On Wednesday, North Carolina Republicans took a significant step in reshaping the state's political landscape by overriding Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of a controversial bill. The legislation strips power from the governor’s office, limits the attorney general’s authority, and allocates funds for hurricane relief in western North Carolina.

The bill, which became law after the state House voted to override the veto, includes provisions that weaken the executive powers of the incoming Democratic officials, while also offering relief to areas affected by Hurricane Helene, The Hill reported.

The House voted 72-46, mostly along party lines, to override the veto, following a similar vote in the Senate on December 2. Republicans will lose their veto-proof supermajority after the 2024 elections, but they were able to push through the measure while they still hold control.

The legislation is controversial for its provisions that limit the powers of the governor and attorney general, positions that will be controlled by Democrats after the 2024 elections. Democratic leaders have criticized the bill as a "smokescreen" designed to diminish their authority. One of the key provisions of the bill limits the governor's ability to appoint members to the state elections board, transferring this power to the state auditor.

Key Provisions of the Bill Limit Executive Power

Josh Stein, a Democrat, will take office as governor in 2025, and Dave Boliek, a Republican, will serve as the state auditor. The shift in power has sparked accusations that Republicans crafted the bill to undermine Democratic leadership before it even began.

The bill also limits the authority of the attorney general, particularly in out-of-state lawsuits. It prevents the attorney general from representing any legal position that is contrary to state law. Jeff Jackson, a Democrat, will replace the current attorney general in 2025, but Republicans in the legislature will retain control.

Hurricane Relief Funds Allocated for Western NC

In addition to the political provisions, the bill allocates $227 million from the state’s savings reserve for hurricane relief. This funding aims to assist areas of western North Carolina devastated by Hurricane Helene in September, which caused more than $50 billion in damages and resulted in over 100 deaths.

Critics argue that the hurricane relief provision distracts from the real purpose of the bill: curbing the power of incoming Democratic leaders. During the debate, observers filled the public gallery in the state House, some holding signs such as “Stop the power grab” and “Western NC deserves real relief.”

Controversy Over the Bill's Fast-Tracking

The bill also reduces the time allowed for counting absentee ballots and removes the requirement that absentee ballots be received before Election Day to be counted. Another provision eliminates the state superintendent’s ability to appeal decisions made by the Charter Schools Review Board.

The News & Observer reported that lawmakers wrote the bill in secret and fast-tracked it without committee hearings. They introduced the bill to the House less than an hour before debate began, leaving little time for lawmakers or the public to fully review the provisions.

Some lawmakers have questioned the rushed passage of the bill. However, the legislation’s supporters argue that it addresses immediate needs, including hurricane relief, while also ensuring effective governance.

Political Tensions Likely to Intensify in 2024

Republicans and Democrats in North Carolina are expected to see increased tension in the coming months as the 2024 elections approach, especially with the shift in executive leadership. While Republicans defend the bill as a necessary measure for the state’s future, opponents argue that it serves as a partisan power grab designed to weaken the incoming Democratic leadership.

As North Carolina prepares for a significant change in leadership, this legislation marks a key moment in the ongoing battle over the balance of power in the state’s government. The 2025 transition is already shaping up to be one of the most contentious in the state’s history.

Impact of the Bill Could Last for Years

The bill’s passage underscores the ongoing partisan divide in North Carolina, as Republicans use their current majority to reshape the state's political framework before losing it. Critics, however, warn that these changes could have consequences for years to come.

With the 2024 elections on the horizon, these power struggles and the future impact of this bill are likely to define North Carolina’s political landscape.