Carolina Journal Radio

CJ Radio #522: Economic Growth Requires Sound Tax Reform Policy

Sun, 19 May 2013 09:00:00 -0400

It's been discussed for years, but now state legislators are digging into tax reform. The expectation is that changes to North Carolina's tax structure and code will take place this year, affecting every North Carolinian. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato explains key principles of tax reform and how they impact economic growth. Then we turn to politics. Ever since Republicans lost the popular vote for the fifth time in the last six presidential elections, some pundits have been calling for a rebranding of the GOP. There's been little discussion of what rebranding would entail, but Mark McNeilly, UNC-Chapel Hill lecturer and longtime IBM and Lenovo marketing executive, has some ideas. Next is a look at a controversial debate in the state legislature. Some North Carolina lawmakers believe people should take drug tests before qualifying for taxpayer-funded welfare benefits. You'll hear arguments for and against their proposals during a recent state Senate debate. That's followed by a look at transportation policy. Each time we drive over a pothole or a rough stretch of road, we might wonder how well our highways stack up against those across the country. David Hartgen, emeritus professor of transportation studies at UNC-Charlotte, recently addressed that topic in a report for Reason Foundation titled "Are Highways Crumbling?" Hartgen shares highlights from his findings. And finally, Barry Smith updates us on the election law bills making their way through the legislature. Requiring a photo I.D. to vote is the most high-profile effort, but there are others as well. Smith explains a bill that would remove from the North Carolina Constitution a provision that requires a literacy test to vote.

CJ Radio #521: Analyzing Gov. McCrory's Medicaid Reform Plan

Sun, 12 May 2013 09:00:00 -0400

A reform plan introduced by Gov. Pat McCrory will inject market-based solutions into the state's Medicaid program. John Locke Foundation president John Hood assesses the plan and discusses why North Carolina's program for paying for, and delivering, medical care to the poor and low-income families is weighed down under such problems. Next is a look at local tax and fee burdens around the state. Charlotte's 11-year run as the large North Carolina city with the largest local tax-and-fee burden in the state has ended. That's just one of the key facts you can find in the latest edition of the John Locke Foundation's By The Numbers report, which ranks cities and counties based on their tax burden. Report author Michael Lowrey, JLF economics and regulatory policy analyst, discusses key findings in the report. Then we turn to tax reform. North Carolina's tax reform efforts recently got a $500,000 boost from Americans for Prosperity. Tim Phillips, president of the Washington, D.C.-based grass-roots advocacy group, recently explained why AFP is putting so much money into efforts to improve this state's tax system. That's followed by a look at the roots of the modern American conservative movement. We can trace at least some of its ideas to a meeting that took place at a mountain resort in Switzerland more than 65 years ago. Johns Hopkins University historian Angus Burgin recently spoke at Duke University on the Swiss meeting that led to the formation of the influential Mont Pelerin Society. And finally, if you're wondering why your electric bill is so high, at least one contributing factor is the state's mandate that utilities buy a percentage of their energy from high-cost "green" sources rather than lower-cost sources. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray explains the push to pare back the mandate and lower electric bills.

CJ Radio #520: Associates of Former Gov. Perdue Face The Judge

Sun, 05 May 2013 09:00:00 -0400

Three former associates of former Gov. Bev Perdue have been convicted of misdemeanor charges for obstruction of justice in an investigation of fundraising violations during Perdue's 2008 campaign for governor. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains what happened in court, puts the convictions in context with convictions of several other Perdue associates, and talks about what appears to have motivated the activities that run afoul of campaign finance law. Then we turn to the psychology of voter behavior. If you've ever wondered why we end up with so many bad politicians and poorly designed public policies, blame ignorance. That's the theory George Mason University law professor Ilya Somin explores in his forthcoming book, Democracy and Political Ignorance. During a recent visit to North Carolina, Somin explained why we devote more time and thought to choosing a car or a TV than to choosing a president. Next is a conversation with a man known as having been one of the most outspoken conservative members of the U.S. Senate - South Carolina's Jim DeMint. DeMint is now the new president of Washington's leading conservative think tank, The Heritage Foundation. During a recent visit to Raleigh, DeMint discussed his new job with John Locke Foundation President John Hood. That's followed by a look at North Carolina's business climate and general economy. Will the landscape look better to bulls or bears this year? It's a question Triangle Business Journal editor Sougata Mukherjee and his staff will help answer as they cover business news in the weeks and months ahead. Mukherjee offers his perspective on the main issues influencing North Carolina's business climate. And finally, we've heard the phrase "common core" referenced in discussion about education policy, but exactly what is it? John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies Terry Stoops explains what it is, how it is impacting North Carolina, and why parents and taxpayers should be concerned about is implementation.

CJ Radio #519: Assessing New UNC-CH Chancellor Carol Folt

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0400

The UNC Board of Governors and UNC Chapel Hill Board of Trustees are hoping that the hiring of Dartmouth leader Carol Folt as the new chancellor at Carolina will allow the university to start over following several years of scandal involving academics and athletics. But does Folt, who comes from a small Ivy League school, have what it takes to lead the flagship university of the UNC System, including its high-profile athletics program? Jane Shaw of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy weighs on that question, as well as what the Folt hiring might say about future openings at other campuses. Then we turn to the saga over the Carolina Panthers' call for public funding to upgrade Bank of America stadium. Charlotte city leaders and N.C. lawmakers have been debating the proper role for state and local government to play as the Panthers move forward with an upgrade of their privately owned football stadium. Carolina Journal associate editor and MeckDeck.com blogger Michael Lowrey discusses some of the problems associated with the government leaders' negotiations with the football team. Next is a look at energy subsidies in North Carolina and efforts to scale back or eliminate the state's renewable energy mandate. The debate has generated plenty of "heat" within the N.C. General Assembly. Speakers at a recent legislative hearing outlined the mandate's pros and cons. That's followed by a look at the so-called "Good Samaritan" law, which is designed to help reduce the number of drug overdose deaths in North Carolina. Robert Childs, executive director of the N.C. Harm Reduction Coalition, explains how the legal change can help lead to better health outcomes in the state. And finally, we look at claims by those who oppose changing state law to require a photo I.D. to vote that the law would be unconstitutional. Jeanette Doran, executive director of the N.C. Institute for Constitutional Law, explains why that claim is untrue and answers the additional charge that requiring an I.D. to vote is akin to a poll tax.

CJ Radio #518: Momentum Takes Hold For Empowering Parents

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0400

Reforming the state's public schools has emerged as a key issue in this session of the North Carolina General Assembly. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, delves into proposals being considered that will empower parents and create innovation through competition. Then we turn to the re-emergency of the death penalty as an issue. North Carolina has executed no death row inmates since 2006, but a New Hanover County Republican state senator has filed a bill to help the state resume its process for capital punishment. You'll hear from Sen. Thom Goolsby and from the bill's supporters, including three district attorneys and two family members of North Carolina murder victims. Next is a look at some fascinating North Carolina history. Long before people flocked to California in search of gold, North Carolina had its own 19th-century gold rush. John Locke Foundation President John Hood discussed that piece of state history during a recent public presentation. He says that short-lived economic boom has had a long-term impact on the Charlotte area. That's followed by a discussion of energy-related issues, which have dominated headlines in recent years. Despite that, many people know little about energy, its sources, and its effective use. John Hubisz, visiting professor of physics at N.C. State University, offers some basic lessons about energy. And finally, Carolina Journal Publisher and media watcher Jon Ham discusses the national media narrative that has emerged during national debate over gun control and food regulations. Ham explains that the media has been on board with a narrative that presents more government control as good and necessary.

CJ Radio #517: Core Principles Guide JLF's General Fund Budget

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0400

Gov. Pat McCrory and state lawmakers have begun the process of putting together North Carolina's General Fund operating budget. As the debate begins on determining the state's sources of revenue and spending priorities, the John Locke Foundation is crafting an alternative General Fund budget grounded in providing core services, taking care of the vulnerable, and allowing North Carolinians to prosper from the fruits of their labor. Sarah Curry, the Locke Foundation's director of fiscal policy studies, discusses key components of the plan and why the document should be guided in this way. Then we turn to debate over the power of local governments. Some North Carolina lawmakers want to limit cities' ability to control aesthetic design standards in new home construction. Home builders and Realtors are supporting a proposal to restrict local regulation of home designs. You'll hear highlights from a recent legislative debate on the topic. Next is a look at education reform. Teacher tenure would disappear from North Carolina public schools under a proposal N.C. Senate Republicans have proposed. Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, recently explained why he and his colleages say one- to four-year contracts would be better for students than the current tenure system, also known as "career status." That's followed by a look at labor law. North Carolina is a "right-to-work" state because of its law restricting union activity. Walter Wessels, professor of economics at N.C. State University, has studied the impact of a state's right-to-work status on both employment and economic growth. He shares details from his research. And finally, John Locke Foundation President John Hood offers recommendations for putting North Carolina's transportation system back on track after years of misguided spending and priorities. Hood discusses the issue as the Locke Foundation releases a new transportation study led by Dr. David Hartgen, professor emeritus at UNC-Charlotte.

CJ Radio #516: CJ Investigation: Tax Fraud Scheme Underway In NC?

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0400

Investigative reporting by Carolina Journal has revealed that a tax fraud scheme may be operating in North Carolina. CJ Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains the tip Carolina Journal received from a Durham resident about letters from out-of-state tax agencies showing up in mail boxes, where they were then retrieved by people not from the neighborhood. Then we turn to the estate tax. Gov. Pat McCrory included repeal of the North Carolina estate tax in his first budget proposal. It's an idea some state lawmakers are pushing as well. You'll hear highlights from a recent N.C. House committee debate about the pros and cons of ending the tax often labeled the "death tax." Next is a look at the relationship between government and the citizenry. When government officials violate the state's open meetings and public records laws, they often face few consequences. Sen. Thom Goolsby, R-New Hanover, wants to change that situation. He's filed a bill to turn violations of those open-government laws into misdemeanors. Carolina Journal Associate Editor Barry Smith caught up with Goolsby after the first hearing on his bill to get details. That's followed by fascinating comments about the relationship between science and religion, which has intrigued political thinkers for centuries. Duke professor John Staddon recently contributed to the discussion by noting the limits of scientific facts and observations in helping us make decisions about the way the world works. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Regulatory Studies, Jon Sanders, discusses his recommendation that the state repeal the mandate passed in 2007 that forces utilities to produce a portion of their power from so-called "renewable" sources. Sanders explains how the mandates has resulted in higher electricity prices for ratepayers.

CJ Radio #515: An Easy-To-Understand Primer On The State Budget

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 09:00:00 -0400

North Carolina lawmakers are diving into many policies and issues while they're in session, but their chief responsibility this year is to craft a two-year operating budget for state government. The John Locke Foundation's new Fiscal Policy Analyst, Sarah Curry, gives us a preview of how the budget works, the outlook for revenues, and why the term "the state budget" typically doesn't encompass all the money the state receives and spends. Then we turn to the change in power in the state's second-highest office. North Carolina has its first Republican lieutenant governor in two decades. Dan Forest shared his priorities for the state's second-highest elected executive post during a recent presentation to the John Locke Foundation. Forest's private-sector background offers a different perspective on the way state government should approach challenges North Carolina will face in the next four years. In a related matter, the GOP has more power in state government now than in living memory. At least one lawmaker is urging his colleagues not to abuse that power. Rep. John Blust, R-Guilford, raised a red flag during a House debate on a bill that leaders had rushed through the chamber with little public notice. That's followed by a look at ominous impacts of ObamaCare. In addition to its health and economic impacts, the federal law could have major negative impacts on religious liberty. Eric Kniffin, legal counsel at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, explains his group's concerns about the federal health care reform law. And finally, the John Locke Foundation's John Hood discusses his recommendations for a fundamental retooling of how North Carolina government operates. This includes changes to the executive, judicial, and legislative branches – changes outlined in the new John Locke Foundation book, First in Freedom.

CJ Radio #514: Empowering Parents With Education Vouchers

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 09:00:00 -0400

North Carolina lawmakers are focusing on options for empowering parents of school-aged kids with more choices. Among the options being analyzed is a voucher system. Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, says vouchers are a transparent and easy-to-understand form of school choice. He lays out the benefits of vouchers and concerns as well. Then we turn to a potential change to North Carolina election law. Lawmakers are trying again this year to approve legislation requiring photo identification for voters. The N.C. House's Election Committee chairman, Rep. David Lewis, R-Harnett, recently explained why he and his colleagues are seeking input from both supporters and critics of a voter ID requirement. Next is a look at another legislative priority: regulatory reform. Legislators have approved regulatory reform measures in each of the past two years. House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg, says we can expect more. But Tillis says the latest regulatory reform measure might take a new form: Regulators will be asked to justify existing rules that might otherwise go away. That's followed by a look at our state's justice system and issues of public corruption, which North Carolina is familiar with. Attorney General Roy Cooper and Wake County District Attorney Colon Willoughby say the state might have an easier time tackling future corruption cases if state lawmakers will make two changes. Cooper and Willoughby would like state prosecutors to be able to convene investigative grand juries in cases of corruption and financial fraud. They also urge lawmakers to make lying to an SBI agent in a criminal investigation a felony. And finally, Carolina Journal Associate Editor Barry Smith delves further into the issue of requiring a photo I.D. to vote. Smith attended a recent public hearing on the issue, which saw advocates for and against an I.D. making their case to lawmakers. Smith also explains what's ahead.

CJ Radio #513: Critics Ignore Payday Loan's Value To Consumer

Sun, 17 Mar 2013 09:00:00 -0400

North Carolina lawmakers who support a form of short-term consumer loan called a payday loan have taken fierce criticism from those who say the loans prey on the poor. But Jon Sanders, director of regulatory studies for the John Locke Foundation, says the loan is an option consumers should have and that analysis shows consumers are aware of the higher costs when they choose a payday loan. Next is a look at education choice in North Carolina. This year could be another good one for advocates of choice, according to Darrell Allison, president of Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina. Now that North Carolina has lifted its charter school cap and created education tax credits for parents of children with special needs, the state still has opportunities to expand parents' choices in education. Then we turn to efficiency in government. State lawmakers are pushing a bill designed to improve efficiency and save money in management of state government's fleet of motor vehicles. Some legislators would like to go even further. You'll hear highlights from a recent debate about the topic. That's followed by a look at an iconic North Carolina senator, the late Jesse Helms, who delivered a number of memorable speeches during his three decades representing North Carolina on Capitol Hill. The Helms Center has collected 30 of those speeches in a new book. Helms Center Foundation President John Dodd shares highlights from the book titled "30 For 30." And finally, a recent report from the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association purports to show that subsidizing renewable energy sources in North Carolina has been an incredible shot in the arm of the state's economy. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research, Roy Cordato, says that report turns economics on its head. He lays out the flawed economics and discusses why advocates for subsidies have a vested interest in keeping the money flow coming.

CJ Radio #512: JLF's John Hood Analyzes Gov. McCrory's Priorities

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 09:00:00 -0400

Gov. Pat McCrory has been in office for nearly two months and has begun to lay out his priorities. John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the governor's vision for government efficiency, transportation, and more. Then we turn to tax reform. As North Carolina lawmakers prepare to undertake a redo of the system, they're hearing ideas from a number of outside groups. Douglas Lindholm, president and executive director of the Council on State Taxation, offered his thoughts during a recent business gathering. COST represents some of the nation's largest businesses. Next is a look at lawmakers' reforms of North Carolina's unemployment insurance reforms as the state tries to repay $2.5 billion in debt owed to the federal government for unemployment benefits. You'll hear arguments for and against the reform from the state Senate debate on the issue. That's followed by a look at energy policy. The process of hydraulic fracturing - or fracking - for natural gas has generated quite a few headlines in North Carolina in recent years. Algenon Cash, chairman and small business ambassador for the N.C. Energy Forum, explains why his group is sharing information about fracking and other topics tied to homegrown energy resources. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson updates the unusual circumstances surrounding the awarding of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award to former state Sen. R.C. Soles, who then cancelled the awards ceremony.

CJ Radio #511: McCrory: No Medicaid Expansion, No State Exchange

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 09:00:00 -0500

Gov. Pat McCrory is taking applause and criticism for his decisions related to the Affordable Care Act – ObamaCare. The governor has announced the state will not operate a health exchange and the state will not expand Medicaid. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains the choices McCrory faced and the implications for North Carolina. So what is ahead for the McCrory administration? Working with a GOP-controlled General Assembly, the new governor has a chance to make some major substantive reforms in North Carolina government. That's the assessment of Americans for Prosperity President Tim Phillips, who recently shared that message in a briefing for North Carolina AFP activists in Raleigh. You'll hear highlights from his presentation. Next is a look at the latest dust-up over gun rights. While the recent Connecticut school shooting has prompted some public officials to step up calls for gun control, others are taking the opposite approach. During a recent rally outside the state Legislative Building, Rep. Larry Pittman, R-Cabarrus, discussed his proposal for a state constitutional amendment to strengthen North Carolinians' gun rights. That's followed by a look at the political crystal ball. The 2012 election has prompted many conservatives and Republicans to question the party's future. N.C. State political science professor Andrew Taylor offers his ideas to help the GOP compete more successfully in the next round of national elections. And finally, we look at potential changes to the requirements to become an attorney, an issue that George Leef of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy has been analyzing for years. Leef explains how the current requirements inhibit people from entering the profession and why he advocates for changes.

CJ Radio #510: Revenue Dept. Letters Look Like Bills, But Aren't

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 09:00:00 -0500

It is tax time, and that means North Carolinians are watching the mail for all the necessary documents needed to file tax returns. Associate Editor Barry Smith of Carolina Journal explains what's going on with a "Notice of Intent to Assess" letter mailed by the state Revenue Department to about 150,000 North Carolinians. The letter, which looks like a bill, actually isn't a bill. Smith tells us what state officials have to say about why they send the letters. Then we turn to the ongoing debate over requiring a photo I.D. to vote in North Carolina. As lawmakers make another attempt this year to approve a requirement for voters, the Federalist Society recently hosted a Raleigh debate on the topic. You'll hear key arguments on the topic from John Fund, national affairs columnist at National Review; Bob Hall, executive director of Democracy North Carolina; Allison Riggs, staff attorney for voting rights at the Southern Coalition for Social Justice; and Hans von Spakovsky, senior legal fellow at The Heritage Foundation. Next are comments from State Auditor Beth Wood recently about her office's recently released scathing audit of North Carolina's Medicaid program. Wood's auditors found that Medicaid exceeded its budget by $1.4 billion a year for the last three years. You'll hear highlights from her report. That's followed by a look at an educational choice option that is growing in popularity. North Carolina lawmakers interested in expanding school choice options might consider education savings accounts, a new program launched in Arizona. Jonathan Butcher, education director for an Arizona-based free-market think tank, the Goldwater Institute, outlines the benefits of ESAs. And finally, Troy Kickler, director of the North Carolina History Project, profiles several African-American North Carolinians who fought through discrimination and were able to acquire wealth and property against the odds. The inspiration profiles offer lessons that are relevant today, says Kickler.

CJ Radio #509: K-12 Reform Ahead: More Choices, New Approaches

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 09:00:00 -0500

Over the last several years, North Carolina has made progress in giving parents more choices about where to send their kids to school. The arbitrary cap on public charter schools has been lifted, for example. But there is much more reform work to do, says John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies. Stoops discusses tax credits and education savings accounts, as well as changes to testing and accountability standards – all ideas that are featured in the new JLF book, First in Freedom. Then we turn to politics and conservatism. Democrat Barack Obama's re-election as president has prompted Republicans and conservatives to ask what they'll need to do to regain the White House in the future. One conservative who's offering answers is Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, who recently addressed a GOP gathering in Charlotte. Jindal shares his ideas for helping conservatives regain momentum on the national level. Those wondering why Washington, D.C., seems so gridlocked should consider the impact of the changing political parties. That's the assessment from Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform and a recent panelist for an event tied to N.C. State University's Institute for Emerging Issues. Norquist says more ideologically divided parties are bound to have a harder time reaching compromise on tough political issues. That's followed by a look at how North Carolina goes about raising revenue, which is on the mind of state legislators as they purse an overhaul of the state's complex tax code. Legislative staffer Cindy Avrette recently updated legislative tax writers on some of the basics of North Carolina's current system of raising revenue. And finally, if you have a skill or trade you'd like to practice to earn a living in North Carolina, you might be surprised to learn how difficult it can be to pursue your economic future. John Locke Foundation Director of Regulatory Studies, Jon Sanders, discusses North Carolina's heavy reliance on licensing of occupations, policies that hinder new entrants into these many fields. Sanders explains what's really afoot with the policies and makes recommendations to allow more people to use their talents and support themselves.

CJ Radio #508: Returning North Carolina To First In Freedom Again

Sun, 10 Feb 2013 09:00:00 -0500

About a year ago it became evident that 2013 might be a window of opportunity for North Carolina conservatives. John Locke Foundation President John Hood explains why JLF initiated two book projects in response. Hood offers specifics on the tax reform principles included in the latest book, First in Freedom, and discusses why the code so desperately needs to be updated if North Carolina hopes to become competitive and prosperous once again. Then we turn to additional key reforms that loom on the horizon. State lawmakers will pursue education reforms again during this year's legislative session. House Speaker Thom Tillis discussed some of his reform priorities shortly after his re-election to the House's top job. You'll hear Tillis' ideas, along with suggestions from Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies. Then we turn to foreign policy. An Army Reserve unit based in Garner recently returned to North Carolina after a yearlong deployment to Afghanistan. First Sgt. HansMarc Hurd shared with the John Locke Foundation's Shaftesbury Society some lessons learned during that deployment in one of the world's hot spots. That's followed by another perspective on tax reform as legislators prepare to tackle the issue. We bring you recent advice from Brent Lane, director of the Carolina Center for Competitive Economies at UNC-Chapel Hill. Lane explained why reform makes sense for this state, even though a successful reform plan will be difficult to achieve. And finally, we delve into the web of regulations that greets some mom and pop business start-ups seeking to earn a living in North Carolina. Two of those – taxicab operations and in-home beauty salons – have drawn the interest of the North Carolina Institute for Constitutional Law. Staff attorney Tyler Younts discusses the burden of the rules and why it impedes a citizen's right to enjoy the fruits of his or her labor. Younts also explains that NCICL is looking for citizens who've experienced the burden first-hand.

CJ Radio #507: New Front In School Choice: Virtual Charter Schools

Sun, 03 Feb 2013 09:00:00 -0500

Right now in North Carolina, thousands of children attend school online as part of the state-run virtual school. But there could be more virtual schools coming, if letters of intent to open public charter virtual schools are any indication. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, discusses the potential expansion, what it means for parents, and why the education establishment is none too happy about it. Next we turn to health care issues. One of the toughest tests Gov. Pat McCrory's administration faces involves the N.C. Department of Health Human Services. New DHHS Secretary Aldona Wos learned more about some of her department's top challenges during her first meeting with a legislative committee that oversees health and human services issues. You'll hear highlights from that meeting. Speaking of health care, N.C. Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger says he believes the General Assembly has little interest in either the state-run health insurance exchange or the proposed Medicaid expansion tied to the 2010 federal health care law. You'll learn why. That's followed by a look at economics and psychology. Any parent who's ever used money, food, or another goodie to coax her child into behaving properly knows that incentives can work. But Ruth Grant, professor of political science and philosophy at Duke University, says incentives can have some unintended negative consequences. She describes them in the book "Strings Attached: Untangling the Ethics of Incentives." And finally, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research, Roy Cordato, assesses the state of the climate change alarmism movement in light of recent headlines, as well as headline that didn't receive much media attention.

CJ Radio #506: Momentum Continues Toward Reining In Government

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 09:00:00 -0500

Just days from now, legislators will descent on Raleigh and get down to business in what's known as the long session of the new two-year General Assembly class. Becki Gray, vice president for outreach for the John Locke Foundation, provides a preview of the key issues the legislature will likely take up, including tax reform, education reform, regulatory reform, and compensation for victims of the state's eugenics program. Then we turn to the first few days in office for Gov. Pat McCrory. Before his administration can tackle major initiatives, McCrory says he'll have to focus some attention on basic infrastructure problems plaguing state government. During his first news conference as governor, McCrory described problems with government computers and buildings. Next is a look at divisions in the U.S. Congress. Those who watched frequent squabbling in the 112th U.S. Congress over budget and tax issues should expect more of the same in the months ahead. N.C. State University political scientist Andrew Taylor discusses key fiscal "flashpoints" that will challenge the 113th Congress. That's followed by a look at U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. Though typically silent on the bench, Thomas has had an impressive impact during his first 20 years of service on the nation's highest court. That's the assessment of Ohio Northern University law professor Scott Gerber, who discusses Thomas' judicial philosophy and role during his two decades of Supreme Court work. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses the request by former Gov. Mike Easley that his law license be reinstated following its revocation over his felony conviction on a campaign finance violation. Henderson also recaps the story of Mary Easley's increased pension after reaching a settlement with NC State University over her termination during the Easley investigations.

CJ Radio #505: McCrory: Back To Constitution For Appointing Judges

Sun, 20 Jan 2013 09:00:00 -0500

Gov. Pat McCrory wasted no time in getting to work as North Carolina's 74th governor. During his first full weekday on the job, the governor issued Executive Order No. 1, which reversed Gov. Beverly Perdue's executive order that had created a judicial nominating commission. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses McCrory's move to return the nomination of judicial appointees back to the governor, as outlined in the N.C. Constitution. Then we turn to the economy. North Carolina's economy has struggled since the onset of the Great Recession, but N.C. State University economist Michael Walden thinks 2013 might show some positive signs for recovery. Walden shares details from his state-based index of leading economic indicators. Next is a look at history. Serious fighting in the American Revolution ended in Yorktown, Va., but the American victory at Yorktown depended in large part on earlier battles in North Carolina. John Locke Foundation President John Hood explained during a recent public presentation how North Carolina patriots helped win the Revolutionary War. That's followed by a closer look at the new McCrory administration. Recent editions of Carolina Journal Radio have analyzed Gov. McCrory's selections to fill top posts within his Cabinet and senior staff. Now You'll hear from some of those selections themselves. Chief of staff Thomas Stith, Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Aldona Wos, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary John Skvarla, Revenue Secretary Lyons Gray, Cultural Resources Secretary Susan Kluttz, Public Safety Secretary Kieran Shanahan, Chief Legal Counsel Bob Stephens, and Deputy Budget Director Art Pope share their thoughts about their new roles. And finally, we turn to education. A staggering number of recent North Carolina high school graduates are unable to handle community college-level work. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, analyzes why two-thirds of these graduates require remedial education in math, reading, and writing, and why the K-12 education establishment is largely shutting its eyes to the problem, choosing instead to tout an increase in the graduation rate.

CJ Radio #504: McCrory Builds His Team With Key Cabinet Members

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 09:00:00 -0500

Gov. Pat McCrory has been busy naming Cabinet secretaries and other key officials for his new administration. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson profiles several of the appointments, including those for budget, revenue, and public safety. Next, conservatives and libertarians spend much of their time talking about the principles that motivate them — free markets, liberty, personal responsibility — but often spend less time talking about how those principles translate into policies. Reihan Salam, author of National Review Online's domestic policy blog, "The Agenda," discusses the importance of developing conservative policy proposals. Then we turn to history. Discussions of the American political system often focus on the importance of an "informed citizenry." Kory Swanson, executive vice president of the John Locke Foundation, discussed in a recent public presentation how that concept of informed citizens relates to the Glorious Revolution, a series of events more than 300 years ago across the Atlantic Ocean. That's followed by a look at a controversial debate over transportation planning. Some Triangle-area politicians and pundits continue to push for new passenger rail service for the region. Adrian Moore, vice president for policy at the Reason Foundation, says the history of similar projects across the country shows they tend to cost far too much money for very little benefit. And finally, it is January, which means many of us are thinking about filing tax returns. Lawmakers are thinking about taxes too – reforming the system of taxation in our state. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research, Roy Cordato, recommends reforming the system by moving to an Unlimited Savings Allowance tax (USA). Cordato explains what it means, what it would replace, and why this idea would spur economic growth.

CJ Radio #503: Incoming Gov. Pat McCrory Makes Key Appointments

Sun, 06 Jan 2013 09:00:00 -0500

North Carolina's incoming governor, Pat McCrory, has made key appointments to head state agencies that will be front and center in the new year. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson profiles three of the key players – Chief of Staff Thomas Stith, Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Aldona Vos, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary John Skvarla. Next is a look at national politics. The federal government starts the new year with many of the same cast of characters in charge of the White House, federal agencies, and Congress. Fred Barnes, Fox News analyst and Weekly Standard executive editor, discusses the implications of the 2012 elections for Washington politics and state-level politics in 2013. Then we turn to health care. UNC Health Care's chief executive officer, William Roper, is a Republican appointed to top-level national health care posts by Ronald Reagan and both presidents named George Bush. But Roper's recent presentation to state lawmakers on the future of American health care challenged what he labeled as "myths" supported by both Republicans and Democrats. You'll hear highlights from that presentation. That's followed by a debate likely to continue into in the new session of the General Assembly - the proper funding level for N.C. Pre-K, the program that replaced More At Four as North Carolina's academic program for at-risk 4-year-olds. You'll hear highlights from a recent legislative debate over the best way to fund that program. And finally, Troy Kickler of the North Carolina History Project discusses key points every American should know about a key foundational document, the Federalist Papers. Kickler explains why the documents were written, by whom, and the impact the Federalist Papers had on the founding of the country.

CJ Radio #502: Year In Focus: The Standout Interviews Of 2012

Sun, 30 Dec 2012 09:00:00 -0500

As we prepare for a new year, Carolina Journal Radio revisits some of the standout interviews of 2012. First, John Locke Foundation President John Hood discusses themes from his latest book, Our Best Foot Forward: An Investment Plan for North Carolina's Economic Recovery. Highlights include tax reform, and investment in physical capital and human capital. Next, John Stossel once was a liberal television consumer affairs reporter, but he eventually evolved into one of America's leading libertarian voices. The columnist, author, and host of Fox Business Network's "Stossel" shared key tenets of his libertarian philosophy during a 2012 visit to Chapel Hill. Next are comments from a U.S. senator many consider a future presidential candidate. Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida has made his mark as a rising star in the conservative movement. He shared his thoughts about the American Dream, the 2012 election, ObamaCare, and the Tea Party during a trip to Raleigh. That's followed by a fascinating look at the benefits of capitalism. Whether you like capitalism or consider it evil, you have to admit that large-scale industrial processes tied to capitalism have made our world dirtier. That's true unless you have discussed the topic with George Mason University economist Donald Boudreaux, who explains how our world has been "cleaned by capitalism." Next, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato explains why flexible policies related to growth and transportation are better than so-called "smart growth" policies, which actually restrict choices for citizens and property owners. Cordato explains why flex-growth policies respect individuals and "smart growth" policies transfer authority to government.

CJ Radio #501: Lame Duck Perdue Angers GOP With Rushed Actions

Mon, 24 Dec 2012 09:00:00 -0500

In the waning days of her administration, Gov. Beverly Perdue has angered Republicans with her actions related to a rushed plan to lease the Dorthea Dix hospital property to the City of Raleigh and her end-run around her own executive order to appoint a replacement for retiring North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Patricia Timmons-Goodson. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach, Becki Gray, explains the deals and the basis for negative reaction from legislative leaders, particularly state Sen. Leader Phil Berger of Rockingham County. Then we turn to plans to address a serious debt problem in North Carolina. State lawmakers are considering a mix of tax increases and benefit cuts to help North Carolina pay off its $2.4 billion debt to the federal government for unemployment benefits. You'll hear recent public reaction to their plan from state business leaders and unemployed workers. Next is a closer look at the lame duck governor. During her final weeks in office, Gov. Beverly Perdue pushed through the N.C. Council of State a plan to lease the Dorothea Dix property to Raleigh for a new city park. You'll hear Perdue and Attorney General Roy Cooper tout the plan, while Auditor Beth Wood explains her decision to abstain from voting on the deal, and Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry discusses her "no" vote. That's followed by a discussion of what ails us as a society. Charles Murray of the American Enterprise Institute describes in his latest book, Coming Apart: The State of White America 1960-2010, the forces that have separated the nation's new upper class from the rest of society over the past five decades. Murray explains the problems associated with an America that seems to be coming apart at the seams. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson provides details of former First Lady Mary Easley's legal settlement with NC State University over her 2009 dismissal from a high-paying job coordinating a lecture series. Easley is walking away with a hefty pension increase.

CJ Radio #500: Conservative Showcase: CJ Radio Hits 500-Show Mark

Sun, 16 Dec 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Carolina Journal Radio has been documenting, dissecting, and analyzing politics and public policy for nearly 10 years. In this 500th edition of Carolina Journal Radio, you'll hear highlights from some of the well-known guests who've shared their thoughts and insights on the program. They include Steve Forbes, P.J. O'Rourke, Bill Kristol, Walter Williams, Peggy Noonan, and John Stossel. Next is a look at North Carolina's public school testing quagmire. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, updates the constantly changing testing policy from the state Board of Education. Stoops gives us the latest twist announced at the most recent board meeting and discusses the negative impact of the changes on parents and taxpayers. That's followed by comments about the so-called fiscal cliff. As the federal government approaches the cliff, some politicians and public figures in North Carolina are rallying behind a campaign called Fix the Debt. It's designed to address the mismatch between government spending and revenue, primarily through higher taxes. You'll hear from two former governors who support the campaign — Democrat Jim Hunt and Republican Jim Holshouser — along with former Glaxo CEO Bob Ingram. While taxes and tax rates steal the headlines, many small businesses are just as concerned about the potential for more burdensome regulations in the months ahead. Gregg Thompson, North Carolina state director for the National Federation of Independent Business, discusses NFIB's concerns about the impact of the federal government's regulatory excess. And finally, John Locke Foundation President John Hood explains what the "fiscal cliff" means and the problem plaguing Congress and the President as the deadline for action on entitlements and tax policy looms.

CJ Radio #499: Politics Behind Call For Newby To Avoid Maps Case

Sun, 09 Dec 2012 09:00:00 -0500

A coalition of Democrats and groups on the Left have filed a legal motioin to try to get newly re-elected North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Paul Newby to recuse himself from a decision on the state's newly drawn election maps. They his impartiality is in question. John Locke Foundation President John Hood discusses the political motivation of the motion and the larger point of whether judicial elections should continue to be officially nonpartisan. Then we turn to energy policy. North Carolina policymakers have spent much time in recent years debating the merits of hydraulic fracturing — fracking — for shale gas. Vikram Rao, executive director of the N.C. Energy Consortium, spells out "the promise and the peril" of shale gas in a recent book. He offers some key highlights from his research. Next is a look at the sputtering economy. Ever since the latest economic downturn, North Carolina has suffered from one of the nation's highest unemployment rates. N.C. State University economist Michael Walden has identified some key reasons why the Great Recession hit the Tar Heel State particularly hard. That's followed by a look at the possible future of a key state asset: The North Carolina Railroad. The General Assembly's Research Evaluation Division has rejected the notion that North Carolina should sell its state-owned North Carolina Railroad. But legislative researchers believe taxpayers could reap more benefits from railroad ownership. You'll hear highlights from researcher Jim Horne's recent report on the topic, along with reaction from legislators and railroad president Scott Saylor. And finally, all Durham resident Steve Pruner wanted to do was support his family by selling hot dogs from a pushcart. But he unexpectedly found himself in a court battle over oppressive state regulations and judged guilty of violating the law. Jeanette Doran of the North Carolina Institute for Constitutional Law, which represented Pruner on appeal, explains the ruling against her client by the North Carolina Court of Appeals.

CJ Radio #498: N.C. Education Reformers Hope 2013 Is Their Year

Sun, 02 Dec 2012 09:00:00 -0500

With the election over and Republicans firmly in control of the governor's seat and both chambers of the legislature, education reformers are hoping that 2013 will be the year of reforms that have long been stifled by an unfriendly state power structure. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, explores the possibility of education tax credits, loosening of regulations on public charter schools, and more. Then we turn to health care issues. He no longer leads the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, but former Health Secretary Lanier Cansler is still making his case to state lawmakers. Instead of pleading for money or a change in state law, Cansler is asking the General Assembly to think about developing a "health care vision" for North Carolina. You'll hear highlights from his recent presentation on the topic, along with reaction from lawmakers. Next is a look at the contentious debate over electricity rates. The N.C. Supreme Court could decide soon whether Duke Energy customers will face a 7.2 percent rate increase. The state attorney general is challenging the rate hike. You'll hear competing state Supreme Court arguments from Senior Deputy Attorney General Kevin Anderson and Duke Energy attorney Kiran Mehta. That's followed by perspective on the presidential election. Jobs and the economy dominated the discussion during the recent campaign. But religion can play a role in campaigns for the White House as well. Ray Nothstine, associate editor at the Acton Institute and managing editor of Religion and Liberty, discusses the link between religion and presidential politics. And finally, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach, Becki Gray, refutes two often-told myths about the last session of the state legislature. Gray eviscerates the North Carolina Left's notion that the GOP-led General Assembly gave a huge tax break to millionaires and the idea that legislators waged a war on women over state funding for Planned Parenthood.

CJ Radio #497: DPI Data: Budget Didn't Cut Thousands Of Teachers

Sun, 25 Nov 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Disagreements earlier this year over how much money to spend on public education led critics of the Republican-led General Assembly to claim thousands of teachers would lose their jobs due to budget reduction. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, discusses new data from the state Department of Public Instruction that firmly refutes those outrageous claims made by the Left. Then we turn to news from state Revenue Secretary David Hoyle, who says North Carolina already has seen some benefits from his department's new Tax Information Management System. But Hoyle recently warned lawmakers that they should expect some glitches next summer when the Revenue Department finishes converting from its old computer system to TIMS. You'll hear highlights from Hoyle's briefing on the new system and the way it will help state tax collectors do their jobs. Next is a look at the impact of state regulation on the health care industry. Critics of North Carolina's certificate-of-need law for state medical facilities and equipment can look at the Harnett County town of Erwin for a good case study. Harnett County commissioner Jim Burgin recently explained to state lawmakers how the CON law has blocked efforts to replace Erwin's Good Hope Hospital. Anyone who has followed the federal health care debate closely knows about the "individual mandate," the requirement that every person purchase health insurance or pay a penalty. University of Louisville economist Stephan Gohmann recently reminded a Campbell University audience that governments also pursue other types of health care mandates. Gohmann outlines the problems associated with those mandates. And finally, we take a look at North Carolina history. When historians focus on African-American history, it is usually in reference to the hideous discrimination and legal restrictions that were imposed on blacks during and after slavery. Troy Kickler, director of the North Carolina History Project, explains that there are also many inspiring stories of success by free blacks who were able to achieve despite the many obstacles of their time. Kickler details the odyssey of several of these tenacious men.

CJ Radio #496: A Look At Gov.-elect Pat McCrory With John Hood

Sun, 18 Nov 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Come January, North Carolina will have a new governor. Pat McCrory, the seven-term former mayor of Charlotte, becomes only the third Republican to win North Carolina's number one job since 1900. John Locke Foundation President John Hood talks about the McCrory he's been acquainted with for many years, the historic nature of McCrory's win when coupled with a Republican-led General Assembly, and thoughts on why tax reform should be at the top of the Gov.-elect's list of priorities. Then we turn to comments about the onslaught of criticism aimed at capitalism from conservative author, blogger, and New York Times columnist Ross Douthat. He recently visited North Carolina to share ideas for countering that criticism. He offered more details during a one-on-one interview with Carolina Journal Radio. Next is a look at education in our state. North Carolina's education establishment has been celebrating recent data that show an 80 percent graduation rate from the state's public schools. But Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation director of research and education studies, explained during a recent public presentation that much of the credit for recent growth in the graduation rate should be assigned to factors outside of the schools' control. That's followed by perspective from conservative columnist Star Parker, a survivor of welfare dependency. During a recent visit to Chapel Hill, the founder of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education offered ideas to help others avoid dependency on the federal government. You'll hear highlights from her presentation. And finally, the election is over but John Locke Foundation Jon Ham has a pointed review of the actions of the mainstream media. He discusses the industry's lack of objectivity and clear favoritism of President Obama, as well as the way in which new forms of media have begun to "out" the industry on its lack of reporting and spinning of information.

CJ Radio #495: Board of Education's Vision: Pro-System, Anti-Choice

Sun, 11 Nov 2012 09:00:00 -0500

The board that makes education policy for North Carolina's public school children recently adopted a new vision statement, and the contents have attracted the attention of Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation director of research and education studies. He explains why the statement is decidedly anti-choice, anti-parental control, and pro-system. Then we turn to an issue near and dear to the hearts of teenagers and their parents. Some state lawmakers are raising questions about the effectiveness of North Carolina's public school-based driver's education program. You'll hear highlights from a recent legislative debate about driver's ed and its ability to help students learn the rules of the road. Then we turn to health and human services issues. As North Carolina state government moves forward with a $138 million project to replace the existing Cherry mental hospital in Goldsboro, the Department of Health and Human Services knows it faces significant challenges in finding qualified workers to staff the new site. DHHS officials shared details about job recruitment for the new Cherry hospital during a recent legislative briefing. That's followed by a look at the U.S. Supreme Court's 2010 ruling in the case Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. It has generated plenty of controversy and questions about government's proper role in regulating campaign spending. John Samples, director of the Center for Representative Government at the Cato Institute, addresses the question of whether Citizens United will survive in the years ahead. And finally, we look at the founding of the country. Troy Kickler, director of the North Carolina History Project, discusses James Madison and "5 things you should know" about the man who was key to our nation's founding. Kickler also talks about the new series that focuses on "5 things you should know" about a variety of historical issues and people.

CJ Radio #494: Are You In The Crosshairs Of The Nutrition Board?

Sun, 04 Nov 2012 09:00:00 -0500

If you are giving advice to family or friends with a medical condition on what food is good for them to eat and what food is not, you could find yourself in trouble with the North Carolina Board of Nutrition/Dietetics. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson updates us on the legal case of diet blogger Steve Cooksey, who finds himself in the regulatory crosshairs of the board and who hopes his case will make its way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Henderson also explains what is occurring for a holistic health practitioner who is also facing scrutiny by the state board. Then we turn to fiscal matters. Lawmakers will craft the next state budget in the spring, but they're already thinking about how the next budget plan will address public education. During a recent legislative meeting, state Superintendent of Public Instruction June Atkinson discussed how the State Board of Education is addressing proposals to institute performance pay for public school teachers. You'll hear her comments, along with reaction from lawmakers. Fiscal matters are, of course, a key component of the state's economic woes. John Locke Foundation President John Hood has set out an economic recovery plan for North Carolina in his latest book, Our Best Foot Forward. During a recent public presentation on the book, Hood discussed roadblocks standing in the way of economic reform. Those roadblocks include a perception among many of North Carolina's entrenched leaders that nothing is wrong with their way they do business. State leaders have spent decades pointing to Research Triangle Park as an example of an economic success story for North Carolina. Now RTP is likely to undergo some substantial changes. Bob Geolas, president and CEO of the Research Triangle Foundation, details some of the ideas in the latest plan for RTP's future. And finally, in North Carolina, well over one billion per year in state and federal dollars goes to private pre-schools, child care facilities, and institutions of higher education. Yet despite these private schooling choices funded with public money, there are relatively few options for kids in the middle – those attending K-12 public schools. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, discusses the disconnect in policy and the consistent opposition by the education establishment to embracing this option for K-12.

CJ Radio #493: John Hood Reflects On William Friday's Legacy

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 09:00:00 -0400

When well known North Carolinian William Friday passed away earlier this month, the state lost a man who had a tremendous impact on the state in a variety of ways. John Locke Foundation President John Hood, who knew Friday, reflects on Friday's legacy and his qualities as a person and a supporter of liberal policies and causes. Speaking of those with left-of-center views, John Stossel once was a liberal television consumer affairs reporter, but he eventually evolved into one of America's leading libertarian voices. The columnist, author, and host of Fox Business Network's "Stossel" recently shared key tenets of his libertarian philosophy during a visit to Chapel Hill. Next is a look at concerns expressed by some lawmakers over a plan by the N.C. Department of Administration to consolidate more than 2,400 state health and human services workers at a new location. The idea is drawing fire from lawmakers who say DOA is rushing the process in order to help outgoing Gov. Beverly Perdue pursue other goals for the Dorothea Dix campus just west of downtown Raleigh. Vocal activists have been pushing to transform that campus into a new public park. Then we turn to one of our country's founders. You might know him as the Father of the Constitution, but James Madison also served as a top adviser to George Washington, one of the first leaders of Congress, a secretary of state, and a wartime president. Barton College historian Jeff Broadwater examines Madison's legacy in a recent biography. And finally, this election season has seen plenty of talk about the economy, but very little talk about the role of the Federal Reserve in the economy. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato explains what the Fed does and its impact, as well as why he believes Fed policy will lead to yet another economic bubble that will burst.

CJ Radio #492: Cities/Counties Push Ballot Items Via 'Education'

Sun, 21 Oct 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Several local governments in North Carolina are drawing attention - and criticism - for getting actively involved in providing information to voters about tax and bond questions that appear on the ballot. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson analyzes several examples that raise the issue of whether the "information" is really electioneering, which is against the law. Turning to state politics, not too long after North Carolina Democratic Gov. Beverly Perdue generated headlines by making disparaging remarks about Mississippi, her Mississippi counterpart -- Phil Bryant -- stumped for Republican candidates in Wilmington and Perdue's hometown of New Bern. Bryant is a fan of performance pay for public school teachers. You'll hear highlights from his pay-for-performance plan, along with reaction from Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies. Next are highlights from a recent spirited debate about the proper role of government in managing health care in the United States. Fox Business Channel host and libertarian author John Stossel debated former Vermont governor and Democratic presidential candidate Howard Dean on that topic recently at UNC-Chapel Hill. You'll hear their contrasting answers. That's followed by an interesting look at North Carolina history. If you've spent any time learning about pirates, you've likely heard of Blackbeard. But Kevin Duffus, author of The Last Days of Black Beard the Pirate, says much of what you think you know about that famous scoundrel is wrong. He offers a historical corrective. And finally, Carolina Journal Publisher Jon Ham explores the emergence in this election cycle of so-called "fact checkers." Ham says most are actually partisans masquerading as verifiers of fact who simply spin an opponent's views as incorrect. He gives examples of several bloggers, however, who engage in actual fact checking of both political parties.

CJ Radio #491: Three Weeks And Counting: The Race For Governor

Sun, 14 Oct 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Three weeks and counting until North Carolina chooses a new governor, and North Carolinians have now seen both major candidates go head to head in a statewide televised debate. Did they connect? Did they further their campaigns? John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the debate performances of Republican Pat McCrory and Democrat Walter Dalton, discusses the challenges each faces in the remaining days before the election, and assesses the role being played by Libertarian Barbara Howe, the third candidate in the race. Then we turn to national politics. One of the pundits and prognosticators following election developments most closely is Byron York, chief political correspondent for the Washington Examiner. York recently shared his thoughts about the presidential race during a visit to North Carolina for a John Locke Foundation election preview panel discussion. One of the most important races on this year's election ballot will determine whether Republicans or Democrats hold the majority on North Carolina's Supreme Court in 2013. During a recent Federalist Society forum, incumbent Justice Paul Newby, a Republican, and challenger Judge Sam Ervin IV, a Democrat, shared their views about the importance of judicial precedent. That's followed by more comments from the Locke Foundation's recent election panel. In addition to Byron York, JLF assembled a group of election preview panelists with years of expertise monitoring North Carolina elections. You'll hear election projections from Republican campaign consultant Marc Rotterman, Democratic consultant Brad Crone, and Hood. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains why a small change in North Carolina health regulations is making a huge impact on the food truck industry. Henderson discusses why the change to the so-called commissary rule may usher in new food trucks and new entrepreneurs.

CJ Radio #490: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly Of Romney's 47% Remark

Sun, 07 Oct 2012 09:00:00 -0400

The moment Mitt Romney's comment about 47 percent of the country being dependent on government became public, critics from across the ideological spectrum reacted. Some said his comments were a blunder. Others said he was simply repeating a common talking point made in conservative circles. John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the Romney statement and points out what was correct, what was incorrect, and what was plain silly. Then we turn to the continuing debate over "green energy." Duke Energy CEO Jim Rogers explained during the recent Democratic National Convention in Charlotte that he's pursuing so-called green energy policies in order to help pass what he labels the "grandchildren's test," the notion that his grandchildren will look back one day and decide that he did the right thing. You'll hear Rogers' comments, along with a stinging critique from Roy Cordato, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research and Resident Scholar. Next is a look at journalism from a veteran journalist who now functions as managing editor of Carolina Journal. Rick Henderson discusses why Carolina Journal and CarolinaJournal.com often cover stories that mainstream media outlets downplay or ignore. That's followed by a look at state finances. North Carolina state government spends $3 billion on contracted services, and some state lawmakers want to ensure contracts of $1 million or more face special scrutiny. You'll hear highlights from a recent debate on the topic. And finally, now that UNC Chancellor Holden Thorp has announced he will leave the post at the end of the academic year, analysts are assessing his legacy. Jane Shaw, president of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, weighs in on how Thorp will be viewed, as well as the qualities the Board of Governors should look for in a successor.

CJ Radio #489: Poll Reveals N.C. Voter Support For School Choice

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Results from a new survey of North Carolinians by the Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice reveals residents of the Tar Heel state are highly supportive of giving parents more choice and more power over where their children go to school. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies, Terry Stoops, analyzes the poll results and explains options such as charter schools, tax credits, education scholarships, and voucher. Then we turn to the program taking up a growing chunk of the state budget in recent years: Medicaid. Some state lawmakers want to get a handle on the factors driving Medicaid spending growth. You'll hear highlights from a recent legislative debate about a planned Medicaid audit and a competing study from the state Department of Health and Human Services. Next is a look at the intersection of technology and politics. Political pundits have spoken in recent years about the growing importance of social media in the electoral process. UNC-Chapel Hill assistant journalism professor Daniel Kreiss explained during a recent public forum how this new technology has been used to promote traditional methods of boosting voter turnout. That's followed by a look at the Millennial generation and interest in policy issues and politics. Young adults have been one of the groups hit hardest by the recent economic downturn. Paul Conway, president of the group Generation Opportunity, says economic woes have had a major impact on young people's attitudes about politics and the 2012 election. And finally, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research, Roy Cordato, explains why flexible policies related to growth and transportation are better policy than so-called "smart growth" policies, which actually restrict choices for citizens and property owners. Cordato explains why flex-growth policies respect individuals and "smart growth" policies transfer authority to government.

CJ Radio #488: Bias Stains Mainstream Media Convention Coverage

Sun, 23 Sep 2012 09:00:00 -0400

The political conventions are over and Charlotte and Tampa have returned to normal, but the ramifications of the media coverage continue. Carolina Journal Publisher Jon Ham analyzes the narratives that emerged from the conventions and discusses media bias that raised its head once again. Then we turn to analysis of North Carolina's status as a battleground state from two well known commentators. Charlie Cook of the Cook Political Report and David Gergen of the Center for Public Leadership at Harvard's Kennedy School shared their thoughts recently during an election panel discussion in Charlotte. You'll hear highlights.Next is look at the continuing struggle by the state to provide health care services. Recently, the state and federal governments signed a deal to end a lawsuit over treatment of mentally ill people in adult care homes and hospitals. The deal could cost North Carolina taxpayers $287 million over eight years, but Emery Milliken, an attorney with the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, recently explained to lawmakers why the arrangement makes sense. That's followed by a look at the best policies for job creation as politicians spend much of their time this campaign season explaining their plans for boosting the number of new jobs in North Carolina and across the country. A group dubbed the Job Creators Alliance is trying to spread the word about the best ways to reach that goal. Alliance member Billie Redmond explains the group's purpose and the role it hopes to play in the political debate. And finally, school choice advocates are applauding the approval by the state Board of Education of 25 new public charter schools. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, brings us up to date on the number of charters, the types of students benefitting from the schools, the work still to be done on regulatory matters, and the next front in the school choice movement.

CJ Radio #487: Beaufort Wind Energy Project Comes Under Fire

Sun, 16 Sep 2012 09:00:00 -0400

A North Carolina wind energy project that was given conditional approval by the North Carolina Utilities Commission is facing concern from three distinct areas. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato explains why the Beaufort County Pantego project, and its 49 giant wind turbines, could sink or swim based on presidential politics, military aviation concerns, and environmentalist outcry. Next is a look at presidential politics as both major parties compete for North Carolina's 15 electoral votes. The vice presidential candidates from both parties have been stumping in the Tar Heel State. You'll hear key themes from recent North Carolina speeches from Vice President Joe Biden and Republican challenger Paul Ryan. Then we turn to mental health funding. A state budget mixup recently led to an unplanned $4.3 million cut in state mental health funding. Acting N.C. Health and Human Services Secretary Al Delia recently discussed the cut with lawmakers. Some of them, including Sen. Tommy Tucker, R-Union, had pointed questions about the impact of the cut on services. That's followed by a look at Libertarian Party politics. While Republicans and Democrats are attracting the headlines, the Libertarian Party is also making a push for support in the 2012 elections. Libertarian vice presidential candidate Jim Gray, a retired California Superior Court judge, explains why his party offers a better alternative than the two traditional choices. And finally, we look closely at what's called the "Amazon tax." John Locke Foundation Director of Fiscal Policy Studies, Fergus Hodgson, explains that North Carolina is one just nine states that impose the tax, which forces out-of-state retailers to collect tax on online sales if the retailer has an online affiliate located in North Carolina. Hodgson also explains why the tax should be scrapped.

CJ Radio #486: Help Wanted: School Districts Still Need Educators

Sun, 09 Sep 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Critics of North Carolina's new General Fund budget claim the education portion devastated school districts and put thousands of teachers in the unemployment. But as the new school year begins, numerous North Carolina districts have unfilled teacher and educator positions. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Education Studies, Terry Stoops, discusses the gap between fact and criticism, tells us where the openings are, explains what is actually in the new state budget for K-12 operating funds, and reflects on why North Carolina's teacher education schools need reform in order to produce skilled teachers. Next is a look at the U.S. Supreme Court. The health care ruling attracted the most attention, but Supreme Court justices made other significant decisions during their 2012 term. Constitutional attorney Miguel Estrada recently recapped that term's highlights during a presentation for the John Locke Foundation and the Federalist Society. Then we turn to a look at the debate over our country's founding. American history students are bound to learn about the Federalist Papers and the Federalists, those who pushed for ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1787-88. N.C. History Project director Troy Kickler says it's also important to study the Anti-Federalists, who criticized the draft Constitution for a variety of reasons. Kickler discussed the Anti-Federalists' key role in American history during a recent public presentation. That's followed by analysis of a nagging society problem and policies that do and don't work to reduce the number of people using illegal drugs. If you want to reduce illegal drug use, it seems to make sense to ban syringes. But Robert Childs, executive director of the N.C. Harm Prevention Coalition, says laws against syringe use can create more problems than they solve. Childs' group is spearheading efforts to decriminalize syringes in the state. And finally, we turn to higher education for a look at recent criticism of for-profit colleges. George Leef, director of research for the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, summarizes a recent congressional study of the for-profit sector and points out its valid concerns related to institutions seeking to maximum access to federal education aid. Leef also discusses, however, that the very same concerns exist for traditional nonprofit colleges and universities, which fail to receive similar criticism. He offers recommendations that would lead to greater scrutiny by students and parents on their choice of college and payment options.

CJ Radio #485: In Focus: North Carolina's Supreme Court Race

Sun, 02 Sep 2012 09:00:00 -0400

When you think of the general election, you probably think of the races for president and governor. But John Locke Foundation President John Hood says you should be getting educated about North Carolina's race for a seat on the Supreme Court. He profiles the race and why it is considered a key ballot item. Then we turn to a fascinating development in environmental news. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency contends that exposure to any amount of an air pollutant known as airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can cause severe health problems — even death. So why did EPA set up experiments in North Carolina exposing people to elevated levels of the pollutant? Steve Milloy, founder and publisher of JunkScience.com, wants to know. He's filed a complaint with the N.C. Medical Board. Next is a look at the state's system of unemployment benefits, which has generated headlines because it has generated more than $2.6 billion in debt to the federal government. But that's not the system's only problem. State Auditor Beth Wood recently briefed state lawmakers about the challenges linked to a "pay and chase" system in which the state makes payments, then tries to recoup money that has been overpaid. You'll hear her comments, along with a response from legislators. That's followed by a look at southern history. George Washington set many precedents as the first chief executive under the U.S. Constitution. Among them was the practice of touring states and meeting with constituents across the country. Warren Bingham has documented Washington's Southern tour of 1791 for a forthcoming book. He shares key insights from his research. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson updates two recent CJ stories that get to the heart of the role of government and what happens when government overreaches its appropriate boundaries. Henderson talks about a Utah court case about African hairbraiding and its relationship to North Carolina's licensing requirements, and he gives us the latest on "caveman diet" blogger Steve Cooksey's legal fight with North Carolina regulators over his online diet advice.

CJ Radio #484: Reform or Go Bust: Entitlements Fuel Deficit, Debt

Sun, 26 Aug 2012 09:00:00 -0400

This country's social safety net includes three huge programs – Medicare, Social Security, and Medicaid. Some policymakers have been talking about the need for reform for years, particularly as the Baby Boom generation begins to retire. John Hood, president of the John Locke Foundation, details why the need for reform is so pressing, why there's been so little progress, and what must occur if the programs are to remain solvent. Then we turn to a commemoration of the late economist Milton Friedman, who would have turned 100 this summer. To honor his memory, the John Locke Foundation helped host a lecture focusing on one of Friedman's key goals: school choice. JLF's Terry Stoops and Roy Cordato, along with Bob Luebke of the Civitas Institute, examine some of the key elements of Friedman's thinking on school choice issues. Next is look at the looming budgetary process known as "sequestration." Without any action from Congress, the federal budget is slated for more than $500 billion in defense cuts. Some Republican senators are fighting that option. Sens. John McCain of Arizona, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, and Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire recently shared their defense spending concerns with a Fayetteville audience. That's followed by a fascinating look at free markets. Any student of economics has heard of the "invisible hand" of the free market, a force that seems to lead to positive social outcomes. But Duke professor John Staddon worries about a force he labels the "malign hand" of the markets. Staddon discusses fears about the "malign hand" that led to his latest book. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses CJ's plans for covering the Democratic and Republican conventions. Henderson explains that coverage will use a variety of platforms to report on activities inside and outside the convention arenas.

CJ Radio #483: Mixed Results In New ABC Public School Test Scores

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 10:31:38 -0400

The latest school testing results are out and the four-year high school graduation rate is up to 80.2 percent. But, there was also a decrease in the percentage of students that met or exceeded growth expectation. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops drills down into the results and explains why this is the last year the ABC system will be used and what will replace it. Then we turn to one scholar's idea to root out cronyism. 4If you're a fan of smaller government, a simplified tax code, and efficient markets, Harvard law professor Lawrence Lessig hopes you'll support his plan for reforming the way members of Congress are elected. Lessig is not a conservative or libertarian, but he believes these goals would be served better by changing a system that he says is infected now by "raging cronyism." Next is a debate over the proper role of government. Many conservatives look to an increased reliance on federalism as a key for restoring the proper role. Christopher Wolfe of the Thomas International Center disagrees. He recently explained why during a presentation for college students in Raleigh. That's followed by a look at presidential politics and North Carolina's important role in the fall election. Two former governors recently stumped in North Carolina to rally conservatives for the 2012 election. Former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson is seeking the White House as a Libertarian candidate, while former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty is rallying Republicans to support Mitt Romney. You'll hear highlights from Johnson and Pawlenty's presentations. And finally, we analyze several of the votes by the General Assembly to override vetoes issued by Gov. Beverly Perdue. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray talks about the overrides of two budget vetoes and a regulatory reform veto.

CJ Radio #482: Crony Capitalism Alive and Well In North Carolina

Sun, 12 Aug 2012 09:00:00 -0400

It is called crony capitalism - an umbrella term covering government activities by which an industry or firm is given favors or special treatment it couldn't get in the marketplace, where competition is the name of the game. John Locke Foundation Director of Regulatory Studies Jon Sanders gives examples of cronyism in North Carolina and offers recommendations for reforming the system. Then we turn to a dust-up between the state auditor's office and the Alcohol Law Enforcement division. When Beth Wood's staff followed a hotline tip suggesting that two top leaders in North Carolina's Alcohol Law Enforcement division were misusing their state-owned vehicles to commute from Raleigh to Asheville, no one expected that ALE would erect a series of roadblocks to block Wood's investigation. Wood detailed her conflict with ALE leaders during a recent presentation to state lawmakers. You'll hear highlights. Next is a look at North Carolina reaction to President Obama's recent "you didn't build that" comment. You'll hear how that comment sparked a reaction from the owner of a Raleigh-based hot dog restaurant and other North Carolina entrepreneurs. Then we turn to economics and free trade. Free trade is a key component of the economic freedom that promotes economic growth. But North Carolina's congressional delegation has a poor record for supporting free-trade agreements in recent years. Bryan Riley, trade policy analyst for the Heritage Foundation, documents that record in a recent report. And finally, we analyze North Carolina's $2.6 billion debt to the federal government for money borrowed to pay unemployment benefits. North Carolina's debt ranks 4th among the 22 states that borrowed. John Locke Foundation Director of Fiscal Policy Studies Fergus Hodgson explains how the debt was incurred and offers proposals to get the fiscal situation under control, including reining in benefits and reducing the eligibility time.

CJ Radio #481: Outsourcing: Fact Versus Political Talking Point

Sun, 05 Aug 2012 09:00:00 -0400

We hear the word "outsourcing" tossed around a lot these days, but what does it really mean? Roy Cordato, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research, explains what it is, why businesses engage in it, and how it benefits consumers. Then we turn to the ongoing debate over the Republican-drawn election maps. North Carolina's new election maps recently took their first trip to the state Supreme Court. Justices are not planning to rule on whether the maps are constitutional. Instead they'll decide whether lawyers who worked with the Republican-led General Assembly will be forced to share more information with the maps' critics. You'll hear highlights from both sides of the case. Next we turn to work that continues at the General Assembly, even though state legislators left Raleigh about a month ago. John Turcotte, head of the General Assembly's Program Evaluation Division, recently spelled out his evaluators' upcoming work plan, including reports involving the N.C. Railroad, public workers' compensation, and oversight of some state-funded health care services. That's followed by a debate over economic and political history. As candidates for public office debate the best way to boost American recovery from the Great Recession, experts are still debating the causes of the Great Depression that rocked the United States more than 80 years ago. Economists Douglas Irwin of Dartmouth and Lawrence H. White of George Mason recently debated the topic at Duke University. You'll hear key points from their presentations. And finally, with the economy teetering on another recession and the state's unemployment rate a staggering 9.4 percent, even those with college degrees are having a difficult time finding a job. Conventional wisdom has long said that a degree is the ticket to prosperity, but does that argument hold water? George Leef, research director for the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, discusses how and why the four-year degree has become a screening tool for employers rather than a ticket to a career, as well as other alternatives for securing a marketable skill in the changing economy.

CJ Radio #480: Criticism Of ALEC Shows Progressive Double Standard

Sun, 29 Jul 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Left-leaning groups have waged a fierce campaign to discredit a group called the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), a free market supporting organization with a membership of state lawmakers across the country. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson analyzes the criticism and points out that progressives fail to apply the same standard to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), which does work similar to ALEC but from a progressive viewpoint. Then we turn to North Carolina's rules on car inspections. Does it make sense for North Carolina to force drivers of the newest cars to pay for annual air-quality emissions inspections? A majority of state lawmakers said no this year, approving a measure to exempt cars from the latest three model years from the annual inspections. The exemption also applied to cars with less than 70,000 miles. The idea generated plenty of debate. You'll hear highlights from the N.C. House's discussion of the issue. Next are comments from a U.S. senator many consider a possible vice presidential candidate for Republican Mitt Romney. Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida has made his mark as a rising star in the conservative movement. He shared his thoughts about the American Dream, the 2012 election, ObamaCare, and the Tea Party during a recent trip to Raleigh. That's followed by a look at World War II history. The Nazis stole 22 million works of art during World War II, but a small group of Americans known as "monuments men" helped recover many of those works once Allies started to roll back the Nazi tide. Author Thomas Thibeault tells the story of the monuments men through the historical novel Balto's Nose. Thibeault shares key themes from his book. And finally, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato discusses key themes found in JLF's Agenda 2012, a document that offers policy prescriptions for a slate of key issues and areas of state and local government. Cordato explains why the perspective is grounded in support of free markets and limited government, which lead to economic growth.

CJ Radio #479: DOT Letter Scandal Reveals Ethics Concerns

Sun, 22 Jul 2012 09:00:00 -0400

During this year's budget debate, officials for the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the governor's office found themselves answering questions before a state Senate committee over what some said might be a deliberate misrepresentation by the governor's office about several toll road projects. Rick Henderson, managing editor of Carolina Journal, explains the facts of the controversy that ended in a referral to the state Ethics Commission. Then we turn to transportation issues. North Carolina state government might need to work more closely with the private sector in the future to move forward with improvements to Interstate 77 and other well-traveled public highways. Lawmakers recently debate the merits of public-private transportation projects. You'll hear highlights from their discussion. Next is the controversy in the legislature over studies and proposed regulation about sea level rise off the North Carolina coast. Before state lawmakers left Raleigh for the year, they finalized a bill blocking regulators from taking any steps to address rising sea levels before 2016. Reps. Pat McElraft, R-Carteret, and Deborah Ross, D-Wake, offered opposing views on the topic. You'll hear their key arguments. That's followed by a fascinating look at the benefits of capitalism. Whether you like capitalism or consider it evil, you have to admit that large-scale industrial processes tied to capitalism have made our world dirtier. That's true unless you have discussed the topic with George Mason University economist Donald Boudreaux, who explains how our world has been "cleaned by capitalism." And finally, we often hear the claim that giving parents more choice in where the child attends school will hurt the traditional public school system. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops studied that claim based on data about school choice around the world and right here in North Carolina. He details his results about the market share for private, charter, and home schools.

CJ Radio #478: Obamacare Ruling: What It Means To North Carolina

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Now that the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the Affordable Care Act – Obamacare – analysts are wondering what the ruling means for freedom, government power, and states such as North Carolina. John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the ruling, its implications for freedom and the power of government, and discusses potential next steps for North Carolina lawmakers. Then we turn to the short legislative session, which adjourned ahead of the July 4th holiday. For the second year in a row, Gov. Beverly Perdue vetoed the General Assembly's General Fund budget bill. For the second straight year, state lawmakers voted to override the veto. You'll hear highlights from the veto override debate in the state House, where majority Republicans needed help from a handful of Democrats to set Perdue's veto aside. State legislators also overrode Perdue's veto of a bill to revise North Carolina's Racial Justice Act, a law designed to help death row inmates use statistical arguments to help commute their sentences to life in prison. You'll hear defenders of the original act, along with those who supported the changes that became law despite the governor's objections. Then we turn to regulatory reform. A year after passing sweeping reforms for state government, the Republican-led General Assembly endorsed another reform bill this year. You'll learn why. And finally, we delve into more actions of the General Assembly with Becki Gray, vice president for outreach for the John Locke Foundation. She analyzes the issues that were addressed and the momentum for more fiscally austere budget plans that respect taxpayers.

CJ Radio #477: July 17 Election Dominated By Republican Runoffs

Sun, 08 Jul 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Summertime in North Carolina is usually associated with vacations, but this year, summertime features a statewide election. John Locke Foundation President John Hood discusses the July 17 statewide election runoff, which features several council of state runoffs for Republicans, as well as three congressional runoffs for the GOP, and one Democratic runoff for Labor Commissioner. Then we turn to the recent legislative debate over North Carolina's projected sea-level rise by climate change alarmists. You'll hear why lawmakers such as Sens. David Rouzer, R-Johnston, and Harry Brown, R-Onslow, wanted to rein in regulators' ability to use sea-level projections to limit coastal development. You'll also hear a response from Duke University climate scientist Rob Jackson. Next is a look at juvenile justice law. While many issues split Democrats and Republicans in the General Assembly, others lead to intraparty debate. Republicans offered the most vocal support for and opposition to a recent bill to help some North Carolinians expunge 15-year-old nonviolent offenses from their criminal records. You'll hear highlights from the state House's debate on the topic. That's followed by a look at international finance. As Greece deals with economic turmoil, East Carolina University history professor Anthony Papalas watches with a professional interest. A specialist in ancient Greek history, Papalas has been traveling to the Mediterranean country for decades. He shares his thoughts about the causes of Greece's current woes. And finally, Charlotte's light rail system is touted by rail supporters as evidence that the Triangle should fund and build a rail system connecting Orange, Durham, and Wake counties. That's just not correct, according to John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Local Government Studies Michael Sanera. He offers data on Charlotte's system and explains why the Triangle plan is fundamentally flawed.

CJ Radio #476: State Looks at Supreme Court Rescue Fund Ruling

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Nearly a year after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down an Arizona campaign-finance law that allowed some Arizona candidates to receive "rescue funds" provided by taxpayers, North Carolina lawmakers are looking at bringing state law into compliance. Jeanette Doran, executive director of the North Carolina Institute for Constitutional Law, explains the ruling and how and why it impacts N.C. law. Then we turn to state budget issues. As North Carolina lawmakers put the finishing touches on their budget plan, state senators invited the public to offer an assessment of their ideas. You'll hear highlights from a public hearing on the budget, including praise from limited-government advocates and criticism from supporters of spending increases for education and public health programs. That's followed by comments from state lawmakers during debate about providing $50,000 payments to living victims of North Carolina's 20th-century eugenics-based forced sterilization program. A House debate on the topic featured bipartisan support for the measure, along with those who criticized the potential fiscal impact. Next is look at juvenile justice policy. North Carolina is one of just two states that send all 16-year-old offenders to the adult criminal justice system. A conservative group called Right On Crime is helping lead the push to shift most of those offenders to the juvenile justice system. Marc Levin of Right On Crime and the Texas Public Policy Foundation's Center for Effective Justice explains why the shift makes fiscal sense. And finally, we've heard about the federal Pell grant program, but how prevalent is it and are taxpayers getting a good bang for the buck? Jenna Ashley Robinson of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy discusses results of a Pope Center study that shows the program has expanded eligibility well into the middle class and, thus, it continues to grow in size and cost. Robinson details recommendations to bring the program back in line with its original purpose of helping low-income students and to provide more accountability to taxpayers.

CJ Radio #475: The Power of the State Board of Education

Sun, 24 Jun 2012 09:00:00 -0400

The state Board of Education is a powerful group of officials that have an impact on every parent, school-age child, and taxpayer. And recently, the board's chairman, Bill Harrison, has engaged in a public war of words with legislative leaders. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies, Terry Stoops, explains the disagreement and the powers of the board. Then we turn to more about empowering parents. Advocates continue to push state lawmakers to move forward with "opportunity scholarships," a proposal that would give tax credits to corporations that fund programs to help more families afford private education. More than 1,000 parents, students, and private educators rallied for the idea recently outside the state Legislative Building. You'll hear comments from rally participants. Next is a legislative debate over a North Carolina based controversy that's made national news recently. The national controversy over what's come to be known as the Hoke County "chicken nugget" case prompted some state lawmakers to act this year. Senators approved a bill to ensure that teachers and bureaucrats at state-funded preschool programs will not interfere with lunches parents pack for the children. You'll hear Sens. Jerry Tillman, R-Randolph, and Ellie Kinnaird, D-Orange, debate the bill. That's followed by a look at politics. All signs point to another series of hotly contested election contests this fall. John Rustin, executive director of the N.C. FreeEnterprise Foundation, explains why his organization labels North Carolina a "quintessential battleground state." And finally, global warming alarmists continue to try to expand government power over average citizens in order to mitigate what they believe is massive climate change that will wreak havoc on North Carolina. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research, Roy Cordato, explains why there are now legislative efforts to limit alarmist impact on local governments on North Carolina's coast against claims of massive sea level rise by 2100.

CJ Radio #474: Legislators Take Up Chicken Nugget-Gate Controversy

Sat, 16 Jun 2012 09:00:00 -0400

State legislators are dealing with a variety of issues, including several that Carolina Journal reported on recently. Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains what concerns legislators about federal and state rules governing kids' home-made lunches, which became a national issue when a Hoke County four-year-old was told mom's turkey sandwich didn't meet guidelines. Henderson also updates the story about the censoring of a diabetes blogger by state nutrition regulators. Then, we turn to the ongoing debate about taking politics about of redrawing election maps. Voters are choosing members of Congress and the N.C. General Assembly this year based on new election maps crafted by the Republicans who control the legislature. Meanwhile, some advocates are pushing for reform of the redistricting process that creates the maps. You'll hear comments from former state Republican Party chairman Bill Cobey, UNC-Chapel Hill law professor Gene Nichol, and others who support new redistricting rules. Next is a look at efforts to improve government efficiency. Some state lawmakers are pushing for new measures to do just that. Sen. Ralph Hise, R-Mitchell, discusses proposals involving zero-based budgeting, data analytics, and a taxpayer accountability act. That's followed by a look at new global warming reports, which almost invariably suggest that conditions are worse than scientists had expected. Patrick Michaels, senior fellow in environmental studies at the Cato Institute, says a "government-scientific complex" helps explain why climate research tends to predict gloom-and-doom scenarios. And finally, grassroots activists are cheering reforms passed by the state legislature to North Carolina's forced annexation laws, which have been some of the most liberal in the country. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray explains the changes which give those being against their will a voice in the decision. She also updates the status of a handful of forced annexations already in the works.

CJ Radio #473: An Investment Plan for North Carolina's Recovery

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 09:00:00 -0400

John Locke Foundation President John Hood discusses themes from his new book, Our Best Foot Forward: An Investment Plan for North Carolina's Economic Recovery, including tax reform, and investment in physical capital and human capital. Then we turn to a key property rights issue. State lawmakers thought they had finalized annexation reform in 2011, but lawsuits from a number of North Carolina cities have prompted the General Assembly to revisit that reform effort this year. You'll hear a recent N.C. Senate debate about measures designed to give people targeted for annexation a greater voice in the process. Next is a debate over education policy. Some state lawmakers would like to emulate Florida by boosting participation in public school Advanced Placement courses. The idea is running into opposition. Reps. Hugh Blackwell, R-Burke, and Paul Luebke, D-Durham, put forward opposing views on the issue during a recent N.C. House committee meeting. That's followed by comments from a nationally known security expert about drone warfare. Drone warfare is certainly safer than conventional air strikes or ground action involving American troops, but the idea raises certain policy and legal questions. Scott Silliman, Duke law school professor, director emeritus of the Center on Law, Ethics, and National Security, and a career Air Force attorney, lays out the case for using drones. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops discusses opportunity scholarships. He explains what they are, why they help empower parents, why they're growing in popularity, and why common criticisms by progressives are misguided.

CJ Radio #472: Taxpayer Funded Lobbyists Greet Legislators

Sun, 03 Jun 2012 09:00:00 -0400

North Carolina's courts have ruled it is legal for local governments to use taxpayer resources to lobby the General Assembly on legislation, and that's exactly what some cities and counties are doing now that the legislature is back in session. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray explains the role of lobbyists and why she's concerned that taxpayer funds are being used to, in some cases, lobby against the views of some citizens. Then we turn to property rights. A legal dispute involving beachfront property at Emerald Isle has attracted interest from the N.C. Institute for Constitutional Law. The institute's Jeanette Doran explains why both the facts of the case and the town's legal maneuvers raise constitutional concerns. In more property rights news, state lawmakers have been working on reforms of North Carolina's laws governing extraterritorial jurisdiction, the power cities and towns have over development just outside their boundaries. But you'll hear how the legal fight over a 2011 annexation law is hampering efforts to address ETJ concerns. That's followed by a debate over the intent of the constitution. When judges interpret the U.S. Constitution, how important is the original meaning or original intent of the constitutional provision at issue? Northwestern law professor John McGinnis and UNC-Chapel Hill law professor William Marshall debated that topic recently for the John Locke Foundation and the Campbell Law School Federalist Society. You'll hear highlights. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Research Michael Sanera brings us up to speed on a boondoggle project that used taxpayers subsidies to open and operate a restaurant in downtown Raleigh. The Mint has now closed. While city officials defend the subsidy, Sanera explains why local governments should never engage in this activity and why it puts local businesses at a disadvantage in the marketplace.

CJ Radio #471: What Do The Primary Results Mean For The Fall?

Sun, 27 May 2012 09:00:00 -0400

North Carolina's primary election is in the books. Now we look to some runoffs in July and then to the general election in the fall. John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the election results and discusses why so many conservatives filed for seats this cycle. Then we turn to the ongoing debate over state spending and taxing. Outgoing Democratic Gov. Beverly Perdue wants the Republican-led General Assembly to approve a sales tax hike that would raise money to fund her education goals. You'll hear Perdue's pitch for her budget plan, along with reaction and alternative ideas from Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger, R-Rockingham. Next is a review of North Carolina's vehicle fleet. North Carolina state government owns more than 28,000 vehicles. A recent report from the General Assembly's Program Evaluation Division suggests state agencies could do more to ensure they use those vehicles efficiently. You'll hear details from senior program evaluator Sean Hamel. That's followed by a look at the intersection of your job and your religious faith. You may not think there is a correlations, but Hugh Whelchel says those two key aspects of our lives have very close links. The executive director of the Washington-based Institute for Faith, Work, & Economics explained those links during a recent visit to Campbell University. And finally, we look at the state's incredible spending growth. Fergus Hodgson, the John Locke Foundation's director of fiscal policy studies, provides the historic numbers and puts this month's budget and spending debate into context.

CJ Radio #470: Bold Ideas For Reforming The UNC System

Sun, 20 May 2012 09:00:00 -0400

The challenges facing North Carolina's public university system are numerous. They include more limited public funding, greater academic expectations, and a poor job market for graduates. Jane Shaw, president of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, discusses a reform agenda she presented to UNC recently. Her ideas include limiting enrollment, focusing more on community colleges, re-evaluating academic programs, and considering differential tuition. Next is a look at concerns related to unemployment insurance fraud. State lawmakers are looking for ways to cut out fraud, and they recently heard concerns from groups representing employers across the state. You'll hear ideas from Andy Ellen of the N.C. Retail Merchants Association, Gary Salamido of the N.C. Chamber, and Connie Wilson of the Employers Coalition of North Carolina. Then we turn to tax policy ideas. The old saying tells us that nothing is certain in life but death and taxes. Some libertarians wish they could eliminate taxes from that equation. Fergus Hodgson, John Locke Foundation director of fiscal policy studies, outlined basic tenets of libertarian tax policy in a presentation earlier this year for university students in Chapel Hill.That's followed by a look at more education reform ideas from the state legislature. Last week, Carolina Journal Radio highlighted N.C. Senate leaders' education reform plans. This week, you'll hear ideas from the state House. A study committee recently detailed its final report to the House. Terry Stoops, JLF director of education studies, dissects that plan. And finally, as the United States commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, Troy Kickler of the North Carolina History Project discusses our state's role in the epic conflict, as well as several key battles that occurred in our state and how North Carolinians can learn more about the Civil War.

CJ Radio #469: Where Did The "War on Women" Narrative Come From?

Sun, 13 May 2012 09:00:00 -0400

A fascinating narrative has taken hold in this political season. The narrative says that there is a Republican-led war on women. Jon Ham, publisher of Carolina Journal, explores the genesis of the media stories and the advocates behind it. Then we turn to efforts to make North Carolina state government more efficient. The state has eliminated about a quarter of its aircraft fleet in the past couple of years. A recent report from the General Assembly's Program Evaluation Division suggests there's even more room for cost savings. You'll hear highlights from that report, along with reaction from lawmakers. Next is a look at State Auditor Beth Wood's recent harsh words for the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources because of poor recordkeeping associated with a program designed to speed environmental permits. You'll hear from Wood, along with a response from DENR's Edythe McKinney and reaction from state lawmakers. That's followed by a look at a classic in free market economics and government intervention. Nearly 70 years have passed since economist F.A. Hayek wrote The Road to Serfdom about the dangers of excessive government planning. Now American Enterprise Institute President Arthur Brooks has written The Road to Freedom. Brooks shares key insights from his latest book in a one-on-one interview with Carolina Journal Radio. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops analyzes the education reform plan put for by North Carolina Senate Republicans. Stoops tells us which recommendations he agrees with, and which are off the mark.

CJ Radio #468: Democrat Scandal Is News, But Will It Impact Votes?

Sun, 06 May 2012 09:00:00 -0400

The North Carolina Democratic Party has been rocked by news of a sexual harassment allegation inside party headquarters and a financial settlement signed by the party chairman, David Parker. John Hood, president of the John Locke Foundation, discusses the potential political impact of the revelations, but explains why he thinks the election will turn on other issues. Then we turn to debate over hydraulic fracturing. The N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources recently released a report that suggests North Carolina could move forward with permitting hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, for shale gas. State House members hope DENR can turn its attention now to developing a regulatory framework for fracking. You’ll hear highlights from a recent news conference featuring Reps. Mitch Gillespie, R-McDowell, Mike Stone, R-Lee, and Pricey Harrison, D-Guilford. Then we hear about fracking and other energy options from Sen. Bob Rucho, R-Mecklenburg, who has been leading his chamber’s efforts on that issue. He recently presented highlights of legislation he plans to pursue when the General Assembly returns to work this month. That’s followed by a look at gun rights. The government can restrict your gun ownership rights if you commit a felony. Your rights are less clear once you have served the sentence connected with that felony. Attorney Dan Hardway represented the plaintiff in Britt v. North Carolina, a case in which the N.C. Supreme Court held that the North Carolina Felony Firearms Act unconstitutionally infringed upon the plaintiff’s gun rights. Plaintiff Barney Britt was an ex-felon who had completed his sentence years before the government banned him from owning guns. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains why a blogger who blogs about his fight against diabetes is being threatened with jail by state licensing authorities, who say he can’t dispense recommendations like a nutritionist. Henderson discusses the role of licensing boards and how they impact a variety of industries, including those related to health care, and why licensing in many cases is simply about keeping competition out.

CJ Radio #467: Focus On N.C. Officials' Relationship To Nonprofit

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Two North Carolina Department of Commerce employees are in the spotlight due to their roles with a Raleigh based nonprofit and efforts to send funding to the organization. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains CJ's investigation, which spurred an internal investigation over questions of disclosure and ethics. Next is a look at energy exploration and controversy over fracking. North Carolina's governor, environmental regulators, and top legislative leaders have expressed varying degrees of interest in hydraulic fracturing for natural gas located in shale beneath the ground. Daniel Fine of the New Mexico Center for Energy Policy explained in a recent presentation for the John Locke Foundation's Shaftesbury Society why North Carolina is in a unique position to take advantage of this natural resource. Then we turn to ongoing questions over a well known federal program. Many students in North Carolina public schools eat free or reduced-price lunches at taxpayers' expense. But some state lawmakers are concerned about the process used to ensure the special breaks extend only to children of the neediest families. You'll hear highlights from a recent legislative debate on the topic. That's followed by a look at the story of man who founded a key broadcasting entity. If you've ever watched the Weather Channel, you might be fascinated by the story of its founder, Frank Batten. Author Connie Sage has written a new biography of Batten. She shares details from his life and career. And finally, Jenna Ashley Robinson of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy

CJ Radio #466: Prison Term Nears End for Easley Aide Ruffin Poole

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Former aide to Mike Easley, Ruffin Poole, has surfaced in Raleigh as he serves the end of his one-year prison term as a halfway house. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson reviews the Poole case, the connection to former Gov. Mike Easley, and the status of Easley's law license. Then we turn to a serious budget concern for North Carolina. Officials must scramble to find about $150 million to close a hole in the state Medicaid budget. State lawmakers recently discussed the Medicaid shortfall with state budget director Andy Willis. You'll hear highlights from that conversation. Next is a look at energy policy. As North Carolina debates the pros and cons of hydraulic fracturing — or fracking — for natural gas, one issue that has attracted little attention is the potential impact of large-scale fracking operations on state roads. Jim Trogdon, chief operating officer for the N.C. Department of Transportation, recently shared his assessment of the potential road impact in a presentation to state lawmakers. That's followed by a look at education. State lawmakers recently heard a report from Gary Henry of the Carolina Institute for Public Policy that suggested achievement gains North Carolina public school achievement hit a plateau after major gains in the 1990s. Henry says the data suggest North Carolina needs to do more to train its public school teachers. You'll hear highlights from Henry's report, along with reaction from lawmakers and from Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation director of education studies. And finally, tax reform is often discussed but little progress has been made. Roy Cordato, vice president for research for the John Locke Foundation, recommends replacing the income tax with a flat-rate consumed tax. He explains how it would work and why the idea is superior to the current system.

CJ Radio #465: Oral Arguments Shine Light On Key Obamacare Issues

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0400

It was high drama in the U.S. Supreme Court as the justice heard from, and occasionally sparred with, attorneys for and against the constitutionality of Obamacare. John Locke Foundation President John Hood talks about the arguments and the debate over the individual mandate. Then we turn to a look at foreign affairs. Current turmoil in the Middle East will have important implications for U.S. interests. Harvard professor and former Bush administration Middle East expert Meghan O'Sullivan delivered that message during the annual Pope Lecture at N.C. State University. O'Sullivan followed that speech with a one-on-one interview with Carolina Journal Radio. Next is a look at a critical problem facing North Carolina. While North Carolina policymakers try to figure out how they'll repay $2.8 billion borrowed from the federal government for unemployment insurance benefits, some lawmakers want to ensure North Carolina loses as little money as possible to unemployment fraud. House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg, and Reps. Marilyn Avila, R-Wake, and G.L. Pridgen, R-Robeson, discuss a new task force focusing on rooting out fraud within the unemployment system. That's followed by a look at federal power. The targeted killing of al-Qaeda operative and U.S. citizen Anwar al-Awlaki in Yemen last year raises some red flags for civil libertarians. Doug Bandow, senior fellow at the Cato Institute, outlines safeguards that could help ensure the federal government is not abusing its power if it places a U.S. citizen on a terrorist death list. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Regulatory Studies Jon Sanders discusses the debate over tapping domestic energy resources and why there seems to be a coalition of people who thwart efforts to access them.

CJ Radio #464: State Smoking Ban's Erosion of Property Rights

Sun, 08 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0400

The North Carolina Court of Appeal has upheld the state's ban on smoking in most bars and restaurants. A Pitt County for-profit club owner had challenged the county's enforcement of the ban. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato discusses the ban in the context of property rights and its infringement on those rights that occurs when government seeks to control behavior it deems as bad. Then we turn to the state's upcoming primary election. North Carolina voters will decide on May 8 whether to amend the state constitution to add a definition of marriage. Jeanette Doran, executive director and general counsel for the N.C. Institute for Constitutional Law, discusses the complicated rules surrounding the state's constitutional amendment process. Next is a discussion of executive power. The Obama administration raised eyebrows among some constitutional scholars when it targeted Anwar al-Awlaki, a U.S. citizen, for death in Yemen. The John Locke Foundation and Campbell Law School Federalist Society recently hosted a debate surrounding the question: When should the U.S. government be allowed to target a citizen for death? Afsheen John Radsan, founder of the National Security Forum, discussed the legal implications. Federal law has been "overcriminalized," and that gives federal prosecutors too much power to pursue people for prosecution. That's the assessment of John Baker, professor emeritus of law at Louisiana State University. Baker explains the problems associated with government overreach in criminal law. And finally, lawmakers will return to Raleigh in mid-May for the short legislative session. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray discusses what they'll be focusing on, including budget issues, the state's huge unemployment insurance debt, and pressures on the Medicaid system.

CJ Radio #463: Gov. Perdue Ramps Up Criticism of Legislature

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Gov. Bev Perdue has announced she's not running for re-election, but she has ramped up her attacks on the Republican-led General Assembly. John Locke Foundation President John Hood discusses Perdue's statements about the state budget, her potential impact on Democratic candidates for governor, and her role in policy as her term winds down. Then we turn to transportation policy. People living in and traveling to one of North Carolina's largest counties could face an extra half-cent sales tax, if Wake County leaders move forward with a multibillion-dollar transit plan. David Hartgen, emeritus professor of transportation studies at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, explained during a recent public presentation why he believes Wake should scrap its current plan and rethink the way the county approaches transit needs. Next is a closer look at the debate over the state budget. Americans for Prosperity North Carolina launched a recent campaign called NC Real Solutions. It's designed to counter criticism of the Republican-led General Assembly's budget. AFP state director Dallas Woodhouse recently discussed the campaign and its goals. That's followed by a look at a great figure in history. You might know him as the first American president, the top Revolutionary War general, or just the guy on the dollar bill. But George Washington offers a great historical example for aspiring leaders. That's the assessment of longtime marketing executive Mark McNeilly, author of the recent book George Washington and the Art of Business: Leadership Lessons from the First Commander-In-Chief. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops analyzes the race for Superintendent of Public Instruction and the key issues the candidates will likely discuss.

CJ Radio #462: What Does It Take To Lift People Out of Poverty?

Sun, 25 Mar 2012 09:00:00 -0400

A state legislator ignited a debate about poverty when he compared North Carolina living standards with international standards of poverty. Liberal activists responded by saying conservatives don't understand the plight of the poor. John Locke Foundation Director of Fiscal Studies Fergus Hodgson talks about standards of poverty and discusses freedom-related policies that lift people out of poverty. Next is a closer look at some positive news about worldwide standards of living. With all of the bad news that crops up constantly during the election campaign, it's worth noting that people around the world have become healthier, happier, cleaner, kinder, and wealthier in recent decades. Journalist and biologist Matt Ridley documents these changes in his book The Rational Optimist. Ridley recently told a Duke University audience why he believes life has been getting better around the globe. Then we turn to local government policy. North Carolina cities and towns are able to control the zoning of land just outside municipal limits through a power called extra-territorial jurisdiction. Some state lawmakers want to ensure ETJ powers don't encroach too much on family farms. You'll hear highlights from a recent debate on the topic. That's followed by a look at the growing Latino population in North Carolina. As Latinos continue to make up a larger segment of North Carolina's voting population, Victor Guzman hopes the Republican Party will be able to do a better job reaching those potential voters. Guzman explains his work as founding chairman of North Carolina's chapter of the Republican Hispanic National Assembly. And finally, this year's congressional election cycle has more than 70 people seeking the opportunity to represent North Carolina's interests in Washington D.C. Carolina Journal reporter David Bass analyzes the races and the impact of new election districts on the balance of power within our state's congressional delegation.

CJ Radio #474: Legislators Take Up Chicken Nugget-Gate Controversy

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 09:00:00 -0400

CJ Radio #461: Without Perdue, Robust Gubernatorial Primary Looms

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 09:00:00 -0400

For the longest time it looked as if the race for N.C. governor would be all about two familiar names: Beverly Perdue and Pat McCrory. But, as it turns out, the gubernatorial primary races for both major parties are jammed with candidates. John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the race for the top job and key issues bound to dominate the discussion, including North Carolina's economy and high unemployment rate. Hood also weighs in on the race for Lt. Governor. Next is a look at our nation's finances. We have to balance our checkbooks, and the federal government ought to do the same. That's the attitude of people supporting the group Americans for a Balanced Budget. President Dee Stewart discusses the group's work and explains why a balanced budget is critical to the nation's future. Then we turn to state finances. State government revenue has topped projections for this budget year by $145 million through January. Legislative economist Barry Boardman recently cautioned lawmakers that the state's budget picture still faces much uncertainty. You'll hear his comments, along with reaction from N.C. House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg. That's followed by a look at college-level sports. During the NCAA college basketball tournament, it's a good time to consider the impact of "big-time" sports on colleges and universities across the country. Charles Clotfelter, professor of public policy studies, economics, and law at Duke University, has written a recent book on the topic. He shares key elements of his research. And finally, Carolina Journal reporter David Bass looks at key Council of State races with an eye toward which jobs have attracted the most attention from candidates. Bass does the same for key legislative races.

CJ Radio #460: How Much Money Does N.C. Spend on K-12 Education?

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 09:00:00 -0400

Tune in to any discussion about education in North Carolina and you're likely to hear someone say our state ranks at the bottom of spending students when compared with other states. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops spending data released by the National Education Association (NEA) that shows North Carolina ranks 42nd, not 49th. Stoops compares N.C.'s spending and outcomes to those of other states and other countries. Then we turn to discussion over changes to state agencies and departments that administer election law and functions. Some North Carolina lawmakers are interested in combining under one state agency the ethics, lobbying, and campaign finance compliance functions now handled by three separate agencies. You'll hear highlights from a recent legislative discussion on the topic, including comments from Secretary of State Elaine Marshall, Ethics Commission director Perry Newson, and State Board of Elections chairman Larry Leake. Next is a look at an idea to save North Carolina taxpayers money.The General Assembly's Program Evaluation Division believes North Carolina could save $2 million a year by closing two museums in Elizabeth City and Kinston and scaling back operations of other natural and cultural attractions. The recommendations have sparked a backlash from supporters of those attractions. You'll hear a recent discussion of the topic. That's followed by a look at North Carolina's justice system. People hold varying views about the proper punishments for particular crimes, but no one wants to see an innocent person stuck in prison. Former state Supreme Court Chief Justice I. Beverly Lake Jr. discusses the impact of the Actual Innocence Commission he formed near the end of his judicial career. And finally, we hear about a $56 million expenditure designed to catalogue "green jobs" in North Carolina and other states, and at the federal level. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains the spending and why the reports are being created without standard definitions that would allow for a state-by-state, apples-to-apples job comparison. Henderson also explains the status of North Carolina's report, which is behind schedule.

CJ Radio #459: N.C. School's Food Police Toss Kid's Homemade Lunch

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 09:00:00 -0500

A recent Carolina Journal story about a Hoke County pre-schooler has captured the attention of the entire country. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson lays out the massive government tentacles that are reaching into child nutrition, which have been showcased in the story of Hoke County Schools throwing out a child's homemade turkey sandwich and banana lunch and replacing it with government approved chicken nuggets. Henderson also details the CJ investigation to find out which government official or agency was calling the shots in the story that has made national news. Then we turn to revelations about how one state agency acted to deflect budget cuts. State lawmakers ordered a $5 million cut this year in funding for nonprofit groups tied to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. At a recent legislative meeting, they learned that state bureaucrats had shifted money around to delay the cut for at least a year. You'll hear highlights from disgruntled lawmakers' comments about the news. Next is a look at budget cuts in higher education. The University of North Carolina system reported about 2,450 job cuts linked to the latest state budget, but only about 500 of those jobs were filled. Top UNC budget officer Charles Perusse spelled out the details during a recent presentation for state lawmakers. That's followed by a look at history. More than 50 years have passed since Francis Gary Powers captivated the world's attention when Soviets shot his U2 spy plane down at the height of the Cold War. Today Francis Gary Powers Jr. spends much of his time lecturing around the globe about his father's role in history. He recently shared details with a North Carolina audience. And finally, several North Carolina cities have built and now maintain publicly subsidized convention center. JLF Director of Local Government Studies Michael Sanera discusses the results of a report about the Raleigh Convention Center that shows the RCC gave a large number of special deals in order to obtain convention business. Sanera then offers recommendations for other cities thinking of getting into the convention center business.

CJ Radio #458: Can NC Students Compete With International Peers?

Sun, 26 Feb 2012 21:00:00 -0500

We hear a lot about the need for American school kids to compete with our international competitors. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops analyzes data on the issue that should concern Americans. Then we focus on economic freedom. The United States has been slipping in recent worldwide rankings of economic freedom. Economist Robert Lawson of Southern Methodist University is co-author of the Fraser Institute's annual Economic Freedom of the World report. Lawson discusses the importance of freedom and the reasons underlying the recent American decline. As important as capitalism is to the success of American society, the U.S. Constitution says nothing about the nation's economic system. George Leef, director of research at the John W. Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, says capitalism is nonetheless guaranteed as long as the Constitution continues to limit government activity. That's followed by a look at a new way of doing public business. State lawmakers are looking into the possibility of turning more government business over to public-private partnerships. They recently sought some advice on the topic from Leonard Gilroy, director of government reform at the Reason Foundation. Gilroy explains the benefits of these partnerships and discusses the ways government officials can pursue them. And finally, a new group is seeking to engage young conservatives and libertarians in the debate over public issues. Jenna Ashley Robinson of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy is spearheading an effort. She explains the goals and details the group's first panel discussion, which will be held in March and will focus on the marriage amendment that appears on North Carolina's May primary ballot.

CJ Radio #457: Both Sides Claim Victory in Redistricting Ruling

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 21:00:00 -0500

A three-judge panel has weighed in on lawsuits filed by North Carolina Democrats and their allies over new legislative and congressional election maps drawn by the Republican-led General Assembly. John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the ruling that allows a court challenge to the maps to continue, but which threw out nearly half of the claims. Both sides are claiming victory. Then we turn to the issue of taxation. Some North Carolina lawmakers wonder whether the state has any business taxing death. More specifically, they're considering the future of the state's estate tax. Dick Patten, chairman of the American Family Business Institute, recently testified before a legislative committee about the problems associated with a tax often dubbed the "death tax." Next are highlights from two elected officials recently honored by the Locke Foundation for their contributions to limited government and transparency. Lisa Baldwin has questioned the status quo as a member of the Buncombe County school board, while U.S. Rep. Renee Ellmers has helped lead the fight against ObamaCare as a freshman member of Congress. You'll hear highlights from their remarks as they accepted JLF's 2012 James Knox Polk awards. That's followed by a look at North Carolina history. Some Wilmington residents believe their coastal city deserves federal recognition as America's World War II city. Author, military historian, and Wilmington native Wilbur Jones makes the case for that designation and explains why Wilmington is pursuing that honor. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Local Government Analyst Michael Sanera talks about the conclusions of a recent analysis of Wake County's transit plan, which has three components: bus, commuter rail, and regional rail. Sanera explains why the analysts say the plan is neither fiscally nor financially feasible.

CJ Radio #456: Should Kids Be Forced to Stay in School Until 18?

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 09:00:00 -0500

In his State of the Union speech, President Obama urged the states to raise the compulsory age for school attendance to 18. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops assesses the president's idea and shares data about approaches to raise student achievement and improve teacher performance. Then we turn to a North Carolina organization's support of pro-business policies. A recent U.S. Supreme Court decision has changed the landscape for political campaigns, paving the way for so-called 527 independent expenditure groups to use corporate and union contributions to fund campaigns that are unconnected with particular candidates. Attorney Roger Knight explains how the group Real Jobs NC has relied on the high-court ruling to push for pro-business policies during election campaigns. Next is a look at a key claim of global warming alarmists. If former Vice President Al Gore is right, coastal North Carolina could sink into the sea because of global warming. But David Burton says Gore is wrong. Burton is a member of North Carolina's Sea Level Rise Risk Management Study advisory committee. Burton recently critiqued that group's work during a presentation to the John Locke Foundation's Shaftesbury Society. He explained why some common claims about rising sea levels are overblown. That's followed by a look at a key issue for college students, many of whom who have never learned about the social advantages of economic freedom. Jenna Ashley Robinson hopes to fill in that gap in the standard college education. As outreach coordinator for the John W. Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, Robinson will be sharing facts about economic freedom during presentations on campuses across the state. And finally, Carolina Journal reporter David Bass provides an update on allegations of fraud in the massive federal nutrition program known as the free and reduced-lunch program that operates in public schools. Bass discusses a U.S. senator's concern over fraud in his state. Bass has been reporting for years on concerns about fraud and lack of accountability in North Carolina's school-lunch program.

CJ Radio #455: What's Behind Perdue's Stunning Decision?

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Gov. Beverly Perdue stunned North Carolina when she announced she will not seek re-election. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson assesses the governor's statement and reaction to it, as well as the political implications for both sides of the aisle. Henderson also analyzes Perdue's recent call for a sales tax hike as part of her next budget. Then we turn to energy policy. A state renewable energy mandate is pushing utility companies to look into wind power options along the North Carolina coast. Two recent John Locke Foundation workshops in Wilmington and Morehead City questioned wind power's viability, cost-efficiency, and potential environmental benefits. You'll hear highlights from presentations by David Schnare and John Droz of the American Tradition Institute, along with JLF's Daren Bakst. Next is a look at highlights from a pointed discussion about a costly state project. State lawmakers learned recently that a new computerized Medicaid claims system will cost the state $495 million, 85 percent more than originally expected. Contractors also will need two years more than anticipated to finish the project. The delays and cost overruns led to questions during a legislative debate. That's followed by analysis of intellectual thought behind America's founding. The 17th-century British philosopher John Locke undoubtedly influenced America's Founders. John Mueller, Lehrman Institute fellow in economics and director of the Economics and Ethics Program at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, asks whether Locke and the Founders should be described as "Lockean" or as "Scholastics." And finally, we turn to the growing problem of North Carolina local governments that fail to adhere to state laws. John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst hones in on recent examples related to gun law and election law that lead to serious questions about localities that fail to adhere to adhere to state laws.

CJ Radio #454: State Panel Recommends $50,000 to Eugenics Victims

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 09:00:00 -0500

A state panel has recommended that each survivor of North Carolina's eugenics program, under which more than 7,600 people were sterilized, be paid $50,000 each. John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst offers his view of the plan, background on the eugenics program, and other recommendations to assist living victims. Next is a look at the tug-of-war between the federal government and the states. The U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land, trumping all state laws and state constitutions. Does that mean the federal government always has the power to tell state governments what to do? Wake Forest University political science professor John Dinan explores the ways state governments are talking back to Washington, D.C. Then we turn to state budget issues. When a government agency has to tighten its belt, you might think one easy target would be unfilled job positions. But before his recent resignation as head of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, Secretary Lanier Cansler explained to state lawmakers why his department was able to cut just 130 of the 1,600 vacant jobs on its rolls. That's followed by a look at an 80-year-old debate between two economists in England, which continues to have profound effects on American politics today. That's the idea journalist and author Nicholas Wapshott puts forward in his recent book Keynes-Hayek. You'll hear highlights from Wapshott's recent presentation on the book at Duke University. And finally, JLF Director of Fiscal Policy Studies Fergus Hodgson analyzes North Carolina's $2.7 billion unemployment insurance debt. The state owes the federal government the money for loans used to pay unemployment benefits during the recession. Hodgson offers recommendations to reform the unemployment insurance system so that the deficit doesn't occur again.

CJ Radio #453: GOP Takes Heat Over Teacher Dues Bill Veto Override

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Legislative Republicans are taking heat over the 12:45 a.m. veto override vote of a bill that prohibits the payroll deduction of dues of members of the N.C. Association of Educators. John Locke Foundation President John Hood discusses the bill and the politics of the move. Then we turn to one of the most well known libertarians on TV, John Stossel of Fox News. Stossel documented his transformation from left-leaning television consumer-affairs reporter to libertarian thinker during the featured speech at the John W. Pope Foundation’s 25th anniversary dinner. You’ll hear highlights from those remarks. Next is a look at one of the most contentious policy debates in recent memory. North Carolina’s Racial Justice Act remains in place, despite legislative efforts to change the 2009 law substantially. State senators voted this month to override a gubernatorial veto of those changes. You’ll hear both sides of the argument as Sens. Thom Goolsby, R-New Hanover, and Floyd McKissick, D-Durham, debated the measure. That’s followed by a look at federalism. A successful federal system of government requires some degree of humility. That’s the assessment of Kyle Scott, visiting assistant professor of political science at Duke University and author of a book on the theory and practice of federalism. Scott explains the links between federalism and humility. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops analyzes changes to the state’s K-12 education that will occur in 2012. Stoops discusses the proliferation of new public charter schools, new standards and tests, and the change that could come if November’s election produces a Superintendent of Public Instruction from the Republican Party.

CJ Radio #452: U.S. House Committee Asks Perdue For Documents

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Reporting by Carolina Journal is raising serious questions about whether the administration of Gov. Beverly Perdue is running afoul of federal rules established to ensure that monthly jobs data isn't misused or politicized. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains why a U.S. House committee is seeking documents from Perdue's office in the wake of the reporting. Then we turn to the coziness between business and government. Elected officials in both major parties have been guilty of supporting crony capitalism. Tim Carney, senior political columnist for the Washington Examiner, has spent much of his career documenting the cronies. He shares information he has uncovered during three years of reporting on the Obama administration's abuses. Next is a look at the outcome of a recent key legal and political case. When Gov. Beverly Perdue's former campaign finance director entered an Alford plea rather than fight criminal charges linked to illegal campaign activity, Wake County Superior Court Judge Donald Stephens shared his concerns from the bench. You'll hear highlights of Stephens' remarks to former Perdue campaign finance chief Peter Reichard. That's followed by a look at a new law that had long been sought by advocates for unborn children. As of Dec. 1, North Carolina became the latest state to enact an "unborn victims of violence" act. Dubbed Ethen's Law, it allows prosecutors to file two sets of charges when a murderer targets a pregnant woman. Supporters recently commemorated the new law's effective date. You'll hear from Reps. Dale Folwell, R-Forysth, and Carolyn Justice, R-Pender, along with Kevin Blaine and Effie Steele, parents of two murdered pregnant women. And finally, the "rich" are frequently demonized for allegedly profiting at the expense of the middle class and the poor. John Locke Foundation Director of Fiscal Policy Studies Fergus Hodgson discusses income inequality and the contributions of the "rich" to society.

CJ Radio #451: Legislative Mini Sessions Under the Microscope

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 09:00:00 -0500

The Republican leadership in the General Assembly is taking heat from Democrats and some pundits for the decision to hold several mini legislative sessions since leaving Raleigh in July. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray explains what’s been accomplished in the sessions and why they’ve been held. Then we turn to an ongoing debate between the legislature and state agencies. When lawmakers expect state agencies to consult with the General Assembly before moving forward with big-ticket spending items, there’s some disagreement about what that consultation means. You’ll hear legislative debate on the consultation surrounding an $11 million project at the Global TransPark in Kinston. Next we turn to talk of sales taxes. North Carolina’s sales-tax rate fell in July when the Republican-led General Assembly pushed for a temporary sales tax to disappear. Still, state sales-tax collections in the current budget year have grown. Legislative economist Barry Boardman and Sen. Jerry Tillman, R-Randolph, recently discussed the implications of the relationship between tax rates and tax revenues. That’s followed by a fascinating look at history. Moore County resident Vern Pike was the first U.S. Army officer in charge of the famous “Checkpoint Charlie” on the right the Berlin Wall went up during the height of the Cold War. He’s written a book on his experiences, and he shares anecdotes from that key episode in Cold War history. And finally, as the new year dawns, a new executive director takes over the North Carolina Institute for Constitutional Law. Jeanette Doran, who has been senior staff attorney for several years, explains the issues likely to take her attention in 2012 and talks specifically about incentives such as those used to entice film production companies to the state.

CJ Radio #450: N.C. will play key role in 2012 elections

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 09:00:00 -0500

North Carolina will play a critical role in the 2012 presidential election. John Locke Foundation President John Hood explains why, and he analyzes top contenders for the Republican presidential nomination. Hood also discusses the likely rematch in the N.C. gubernatorial election. Then we turn to efficiency in government. State lawmakers voted in 2011 to place North Carolina’s Employment Security Commission under the control of the state Commerce Department. Legislators recently heard an update on the progress of that consolidation. Legislative staffer Kristin Walker offered an overview of the changes, and Commerce Secretary Keith Crisco explained his goals. You’ll hear their comments, along with analysis from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson.ESC’s move to Commerce already has hit one speed bump. When the commission’s top official, Lynn Holmes, declined to attend a meeting of the General Assembly’s Revenue Laws Study Committee, Sen. Bob Rucho, R-Mecklenburg, responded with a subpoena. You’ll hear Rucho explain why legislators decided to make use of their subpoena power to hear Holmes’ plans for helping North Carolina repay $2.5 billion borrowed from the federal government for unemployment benefits. That’s followed by a fascinating look at history. When you hear the word “pirate,” you might think of thieving, gambling, drinking, or walking the plank. It’s not likely that you think of economics. But Peter Leeson, BB&T professor of the study of capitalism at George Mason University, says pirates made critical economic calculations that dispel some of the myths about their wild, rowdy ways. Leeson discusses the economics of pirates in the book titled The Invisible Hook. And finally, more emails have been released that show some of the world’s most influential climate change alarmists were, behind the scenes, questioning the science they tell the public is "settled" and trying to limit debate and dissent from those seeking evidence of claims. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato explains what’s in the leaked communications and what it means for the alarmist movement heading into 2012.