North Carolina Republicans secured a major win by overriding Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto to enact a law aimed at safeguarding elections. The 72-46 vote ensures structural changes to the state’s election system while reducing the power of the governor and attorney general.
The law shifts the authority to appoint members of the state elections board to the state auditor, a position that will soon be filled by Republican Dave Boliek. This move is seen as a measure to prevent partisan control of the board under incoming Democrat Gov.-elect Josh Stein.
Republicans, facing the loss of their supermajority in 2025, acted swiftly to pass the bill. They argue the changes are essential to preserving the integrity of elections in North Carolina, ensuring a fair process for future electoral cycles.
The legislation also allocates $227 million in relief funding for residents of western North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene. While Democrats criticized the process, Republicans stressed the importance of addressing both election reform and disaster relief simultaneously.
Reports from local media, including News & Observer, highlighted concerns over the speed of the bill’s introduction and passage. However, GOP leaders defended the approach, emphasizing the need to act before their supermajority expires.
This law represents a calculated effort by Republicans to protect elections from partisan manipulation while setting the stage for future political gains. With fair elections as their focus, the GOP is positioning itself to challenge Democrats in 2025 and beyond.
