North Carolina Republicans in the state House of Representatives have successfully overridden a veto from Democrat Gov. Roy Cooper, enacting a law designed to limit the powers of the governor and attorney general. The 72-46 supermajority vote secures a critical change ahead of 2025, as Democrats prepare to assume control of the governorship.
At the heart of the legislation is a shift in responsibility for appointing members of the state elections board. Previously held by the governor, this authority now resides with the state auditor, a position set to be filled by Republican Dave Boliek. By removing the governor’s control over the elections board, Republicans aim to safeguard election integrity and prevent partisan manipulation as North Carolina gears up for the next electoral cycle.
Republican lawmakers emphasized the importance of protecting the fairness of elections, particularly with Democrat Gov.-elect Josh Stein taking office in 2025. The new law ensures that the GOP maintains a critical voice in the oversight of elections despite losing their veto-proof supermajority due to the 2024 election results.
In addition to addressing election oversight, the legislation provides $227 million in relief for victims of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. Republicans have championed this funding as a necessary step to assist those impacted by the devastating storm, while also defending the integrity of the state’s democratic processes.
Democrats criticized the process, pointing to reports from local outlet News & Observer that the bill was drafted in secret and fast-tracked with little public input. Debate on the legislation began just an hour after its details were revealed.
Republicans, however, view the move as a heroic effort to ensure that future elections remain transparent and impartial. By implementing these changes now, they are laying the groundwork to reclaim their supermajority and the governor’s office in the next election cycle.
