North Carolina Republicans swiftly passed a bill designed to restrict Democratic powers while possibly consolidating future GOP influence in the state.
At a Glance
- Republicans seek to limit Democratic power through new legislation.
- The bill reallocates control of the State Board of Elections.
- Legislation passed swiftly without public input or potential amendments.
- Democrats criticize the process, calling it a “power grab.”
Legislation Details and Political Implications
North Carolina Republicans passed legislation aiming to reduce powers for incoming Democratic officials such as the governor and attorney general. The bill moves control of appointing election board members from the governor to the Republican-controlled state auditor’s office. This shift may ensure a Republican majority on the board.
The bill also limits the authority of the attorney general, preventing opposition to legislative legal decisions and restricting litigation involvement. Additionally, the governor’s appointment powers face new limitations, altering how election administration operates in the state.
Republicans in North Carolina are rushing a bill through the legislature before they lose their supermajority to give their party more control over elections and limit the authority of the incoming Democratic governor and attorney general. https://t.co/0CAwWVlqtc
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) November 20, 2024
Concerns Over Legislative Process
Controversially, only 12 pages of the bill address Hurricane Helene recovery, with the remainder focused on altering legislative powers. The bill was introduced without public comment, fast-tracked after its release, and not open to amendments. Democrats label the bill a “power grab,” with Democratic Rep. Lindsey Prather remarking, “This is shameful, and Western North Carolina is not going to stand for it.”
The swift passage through both the House and Senate, occurring in less than 24 hours, drew protests and disruptions in the Senate gallery. Senate leader Phil Berger defended the swift proceedings as justified to address enduring concerns within existing rules.
The GOP supermajority in North Carolina has been wreaking havoc, forcing through an abortion ban and attacks on voting rights. We need to flip just one House seat to break that supermajority and @Pittmanfornc is the candidate to do it. https://t.co/QSsskt1MS0
— Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (@DLCC) September 30, 2024
Reactions and Consequences
The bill forces a critical decision upon Democrats, compelling them to either endorse flawed legislation or obstruct disaster recovery aid. Previous attempts to shift power from the executive to legislative bodies have faced court challenges, raising questions about the new bill’s future.
The bill also affects state election processes, with changes to how quickly counties must verify ballots and other electoral adjustments. Karen Brinson Bell voiced concern, “State Board staff were not consulted about this significant piece of legislation,” impacting election administration as elections with high voter turnout approach.
Sources:
NC Republicans stoop even lower in their shameless new power grab | Opinion
Power shifts: How NC Republicans fast-tracked post-election changes drafted in secret
North Carolina GOP lawmakers vote to strip powers of incoming Democratic leaders
North Carolina Republicans flex muscle as supermajority fades away
