### Power Struggle Intensifies Ahead of North Carolina’s Governor Transition

As Democrat Josh Stein prepares to step into his role as North Carolina's governor in January, Republicans are already making moves to limit his influence compared to outgoing Governor Roy Cooper. Despite Democrats breaking the Republicans' supermajority in the General Assembly by a single vote, Republicans are accelerating their legislative agenda to pass key measures before year-end.

The latest bill, Senate Bill 382, has quickly moved to Governor Cooper's desk for action, containing various provisions that shift significant powers from the governor to other offices. If enacted, the control of State Board of Elections appointments will transfer from the governor to the state auditor, a position now occupied by newly elected Republican Dave Boliek.

Stein has voiced strong criticism of the bill, arguing that it is a power grab disguised as Helene disaster relief. During a visit to Western North Carolina, Stein highlighted the urgent need for aid in the region and condemned the Republicans' actions on social media, stating, “But instead of stepping up, the Republicans in the General Assembly are grabbing power and exacting political retribution. How about they do their jobs so we can do ours?! North Carolina deserves better.”

The debate over the bill commenced about an hour after its introduction and highlighted the continuing power struggle within the General Assembly. House Democratic Leader Robert Reives pointed out that many North Carolinians may not realize the true power dynamics at play, noting that the Senate leader and House speaker hold more sway than the governor.

Looking ahead to the 2025 legislative session, Republican Rep. Destin Hall is set to become the new House speaker, taking over from outgoing Speaker Tim Moore. Hall, who currently chairs the Rules Committee, has worked more closely with Reives than Moore has. Meanwhile, Republicans voted John Bell, the new House Majority Leader, to become the next Rules chair.

In his efforts to prioritize the rebuilding of Western North Carolina, Stein formed the Rebuilding Western North Carolina Advisory Committee. The committee will be co-chaired by Republican state Sen. Kevin Corbin of Macon County and Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer, a Democrat. Both leaders represent areas severely impacted by Helene.

Senator Corbin expressed his appreciation for the bipartisan effort required for the region's recovery, while Mayor Manheimer emphasized the necessity of a sustained, focused approach to rebuild communities affected by the disaster.

Stay informed with updates from The News & Observer’s award-winning team on North Carolina's political landscape, as the battle for control and governance continues to evolve.