting plan reached the state board after the Republican-led Jackson County Board of Elections voted 3-2 in December to advance a plan that eliminates early voting on the WCU core campus and consolidates Cullowhee early voting at the county’s parks and recreation facility. Supporters of the WCU site argued that eliminating the site, which has operated continuously since 2016 and has been credited with dramatically increasing participation among younger voters, would significantly reduce meaningful access for a large segment of eligible voters while producing minimal cost savings. Since its establishment under a Republican governor, a Republican county election board and a Republican state elections board, the WCU early voting site has recorded more than 76,000 ballots cast across five general elections and four primaries. The WCU site votes solidly Democrat. The majority countered that maintaining two early voting sites less than two miles apart was fiscally irresponsible and unnecessary and closing one would save around $20,000 in the context of a county budget that is well over $100 million. The Cullowhee precinct is the largest in Jackson County, with more than 6,300 registered voters and two distinct populations: a geographically dispersed, older rural electorate and a densely concentrated, younger and more diverse campus population. According to materials submitted by Jackson’s Democrat-minority board members, youth participation among Jackson County voters more than doubled compared to statewide rates, and the site consistently produced the highest proportion of same-day registrations in North Carolina. They also argued that same-day registration is one of the most effective tools for increasing youth participation and that the campus site has been uniquely effective in that regard. Supporting materials submitted by the majority emphasized ease of parking, simpler ingress and egress and clearer electioneering boundaries at the Parks and Recreation facility. The majority also argued that the existing WCU Health and Human Sciences Building, proposed by minority members as an alternative campus-adjacent site, presents accessibility challenges due to walking distances, stairs and internal navigation. Minority members disputed those claims and argued that the cost savings cited by the majority are overstated. Their analysis, based on staffing requirements and the high volume of same-day registrations typically handled at the campus site, estimates savings closer to $6,000 rather than $20,000. They also note that both the parks and recreation facility and WCU have offered suitable voting spaces at no cost to the county. A central point of disagreement concerns transportation and pedestrian access. Minority members contend that the parks and recreation facility is approximately 1.7 miles from the center of campus, lacks public or university-provided transportation and is effectively inaccessible on foot due to the design of U.S. 107, a busy four-lane highway with no sidewalks and narrow shoulders. They estimate that walking from campus to the Parks and Recreation site takes roughly 40 minutes one way and note that approximately 68% of WCU students do not have personal vehicles. According to materials submitted to the state board, the HHS building offers reserved voter parking within 200 feet of the entrance, curbside voting access, ADA compliance, secure space dedicated to elections and familiarity to the broader community, having hosted public clinics and COVID-19 vaccination events serving thousands of county residents. Minority members believed that the site resolves every constraint raised by the majority while preserving meaningful access for student voters. Drive-time analyses included in the record show relatively small differences in average travel times between the majority plan and Minority Plan A, which includes a WCU-adjacent site, across nearly every demographic category. Minority Plan B, which relocates the campus site to the HHS building without retaining the Parks and Recreation location, shows longer average drive times countywide but preserves direct access for campus voters. Public input has also featured prominently in the dispute. At the Jackson County Board of Elections meeting in December, 21 speakers addressed the board during public comment with all but two urging the board to retain an early voting site on or near the WCU campus. Under state law, any non-unanimous county early voting plan must be reviewed and approved by the state board. According to NCSBE materials, 87 counties submitted unanimous plans. During the hearing, Jackson County Board of Elections Chair Bill Thompson continued to push fiscal responsibility as the primary reason for closing the WCU site but misrepresented the true distance from campus to the Rec Center as six-tenths of a mile. Betsy Swift, a member of the minority on the Jackson County Board of Elections, rebuffed each of Thompson’s claims and objected to his mischaracterization of the parking situation as well as access for people with disabilities. “Eliminating this site would not meaningfully reduce costs, but the impact would be significantly reduced access for a predominantly young, rural population,” Swift told the board. “It begs the question; what is the money for, if not to serve the voters of Jackson County?” Roy Osborn, the other Democrat on the Jackson board, reiterated many of Swift’s points and reemphasized that the proposed savings to Jackson taxpayers was “overstated.” Jackson County Elections Director Amanda Allen said that although she’d like to think her agency could hold an election anywhere it’s directed to, she still had concerns about the Rec Center’s size. Francis X. De Luca, former president of the conservative Civitas Institute in Raleigh and Republican Chair of the board, joined Republican board members Stacy Eggers, an attorney from Boone, and Bob Rucho, a former Republican senator from Catawba County, in approving the Jackson Republicans’ plan. Democrats Millen and Jeff Carmon, a Snow Hill attorney and the board’s only Black member, voted against the closure. “To the students — sorry,” Carmon said. “Not to beat a dead horse, but we can see a pattern today, can’t we?” Millen said. Patrick Gannon, the NCSBE’s public information officer, failed to respond to two email requests from The Smoky Mountain News for comment on the process and the timeline — one on Dec. 22, 2025. and one on Jan. 7 — and did not return a phone call on Jan. 9. A spokesperson who answered the phone said Gannon was indeed still with the agency but offered no other information on why he’d failed to respond. |
Spindale Hosts "STOP ICE TERROR" Vigil for Renee Good
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Shannon Sims for Foothills for Justice - January 11 2026
Thank you for showing up! 150 of you stood with us in FREEZING weather this evening, and it meant everything. You showed up, brought food to donate to Little Free Pantry: Rutherford County, lit candles, and braved the cold to send a clear message: STOP ICE TERROR! Thank you to April Galindo Walker for sharing such powerful and deeply needed words as a representative of the immigrant community. Your voice uplifted the whole event and reminded us why we gather. Thank you to the Town of Spindale for your support, and to every driver who honked in solidarity as they passed by… we saw you and we felt it. This movement is fueled by community. By people like you who stand up even when it’s uncomfortable, even when it’s cold, and even when it feels hard. We’re stronger together. Onward, with courage and compassion. See some of the other protests around WNC... |
Mike Silverman and his crew make a food delivery to Share thy Bread
A Heartfelt Thanks
Bill Herrera PCDP 1st Vice Chair, Columbus
As we close the end of the year, the Polk County Democratic Party is happy to report we concluded this year's food drive with a collected total of 12,200 pounds of donated food, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and pet food. This effort began in June of this year when we became aware of our community's two principal food banks' increase in request for assistance from neighbors in our surrounding communities. The PCDP reported our largest collections in the months of November and December as the need increased during the holidays. The food, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and pet food were delivered to The Share Thy Bread Food Bank in Tryon and The Thermal Belt Outreach Program of Polk County in Columbus.
The Polk County Democratic Party would like to extend a heartfelt "Thank You!" to all in our community who have made donations to make the food drive a continued success and to all who have contributed their time assisting us with the collection, organization, and delivery of the food and sundries.
We would also like to make a special mention for Mike and Chris Silverman of Tryon, who were instrumental in initiating and leading this effort. We wish them, and our entire community, a peaceful holiday season and a healthy and prosperous 2026. We will resume our food drive on January 17, 2026, and every following third Saturday of each month. November and December's collection dates will be announced later in the year.
Donations will continue to be received between
9am and noon at the Polk County Democratic Headquarters,
64 Ward Street,
Columbus, NC 28722.
As we close the end of the year, the Polk County Democratic Party is happy to report we concluded this year's food drive with a collected total of 12,200 pounds of donated food, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and pet food. This effort began in June of this year when we became aware of our community's two principal food banks' increase in request for assistance from neighbors in our surrounding communities. The PCDP reported our largest collections in the months of November and December as the need increased during the holidays. The food, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and pet food were delivered to The Share Thy Bread Food Bank in Tryon and The Thermal Belt Outreach Program of Polk County in Columbus.
The Polk County Democratic Party would like to extend a heartfelt "Thank You!" to all in our community who have made donations to make the food drive a continued success and to all who have contributed their time assisting us with the collection, organization, and delivery of the food and sundries.
We would also like to make a special mention for Mike and Chris Silverman of Tryon, who were instrumental in initiating and leading this effort. We wish them, and our entire community, a peaceful holiday season and a healthy and prosperous 2026. We will resume our food drive on January 17, 2026, and every following third Saturday of each month. November and December's collection dates will be announced later in the year.
Donations will continue to be received between
9am and noon at the Polk County Democratic Headquarters,
64 Ward Street,
Columbus, NC 28722.
If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity please use the links below for more info about receiving assistance.
Share Thy Bread - Tryon NC
Outreach Ministries Food Bank - Columbus NC
Share Thy Bread - Tryon NC
Outreach Ministries Food Bank - Columbus NC
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60 Minutes Pulled Back a Story About the CECOT Prison in El Salvador - Here it is From Canada
This is where we are - traditionally reliable news media has been corrupted
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Liberated from a Legacy: Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill
Wilson Jones, owner of the Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill; Photo, Jacob Emmons for The Carolina Journal
Katherine Zehnder for The Carolina Journal - October 27, 2025
Tucked away in Roper, North Carolina, is Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill, the largest private employer in Washington County, until recently. Wilson Jones, the owner and operator of the sawmill, came to the difficult decision to shut down operations, due to the repercussions of the tariffs implemented by the Trump administration.
Not only did it result in the laying off of all 50 of Jones’ employees, but it also ended an almost 40-year legacy. Wilson Jones and his brother are sixth-generation lumbermen, carrying on the legacy that their great-great-grandfather, William Sawyer Jones, began. He received his first order for sawn lumber on July 26, 1884. He continued to operate the sawmill with his brothers and children over the following decades.
“Our business goes back to 1882,” Jones told the Carolina Journal. “My dad took over our Elizabeth City plant in 1960. In 1986, I was out of college, and my brother was about to graduate from college, and he decided that we would horizontally integrate because we had a mill in Elizabeth City that was cutting primarily yellow pine. There was a big demand at that time for the hardwoods.”
Wilson and his brother Stephen own and operate two small sawmills in North Carolina, which employed 130 individuals in northeast North Carolina. Their operation in Elizabeth City is still in operation. However, Wilson says that due to the tariffs, Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill, the operation in Roper, which employed 50 individuals, was forced to shut down.
In late 1986, Wilson came to Roper with his industry colleagues and bought the entire mill, piece by piece, at auction. By the end of the day, they had a sawmill. A year later, in 1987, the mill was fully operational.
They expanded over time. They rebuilt the old mill once, and then, from 1995 through 2002, they modernized it into the state it’s in today — a very modern hardwood sawmill, according to Jones.
Tucked away in Roper, North Carolina, is Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill, the largest private employer in Washington County, until recently. Wilson Jones, the owner and operator of the sawmill, came to the difficult decision to shut down operations, due to the repercussions of the tariffs implemented by the Trump administration.
Not only did it result in the laying off of all 50 of Jones’ employees, but it also ended an almost 40-year legacy. Wilson Jones and his brother are sixth-generation lumbermen, carrying on the legacy that their great-great-grandfather, William Sawyer Jones, began. He received his first order for sawn lumber on July 26, 1884. He continued to operate the sawmill with his brothers and children over the following decades.
“Our business goes back to 1882,” Jones told the Carolina Journal. “My dad took over our Elizabeth City plant in 1960. In 1986, I was out of college, and my brother was about to graduate from college, and he decided that we would horizontally integrate because we had a mill in Elizabeth City that was cutting primarily yellow pine. There was a big demand at that time for the hardwoods.”
Wilson and his brother Stephen own and operate two small sawmills in North Carolina, which employed 130 individuals in northeast North Carolina. Their operation in Elizabeth City is still in operation. However, Wilson says that due to the tariffs, Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill, the operation in Roper, which employed 50 individuals, was forced to shut down.
In late 1986, Wilson came to Roper with his industry colleagues and bought the entire mill, piece by piece, at auction. By the end of the day, they had a sawmill. A year later, in 1987, the mill was fully operational.
They expanded over time. They rebuilt the old mill once, and then, from 1995 through 2002, they modernized it into the state it’s in today — a very modern hardwood sawmill, according to Jones.
READ MORE...
During those years, they also witnessed a significant shift in the industry: Furniture manufacturing moved out of North Carolina and, eventually, out of the United States altogether. Like most hardwood mills, they adapted by exporting products to manufacturing regions in southern China (like Shanghai) and Vietnam.
Wilson told the Carolina Journal that about 80% of their product was exported to Asia. We’re in this unique situation where we’re getting hit going and coming,” said Jones. On “Liberation Day,” President Trump announced additional tariffs on Chinese goods starting at about 20%. The tariffs escalated until they reached about 150% on Chinese goods. China retaliated with a 120% tariff on American hardwood products, Jones told Carolina Journal.
At the time, Jones’s company already had about $350,000–$400,000 worth of lumber on ships bound for China. Bringing it back wasn’t an option — freight costs from China were about eight times higher in reverse. Jones tried rerouting through Vietnam. He found buyers, but the problem was that Vietnam typically uses lower-quality wood than the premium-grade lumber shipped to China. Jones had to take price concessions for quality and volume, ultimately facing a 40% loss. Jones said Liberation Day “liberated” him from his business and personal investments made to it.
“I’m not talking about money, because I can think any independent lumberman would tell you that they are not in this industry to make money. They’re in it because they love it,” said Jones. “It’s taken 38 years of my time, effort, and life inside and outside from me. It’s taken a business that I enjoyed — and I do love the industry — from me.”
Of the 50 employees who worked with Jones at Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill, Jones said that more than 40 of them were there at least 10 years. Jones said that his maintenance foreman, whom he ran the last board through with, was there for the first cutting.
“They’re guys that are cold in the wintertime and sweaty and dusty in the summertime. They worked and worked every day, and they took care of their families, paid their taxes, and did all that stuff.”
When Jones told his employees he had to shut down the mill, he offered them jobs at the Elizabeth City plant. About a dozen of those men are now employed there, but driving 60 miles to work isn’t feasible for many. “I can’t express to you how good these guys were,” said Jones.
Jones continued, saying, “Supporters of tariffs argue that business owners should absorb the cost of the tariffs without passing it on to consumers by absorbing the cost through price increases or layoffs. They don’t seem to understand that it doesn’t matter whether it’s Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill or Dot’s Button Shop — the point is, we’re in business to make money.”
And Jones said that if the business can’t make money, it can’t absorb costs. If raw material costs suddenly rise, with current expenses up 30%, and revenues are cut by 30–40%, the business simply loses money. Jones said that expecting a business to continue operating under these conditions is just not realistic, whether it’s his sawmill or a giant like Procter & Gamble doesn’t matter.
While many of his customers will likely be able to find alternative US sources, his contact in China, as well as with two of his largest suppliers, said they are having difficulty filling the niche or supply gap that Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill previously covered, since Jones supplied a specific thickness.
The Carolina Journal asked Jones what he would like President Trump to know about how the tariffs have impacted him, his company, and his employees. Jones said that he would ask Trump to come down to his mill and take a real look at the situation.
“I mean, at least when he went out in western North Carolina, it looked like he genuinely cared,” said Jones. “Come down here and look, and don’t just make blanket edicts because that’s the edict of the day.”
Of the final shipments that Jones was preparing to send out, he told the Carolina Journal that, due to the new tariffs on furniture and cabinetry, he now has about 15-20 truckloads that were to be sent to his customers in Asia, which will not be purchased as a result.
Jones emphasized that policy issues, such as tariffs, are nuanced and that there are opposing viewpoints on solutions. But he said addressing problems effectively involves engaging in conversations with individuals who have different perspectives and working together to find solutions.
On July 21, 2025, Jones and his maintenance foreman, who was with Jones when the first log was sawn, sawed the last board, bringing to an end an almost 40-year legacy of Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill.
Wilson told the Carolina Journal that about 80% of their product was exported to Asia. We’re in this unique situation where we’re getting hit going and coming,” said Jones. On “Liberation Day,” President Trump announced additional tariffs on Chinese goods starting at about 20%. The tariffs escalated until they reached about 150% on Chinese goods. China retaliated with a 120% tariff on American hardwood products, Jones told Carolina Journal.
At the time, Jones’s company already had about $350,000–$400,000 worth of lumber on ships bound for China. Bringing it back wasn’t an option — freight costs from China were about eight times higher in reverse. Jones tried rerouting through Vietnam. He found buyers, but the problem was that Vietnam typically uses lower-quality wood than the premium-grade lumber shipped to China. Jones had to take price concessions for quality and volume, ultimately facing a 40% loss. Jones said Liberation Day “liberated” him from his business and personal investments made to it.
“I’m not talking about money, because I can think any independent lumberman would tell you that they are not in this industry to make money. They’re in it because they love it,” said Jones. “It’s taken 38 years of my time, effort, and life inside and outside from me. It’s taken a business that I enjoyed — and I do love the industry — from me.”
Of the 50 employees who worked with Jones at Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill, Jones said that more than 40 of them were there at least 10 years. Jones said that his maintenance foreman, whom he ran the last board through with, was there for the first cutting.
“They’re guys that are cold in the wintertime and sweaty and dusty in the summertime. They worked and worked every day, and they took care of their families, paid their taxes, and did all that stuff.”
When Jones told his employees he had to shut down the mill, he offered them jobs at the Elizabeth City plant. About a dozen of those men are now employed there, but driving 60 miles to work isn’t feasible for many. “I can’t express to you how good these guys were,” said Jones.
Jones continued, saying, “Supporters of tariffs argue that business owners should absorb the cost of the tariffs without passing it on to consumers by absorbing the cost through price increases or layoffs. They don’t seem to understand that it doesn’t matter whether it’s Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill or Dot’s Button Shop — the point is, we’re in business to make money.”
And Jones said that if the business can’t make money, it can’t absorb costs. If raw material costs suddenly rise, with current expenses up 30%, and revenues are cut by 30–40%, the business simply loses money. Jones said that expecting a business to continue operating under these conditions is just not realistic, whether it’s his sawmill or a giant like Procter & Gamble doesn’t matter.
While many of his customers will likely be able to find alternative US sources, his contact in China, as well as with two of his largest suppliers, said they are having difficulty filling the niche or supply gap that Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill previously covered, since Jones supplied a specific thickness.
The Carolina Journal asked Jones what he would like President Trump to know about how the tariffs have impacted him, his company, and his employees. Jones said that he would ask Trump to come down to his mill and take a real look at the situation.
“I mean, at least when he went out in western North Carolina, it looked like he genuinely cared,” said Jones. “Come down here and look, and don’t just make blanket edicts because that’s the edict of the day.”
Of the final shipments that Jones was preparing to send out, he told the Carolina Journal that, due to the new tariffs on furniture and cabinetry, he now has about 15-20 truckloads that were to be sent to his customers in Asia, which will not be purchased as a result.
Jones emphasized that policy issues, such as tariffs, are nuanced and that there are opposing viewpoints on solutions. But he said addressing problems effectively involves engaging in conversations with individuals who have different perspectives and working together to find solutions.
On July 21, 2025, Jones and his maintenance foreman, who was with Jones when the first log was sawn, sawed the last board, bringing to an end an almost 40-year legacy of Mackey’s Ferry Sawmill.
North Carolina Republican legislative leaders approved a new congressional map that aims to flip a Democratic seat represented by Rep. Don Davis (D-N.C.) (Source: ncleg.gov)
Federal Court Allows Republican-led North Carolina Redistricting Plan to Proceed
A panel of judges rejected a request to block the map’s use in the 2026 midterms on grounds of racial discrimination.
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Brandon Kingdollar for NC Newsline - November 26, 2025
North Carolina Republican lawmakers prevailed Wednesday on a preliminary injunction that would have blocked a 2026 congressional map redrawn to favor the GOP. The redrawn map is GOP lawmakers’ response to President Donald Trump’s push to change voting maps across the country to help Republicans retain control of the U.S. House in 2026. The North Carolina NAACP, Common Cause of North Carolina and a group of voters identified as the Williams plaintiffs had argued that a 2026 congressional map passed by the General Assembly last month reflects unconstitutional racial discrimination. They alleged that changes to the 1st Congressional District dismantled a region known as the Black Belt, a region spanning many counties whose voters have elected a Black member of Congress for more than 50 years. A three-judge panel — Fourth Circuit Judge Allison J. Rushing and the Middle District’s Chief Judge Richard Myers and Judge Thomas Schroeder, all appointed by Republican presidents — found that while the plaintiffs “have shown a disparate impact on black voters, they have not demonstrated that this effect likely reflects discriminatory intent.” The judges determined that there was not enough evidence to provide a “clear showing” that the racial discrimination claim is likely to succeed. The new congressional map will therefore go into effect even as the lawsuit continues. In a statement on social media, Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) took a victory lap, praising North Carolina Republicans who “went to work to protect the America First Agenda.” “North Carolinians voted to send President Trump to the White House in 2016, 2020, and 2024, and this new map reflects that support,” Berger wrote. “President Trump deserves a Congress that will fight for American citizens and move his agenda forward. Today’s decision thwarts the radical left’s latest attempt to circumvent the will of the people.” |
The plaintiffs and their attorneys said the ruling is highly damaging to democracy. “We’re disappointed in the court’s decision today,” said Common Cause NC Executive Director Bob Phillips. “This ruling gives blessing to what will be the most gerrymandered congressional map in state history, a map that intentionally retaliates against voters in eastern North Carolina for supporting a candidate not preferred by the majority party.”
Hilary Harris Klein, lead counsel for the plaintiffs, said the courts must live up to their responsibility to “protect voters and the right to dissent.” “These mid-decade redistricting battles are tearing our democracy apart,” she said in a statement. “If politicians want to keep their majority in any legislative body, our Constitution should require them to do it by earning votes, not by silencing the voices of communities they disagree with after every election.” The victory for Republicans stands in contrast to a recent ruling in Texas, the largest battleground over mid-decade redistricting, where Trump appointee Judge Jeffrey Brown found that “substantial evidence shows that Texas racially gerrymandered the 2025 Map.” (That map, too, remains in effect after U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito paused the lower court ruling as litigation continues.) North Carolina’s new map is expected to eliminate Congressman Don Davis (D-N.C.), one of three Black members of Congress from the state, resulting in an 11-3 Republican majority in the state’s delegation. Wednesday’s ruling is likely to be appealed. |
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Polk County Residents Rally to Help Save Thanksgiving for those in Need
Matt Pickett for Polk County Dems - November 18, 2025
Polk County Dems asked people to step up, give what they could and help save Thanksgiving for our friends and neighbors here in Polk. And boy did they! We were heartened by the enormity of the turnout and the generosity of Polk Folk. In just three short hours we collected over 2,500 lbs. of food! A single day record for our food drive. Thanksgiving oriented food donated by Polk residents came in boxes, bags and always with a smile and a heart glad to help those in need. Even if you couldn't come and donate to the food drive this time, you can be proud that your community wouldn't stand for our neighbors going hungry. Especially at Thanksgiving. Some two dozen turkey and poultry products led the way at the food weigh-ins at Share Thy Bread and Thermal Belt Outreach. Our jovial mood over the successful food drive was tempered by the presence of Polk residents already in line at 10am for food assistance. It is important to remember that a family tragedy, a bad day or a couple of lost paychecks is all that separates anyone from being in need of help. So on Thanksgiving, when you pause to give thanks, know that somewhere across town, someone is thankful for you. If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity please use the links below for more info about receiving assistance.
Share Thy Bread - Tryon NC Outreach Ministries Food Bank - Columbus NC Roughly one in 10 households in Polk County are enrolled in SNAP. And in North Carolina, four out five families participating in SNAP have either a child, a senior, or an adult with a disability in their household. |
Example Map Showing NC ICE activity
Andrew Willis Garcés, a organizer for Siembra NC, speaks to media about ICE agents at the Durham County Courthouse. (Photo: Greg Childress/NC Newsline)
ICE activity image reported by a user near Asheville NC
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Immigrant Advocates
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NO KINGS Protest!Over 400 citizens assemble to have their voices heard at Stearns Park in Columbus town center.
On October 18, more than 7 million of us rose up at more than 2,700 peaceful events in all 50 states, DC and cities worldwide to show what real patriotism looks like. In Hendersonville, over 2,500 peaceful protesters stood side by side while enjoying inspirational speakers, music, unity and inflatable dinosaurs! Over 400 People Attended the No Kings Protest Rally at Stearns Park on October 18. In our largest rally yet. Supporters of democracy peacefully expressed their outrage with the autocratic actions of the tRUMP regime along with a strong dose of humor represented in people’s signs. There was a sense of joy and an appreciation for being together in a community of people who are passionate about keeping our democracy. Joyce Vance expresses the National Day of No Kings Protests well (Civil Discourse with Joyce Vance. October 20, 2025) “Saturday was a day that reminded us that we don’t need a cavalry. When we come together, we are The People, the power behind this country. We also proved that working to save democracy can be fun. We are not the mean, hate-filled, paid-off people Trump pretends we are. We are Americans who care deeply about the future of our country. We have difficult and serious times ahead, but we will get there. Never forget!” — Joyce Vance More Images of the day... |
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Appalachian Strong Work Day
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Voter Registration Repair Letters Sent OutMatt Pickett for the Polk Dems — August 23, 2025
In mid August, NC State Board of Elections letters went out to tens of thousands still on the list of voters in NC that need to "repair" their voter registration. If you receive one of these letters in the mail follow the instructions provided therein to update the needed info on your voter registration. Here is a step-by-step guide |
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5 Phone Calls Can Stop American Fascism. Here Are the Numbers. Politicians have a secret math they don't want you to know. Something that is an open secret in politics was shared with the public by former congressional staffers who wrote the Indivisible Guide, here's how they actually count your complaints:
This is the economy of political pressure. The Congressional Management Foundation found that individualized contact influenced 94% of congressional offices on undecided issues. Mass email campaigns? 18%. Petitions? Worthless. But here's the secret that changes everything: state officials are sitting ducks. READ MORE... |
The NC Board of Elections discusses a resolution on county boards on July 21, 2025 (Photo: Lynn Bonner/NC Newsline)
Plan Requiring Some NC voters to Repeatedly Cast Provisional Ballots Divides Board of Elections
By Lynn Bonner, for NC Newsline - August 28, 2025
More voters will have to cast provisional ballots in state and local elections after an N.C. Board of Elections vote Wednesday. The Board is asking people who do not have a driver’s license number or partial Social Security number connected to their name to supply one of those identifiers. For certain voters, those identifying numbers may not be attached to their names as a result of a mismatch. If a name is misspelled, if voters change their names, if the numbers on a birth date are transposed, or one record has a middle name and another record doesn’t, for example, the numerical identifiers aren’t added to the voter registration file. The three Republicans on the five-member Board voted to approve the plan that will require those voters who don’t have those identifiers to their names to cast provisional ballots and show an acceptable picture ID or document showing their residence when they vote.
Provisional ballots are kept separate from regular ballots. Local boards of election decide whether to count them if the information voters supply checks out. Voters’ selections in federal races will count no matter what. But votes in local and state races could be thrown out in some circumstances. “It will help us collect the missing information, verify that missing information and at the same time allow voters to proceed and comply with HAVA (the Help America Vote Act) and also our state law and state constitution obligations,” said Board member Stacy “Four” Eggers IV, a Republican. Democrats on the Board were opposed. People whose names don’t have an identifier connected with their name will be repeatedly flagged. They will be required to cast provisional ballots — and fill out the voter registration form on the ballot with the identifiers — in election after election until their numbers validate. The burden will disproportionately fall on women who change their names after they marry but don’t notify the Social Security Administration, said Siobhan Millen, a Democrat.
President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice is suing North Carolina over the missing information in the voter rolls. State Elections Executive Director Sam Hayes has said the plan to collect the information may help settle the lawsuit.
More voters will have to cast provisional ballots in state and local elections after an N.C. Board of Elections vote Wednesday. The Board is asking people who do not have a driver’s license number or partial Social Security number connected to their name to supply one of those identifiers. For certain voters, those identifying numbers may not be attached to their names as a result of a mismatch. If a name is misspelled, if voters change their names, if the numbers on a birth date are transposed, or one record has a middle name and another record doesn’t, for example, the numerical identifiers aren’t added to the voter registration file. The three Republicans on the five-member Board voted to approve the plan that will require those voters who don’t have those identifiers to their names to cast provisional ballots and show an acceptable picture ID or document showing their residence when they vote.
Provisional ballots are kept separate from regular ballots. Local boards of election decide whether to count them if the information voters supply checks out. Voters’ selections in federal races will count no matter what. But votes in local and state races could be thrown out in some circumstances. “It will help us collect the missing information, verify that missing information and at the same time allow voters to proceed and comply with HAVA (the Help America Vote Act) and also our state law and state constitution obligations,” said Board member Stacy “Four” Eggers IV, a Republican. Democrats on the Board were opposed. People whose names don’t have an identifier connected with their name will be repeatedly flagged. They will be required to cast provisional ballots — and fill out the voter registration form on the ballot with the identifiers — in election after election until their numbers validate. The burden will disproportionately fall on women who change their names after they marry but don’t notify the Social Security Administration, said Siobhan Millen, a Democrat.
President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice is suing North Carolina over the missing information in the voter rolls. State Elections Executive Director Sam Hayes has said the plan to collect the information may help settle the lawsuit.
Texas state Sen. Pete Flores, R-Pleasanton, looks over a redrawn U.S. congressional map during debate over a bill in the Senate Chamber at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Texas, Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
Voters, Advocates Ask Court to Block Texas Gerrymander
By Jen Rice for Democracy Docket - August 25, 2025
Two separate groups of plaintiffs filed motions Sunday and Monday in federal court seeking to block Texas’ new congressional map from going into effect. To bolster its claim that the legislature intentionally discriminated against minority Texans, one filing offered evidence that a key GOP lawmaker used racial data to make the case for the map. The filings came after state Republicans sped their gerrymander through a hasty redistricting process in hopes of winning more GOP seats in Congress in 2026. Lawmakers passed the new map early Saturday morning, sending it to the desk of Gov. Greg Abbott (R), who has said he will sign it. Both filings were made in an ongoing consolidated lawsuit challenging the state’s 2021 map as a racial gerrymander.
On Sunday, a group of Black and Latino Texas voters* filed a motion asking the court to issue a preliminary injunction against the newly passed map, and use the 2021 map for next year’s election. The Black and Latino voters argued that the Republican gerrymander is based on a misinterpretation of the 5th Circuit’s ruling in Petteway v. Galveston County last year. “That opinion held only that multi-racial coalitions may not bring affirmative Section 2 claims for new districts – it did not license the intentional, race-motivated destruction of existing districts,” the motion said. “And in intentionally destroying majority-minority districts and replacing them with majority-Anglo districts, the legislature also engaged in unconstitutional racial gerrymandering…in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment.” The plaintiffs also argued against Republicans’ decision to undergo an unnecessary redistricting process mid-decade, saying the new districts are “unconstitutionally malapportioned, because they do not reflect Texas’ uneven population growth since the 2020 census, and because the legal fiction of continued equal population between censuses exists to avoid constant redistricting, not to permit the unnecessary and premature replacement of legislatively-enacted districts.”
Two separate groups of plaintiffs filed motions Sunday and Monday in federal court seeking to block Texas’ new congressional map from going into effect. To bolster its claim that the legislature intentionally discriminated against minority Texans, one filing offered evidence that a key GOP lawmaker used racial data to make the case for the map. The filings came after state Republicans sped their gerrymander through a hasty redistricting process in hopes of winning more GOP seats in Congress in 2026. Lawmakers passed the new map early Saturday morning, sending it to the desk of Gov. Greg Abbott (R), who has said he will sign it. Both filings were made in an ongoing consolidated lawsuit challenging the state’s 2021 map as a racial gerrymander.
On Sunday, a group of Black and Latino Texas voters* filed a motion asking the court to issue a preliminary injunction against the newly passed map, and use the 2021 map for next year’s election. The Black and Latino voters argued that the Republican gerrymander is based on a misinterpretation of the 5th Circuit’s ruling in Petteway v. Galveston County last year. “That opinion held only that multi-racial coalitions may not bring affirmative Section 2 claims for new districts – it did not license the intentional, race-motivated destruction of existing districts,” the motion said. “And in intentionally destroying majority-minority districts and replacing them with majority-Anglo districts, the legislature also engaged in unconstitutional racial gerrymandering…in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment.” The plaintiffs also argued against Republicans’ decision to undergo an unnecessary redistricting process mid-decade, saying the new districts are “unconstitutionally malapportioned, because they do not reflect Texas’ uneven population growth since the 2020 census, and because the legal fiction of continued equal population between censuses exists to avoid constant redistricting, not to permit the unnecessary and premature replacement of legislatively-enacted districts.”
A Large "Save Democracy" sign set the stage for protesters.
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"Foothills For Justice" Protest in Spindale Well Attended
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Voters in Every County in NC are Affected by Voter Registration Problems
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Voter Registration "Repair"
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Every Third Saturday Polk County Dems Hold a Food Drive at their HQ in Columbus
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FOOD DRIVE!
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Resident Anne Schneider, right, hugs her friend Eddy Sampson as they survey damage from Hurricane Helene on Oct. 1 in Marshall, North Carolina. (Jeff Roberson/AP)
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DHS is delaying millions in already approved North Carolina recovery funds, documents showBy Brianna Sacks and Maeve Reston for the Washington Post
August 8, 2025 Communities across the region still need to be reimbursed for about a hundred projects including debris removal, waste water treatment repairs, roads and bridges, damaged buildings and parks, as well as for emergency protective measures. The Department of Homeland Security is holding up more than $100 million in preapproved funds intended to help hurricane-battered North Carolina clean up storm damage and fix infrastructure still in disrepair almost a year after Helene hit the region, according to documents obtained by The Washington Post and officials familiar with the process. |
Jamie Ager’s entry into the NC-11 Democratic Primary Election had long been anticipated. Cory Vaillancourt photo
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Jamie Ager Enters NC-11 Race By Cory Vaillancourt for Smoky Mountain News - July 29, 2025
On a fourth-generation family farm nestled in the hills just outside of Fairview, Jamie Ager spent his childhood watching the seasons change, the animals grow and the land evolve with the rhythms of life in the mountains. Today, that land is not only the site of a thriving regenerative agriculture business, but also the launching pad for a campaign that could reshape North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District. Ager, 47, is a Democrat running for Congress in a district long dominated by conservatives, but he believes his experience as a farmer, businessman and community builder offers a compelling alternative to Republican incumbent Chuck Edwards — one rooted not in ideology, but in pragmatism, problem-solving and shared values across party lines. “I’ve worked with my hands, I’ve been on a farm, I’ve done these things,” Ager said. “I’ve seen the challenges of being a working person trying to make it work. That’s different than a lot of people.” Read More... Other Dem candidates for NC-11 Moe Davis Zelda Briarwood Chris Harjes Jacob Lawrence |
List of Vetoes overridden by NC Senate
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NC Senate Overrides 12 of Governor Josh Stein's VetoesBy Michael Garrett, NC Senate District 27 – July 29, 2025
Today, the NC Senate overrode 12 of Governor Josh Stein’s vetoes in a display of raw power that will echo through generations. Senate Bills 50, 153, 227, 254, 266, 416, and 558, along with House Bills 193, 381, 402, 549, and 805, each one a wound inflicted on the body politic of North Carolina. But this story isn’t just about legislative defeats. It’s about who we are when the lights go down and the cameras turn away. It’s about the choice between the North Carolina we inherit and the North Carolina we create. The mathematics of injustice are stark: More North Carolinians voted for Democratic candidates than Republicans, yet gerrymandered maps handed the GOP a supermajority that renders meaningless Governor Stein’s decisive 15-point victory. When the will of the people can be so brazenly nullified, we are not witnessing politics, we are witnessing the slow strangulation of democracy itself. |
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Polk Dems Have Another Successful Food Drive to Benefit Families in Need
By Matt Pickett for Polk Dems - July 23, 2025
Every third Saturday the Polk County Democratic Party hosts the "Neighbors Caring for Neighbors" food drive. They collect food from local residents for Share Thy Bread and Outreach Ministries food pantries that serve our local communities. Saturday's event was well coordinated and staffed. A steady stream of good-hearted Polk County residents dropped by to drop off their donations. In total 1,348 lbs. of food was collected to help local families who are food insecure. This work is more important than ever before due to federal funding for food assistance programs being severely cut back by the Trump administration. Help a neighbor by dropping off a donation of non-perishable food at our collection location on the third Saturday of the month between 9am and 12pm. People don't have to go hungry. An estimated 40 families in the Polk County area benefited from last months food drive! If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity please use the links below for more info about receiving food assistance. Share Thy Bread - Tryon NC Outreach Ministries Food Bank - Columbus NC |
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper speaks during a Get Out the Vote rally in Raleigh, North Carolina, on October 30, 2024. | Ryan M. Kelly/AFP via Getty Images
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Roy Cooper to Jump Into North Carolina Senate RaceBy ELENA SCHNEIDER for Politico - July 23, 2025
Roy Cooper is expected to announce his campaign for the North Carolina Senate as soon as Monday, according to two people directly familiar with the former governor’s decision. The popular, former two-term governor’s entrance into the Senate race — for a seat Republican Sen. Thom Tillis is leaving open with his announcement last month that he won’t seek reelection — is expected to transform the Senate race into the most competitive of 2026. Democrats, facing a difficult path to seizing control of the Senate next year, landed their dream recruit with Cooper, who would enter the race as a favorite. Read More... |
Good Trouble Protesters at Stearns Park, Columbus, NC
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Good Trouble Comes to Stearns Park and NationwideBy Matt Pickett for Polk Dems - July 17, 2025
COLUMBUS — Protests in Spindale, Hendersonville, Asheville, at Stearns Park in Columbus and elsewhere around the country sent word to our elected officials that "Good Trouble" will persist until they take heed of our demands. That they MUST uphold their oaths and defend the Constitution. Over 100 strong from the surrounding communities braved the heat to have their voices heard by the community at large that we will not rest until sanity is restored to government. That may take awhile, but we aren't going anywhere. Protesters at Stearns park were greeted with many an enthusiastic car horn toot and waves from well wishers on Main Street in Columbus. Almost all were jovial and supportive of our cause. |
North Carolina State Board of Elections, Dobbs Building
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North Carolina-Trump DOJ Voter Purge Plan Is Illegal, Democrats WarnBy Yunior Rivas for Democracy Docket - July 14, 2025
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) charged that a North Carolina plan — hatched alongside the Trump Justice Department — to effectively remove nearly 100,000 registered voters from the rolls would violate federal voting law. In a letter sent Friday to the North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE), the DNC blasts the controversial new plan approved by the board in June. The plan would block tens of thousands of voters from having their ballots counted unless they submit additional ID information, such as a driver’s license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. The board devised the plan after the Department of Justice sued the state, alleging that it had failed to collect information from voters that’s required under the Help America Vote Act. |
Over 250 citizens turned out in a strong rebuke to the Un-American activities of this administration. Stearns Park, Columbus, NC.
A 20-foot tall balloon of President Trump in a diaper is seen among people taking part in a "No Kings" protest in Los Angeles
ETIENNE LAURENT/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES
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NO KINGS Protests Locally and Nationwide Are a Huge Success
A Clear Message of Defiance to the Trump Administration
By Matt Pickett for Polk Dems
Stearns Park, Columbus NC and Nationwide - June 14, 2025 Over 250 like minded citizens took to the turf at Stearns Park in Columbus, NC to add their voices to the millions of Americans that turned out for the nationwide "NO KINGS" protest. The over 2,000 NO KINGS protests nationwide were designed as a rebuke to Trump's policies that are undermining democracy and destroying America. Current estimates show five plus million people nationwide participated . The Columbus protest was led by Robbie terKuile and the Polk County Women's Club. It was a REAL show of strength and a counterpoint to the "low energy" military parade in Washington DC. That parade was sparsely attended and overshadowed by bad weather that seemed to mirror the glower of the President. Ivon, a sixteen year old Hispanic boy, walked to Stearns Park after his father told him Democrats were rallying. He wants to join our Young Dems! The 25o people strong that turned out at Stearns Park to have their voices heard all carried signs critical of the current administrations policies. Democrats, Republicans and Independents rallied = all Americans - who are deeply dismayed by what is happening to our country. Many cars passing honked their approvals and very few dissented. The overall atmosphere was one of great comity and optimism as "the people" felt the power of the first amendment in action.
The Columbus event wasn't the largest for sure - but given the small size of the local community and the short notice, it was a VERY big turnout. Other local "NO KINGS" protests in Hendersonville and Asheville had enormous crowds. The 3.5% rule Whereas, if 3.5% of a population makes a sustained peaceful effort to protest - the ruling government cannot remain in power and collapses. The protests against the Trump administration have steadily climbed since his inauguration just 6 months ago. Fingers crossed. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20190513-it-only-takes-35-of-people-to-change-the-world |
June 21st 9-12 at Polk County Democratic HQ
With reduction of federal food benefits and a worsening economy, our local food pantries are facing increased demand and reduced donations. We need to help! The Polk County Democratic Party is sponsoring a monthly food drive to help our neighbors and reduce hunger in our county.
What you can do-
Volunteer on June 21st at headquarters to collect donated food or deliver food to the pantries on June 23rd. If you want to volunteer email Mike Silverman at [email protected].
And
Encourage your friends and neighbors to bring non-perishable, non expired items to headquarters located at 64 Ward Street, Columbus, NC on June 21 between 9-12:00.
Let’s show our neighbors that Democrats care and are working to address issues that are affecting our neighbors.
With reduction of federal food benefits and a worsening economy, our local food pantries are facing increased demand and reduced donations. We need to help! The Polk County Democratic Party is sponsoring a monthly food drive to help our neighbors and reduce hunger in our county.
What you can do-
Volunteer on June 21st at headquarters to collect donated food or deliver food to the pantries on June 23rd. If you want to volunteer email Mike Silverman at [email protected].
And
Encourage your friends and neighbors to bring non-perishable, non expired items to headquarters located at 64 Ward Street, Columbus, NC on June 21 between 9-12:00.
Let’s show our neighbors that Democrats care and are working to address issues that are affecting our neighbors.
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Update: This Bill Passed
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Polk County Dems Headquarters in Columbus NC
We Believe...
- Helping people in need strengthens our community
- The health and safety of our neighbors is important
- Censorship through book banning and teacher harassment harms public education
- Capitalism is at its best when it works for everyone equally
- My "freedoms" should not hurt or infringe on anyone else's "freedoms"
- Racism and discrimination are wrong
- Violence and hate are NOT "legitimate political discourse"
- Government is not the enemy; Hate, fear and disinformation are the enemy
- Rules and laws must apply to everyone equally
- Climate change is a real and immediate danger
