Carolina Journal Radio

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 #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.

CJ Radio #449: Best Interviews of 2011

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Debate over the best way to spend public money and sell North Carolina as a place to do business is to be expected, especially during a tough budget year. But John Hood, president of the John Locke Foundation, says the divide is widening between fact and fantasy surrounding the debate. He explains why. Then we turn to election politics. After Democrats won big in the 2008 election and Republicans responded with a major victory in 2010, it's hard to say what will happen in 2012. Stephen Hayes, senior writer for The Weekly Standard and contributor to Fox News, offers his thoughts about President Obama's chances for re-election. Next is a look at the debate over requiring a photo I.D. to vote in North Carolina. Lawmakers approved a bill this year to require voters to present photo identification at the polls, but Gov. Beverly Perdue vetoed the measure. Perdue cited a number of concerns about voter ID. In a recent presentation for the John Locke Foundation and Federalist Society, senior legal fellow Hans von Spakovsky of the Heritage Foundation countered Perdue's arguments. You'll hear highlights from that presentation. That's followed by a look at the influence of the environmental movement. One analyst says the movement appears to have waned in recent years. Steven Hayward of the American Enterprise Institute and Pacific Research Institute explains why he believes the radical environmental lobby has little impact on public policy these days. Next, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses a range of occupational licensing bills that have been introduced in the state legislature and why, if passed, the laws would erect barriers to entry for entrepreneurs looking to use their trade or skill to earn a living. Henderson also explains who really wins when these barriers are put in place and details some of the sillier pending legislation, such as one that would impact African hair braiders.

CJ Radio #448: Will Lengthening School Year Lead to Higher Scores?

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 09:00:00 -0500

As lawmakers grapple with which policies lead to better student achievement, Terry Stoops, director of education studies for the John Locke Foundation, discusses the new state law that mandates five additional days for public school kids. Stoops shares research that shows the across-the-board policy does little to help kids achieve more. Next we turn to a key issue for North Carolinians. The state's gas tax is set to increase in 2012, despite a recent vote in the N.C. House. You'll hear highlights from a House debate over whether North Carolina should cap the portion of the gas tax that increases as gas prices increase. While the House overwhelmingly endorsed a cap, the state Senate took no action on the measure. After that is a discussion of election law. North Carolina elects its judges now in nonpartisan races. Would it make more sense to select judges in a different way? Professor Jim Drennan of UNC's School of Government recently offered lawmakers a review of different judicial selection options. Any change in the selection system would require a statewide vote. That's followed by a look at the Occupy Wall Street protesters and their imitators. Across the country these folks have expressed concerns about the evils of capitalism. But Tom Palmer, executive vice president for international programs at the Atlas Network and senior fellow at the Cato Institute, disagrees. Palmer has edited the recent book The Morality of Capitalism. He outlines key themes from that book. And finally, Jane Shaw, president of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, discusses the rising rate of college tuition. Shaw analyzes the trend in North Carolina and ways universities can cuts costs and be more efficient.

CJ Radio #447: Indictments of Campaign Aides Loom Over Perdue

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Obstruction of justice and filing false campaign reports: those are the felony indictments of three campaign aides of Gov. Beverly Perdue, handed down by a Wake County jury. John Locke Foundation President John Hood assesses the legal and political fallout for the three indicated North Carolinians and for the governor herself. Then we turn to the ongoing debate over tax policy. State lawmakers are looking into the future of targeted tax incentives in North Carolina. A pair of experts from the University of North Carolina's Center for Competitive Economies recently told a legislative study group that businesses tend to prefer broad-based tax cuts to targeted goodies. You'll hear highlights from their presentation, along with legislative reaction. Next we look at health insurance/health care policy at the state level. While both chambers of the General Assembly have voted to oppose the 2010 federal health care reform law, that isn't stopping lawmakers from moving forward with planning for a state-based "health exchange" associated with that federal law. Rep. Jerry Dockham, R-Davidson, explains why he supports a state exchange, while Rep. John Blust, R-Guilford, shares his concerns about the idea with Louis Belo, deputy state insurance commissioner. That's followed by a look at perhaps the most well known political scandal in U.S. history. Nearly four decades have passed since the Watergate scandal toppled Richard Nixon's presidency. Raleigh attorney Gene Boyce was assistant chief counsel of the congressional committee that uncovered key facts linked to Watergate. Boyce shared his Watergate insights during a recent presentation to the John Locke Foundation's Shaftesbury Society. And finally, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato delves into his recommendation for repealing the state's corporate income tax, which stands at 6.9 percent. Cordato explains who really pays corporate tax, how North Carolina compares to other states in the region, and why talk of lowering the rate is welcome but does not go far enough.

CJ Radio #446: Can Public Comments Keep Profs From Tenure-Track Jobs?

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Is it possible that an academic's provocative statements about a controversial issue could prevent that person from receiving a tenure-track job? Jane Shaw, president of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, analyzes the case of a former faculty member at NC State University that speaks to that question. Shaw also discusses why tenure is so sought after on university campuses and whether it has value to the community and students. Then we turn to the high unemployment in our state. As Republican leaders of the North Carolina General Assembly finalized their state budget plan this year, their Democratic counterparts joined Gov. Beverly Perdue and left-leaning advocacy groups in predicting tens of thousands of public-sector job losses. A recent report from Perdue's Office of State Budget and Management suggests the numbers of actual state government layoffs are much smaller than the left-leaning politicians and pundits had implied. You'll hear highlights from a legislative debate about the OSBM report, along with reaction and analysis from Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson. Next is a look at North Carolina's Medicaid program. The state Department of Health and Human Services pegs the shortfall in its Medicaid budget at $139 million. But some lawmakers question that figure. You'll hear deputy state health secretary Michael Watson and Sen. Pete Brunstetter, R-Forsyth, offer contrasting views of the Medicaid budget picture during a recent legislative briefing. That's followed by a discussion of what happens if elements of federal law - even the U.S. Constitution - conflict with natural law. Who decides which law takes precedence? Political philosopher, legal scholar, and University of Texas government professor J. Budziszewski discusses natural law and its links to the American governing document. And finally, Carolina Journal reporter David Bass discusses complaints from 20-somethings about the tough job market and high cost of a college education.

CJ Radio #445: Defending North Carolina's Constitution

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Bob Orr, founding executive director of the North Carolina Institute for Constitutional Law, has announced he's leaving the public interest law firm after seven years at the helm. Orr discusses the organization's legal victories and losses as it seeks to defend and protect the state constitution. Then we turn to questions about how to make government more efficient. North Carolina taxpayers could get more bang for their bucks if state agencies' budgets were tied more closely to the agencies' basic goals. That's the assessment of State Auditor Beth Wood. She recently recommended a process to state lawmakers that would boost the importance of government performance measures in the budgeting process. Next is concern about use of taxpayer dollars related to a $17 million rail spur at the Global TransPark. No one plans to use the spur. Spirit Aerosystems lobbied for the spur during the incentive negotiations that brought that company to the TransPark, but Spirit has no plans to use the spur. Sen. Debbie Clary, R-Cleveland, Rep. Edgar Starnes, R-Catawba, and Rep. David Lewis, R-Harnett, raised concerns about the spur during a recent legislative debate. That's followed by a look at politics and campaign promises. Republicans running in 2010 legislative elections promised to pursue more business-friendly policies than their Democratic counterparts. After winning those elections, the GOP has had a year to put its policies in place. John Rustin, executive director of the N.C. Free Enterprise Foundation, discusses his group's recent ratings of the General Assembly's business policies. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Local Government Studies Michael Sanera discusses a new report that details work by some North Carolina counties to privatize some services. Sanera also discusses areas of privatization some counties say they tried, but to poor results.

CJ Radio #444: Did North Carolina Voters Send a Signal?

Sun, 20 Nov 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Political watchers say last week's local election results across our state could foreshadow what's to come in the 2012 elections. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson examines the results of mayoral elections, sales tax hikes, and the trends that have emerged. Then we turn to the ongoing controversy over requiring a photo I.D. to vote. Polls consistently show North Carolinians overwhelmingly support a requirement for voters, but Gov. Beverly Perdue vetoed a bill this year to put voter ID in place. Hans von Spakovsky, senior legal fellow and manager of the Civil Justice Reform Initiative at the Heritage Foundation, explains why voter ID makes sense for North Carolina and other states. Next we turn to pre-K education issues. Perdue wants state lawmakers to commit another $30 million for the academic pre-kindergarten program formerly known as More At Four. But some legislators have concerns about the program's mounting costs. You'll hear highlights from a recent discussion on the topic involving Rep. Nelson Dollar, R-Wake, and Deborah Cassidy, director of the N.C. Division of Child Development. That's followed by analysis of the economic value of education. Politicians and pundits offer nearly universal support for the notion that people should pursue more education to boost their economic prospects. But Stephen Miller, assistant professor of economics at Western Carolina University, offers at least one reason why education can be overrated. Miller discusses the impact of a factor known as "ability bias." And finally, the lifting of the cap on public charter schools has resulted in new applications to create and operate the innovative schools. Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation director of education studies, discusses the schools' impact on K-12 education, why parents find the schools so attractive, and the student achievement in the schools.

CJ Radio #443: Is Capitalism as Unfair as Protesters Claim?

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Protesters associated with the Occupy Wall Street movement say the wealthiest 1 percent of the population is unfairly benefitting at the expense of the other 99 percent. Protesters also take aim at U.S. corporations. But are their claims about capitalism true and accurate? John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the anti-capitalism arguments. Then we turn to state money woes. North Carolina owes the federal government more than $2.5 billion because of loans the state accepted to pay unemployment benefits. The state could pay the money back through higher tax rates, but some lawmakers are searching for other options. You'll hear highlights from a recent legislative debate on the topic. Next is a look at the state's retirement system. The General Assembly's Program Evaluation Division ranks North Carolina's state government retirement system No. 6 among 84 similar plans across the country in terms of its funding status. That high ranking hasn't stopped lawmakers from questioning how the sluggish economy could affect the retirement system's future. That's followed by a look at political debates. We often hear the debates framed as Republican vs. Democrat or conservative vs. liberal. But Dr. C.L. Gray, founder of Physicians for Reform, writes in a recent book, The Battle for America's Soul, that many of our most critical political debates involve distinct world-views that have divided people for more than 2,000 years. And finally, we look at the view of the Founders about today's policy decisions. John Locke Foundation Director of Research Michael Sanera and North Carolina History Project Director Troy Kickler explains the Federalist and Anti-Federalists vision of our country, and how each contingent would view today's policy moves.

CJ Radio #442: Coverage of Occupy Protests Showcases Media Bias

Sun, 06 Nov 2011 09:00:00 -0500

The mainstream media says the Occupy Wall Street movement is the mirror image of the Tea Party movement. But is it really? And is the protest movement receiving the same media scrutiny garnered by Tea Party events and groups? Carolina Journal Publisher Jon Ham analyzes media coverage nationally and in North Carolina, and gives a first-hand account of what he saw at the Occupy Raleigh protest in downtown. Then we turn to North Carolina's recent high-profile "loss" to South Carolina in an economic incentives battle involving more than 1,000 new tire plant jobs. The event could lead to changes in North Carolina policy. Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, says he favors a comprehensive review of the Tar Heel State's program for rewarding tax breaks, grants, and other incentives to companies promising new jobs. You'll hear his comments, along with reaction from John Locke Foundation President John Hood. Then we turn to political spin surrounding unemployment numbers. Left-leaning pundits and politicians have complained in recent months about lost government jobs, while downplaying government's impact on the private-sector economy. Carolina Journal managing editor Rick Henderson says one reason for that focus is the political Left's reliance on a discredited economic concept called the "labor theory of value." Henderson discusses the impact of that theory on today's political debate. That's followed by a look at a lawsuit over city debt. The Wake County Taxpayers Association believes Raleigh voters should have a chance to vote before city government takes on new debt. The association is going to court to force Raleigh leaders to place a city charter amendment on the ballot. The group's lawyer, former Raleigh city council member Kieran Shanahan, explains the lawsuit and the Wake taxpayers' goal of increased voter oversight of city debt. And finally, we regularly hear calls for Americans to become more energy efficient, but are the programs really about energy or are they more about controlling behavior as dictated by the powerful elite? John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato delves into who wins and who loses in the energy policy debate and explains the difference between "energy" efficiency and "economic" efficiency.

CJ Radio #441: Buyer Beware: Universities May Ignore Donor Wishes

Sun, 30 Oct 2011 09:00:00 -0400

It's not uncommon for boosters of colleges and universities to donate money or property to their favorites. If you assume that recipients of these gifts automatically respect donor wishes, you would be wrong. George Leef of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy shares examples of donations gone wrong after university officials diverted money to other programs and expenditures outside the donors' wishes. Then we turn to politics. Independent voters are playing an increasingly important role in determining the outcome of American elections. That's the conclusion reached in the recent book The Declaration of Independents. Authors Nick Gillespie of Reason.com and Matt Welch of Reason magazine recently discussed key themes from the book during a presentation at Duke University. You'll learn why they believe libertarian views can help fix American politics. Next we explore the role of corporations in society. The late economist Milton Friedman famously argued that a corporation's sole social responsibility is to make profits for its shareholders. John Locke Foundation vice president for research Roy Cordato analyzes Friedman's writing on the topic and offers his own theory of corporate social responsibility. That's followed by a serious problem facing North Carolina. Lawsuits and challenges from the U.S. Justice Department have forced North Carolina government to scramble in attempts to fix problems with the state's adult care homes. You'll hear highlights from a recent legislative debate on the topic, featuring comments from state Health and Human Services Secretary Lanier Cansler, Sen. Tommy Tucker, R-Union, and Rep. Nelson Dollar, R-Wake. And finally, Becki Gray, Vice President for Outreach for the John Locke Foundation, reviews the work being done by legislative study commissions, including assessments being done on state assets and oil and gas exploration.

CJ Radio #440: Sec. of Education Clarifies Obama Jobs Plan to JLF

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 09:00:00 -0400

President Obama recently told a North Carolina audience that his jobs bill contains funding to save 13,000 North Carolina jobs for teachers, cops, and firefighters. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson examines the claim and reports on comments made by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan directly to CJ's inquiry about the numbers. Then we turn to the influence of sports on university campuses. Some supporters of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill called this summer for the firing of Chancellor Holden Thorp. Were they angry about academic standards? Graduation rates? The curriculum? No, Thorp angered them because he fired the football coach. George Leef, director of research at the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, discusses the impact of big-time athletics on universities in North Carolina. Next is a look at our state's economy. Amid much bad economic news, state lawmakers heard one positive report in recent weeks: North Carolina compiled a budget surplus during the opening months of the new budget year. Legislative economist Barry Boardman discusses the $135 million surplus and the likelihood of state revenues remaining in the black. That's followed by a look at a program designed to develop future leaders. As pundits and prognosticators focus on the 2012 election, we face constant reminders about the need for good leaders. The E.A. Morris Fellowship For Emerging Leaders is recruiting candidates now for its 2012 class. Director Karen Palasek outlines the Morris program's goals and discusses the type of North Carolinian who might benefit from participation. And finally, we talk with John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs Daren Bakst, who discusses the likelihood that the U.S. Supreme Court will accept the case and decide next year on the constitutionality of the president's health insurance program known as Obamacare. Bakst explains the split federal court decisions to date and what is likely to catch the Supreme Court's attention.

CJ Radio #439: Say What? Gov. Perdue Suggests Suspending Elections

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Gov. Beverly Perdue's recent speech before the Cary Rotary Club erupted into a national news story when she suggested suspending congressional elections in order to make leaders address the poor economy. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson looks at Perdue's comments, reaction from the media, and the conflicting explanations given by Perdue's spokespeople. He also weighs in on social media impact on the new election cycle. Then we turn to a Republican Party up-and-comer Florida Sen. Marco Rubio has become a rising star in the American conservative movement since his surprising win over a moderate Republican in the 2010 election. Rubio recently chose to deliver his first major foreign-policy address in North Carolina. You'll hear highlights from Rubio's discussion of American exceptionalism, China, Cuba, and immigration during his appearance for the Jesse Helms Center at Wingate University. Next is a look at surplus property. Some lawmakers want to know whether North Carolina government can sell some of the more than 11,800 buildings it owns across the state. Past history suggests that task might be tough. Legislators recently discussed the issue with the Department of Administration official who's leading a review of potential surplus state properties. That's followed by comments about the global warming movement. In the wake of Climategate, global warming alarmists continue to push measures that could have drastic negative impacts on the American economy. Patrick Michaels, senior research fellow for economic and policy development at George Mason University and senior fellow at the Cato Institute, recently edited the book Climate Coup: Global Warming's Invasion of Our Government and Our Lives. He discusses key themes from that book. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops makes recommendations for improving how North Carolina's teaching colleges train new classroom teachers.

CJ Radio #438: Counties Want Sales Tax Hikes; Will Voters Say OK?

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 09:00:00 -0400

At least three North Carolina counties will ask voters to hike the local sales tax by a quarter cent when they head to the polls in November. But Michael Sanera, the John Locke Foundation's Director of Research and Local Government Analyst, says the arguments made by the counties in support of the tax deserve careful scrutiny as more and more officials seek new streams of money for their coffers. Then we turn to analysis of the grassroots Tea Party movement. There's no question the movement has played an important role in American politics in recent years. State Rep. Dale Folwell, R-Forsyth, believes Tea Party activism served as a critical piece of the Republicans' puzzle in winning control of the North Carolina General Assembly in 2010. Folwell explained why during a recent presentation for a Triad-based Tea Party group. Next is a look at the debate over requiring a photo I.D. to vote in North Carolina. Lawmakers approved a bill this year to require voters to present photo identification at the polls, but Gov. Beverly Perdue vetoed the measure. Perdue cited a number of concerns about voter ID. In a recent presentation for the John Locke Foundation and Federalist Society, senior legal fellow Hans von Spakovsky of the Heritage Foundation countered Perdue's arguments. You'll hear highlights from that presentation. That's followed by a look at the highest court in the land. The U.S. Supreme Court recently returned to work, opening its term on the traditional first Monday in October. As the justices resume their business, former Bush administration Justice Department official Gregory Katsas has assessed major developments from the last Supreme Court term. He presented his findings in a presentation for the John Locke Foundation and Federalist Society. You'll hear highlights. And finally, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato looks at the impediment to more choices in health care due to a state law known as Certificate of Need (CON). A legislative committee is currently reviewing the law, which has been repealed in the majority of states. The law allows the state to decide who can and can't build medical facilities and offer medical services based on an arbitrary determination of where services are "needed" and who should provide them. Cordato says the law should be repealed since it hurts the very people it claims to protect.

CJ Radio #437: Dueling Jobs Plans: Which Policies Lead to Jobs?

Sun, 02 Oct 2011 09:00:00 -0400

North Carolina's unemployment rate is above 10 percent and has been above the national average for many months. The stubbornly weak economy is now the subject of dueling jobs plans from politicians seeking to answer the $64,000 question: What should we do to create jobs, and what should we avoid? John Locke Foundation President John Hood analyzes the approaches put forth by President Obama and Republicans and the likely impact each would have on the economy. Then you'll hear from the commander in chief on a recent visit to North Carolina. President Obama packed N.C. State University's Reynolds Coliseum with cheering supporters as he touted the benefits of his American Jobs Act. You'll hear highlights from the president's speech and a critique from Roy Cordato, John Locke Foundation vice president for research and resident scholar. Political actors in Washington are not alone in pursuing plans designed to boost job creation. N.C. House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg, has been discussing the General Assembly's job-creation efforts during a series of town hall meetings across the state. You'll hear highlights from one of Tillis' meetings. That's followed by a look at K-12 education reforms. In addition to a no-tax-hike budget, one of the key accomplishments in this year's legislative session was the lifting of the state's cap of 100 public charter schools. Darrell Allison, president of Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina, discusses the significance of that vote and other positive school choice developments in 2011. And finally, recent gains in the state's graduation rate have been met with cheers. But a new analysis by Terry Stoops, director of education studies for the John Locke Foundation, reveals that the state's graduation standards are alarmingly low, resulting in a large amount of needed remediation at the community college level. Stoops discusses the data and addresses whether or not North Carolina is really making progress when standards are taken into account.

CJ Radio #436: Same-Sex Marriage Amendment Lands on N.C. Ballot

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 09:00:00 -0400

The same-sex marriage debate has landed in North Carolina and state legislators have approved an amendment to the state constitution that would defend traditional marriage by defining it strictly as between one man and one woman. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains the amendment and the politics behind the scenes, as well as several amendments that didn't make it out of both chambers and onto the ballot during the legislative session. Next we turn to North Carolina's struggling economy. Our state might not be headed toward a second official recession, but the sluggish economic growth that's plagued the state in recent months is likely to continue in the near future. That's the conclusion N.C. State University economist Michael Walden reaches from his latest examination of leading state economic indicators. Walden discusses his findings and the types of changes that would help the North Carolina economy rebound. Then we turn to the heated debate among advocates over a constitutional amendment that, following a legislative vote, will appear on the May 2012 ballot and define marriage as the union of one man and one woman. Debate over that amendment involved more than just legislators themselves. You'll hear highlights from dueling news conferences discussing the pros and cons of adding a marriage amendment to the state's governing document. That's followed by a look at the fight against terrorism. In the 10 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, the United States has been free of major terrorist incidents. Juan Zarate, deputy national security adviser for combating terrorism from 2005 to 2009, recently discussed the national response to 9/11 during a public presentation at Duke University. He also offered his thoughts about our current safety level and the Obama administration's anti-terrorism policies in an exclusive interview with Carolina Journal Radio. And finally, President Obama has decided to delay implantation of an EPA regulation that would tighten air quality standards and cost roughly $90 billion to implement. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato explains the costs involved and questions why the president would ever implement this rule since he acknowledges the spectacular costs to business and the economy.

CJ Radio #435: Why is a Wake County Judge Controlling K-12 Policy?

Sun, 18 Sep 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Questions are swirling around North Carolina's program for kids in the pre-kindergarten age range. Gov. Beverly Perdue has issued an executive order telling legislators they must expand the program, and a Wake County judge seems to be backing her up. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops looks at Judge Howard Manning's role in the Leandro education litigation and discusses what the judge's end game might be and what legislators might do. Then we turn to property rights. Advocates won a major victory in North Carolina this year when state lawmakers voted to reform the state's annexation law. Andrew Taylor, professor of political science at N.C. State University, hopes lawmakers will deliver soon another property-rights victory. Taylor explains why North Carolina should reverse a recent expansion of the so-called "quasi-judicial process" for many local government land-use decisions. That's' followed by a look at the mechanism to keep a check on government. Republican legislators recently condensed the number of legislative oversight groups for state business. That doesn't mean the GOP is uninterested in legislative oversight. Rep. Nelson Dollar, R-Wake, touted the benefits of oversight during a discussion with a newly constituted legislative group focusing on health care issues. Next we turn to school reform. Most politicians and pundits talk about the need for education reform. Still, little seems to happen on that front from year to year. John Redmond, retired director of executive education at UNC-Greensboro's Bryan School of Business and Economics, shares his theories about the reasons for the "glacial pace" of school reform. And finally, the N.C. Board of Elections has directed the Town of Chapel Hill to stop issuing "rescue" funds to local candidates who participate in the town's taxpayer funded election campaign program. John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst explains why a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling all but required the state to take the action. He also discusses what may be ahead for the state's involvement in taxpayer financing and why the concept is flawed.

CJ Radio #434: Did the State Budget Oust Thousands of Teachers?

Sun, 11 Sep 2011 09:00:00 -0400

School is back in session, and that means teachers are back in classrooms. But to hear some politicians and education bureaucrats tell the story, a lot of North Carolina teachers are out of work due to the new state budget. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops separates fact from fiction on teaching jobs and funding, including the typical job trends and job losses that occur during summer. Then we focus specifically on public charter school reforms. North Carolina lawmakers lifted the state's cap on public charter schools this year. Now advocates are looking ahead to other changes they would like to see in state charter school regulation. Eddie Goodall, president of the N.C. Alliance for Public Charter Schools, and Sen. Richard Stevens, R-Wake, address charter advocates' concerns. Next is a look at a state division some folks rarely hear about and which is getting more popular. While most state agencies are coping with budget cuts this year, the General Assembly's Program Evaluation Division is adding positions. Director John Turcotte recently discussed with lawmakers the reasons for his division's popularity with state budget writers. That's followed by a look the sputtering economy and the need for private-sector job creation. While many taxpayers and voters have been clamoring for government to help create new jobs, that's not government's proper role. That's the opinion of Duke University economist and political scientist Michael Munger. Munger discussed government's proper role in job creation during a recent presentation to the John Locke Foundation's Shaftesbury Society. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Research Michael Sanera talks about the prevalence of cities and counties investing in facilities and industries that compete with private business. Sanera discusses city-owned golf courses, other entertainment venues, and convention centers and why they fall outside the appropriate role of government and, in the process, disadvantage local businesses.

CJ Radio #433: Presidential Race Begins, So Does Media Spin

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 09:00:00 -0400

The 2012 presidential race is already in full swing. More than half a dozen Republicans are seeking the GOP nomination and Democratic President Barack Obama is seeking a second term. With the race underway, is the public getting an objective view of the candidates and their policy views? Carolina Journal Publisher Jon Ham assesses the media coverage so far. Then we turn to the state's stubborn dropout problem. The General Assembly has scrapped a program of public school dropout prevention grants, but lawmakers hope to reduce the dropout rate with a new pilot program targeting four counties. Rep. Bryan Holloway, R-Stokes, explains the reason for the change, while Rep. Susan Fisher, D-Buncombe, shares her concerns. Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies, analyzes the dropout grants and the new pilot program and offers his own ideas about targeting the state's dropout problem. Next is a look at the latest high-profile entrant into the 2012 presidential race - Texas' Republican Gov. Rick Perry. Some Charlotte-area voters recently had a chance to hear Perry discuss his focus on job creation and limited government during a campaign stop just across the state line in South Carolina. You'll hear highlights. Then, if you've spent much time investigating conservative public policy positions, you've likely encountered research from the Washington-based Heritage Foundation. A sister group, Heritage Action for America, works to transform those policy ideas into political reality. Deputy political director Jessica Anderson explains why and discusses how voters in North Carolina can help. And finally, making sense of monthly unemployment data can be tricky, especially when progressives attempt to draw a causal relationship between people without jobs and the state's new budget. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains what average North Carolinians should and shouldn't take away from the confusing numbers.

CJ Radio #432: Tax Rates, Tax Hikes, and Economic Prosperity

Sun, 28 Aug 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Like North Carolina, many states have faced budget holes. Some politicians seek to raise taxes to fill the hole, and that approach has led to a debate over whether and how tax rates and tax hikes impact a state's economic prosperity. John Locke Foundation Director of Fiscal Policy Studies Fergus Hodgson addresses that question and refutes the argument from progressives that rates and hikes don't impact behavior and, thus, prosperity. He explains that low and stable tax burdens set the stage for economic prosperity. Then we turn to disagreement among state legislators over scheduling of special sessions. The North Carolina General Assembly wrapped up the bulk of its work June 18, leaving Raleigh far earlier than most recent legislatures. But lawmakers returned to Raleigh in July to deal with redistricting, and they're scheduled to come back in September for another week of work. Some N.C. House Democrats raised concerns about that type of drawn-out legislative schedule. You'll hear highlights from a recent debate on the topic from the House floor. Next is a look at North Carolina history. Most of us remember learning about the Boston Tea Party during our American history classes in school. North Carolina's Edenton Tea Party attracts much less attention. N.C. History Project Director Troy Kickler recently discussed the significance of that Edenton event for a John Locke Foundation audience. You'll hear details. That's followed by a look at energy policy. As the federal government searches for a sensible energy policy, the correct answer is not "all of the above" - coal, nuclear, and gas plus wind, solar, biomass, and every other possible option. That's the assessment of David Schnare, director of the Center for Environmental Stewardship at the Thomas Jefferson Institute and director of the Environmental Law Center at the American Tradition Institute. Schnare outlines the problems associated with certain energy options. And finally, for the past few years, mainstream media has been filled with cries about saving the planet from global warming alarmists. Recently, however, those messages and stories have been muted. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato provides an update on the alarmism movement and federal policies that dovetail with the movement's goals.

CJ Radio #431: K-12 Conundrum: More Graduating, Fewer Proficient

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 09:00:00 -0400

New test scores are out for North Carolina public school kids, and they show mixed results. Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies, analyzes what it means when graduation rates are up but proficiency is down. He also compares results for traditional public schools and public charter schools. Then we turn to the economy. Ever since the economy moved into a recession in 2008, we've heard the name Keynes and the term "Keynesian" crop up in debates about the best way for government to boost economic growth. Paul Cwik, associate professor of economics at Mount Olive College, says we should spend more time focusing on another name: Say. Cwik explains how the economist John Maynard Keynes twisted the theory of earlier political economist Jean-Baptiste Say. Cwik also explains why Say's ideas are more relevant to our efforts to improve the economy now. Next is a look at history. The recent book Chosen For Destruction details the story of Holocaust survivor Morris Glass. Glass detailed his story with the help of retired Meredith College historian Carolyn Happer. Happer discussed key elements of the book in a recent presentation to the John Locke Foundation's Shaftesbury Society. You'll hear highlights. That's followed by more discussion about problems associated with American health care. One area that has attracted little attention is the negative impact of health care provider monopolies. Clark Havighurst, professor emeritus of law at Duke University, outlines problems associated with that monopoly power. And finally, we delve into recent discussion among academics and policymakers over North Carolina's growth and whether there will be enough water to meet the growing demand. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Local Government Studies Michael Sanera explains the two competing theories of dealing with scarcity of a vital resource.

CJ Radio #430: Will Legislators Vote to Amend NC's Constitution?

Sun, 14 Aug 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Next month state legislators are scheduled to convene in Raleigh to consider an array of constitutional amendments. Most believe the list will include a bill that would define marriage as between one man and one woman. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray reviews the possible amendments, which range from the same-sex marriage ban to ensuring greater private property rights to limiting the terms of the legislative leadership. Then we turn to the always controversial effort to require North Carolinians to present a photo I.D. before voting. Polls regularly show that North Carolinians favor a proposal to mandate I.D. Republicans in the General Assembly approved a bill to institute Voter ID, but Democratic Gov. Beverly Perdue vetoed the plan. You'll hear highlights from the N.C. House's debate on a vote to override Perdue's veto. Next is a look at fiscal policy with one of the most high-profile members of Congress during the recent debt-limit debate - North Carolina freshman Rep. Renee Ellmers, R-2nd District. Ellmers attracted publicity by urging colleagues to vote for a balanced budget amendment. She explained her support for the measure during a news conference with top U.S. House leaders. Speaking of federal debt, some observers question whether a certain level of government debt has negative consequences on economic growth. Thomas Grennes, professor of economics at N.C. State University, says research suggests the answer is yes. When debt consistently exceeds 77 percent of a nation's Gross Domestic Product, economic growth tends to slow. And finally, we find out from a veteran analyst of state unemployment data what each month's statistics mean and don't mean. Carolina Journal Executive Editor Don Carrington discusses his background in the field and helps weed out the political spin that typically accompanies the release of data from the North Carolina Economic Security Commission.

CJ Radio #429: Will GOP's Redistricting Maps Pass Legal Muster?

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Reaction to the new congressional and legislative maps has been fierce. Some say the new boundaries drawn by legislative Republicans are unfair, pack minorities into too few districts, and are overtly political. John Locke Foundation President John Hood addresses the critique and explains the role the federal Voting Rights Act plays in determining whether the maps will pass legal muster. Then we turn to a spirited legislative debate over regulatory reform. Despite a veto from Gov. Beverly Perdue, North Carolina lawmakers are moving forward with reform. You'll hear highlights from the N.C. House's debate on overriding Perdue's veto of Senate Bill 781. Supporters said the measure would help small businesses and entrepreneurs thrive, while critics said the legislation could block future regulations necessary for protection of public health and the environment. Next we delve into a point of contention over redistricting. During the debate over new maps, a key dispute involved race. Black lawmakers rejected N.C. House and Senate maps, even though those maps would likely lead to the election of more black representatives and senators in 2012. Reps. Nelson Dollar, R-Wake, and Mickey Michaux, D-Durham, debated the reason for black Democrats' opposition to the plan. That's followed by a fundamental question about the public and private sectors in this country. Has the debate over the proper role of government versus free markets reached a crossroads? Peter Frank thinks so. The Jesse Helms Center Free Enterprise Fellow and director of Wingate University's BB&T Program on the Moral Foundations of Free Enterprise discusses that crossroads and the impact of government intervention and market forces on our nation's future. And finally, many will remember the recent legislative session for debate over the state budget and how to address a massive deficit, but JLF's Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops says parents and supporters of school choice have progress to celebrate. He outlines key accomplishments, including the lifting of the charter school cap and a special-needs tax credit.

CJ Radio #428: N.C. Pension Fund Liability Stunner

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 09:00:00 -0400

A lot of promises have been made over the years to retired state workers. A new study of states' pension liabilities shows North Carolina faces a severe liability, and that is sounding the alarm bells to officials. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains the fiscal impact of the liability, how our state compares to other states, and the role of State Treasurer Janet Cowell's office in the pension fund. Then we turn to the role of economics in policy decisions. More people would have a better understanding of the way the world works if economists did a better job teaching the basic rules of their field. That's the idea George Mason University economics professor Peter Boettke shared during a recent presentation to Campbell University students. Boettke explains why a better understanding of economic principles would help people make better decisions about public policy. Next we turn to the state's job situation. Legislative Democrats and their allies in the state party have been complaining in recent weeks about job losses associated with the new state budget. Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, rebutted that criticism during a recent news briefing. You'll hear Berger explain why he believes the Democrats' comments are overblown. That's followed by an extensive look at a recent proposal to merge some of the state's smaller community colleges. According to legislative data, North Carolina taxpayers could save as much as $5 million a year by merging some of the state's 58 existing colleges. Catherine Moga Bryant of the General Assembly's Program Evaluation Division recently delivered that news to state lawmakers. You'll hear highlights from Bryant's presentation, along with the concerns of Scott Ralls, N.C. Community College System president. Then Jay Schalin of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy offers his view that the merger plan is worthy of serious consideration.

CJ Radio #427: Legislative Report Card

Sun, 24 Jul 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Supporters of limited government and fiscally conservative policies have been watching the new Republican-led General Assembly for signs of adherence to, or deviation from, these governing principles. So how did they do this session? John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray gives a report card on 11 key issues of importance to the Locke Foundation. She says it's a mixed bag. Then we turn to debate over K-12 curriculum. State lawmakers believe North Carolina high school students should spend more time studying the principles that formed the foundation of American government. You'll hear some of the debate this year about the Founding Principles Act, which creates a new mandatory semester-long course on principles such as inalienable rights, separation of powers, federalism, and the rule of law. Then, as legislators debate proposed election maps for North Carolina's General Assembly and the state's congressional delegation, some people would like to see a wholesale change in the way district maps are crafted every 10 years. Voter Bruce Springthorpe offered a computer-based alternative to the current partisan redistricting process during a recent public hearing. You'll hear details. That's followed by a look at the value of state think tanks like the John Locke Foundation, which produces Carolina Journal Radio. Lynn Sharp, vice president for leadership development at the State Policy Network, explains why North Carolina and the other 49 states benefit from having think tanks focusing on limited government, individual freedom, and personal responsibility. And finally, we delve into whether North Carolina's teaching standards and requirements are ensuring that the best and the brightest are leading students. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops explains the process and why many folks who could be offering their expertise to online students in particular aren't able to participate.

CJ Radio #426: Supreme Court Election Ruling Should End NC Program

Sun, 17 Jul 2011 09:00:00 -0400

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled unconstitutional Arizona's program of giving matching funds to candidates who participate in the state's program of taxpayer financing of election campaigns. John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst explains why the recent ruling should kill North Carolina's matching funds provision, which mirrors Arizona's program. Bakst also explains why North Carolina's entire program of publicly funded campaigns collapses when the matching funds provision is excised. He discusses what he recommends legislators should do in the wake of the ruling. Then we turn to the debate over federal spending and debt. The federal government faces trillions of dollars in unfunded liabilities, and that could mean major obstacles for young people trying to build successful careers in the years ahead. That's the warning two Heritage Foundation experts delivered in a recent presentation co-sponsored by the John Locke Foundation. Rob Bluey of Heritage's Center for Media and Public Policy and Bill Beach of the Center for Data Analysis explained why government overspending must be addressed soon. Next is a look at the ongoing debate over North Carolina's K-12 education program, funding, and achievement results. When it comes to funding, North Carolina courts have been dealing with school funding issues for more than a decade, as judges and N.C Supreme Court justices have dealt with the implications of the Leandro ruling that every school child is entitled to a "sound basic education." Wake County Superior Court Judge Howard Manning oversees the Leandro case. He shared his frustration recently about the slow pace of improvement in the state's public schools. That's followed by a look back at one of the most significant primary election campaign wins in North Carolina history. The Jesse Helms Center recently hosted a celebration of the 35th anniversary of Ronald Reagan's critical 1976 Republican primary victory in our state. Helms Center Foundation president John Dodd discusses that celebration and offers an update of the center's other major activities. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses a range of occupational licensing bills that have been introduced in the state legislature and why, if passed, the laws would erect barriers to entry for entrepreneurs looking to use their trade or skill to earn a living. Henderson also explains who really wins when these barriers are put in place and details some of the sillier pending legislation, such as one that would impact African hair braiders.

CJ Radio #425: Should N.C. Compensate Victims of its Eugenics Program?

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 09:00:00 -0400

One of the most troubling episodes in North Carolina history relates to the state's eugenics program - the program that oversaw the forced sterilization of around 7,000 citizens. John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst provides background on the program, its goals, and the current interest of state leaders in providing compensation to the victims. To that end, a governor's task force recently heard testimony from victims of the forced sterilization program. You'll hear from Elaine Riddick, who was sterilized at age 14. You'll also hear from Melissa Hyatt and Australia Clay, the children of two other eugenics victims. Next we turn to the proper role and conduct of oversight boards. When the General Assembly is out of session, state lawmakers assign much of their legislative power to year-round oversight boards. Sens. Tom Apodaca, R-Henderson, and Martin Nesbitt, D-Buncombe, recently debated the proper role of the majority and minority parties on those oversight groups. You'll hear highlights from that discussion. That's followed by a discussion of the economics term "market failure," which focuses on the rare cases in which free markets produce results that aren't in society's best interests. But Duke University professor John Staddon uses the term in a different way. Staddon, a professor of psychology, biology, and neurobiology, believes financial markets are designed to fail. He explains why. And finally, we often hear the claim that a college degree is worth $1 million more in earnings over a lifetime than a high school diploma. But is it really? Jenna Ashley Robinson of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy looks at the research on that subject and details the conclusion: that the value of a college degree is much less than $1 million. She also offers advice on how to best evaluate a college or university based on a particular student's needs, wants, likes, and dislikes, should a student decide to pursue a traditional degree.

CJ Radio #424: Perdue vs. the GOP: Takeaways From the Debate

Sun, 03 Jul 2011 09:00:00 -0400

The budget debate of the last several years has been filled with political charges and counter-charges. So who won the political debate? John Locke Foundation President John Hood discusses the political takeaways for both the Democrats and the Republicans as the 2012 election cycle begins. Then we turn to one of the most high-profile skirmishes during this year's legislative session, which pitted N.C. House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg, against the paid staffers of the N.C. Association of Educators. You'll hear Tillis' complaints about the teachers' group and reaction from Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies. Next is a discussion about a bill that cleared the state House this year and aims to discourage habitual thieves. Rep. Jim Crawford, D-Granville, explained the proposal during a recent debate. You'll hear his comments, along with those of Reps. Dan Ingle, R-Alamance, and Mike Stone, R-Lee. That's followed by a look at the legislative session's closing days. During that time, charter school advocates made a push for bipartisan support of a bill to lift North Carolina's cap of 100 charter schools statewide. You'll hear highlights from a news conference featuring Darrell Allison of Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina, along with Democratic lawmakers who supported lifting the cap. Durham fifth-grader Aniekan Affiah and her mother Colette also discussed their unsuccessful efforts to win a charter school slot. And finally, John Locke Foundation Local Government Analyst and Director of Research Michael Sanera explains budget pressures facing local governments and how they can protect citizen freedoms by following certain principles as it relates to revenue, services, and land use/property rights. The discussion comes as some counties have decided, and others consider, putting a quarter-cent sales tax hike on the fall ballot.

CJ Radio #423: Done Deal: New State Budget Takes Effect July 1

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 09:00:00 -0400

For the first time in years, North Carolina will have a budget in place in time for the start of the fiscal year on July 1. John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti discusses the details of the final budget, including spending on K-12 education and higher education, tax rates, and more. Coletti also comments on the politics of the budget deal, which saw the Republican led General Assembly override the veto of Gov. Beverly Perdue, with the help of five House Democrats. Then we turn to a brewing controversy in K-12 education. No one really knows how much North Carolina spends to educate illegal immigrants in public schools, but some lawmakers want to get a handle on that figure. Rep. Dale Folwell, R-Forsyth, sponsored legislation called the Safe Schools Act. One of its chief components called on school officials to ask about newly enrolled students' immigration status. Folwell explained the legislation during a recent debate. You'll hear his comments, along with criticism from Jose Rico of the N.C. Dream Team, immigrant Viridiana Martinez, and State Board of Education attorney Ann McColl. Next is a debate over an issue of key importance to teens and adults. Some state lawmakers want to study whether North Carolina needs to mandate formal driver's education classes for every new driver. You'll hear debate on the topic among Reps. Jamie Boles, R-Moore, Becky Carney, D-Mecklenburg, and Ric Killian, R-Mecklenburg. That's followed by a look at free markets. Many people fear that greedy businessmen will ruin the environment. Jonathan Adler, law professor at Case Western Reserve University, responds that free markets work better than government regulation to protect the environment. He explains why. And finally, recent headlines have touted big jumps in North Carolina's high school graduation rates. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops digs deeper into the new data and discusses what the numbers do and don't mean.

CJ Radio #422: John Edwards: The Most Important Case of His Life

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 09:00:00 -0400

At one time, many thought John Edwards might end up living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. But after his affair was exposed, his presidential dream derailed, and John Edwards now faces a federal indictment on six charges of campaign finance violations. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson lays out the legal case against Edwards, his likely defense, and what the case says about campaign finance regulations. Then we turn to education policy. Some state lawmakers believe North Carolina's public schools should develop a personal learning plan for every student. You'll hear Rep. Marcus Brandon, D-Guilford, promote the idea. Rep. Marilyn Avila, R-Wake, offers some support from across the aisle. Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies, also shares his concerns about the proposal. Next, Gov. Beverly Perdue vetoed a bill this year that would have exempted N.C. community colleges from a requirement to offer students low-interest federal loans. Legislators responded by putting together a series of bills to exempt 22 of the state's 58 community colleges from the federal loan program, without the threat of a second veto. You'll hear highlights from a debate about that proposal. That's followed by a look at political history. Four years before he won the election that made him the 40th president of the United States, Ronald Reagan won the 1976 North Carolina presidential primary. Pundits call that primary win crucial in the campaign to place Reagan in the White House. The Jesse Helms Center recently hosted a dinner celebration of the 1976 primary victory. You'll hear comments from master of ceremonies Jim Cain and from featured speaker Michael Reagan, the president's oldest son. And finally, with the budget nearing completion, legislators are turning their attention to other issues and priorities. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray outlines some of the issues that will be addressed, including redistricting, forced annexation, photo I.D. for voting, and more.

CJ Radio #421: Who's Really in Charge of K-12 Education?

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 09:00:00 -0400

The debate over how much state money legislative budget writers should provide to K-12 education in North Carolina has been fierce, and now a new twist. Wake County Judge Howard Manning has ordered a late June hearing on whether budget cuts meet the state's requirements for educating children. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops analyzes Manning's decade-old involvement in education policy, due to the Leandro court decision, and discusses what might satisfy the judge. Stoops also details the multiple players with their hands in our state's education bureaucracy. Then we turn to election politics. After Democrats won big in the 2008 election and Republicans responded with a major victory in 2010, it's hard to say what will happen in 2012. Stephen Hayes, senior writer for The Weekly Standard and contributor to Fox News, offers his thoughts about President Obama's chances for re-election. Next up is a discussion of health care and health insurance. Gov. Beverly Perdue vetoed a bill this year that would have forced Attorney General Roy Cooper to join a lawsuit with 26 other states challenging the 2010 federal health care law. Perdue and Cooper are Democrats. Republican legislative leaders have responded to the veto by filing their own friend-of-the-court brief in the case. House Majority Leader Paul Stam, R-Wake, recently explained why. That's followed by talk about the state budget. Gov. Perdue and legislative leaders continue to haggle over the road map. Before top GOP lawmakers announced a budget deal, senators debated their own budget plan. You'll hear key pieces of that debate, featuring comments from Sens. Richard Stevens, R-Wake, and Linda Garrou, D-Forsyth. And finally, we turn to legislative efforts that appear to target one North Carolina business: Alcoa. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson details three legislative bills that, one way or another, would impact the Stanly County business and potentially imperil its survival if passed. Henderson also updates the state's efforts to take over hydroelectric dams from Alcoa.

CJ Radio #420: Ex-Easley Aide Ruffin Poole Heads to Prison

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 09:00:00 -0400

He was once so close to Gov. Mike Easley that many referred to him as "the little governor." But now Ruffin Poole is heading to federal prison on an income tax evasion charge. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson gives an eyewitness account of the courtroom drama as the judge handed down the sentence and questioned attorneys about the case that began as a corruption investigation and ended in a plea deal on one count of tax evasion. Then Carolina Journal investigative journalist Don Carrington discusses the 20-year legacy of the publication, including key breakthrough stories he investigated and reported on, including the 1997 secret slush fund, the activities of Mike and Mary Easley, and the infamous Randy Parton Theatre in Roanoke Rapids. Next we turn to energy policy. Some North Carolina lawmakers believe North Carolina can reap a financial windfall from deposits of natural gas located underground and off the coast. Sen. Bob Rucho, R-Mecklenburg, recently touted the benefits of legislation called the Energy Jobs Act. You'll hear his comments, along with concerns from Sen. Stan White, D-Dare. That's followed by an in-depth look at President Andrew Johnson's fascinating life and legacy. The N.C. History Project recently co-hosted a forum highlighting the Raleigh native, the 17th president of the United States and the first president to face impeachment. You'll hear comments from both of the forum's featured speakers. Paul Bergeron, professor emeritus of history at the University of Tennessee, discusses key aspects of Johnson's political philosophy, including the ideas that led to bitter conflicts with the Congress that put him on trial in 1868. And, trial attorney David O. Stewart, author of Impeached: The Trial of Andrew Johnson and the Fight for Lincoln's Legacy, delves into the details of the first Senate trial of a sitting president for alleged "high crimes and misdemeanors."

CJ Radio #419: What is the Best Way to Spur Job Creation?

Sun, 29 May 2011 09:00:00 -0400

With North Carolina's unemployment rate at 9.7 percent, the question of what to do to spur job creation is critical, and both Gov. Beverly Perdue and the GOP-led General Assembly have their proposals. How do they compare in terms of their impact on job creation and job loss? John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti discusses a Beacon Hill Institute economic analysis of both plans. He also discusses the area on which the governor and the legislature agree - reducing the corporate income tax rate - and that policy's impact on the economy. Then we turn to national politics. The American political scene has changed drastically since voters gave Barack Obama a clear victory in the 2008 presidential election. Jonah Goldberg, National Review Online editor-at-large, has been fascinated by the changes. He discusses their significance for the future of American politics. Next, some state lawmakers are pushing for changes that would limit local governments' ability abuse the power of eminent domain. You'll hear a recent debate on the topic featuring House Majority Leader Paul Stam, R-Wake, and Rep. Mickey Michaux, D-Durham. That's followed by a look at a spirited debate that has bogged down in recent weeks. Legislative leaders still hope to reach a deal on lifting North Carolina's charter school cap. Meanwhile, the head of the National Alliance of Public Charter Schools sees positive signs for the charter movement across the country. Peter Groff shares his thoughts about recent charter school developments. And finally, more and more, Gov. Beverly Perdue is eschewing traditional news conferences and making major announcements such as vetoes on social media including YouTube. Carolina Journal Publisher Jon Ham discusses the governor's actions and how it might impact the public's access to information.

CJ Radio #418: Does Bigger Government Mean Better Services?

Sun, 22 May 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Debate over the best way to spend public money and sell North Carolina as a place to do business is to be expected, especially during a budget year. But John Hood, president of the John Locke Foundation, says the divide is widening between fact and fantasy surrounding the debate. He explains why. Then we turn to talk about monitoring a precious resource. It's been a while since North Carolina has faced the threat of severe drought, but that hasn't stopped state lawmakers from looking into ways the government can play a greater role in overseeing water use. You'll hear highlights of a recent water allocation study, as explained by Richard Whisnant of the UNC School of Government and Bill Holman of Duke University's Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions. Joseph Coletti, John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies, will react to the study's recommendations. Next we turn to national politics. Stephen Hayes of Fox News and The Weekly Standard offered his thoughts about the 2012 presidential election during a recent John Locke Foundation Headliner luncheon in Raleigh. In an excerpt from that speech, Hayes discusses the impact of Osama bin Laden's death on President Obama's re-election chances. That's followed by an examination of liberal feminism. Should feminists declare victory and go home? Conservative columnist and author S.E. Cupp says yes. Cupp says present-day feminism has little relevance to today's women, who face fewer gender-related barriers than prior generations. Cupp says today's radical feminists often do more harm than good. And finally, we look at property rights legislation making its way through the General Assembly. John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst updates the landscape on eminent domain power and forced annexation power.

CJ Radio #417: Grading the North Carolina House Budget

Sun, 15 May 2011 09:00:00 -0400

A milestone has been reached in North Carolina's budget battle, with the House version passed and the Senate now looking at its version before the two are reconciled, passed, and sent to the governor for her signature or veto. Joe Coletti, John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies, explains the details of the House version, compares it with Gov. Perdue's priorities, and offers improvements. Then we turn to efforts to prohibit so-called predatory lending. Some state legislators want to change North Carolina's rules for the consumer loan industry. They're speaking out against the industry's so-called "predatory lending," but Harold Black, professor of financial institutions at the University of Tennessee, offers a different perspective. He says rules designed to restrict so-called "predatory" lending end up hurting the consumers they're designed to protect. Next is a look at a key responsibility of the new Republican-led General Assembly. As Republican legislative leaders move forward with their plans to redraw state congressional and legislative election maps, advocates are speaking out for reform of the way those maps are drawn. Reps. Rick Glazier, D-Cumberland, and William Current, R-Gaston, discuss a bill designed to create an independent redistricting commission with rules designed to limit the amount of politics involved in the map-drawing process. That's followed by a look at the influence of the environmental movement. One analyst says the movement appears to have waned in recent years. Steven Hayward of the American Enterprise Institute and Pacific Research Institute explains why he believes the radical environmental lobby has little impact on public policy these days. And finally, Michael Sanera, Local Government Analyst for the John Locke Foundation, discusses the cash reserves held by local governments and the pressure from some state legislators on cities and counties to tap those reserves to fill any holes that may come from reduced state funding.

CJ Radio #416: Debunking the Myths of 'High-Speed' Rail

Sun, 08 May 2011 09:00:00 -0400

It's called high-speed rail - a proposed $461 million expansion and upgrade of North Carolina's rail route between Charlotte and Raleigh. But should North Carolina accept the federal grant? John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti rebuts myths associated with the project as it relates to air quality, train speed, and road congestion. He also peels back the veil on dubious job numbers supporters cite for the project and reveals the numbers have been inflated. Then we turn to auto insurance reform and one analyst's conclusion that North Carolina's system penalizes good drivers to help subsidize bad drivers, and it guarantees profits for private companies. Eli Lehrer, vice president of the Heartland Institute, recently prepared a report for the John Locke Foundation highlighting these flaws in the current system. Lehrer also recommends a series of changes that would make the auto insurance system better for most drivers. Next is a look at the contentious issue of medical malpractice reform. North Carolina legislators are debating potential changes to the state's rules for medical malpractice lawsuits. You'll hear Rep. Jonathan Rhyne, R-Lincoln, outline and defend proposed changes, while Rep. Bill Faison, D-Orange, a defense lawyer, argues against the reform proposals. That's followed by a look inside recent rulings by the state Supreme Court. Thousands of lawyers spend much of their time dissecting the rulings and proceedings from the U.S. Supreme Court, but North Carolina's Supreme Court has attracted much less scrutiny. Now the Federalist Society hopes to shine more light on North Carolina's highest court. Attorney Philip Romohr recently discussed for a Federalist Society audience his analysis of N.C. Supreme Court decisions in 2010. You'll hear details. And finally, Carolina Journal reporter David Bass discusses multiple pieces of legislation on social issues such as abortion, funding for Planned Parenthood, and same-sex marriage. The bills are making their way through the General Assembly in a year that has fiscal matters dominating the public discussion. Bass explains the likelihood that some of the bills will end up as law, and the motivations behind advocates on both sides of the issues.

CJ Radio #415: Really? 5,000 Jobs With 'High-Speed' Rail Project?

Sun, 01 May 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Controversy continues over whether North Carolina should accept nearly $500 million in federal funds for a so-called high-speed rail project. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson explains the proposed upgrade the system between Raleigh and Charlotte, and why claims by supporters that the project will add nearly 5,000 much-needed jobs is dubious at best do to a concept called "job years" which was used to figure the impact. Then we turn to Gov. Perdue. One of Perdue's vetos this year targeted a bill designed to shore up the finances of the State Health Plan for state workers, teachers, and government retirees. For the first time, the legislation would have required health plan members to pay a monthly premium. Before Perdue placed her veto stamp on the bill, the idea already had generated heated debate. You'll hear highlights from the state Senate's discussion of State Health Plan finances. Next, we delve into why some state lawmakers hope stiffer penalties will help cut back the number of drunk-driving cases in the state's court system. Rep. Tim Moore, R-Cleveland, explains key provisions of a measure dubbed Laura's Law, honoring a Gaston County teen killed by a drunk driver who had been charged with multiple offenses before the fatal incident. That's followed by a look at freedom and taxation. North Carolina reached Tax Freedom Day April 6. National Tax Freedom Day was April 12. But if we count federal deficit spending, American taxpayers still have not worked long enough this year to cover all of their government obligations. Joseph Henchman, tax counsel and director of state projects for the Tax Foundation, describes Tax Freedom Day and explains how it can help taxpayers understand the sacrifices they make to pay for government operations. And finally, as state budget writers eye potential cuts to the UNC System, just how much bank for the buck do taxpayers receive from professors? Jay Schalin, senior writer for the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy takes issue with the system's claim about professorial workload. Schalin explains why and how much money could be saved if professor were required to have a greater workload. He also discusses why professors are no longer in such great demand across the country.

CJ Radio #414: Do Facts Support Jim Black’s Denial of Corruption?

Sun, 24 Apr 2011 09:00:00 -0400

He served more than three years in a federal prison on corruption charges, but six months after being released from prison early, disgraced former N.C. House Speaker Jim Black is giving interviews in which he denies key elements of the case against him. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson compares the facts of the case with Black's new statements and discusses what the powerful former Democratic legislator may do in the future. Then we turn to one of the fascinating legislative discussions on Jones Street in Raleigh. While North Carolina legislators have engaged in partisan battles over a number of issues, measures such as Phoebe’s Law have generated bipartisan support. The measure would set up a pilot program of speed cameras in highway work zones and school zones. You'll hear Reps. Jonathan Jordan, R-Ashe, Rick Glazier, D-Cumberland, Tom Murry, R-Wake, and Becky Carney, D-Mecklenburg, debate the issue. That's followed by the contentious disagreement over whether North Carolina should accept $461 million in federal stimulus money to pursue high-speed rail projects. Rep. Ric Killian, R-Mecklenburg, sponsored a bill that would require authorization from the General Assembly before the N.C. Department of Transportation could accept the stimulus dollars. You'll hear Killian's argument in favor of the bill, along with criticism from Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx. Then we turn to remarks made in North Carolina by one of the most popular Republican supporters of libertarian views. Now that his party has won control of the U.S. House, Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas, sees little change in his role of pushing for a limited, constitutional government that protects individual liberty. Paul outlined his priorities during a recent presentation to the N.C. State University chapter of Young Americans for Liberty. And finally, since 2005, the North Carolina History Project has sought to shine the light on resources and personalities that have been forgotten or overshadowed in our state. NCHP Founding Director Troy Kickler discusses the new expansion of the organization with an office in Edenton, a town that played a key role in our country's and our state's constitutional history, as well as the advancement of women in political movements.

CJ Radio #413: Will Redistricting Greatly Change the Map?

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Some say money and grassroots support are the factors that determine who North Carolinians elect to Congress and the state legislature. But, redrawing the actual districts from which the candidates run is a major factor as well. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray explains redistricting, including the court rulings that dictate much of what Republicans, who control the process this time around, can do. Then we turn to the debate over property rights in our state. While lawmakers have been discussing a potential statewide moratorium on forced annexation and an overhaul of North Carolina's 50-year-old annexation rules, they've also been debating the repeal of several recent annexations. You'll hear highlights from the recent debate about Rocky Mount's controversial annexation of about 1,700 people in the Oak Level community. The N.C. House voted to overturn that annexation. Next is a debate over the Unborn Victims of Violence Act. The N.C. House has approved a measure dubbed Ethen's Law, or the Unborn Victims of Violence Act. Rep. Edgar Starnes, R-Caldwell, explains how the act would treat an attack on a pregnant woman as an attack on two distinct victims. Rep. Deborah Ross, D-Wake, offers opposition to the bill. That's followed by a look at a new group in North Carolina related to health care. Government involvement in health care can skew the important doctor-patient relationship, but a group called the Benjamin Rush Society hopes to protect that relationship. Tied to the Pacific Research Institute, the new society is building North Carolina chapters at Duke and Wake Forest universities. Executive Director Megan Barth explains what the Benjamin Rush Society hopes to accomplish in North Carolina and across the country. And finally, Jenna Ashley Robinson of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy discusses a new website that brings together good and not-so-flattering information about North Carolina colleges and universities. She explains what can be found at www.nccollegefinder.org

CJ Radio #412: Counties Push For Sales Tax Rate Hike

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Local officials across North Carolina are bracing for what they fear will be cuts in their state funding. The answer, for some, is to push for hikes in the local sales tax rate. John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Local Government Analyst Michael Sanera explains the tax-raising mechanisms given to local governments by a previous General Assembly and reviews the history of votes on the sales tax hike and land transfer tax hike. Then Locke Foundation Health and Fiscal Policy Analyst Joe Coletti discusses North Carolina's need for Medicaid relief and the reasons last year's health reform law impedes the state's ability to receive that relief. Coletti also discusses efforts by other states to alter Medicaid mandates and bring Medicaid costs into line with states' ability to pay. Next we turn to widespread support received by a recent legislative effort. A unanimous Senate recently endorsed Senate Bill 16, which would require N.C. law enforcement officers to seek a blood sample from any person criminally charged in a case of death by vehicle. Sens. Don East, R-Surry, and Doug Berger, D-Franklin, explain their support for the bill. That's followed by a look at student assignment policies. For more than a year, North Carolina's largest public school system has been dealing with a fight over its school assignment policy. The dispute has been described as "busing for diversity vs. neighborhood schools." The John Locke Foundation and Campbell Law School Federalist Society recently hosted a debate on the topic. Carolina Journal Radio interviewed both debaters. Richard Kahnlenberg, senior fellow at the Century Foundation, is described as the "intellectual father of the economic integration movement" in K-12 schools. Kahlenberg makes the case for student assignments that focus on diversity. Abigail Thernstrom, vice chair of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and adjunct scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, opposes forced busing for any purpose. Thernstrom explains why the debate over busing makes her feel as if she’s entered a "time warp."

CJ Radio #411: Does Gov. Perdue Have the Authority to Move Money?

Sun, 03 Apr 2011 09:00:00 -0400

When Gov. Perdue announced plans to borrow nearly $500 million from several state budget accounts in order to pay income tax refunds in a timely manner, people waiting for those refunds cheered, but other folks, including retired North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Bob Orr raised red flags. Orr, head of the North Carolina Institute for Constitutional Law, explains constitutional concerns about moving money from certain pots to other pots, despite claims by state controller David McCoy, who says the moves are within the governor's authority. Orr also discusses legislative efforts to require a photo I.D. to vote in North Carolina and the constitutional issues at play. Then we turn to local tax options. Voters across North Carolina have rejected every proposed land-transfer tax increase placed on local ballots since 2007. Now some state lawmakers want to take that particular form of tax increase off the table. You'll hear highlights from a recent debate on a bill to repeal the land-transfer tax option for North Carolina counties. Next is an update on legislation related to public charter schools. State lawmakers have spent much of their time this year haggling over a bill to lift North Carolina's statewide cap of 100 charters. Sen. Richard Stevens, R-Wake, explains why the idea has attracted so much interest among education reformers. That's followed by a look at corporate welfare as practiced in North Carlolina. Fans of free markets do not like the targeted grants and tax breaks government offers particular businesses. But if North Carolina is unwilling to get rid of this type of incentive, Jeanette Doran says lawmakers ought to tie the tax breaks and grants to a "but for" provision. The senior staff attorney at the N.C. Institute for Constitutional Law says "but for" language would force businesses and government agencies to show that the targeted company would not have moved to North Carolina or expanded its operations here without the taxpayer-funded incentive. And finally, with April 15 approaching, most of us are focused on getting our federal and state income taxes filed. What we pay in local taxes usually doesn't get much of our attention, but a new John Locke Foundation report helps put the spotlight on local tax burdens. JLF Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti analyzes the average local tax burden in our state and explains why and how the report can help average North Carolinians assess the value of local services versus taxes paid.

CJ Radio #410: The Impact of Public Sector Collective Bargaining

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 09:00:00 -0400

The tug-of-war between Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and public sector unions has stirred talk about North Carolina's law that prohibits public sector collective bargaining. Unions want the law overturned, but local officials are wary. John Locke Foundation President John Hood explains North Carolina's law, the history of unionization in our state, and the impact on taxpayers when unions are allowed to collectively bargain for wages and other items. Than we turn to comments from a champion of conservative principles. Many North Carolina conservatives look south of the state line for an example of a U.S. senator who's willing to buck the Republican Party when it strays from conservative principles. That senator, South Carolina's Jim DeMint, recently visited the Charlotte area to discuss America's challenges, including government overspending. You'll hear highlights from his presentation. Next is a look at a key property rights issue. As some lawmakers push for major changes to North Carolina's 50-year-old annexation law, they're also seeking a moratorium on forced annexation. Sen. Andrew Brock, R-Davie, explained why during a recent debate. You'll hear his comments, along with a response from Sen. Bill Purcell, D-Scotland. That's followed by a look at global warming zealotry. Scientists continue a fierce debate about the potential danger of global warming, but much of the discussion in public school classrooms is one-sided. Paul Chesser, executive director of the American Tradition Institute, explains how a group called the Alliance for Climate Education is trying to indoctrinate students through a series of public school presentations. And finally, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato explains that what's called market-based environmentalism is nothing more than command and control central planning -- the hallmark of socialism. Cordato explains why some well known conservatives champion the approach, much to his chagrin, and why the free market should be allowed to work.

CJ Radio #409: Perdue Vetoes Set Up Policy & Political Battles

Sun, 20 Mar 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Gov. Beverly Perdue recently used her veto pen on two high profile pieces of legislation that were passed by the GOP-led General Assembly. The dispute sets up a battle over policy and politics on multiple fronts. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses the vetoes - on health care and spending - and the history of the veto in North Carolina and how the state's founders viewed executive power. Then we turn to another highly controversial issue that is making its way through the state legislature. As North Carolina lawmakers decide whether to reform the state's medical malpractice laws, Americans for Prosperity hopes they'll adopt "Texas-sized" legal reform. AFP North Carolina sponsored a recent luncheon on the benefits of medical malpractice changes. Participants heard a videotaped message from Texas Gov. Rick Perry, along with an in-person presentation from former Texas House Republican Whip Joseph Nixon. Next is the dispute over how to balance the state budget. Legislators looking for budget savings have been haggling over the future of targeted tax breaks designed to lure companies to North Carolina. You'll hear highlights from a recent debate on the issue. Rep. Harold Brubaker, R-Randolph, makes the case for diverting money from incentives programs to the state's more pressing needs, while Rep. Pryor Gibson, D-Anson, opposes the idea. That's followed by a discussion about school reform. You might not expect California to produce great ideas for reforming public schools, but that state's Parent Trigger is attracting attention from reform advocates from across the country. Bruno Behrend, director of the Heartland Institute's Center for School Reform, recently visited North Carolina to tout the Parent Trigger. It allows parents of a failing school to push for that school to be closed, transformed, or converted to a charter school. Continuing on the education front, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops discusses the debate over whether standardized testing for public school kids in North Carolina. The debate has ramped up with some legislators wanting to jettison some of the tests and others defending them as the only realistic way to assess student achievement.

CJ Radio #408: JLF Budget Plan Leads State to Fiscal Solvency

Sun, 13 Mar 2011 09:00:00 -0400

Gov. Beverly Perdue has proposed her budget for the next fiscal year that begins July 1, and the new Republican-led state legislature is now working on their version to address the estimated $2.4 billion budget deficit. How the two documents will be reconciled is the unanswered question. John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti discusses the key components of Perdue's proposal, the targets announced by the GOP, and his own alternative budget that returns North Carolina spending to mid-1990s levels and puts the state on a track toward fiscal solvency. Then we turn to more questions of debt and deficit. As state lawmakers debate the best way to plug a multibillion-dollar budget hole, leaders in Washington are also looking for ways to set the federal government's finances back in order. Stanford University economist Michael Boskin recently addressed the federal budget picture during the annual Pope Lecture at N.C. State University. He shares some of his concerns about government growth in an exclusive interview with Carolina Journal Radio. Next is a look at the latest statewide controversy in K-12 education. Some state lawmakers want to scrap four standardized tests used in high school classes across the state. Critics such as Rep. Bryan Holloway, R-Stokes, say the tests in subjects such as U.S. History and Algebra II do little to improve student achievement. Supporters such as Rep. Larry Bell, D-Sampson, say statewide standardized testing is the only way to ensure all students get the proper instruction in these important core subjects. That's followed by a look at the marketplace of ideas in higher education. You might expect a college campus to serve as the setting for the free flow of a wide range of ideas, but the actual range of discussion is limited by political bias. That's the case Jenna Ashley Robinson, outreach coordinator for the John W. Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, made during a recent public presentation. Robinson explains how liberal bias among college faculty members affects the campus discussion of important political and social issues. And finally, we turn to the state's rules for occupational licensing. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson analyzes two examples - African hair braiding and barbers - that have some folks scratching their heads. Henderson also discusses an incident related to the power of licensing in a case about Raleigh residents who have challenged the recommendations of the state Department of Transportation that resulted in an investigation of the residents for practicing engineering without a license.

CJ Radio #407: Analyst to Legislature: Repeal Bad Energy/Environment Law

Sun, 06 Mar 2011 09:00:00 -0500

The new Republican-led General Assembly is understandably focused on the state's $2.4 billion budget hole for next year. But will legislators deal with other issues? John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato discusses why the legislature should repeal bad energy and environmental policy that was signed into law several years ago. Senate Bill 3 requires utilities to produce a certain percentage of their power with so-called renewable sources, which Cordato says are costly and unreliable. Then we turn to politics and candidates for office. North Carolina maintains some of the nation's tightest restrictions on third-party and independent candidate access to the electoral ballot. A group called the Free the Vote Coalition hopes to loosen those restrictions. Founder Jordon Greene explains the group's goals, and you'll hear highlights from a recent news conference featuring Libertarian Brian Irving and Rep. Stephen LaRoque, R-Lenoir. Next we turn to a controversial new state law. Critics have raised red flags about the possible misuse of a government-run DNA database, but Attorney General Roy Cooper recently defended the database in a presentation to state lawmakers. Cooper calls the database an important tool in identifying suspects and clearing those who are innocent. That's followed by a look at the continuing debate over health insurance and health reform. A year after its passage, critics continue to raise concerns about the federal health care reform law. Sally Pipes, president of the Pacific Research Institute, has written an entire book on the topic called The Truth About Obamacare. Pipes shares some key points from that book. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops reviews the growth in K-12 courses over the past few years in North Carolina public schools. Stoops says the courses merit an audit. He talks about some of them and why so many courses raise costs and put greater demands on teaching resources, particularly for very specialized courses.

CJ Radio #406: Can Gov. Perdue Overcome Recent Media Revelations?

Sun, 27 Feb 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Gov. Beverly Perdue's job approval rating has been on the rise recently, but two stories threaten to hurt the governor's reputation. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses the indictment of a Perdue campaign donor and an ABC11 television story about a mid-1990s FBI investigation into then-Sen. Perdue's car accident and subsequent questions over Highway Patrol promotions. Then we turn to K-12 education. The charter school cap has attracted headlines, but school choice advocates are pushing the new Republican-led General Assembly to pursue other changes as well. You'll hear Dallas Woodhouse, state director of Americans for Prosperity, and House Majority Leader Paul Stam, R-Wake, discuss other school choice ideas up for consideration within the Legislative Building this year. Next is a look at the debate over reforming the health insurance and health care delivery system in this country. State lawmakers have been wading into the national health care debate, as they've considered a measure to exempt North Carolinians from ObamaCare's individual health insurance mandate. You'll hear Rep. Verla Insko, D-Orange, defend the mandate, while Rep. John Blust, R-Guilford, explains why critics are fighting it. That's followed by a discussion about economic freedom and its role as a key ingredient of economic growth. Beaulier, a Troy University economist, outlines the conditions that must be present to guarantee the freedom that promotes growth. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Research and Local Government Analyst Michael Sanera reviews rail projects in North Carolina. Charlotte has a rail system and now some officials in the Triangle are moving ahead with the idea, which would be funded in part by a local sales tax. Local officials must decide if they will put the tax on the November ballot in their respective counties. Sanera also discusses President Obama's plan for high-speed rail and the North Carolina leg of that proposed project.

CJ Radio #405: Will N.C. Escape the Federal Health Insurance Law?

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Twenty-six states will receive relief from the new federal health insurance law - at least temporarily - thanks to a federal judge's ruling that the law's individual mandate is unconstitutional. But North Carolina isn't one of those states. John Locke Foundation President John Hood explains why N.C. is left out, the relief other states will receive, and the state legislative effort to exempt N.C. from the unprecedented mandate that every person buy government-approved insurance or face a penalty. Next we turn to other issues being considered by the new Republican-led General Assembly. In the education arena, school choice issues could attract more attention in North Carolina this year because of the power change in Raleigh. Marquette University education professor Howard Fuller, a former Milwaukee public school superintendent and a leading national school choice advocate, recently visited the state. He shares his ideas about improving education options for families. Then we turn to energy supply. North Carolina could be sitting on a substantial fuel source: shale gas. State lawmakers recently discussed the topic. You'll hear assistant state geologist Kenneth Taylor's description of the possible shale gas supply, questions from Rep. Ruth Samuelson, R-Mecklenburg, about the gas's quality, and environmental concerns from Robin Smith of the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources. That's followed by a discussion of philanthropy. With the best of intentions, many philanthropists have made huge mistakes over the years. Martin Morse Wooster, senior fellow at the Capital Research Center, has catalogued some of the worst of those mistakes. He explains how many philanthropic endeavors end up wasting money. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops discusses K-12 reform issues that fall outside the debate over public charter schools. Stoops offers his view of tax credits for those who send their kids to private schools or who home-school, credits for educating disabled kids, teacher accountability, and merit pay for teachers rather than pre-determined, across-the-board raises determined by the legislature.

CJ Radio #404: Law School: Cash Cows Over-Promise on Degree Value

Sun, 13 Feb 2011 09:00:00 -0500

For many college students, law school is the goal. They dream of a six-figure starting salary and an office with a window at a prestigious law firm. But George Leef, research director with the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, says a law degree is often over-sold and under-delivers, and law schools know it. Leef explains the reality of the current over-supply of lawyers. He also discusses the barriers to entry in the profession. Then we turn a tax penalty imposed on a well known retailer. A recent N.C. court case took the N.C. Department of Revenue to task for assessing Food Lion's parent company more than $1 million in tax penalties. Legislative research staffer Greg Roney recently discussed the case with lawmakers. You'll hear highlights from that presentation, along with reaction from Sen. Dan Clodfelter, D-Mecklenburg, and Joseph Coletti, John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies. Next is a look at government's proper role in American health care, which continues to generate serious debate. The Benjamin Rush Society recently sponsored a forum on the topic at Duke University. Dr. Peter Kussin, associate professor of medicine at Duke, makes the case for increased government involvement, while Dr. Hal Scherz, surgeon and founder of Doctors 4 Patient Care, explains the drawbacks associated with government interference in the health care market. That's followed by a discussion of a serious cultural issue. Hillary Clinton told us that it takes a village to raise a child, but Jennifer Roback Morse responds that it takes a family to raise a village. The founder and president of the Ruth Institute, a project of the National Organization for Marriage, Roback Morse outlines the problems associated with government efforts to take over functions and duties that should be left to families. And finally, we talk with John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst about a legislative push to curb government power to take private property from private citizens. Bakst proposes a constitutional amendment to address eminent domain. He details why and the components of an effective amendment to protect private property rights.

CJ Radio #403: Did Gov. Perdue Pick Poker Over Liquor?

Sun, 06 Feb 2011 09:00:00 -0500

After saying she would look at the potential for privatizing North Carolina's government-run liquor business, Gov. Beverly Perdue has announced she will not support privatization. John Locke Foundation President John Hood thinks he knows why the governor is cool to the idea and what may come next. Could it be the governor will endorse legalizing and taxing video poker? Hood analyzes the implications. Then we turn to public education and what critics say is the controversial hire of retired Brigadier General Anthony Tata to lead the state's largest public school system. You'll hear comments from new Wake County school superintendent Tony Tata, along with reaction from Terry Stoops, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Services. Next is a look at the state's budget crisis from a veteran legislator. His political party is now in the minority, but Rep. Jim Crawford, D-Granville, has experience reaching across the aisle. Crawford has helped write budgets for both Democratic and Republican House majorities. He recently offered state business leaders an assessment of the current state budget picture. That's followed by a look at how and why people make the choices they do. Economists often consider people's choices based on their utility, but that framework can skew the real picture. That's the argument economist Petur Jonsson makes. Jonsson, chairman of the Department of Finance, Economics, Entrepreneurship, and Marketing at Fayetteville State University, places more emphasis on virtue in gauging how people choose to act. He explains why. And finally, Carolina Journal Publisher Jon Ham discusses media coverage of the Arizona shootings and the instant media conclusion that the grassroots Tea Party movement somehow was at fault. Ham also reflects on the role of journalism schools and the deficiencies in their training of young journalists.

CJ Radio #402: Is the Charter School Cap on the Chopping Block?

Sun, 30 Jan 2011 09:00:00 -0500

For several years now, supporters of public charter schools have been stymied in their efforts to convince enough legislators to lift or completely remove the arbitrary 100-school cap on public charter schools in North Carolina. But with a shift in legislative power from the Democrats to the Republicans, the cap may soon find itself on the chopping block. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops explains that while lifting the cap would be a very good policy move for parents, it would be a mere first step toward ensuring real innovation and choice in K-12 education. Stoops outlines his other recommendations for parental empowerment. Then we turn to a specific state budget burden that has been exacerbated by the poor economy. North Carolina's historically high unemployment rate in recent years has created an additional problem for state government: The state owes the federal government $2.5 billion for loans used to pay unemployment benefits. Kevin Carlson, assistant chairman for finance and administration at the N.C. Employment Security Commission, recently outlined the details of that debt for state lawmakers. You'll hear details, along with reaction from Joseph Coletti, John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies. Next we look at the scandal-plagued state crime lab. The State Bureau of Investigation continues to attract attention to efforts to clean up the embattled lab. Interim lab director Joe John recently explained to reporters the chief challenges in fixing the lab's problems, and SBI Director Greg McLeod touted efforts to seek dual accreditation for the lab. That's followed by a look at the continuing legal fight for more transparent and accountable government in our state. The N.C. Institute for Constitutional Law recently won a court battle with the N.C. Secretary of State's office over the availability of public records linked to a lobbying complaint. NCICL executive director Bob Orr calls the case a major victory for open government. And finally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking to force numerous businesses that emit greenhouse gases to obtain permits to do so. John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst explains why the latest EPA move reflects an extreme global warming agenda from the agency that's being advanced with a creative approach to federal law.

CJ Radio #401: GOP Takeover Prompts Basnight's Resignation

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 09:00:00 -0500

The General Assembly returns to work in the next week with Republicans wielding power in both the House and Senate for the first time in more than a century. Change at the top means a new Senate leader for the first time since 1992. Not only has Democrat Marc Basnight lost his top job as Senate president pro tem, he's resigning from the Senate one day before the new legislative session starts. Rick Henderson, managing editor of Carolina Journal, discusses Basnight's impact and the implications of his decision to step down from office. Speaking of stepping down, Erskine Bowles recently retired as president of the University of North Carolina system. But that doesn't mean Bowles is leaving the public stage. On his first official day of retirement, Bowles discussed his work with President Obama's debt reduction commission during a presentation to North Carolina bankers. The leadership change in the General Assembly means changes for Democratic Gov. Beverly Perdue. Perdue is urging the new legislative leadership to enact a series of major procedural changes, including new limits on the length of legislative sessions. You'll hear highlights from Perdue's discussion of the topic with state lawmakers. Government-run health care is "bad medicine." That's the assessment of libertarian syndicated columnist Deroy Murdock, a senior fellow at the Atlas Economic Research Foundation. Murdock explains why he believes the federal health care reform legislation enacted in March 2010 must be repealed. Earlier, we mentioned that Republicans have not held the upper hand in both chambers of North Carolina's General Assembly since the 19th century. Troy Kickler, director of the N.C. History Project, joins us to discuss the circumstances surrounding the GOP's last turn at leading the legislature.

CJ Radio #400: Carolina Journal Radio Marks Episode No. 400

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 09:00:00 -0500

Carolina Journal Radio has been documenting, dissecting, and analyzing politics and public policy for nearly eight years. In this 400th 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 Ed Meese. Next, North Carolina is not alone in facing major structural problems with its state budget. John Locke Foundation President John Hood recently analyzed the budget crises confronting state leaders across the country for an article in the new issue of National Affairs. Hood shares highlights from that piece. North Carolina and the nation have been struggling with a slumping economy for well over two years. Mark Vitner, managing director and senior economist at Wells Fargo in Charlotte, recently shared his 2011 economic projections with the N.C. Bankers Association. Vitner says there's plenty of bad news for North Carolina, but the outlook shows some signs of improvement. Next, even small-government conservatives usually concede that taxpayers should pay for public safety, a core function of government. But Edward Stringham, professor of capitalism and free enterprise studies at Fayetteville State University, says society would benefit by relying much more heavily on private law enforcement options. Next, federal health care reform was supposed to solve many of the problems associated with the American health care system. But as Joe Coletti, JLF Director of Health Care Services, explains, the nearly year-old law has produced many unintended consequences. Coletti focuses on the impact of a newly created federal high-risk pool.

CJ Radio #399: Gov. Perdue Calls For Reorganization of State Gov't

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 09:00:00 -0500

As Republicans prepare to take control of the state legislature, Gov. Beverly Perdue is recommending a reorganization of state government, along with several other major policy changes. John Locke Foundation Fiscal Policy Analyst Joe Coletti analyzes the governor's plans and recommends some of his own in order to close the state budget gap and address structural funding and taxing problems. Then we turn to funding of the UNC System. State lawmakers fund enrollment growth in the University of North Carolina system based on a complicated formula. A recent review from the General Assembly's Program Evaluation Division suggests that formula is deeply flawed. You'll hear details from the review's chief author, Michelle Beck, along with a response from UNC system chief of staff Jeff Davies. Next up is a look at the priorities of one member of the new governing majority in the legislature. When the state Senate returns to work this month, senators are expected to elect Republican Phil Berger of Rockingham County as the first new president pro tem since 1992. Berger recently discussed his priorities in a presentation to the N.C. Free Enterprise Foundation. You'll hear details. That's followed by a look at the future of a key grassroots movement. The Tea Party movement played a critical role in elections across the United States last year. Pundits and prognosticators wonder what's next for the movement. Bruce Gardner of Tea Party Western N.C. explains that his group is not ready to rest after the major electoral success of 2010. And finally, we'll analyze the issues that will and won't be priorities for a Republican-led General Assembly. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Outreach Becki Gray discusses what the GOP is likely to bring to the floor for debate and a vote. Some of the issues that will get a hearing, Gray says, have been tabled for years while Democrats controlled the chambers.

CJ Radio #398: The Most Interesting Stories of 2010

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 09:00:00 -0500

As we flip the calendar page to welcome 2011, Carolina Journal Radio looks back at some of the most interesting stories covered in 2010. First, we examine one of the most outrageous news stories uncovered during the debate about federal spending. They're called "stimulus" projects, but eight "stimulus" grants received by North Carolina and showcased in a new report put out by two Republican senators became the national punchline for jokes about the massive, ill-advised government spending plan that was touted as the solution to the country's ailing economy and business stagnation. John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti summarizes the eight projects, which are found on several North Carolina university campuses, and points out why they, in reality, do little or nothing to "stimulate" job creation and national economic recovery. Next we turn to frustrations over traffic congestion. Depending on when you travel to and from work, you might be intimately familiar with gridlock. Gridlock is the topic of the latest book from Randal O'Toole, senior fellow at the Cato Institute. Following the theme spelled out in his book's subtitle, O'Toole explains "why we're stuck in traffic and what to do about it." Next we take a look at the status of a key benefit for state government workers. The state government's health plan for government workers, teachers, and retirees should finish the budget year in the black, but there won't be much of a cushion in the event of unexpected expenses. The State Health Plan's Mona Moon delivered that message earlier this year to N.C. legislators. You'll hear details. That's followed by a look at one of the founding principles within the U.S. Constitution. It involves limited government. Limited government depends on a concept known as subsidiarity. Christopher Wolfe, co-director of the Thomas International Center and professor emeritus of political science at Marquette University, explains the concept and its importance to our system of government. Next, regardless of the outcome of 2010 legislative elections, lawmakers will face pressure from lobbyists next year to raise taxes. John Locke Foundation President John Hood explains which groups will be pushing for dollars and how lawmakers can, and why they should, balance the budget without raising taxes.

CJ Radio #397: Will N.C. Administer the ACT to All High-Schoolers?

Sun, 26 Dec 2010 09:00:00 -0500

Some North Carolina education officials like the idea of administering the ACT test to all high-schoolers in order to assess their abilities and achievement. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops looks into the idea and explains why some who were initially interested have since backed off the idea. He also discusses the use of testing in general as a way to gauge student achievement. Then we turn to the continuing debate over climate change and man-made global warming. While North Carolina's global climate commission has disappeared, the state still faces the threat of climate-related legislation at the federal level. Americans for Prosperity recently drew attention to the issue by hosting a viewing party in Raleigh linked to the United Nations climate summit in Cancun, Mexico. You'll hear highlights from AFP state director Dallas Woodhouse's briefing from Cancun, along with analysis from Roy Cordato, John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research and Resident Scholar. Next we discuss pressing mental health policy in North Carolina. After operating since the mid-19th century, the state-owned Dorothea Dix mental hospital near downtown Raleigh is closing down. N.C. Health and Human Services Secretary Lanier Cansler recently explained to state lawmakers that the hospital cannot continue operations without money to fund its services. That's followed by a look at the economic downturn and the American economic system. The recent financial crisis exposed problems with the American banking and monetary systems. George Mason University economist Lawrence H. White discusses those problems and offers some ideas for addressing them. And finally, we look at an Arizona taxpayer financing case that will be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court. Daren Bakst, the John Locke Foundation's Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies, explains that Arizona's law is similar to North Carolina's matching-funds program. Thus, the Court's ruling will have a serious impact, one way or the other, on the future of N.C.'s program, which now offers public funding for appellate judicial races and several Council of State races.

CJ Radio #396: Feds' Economic Plan: Good Idea or More Bad Policy?

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 09:00:00 -0500

If the agreement goes through as presented by President Obama and congressional Republicans, a number of economic initiatives will take effect in January, including the extension of the existing income tax rates and unemployment benefits for 13 additional months. John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti assesses the plan and whether or not it is likely to kick-start the economy, create private-sector jobs, and provide needed certainty to the business community. Next, new state Revenue Secretary David Hoyle says his department will need a new law from the General Assembly in order to send $2.3 million in tax refunds to 7,000 taxpayers. Hoyle recently explained why during a presentation to his former legislative colleagues. You'll hear Hoyle's comments, along with reaction from Sen. Dan Clodfelter, D-Mecklenburg. Then we turn to the issue of gubernatorial power. While Republicans have won control of the North Carolina General Assembly, Democratic Gov. Beverly Perdue still has some power to set state government policy. But John Locke Foundation President John Hood recently explained to a Charlotte audience that Perdue's powers are weaker than some governors in other states, thanks largely to decisions Democratic legislators made years ago. That's followed by a look at the state of gun rights. Despite some recent court victories, Americans' Second Amendment gun rights remain under attack. Former Georgia congressman and 2008 Libertarian Party presidential candidate Bob Barr is speaking out about the threats to Americans' right to bear arms. Barr, a National Rifle Associate board member, shares his concerns. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops discusses a recent call by some state education officials to use the ACT to assess all North Carolina high-schoolers. Stoops explains what has been proposed, the costs involved, why there is hesitation to implement the test, and the difference between the ACT and the SAT tests.

CJ Radio #395: Mike Easley Cops Felony Plea

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 09:00:00 -0500

The plea deal is done and former Gov. Mike Easley now goes down in history as the first North Carolina governor to be convicted of a felony connected to conduct in public office. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson details the deal, which includes a $1,000 fine, and he reviews unanswered questions related to the federal and state investigation of Easley. Henderson also discusses the immunity statute that appears to have protected Easley from legal exposure. Then we turn to national politics. Michael Barone, senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, has spent decades dissecting electoral trends and looking for messages voters send when they cast their ballots. Barone recently shared with a Charlotte audience his theories about the big Republican gains in 2010. You'll hear highlights from that presentation. Back in North Carolina, one of the chief issues the new Republican-led North Carolina General Assembly must tackle is a state budget with a hole of at least $3 billion. Rep. Marilyn Avila, R-Wake, recently discussed with a John Locke Foundation audience in Raleigh the approach she hopes colleagues will take as they plug the budget hole. That's followed by a look at the financial crisis, which has generated major changes for Charlotte, one of the nation's major banking centers. Charlotte Observer banking reporter Rick Rothacker documents many of these changes in the book Banktown. Rothacker discusses the tangible and intangible effects of the economic slump on North Carolina's Queen City. And finally, in January, the newly elected General Assembly will take up the state budget and other issues. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato details a number of policy reforms JLF hopes the legislature will address. They include the areas of property rights, the state lottery, renewable energy, and corporate welfare.

CJ Radio #394: Challenges Loom For UNC System as 2011 Approaches

Sun, 05 Dec 2010 09:00:00 -0500

The UNC System is facing a number of serious challenges heading into 2011, including how the 16-campus system will adjust to expectations from incoming President Tom Ross and how the system will fare in state budget negotiations. Jane Shaw, president of the Pope Center for Higher Education Policy, discusses the landscape as current President Erskine Bowles prepares to depart and a new General Assembly prepares to take control of the legislature. When those legislators arrive in Raleigh in January to face state budget cuts, they will likely focus at least some attention on Medicaid, the health insurance program for the poor and disabled. N.C. Secretary of Health and Human Services Lanier Cansler recently explained to lawmakers why Medicaid cuts can be hard to make. You'll hear his comments, along with reaction from Joseph Coletti, John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies. Then we turn to government transparency and accountability. It's hard for voters to keep track of their government when they can't tell what elected and appointed government officials are doing. The John Locke Foundation has been one of the most vocal groups in North Carolina pushing for increased government transparency. You'll hear highlights from a recent presentation on the topic from Becki Gray, JLF Vice President for Outreach, and Joseph Coletti. That's followed by a look at history. Even if you're a buff, you may not have spent much time thinking about the 1924 presidential election. Raleigh financial services executive Garland Tucker hopes you'll invest a little time learning about that 86-year-old contest by reading his new book. It's titled The High Tide of American Conservatism, and it recounts the last presidential campaign in which the two major-party candidates were bona fide conservatives. And finally, we turn to controversy in the City of Durham over the Mexican ID card known as Matricula Consular. John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst explains the card and his concerns over fraud and federal immigration law.

CJ Radio #393: Tea Party Media Coverage: What Comes Next?

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 09:00:00 -0500

Some people agree with the Tea Party movement, some people may not. But there's no disputing the movement's impact in the midterm elections, even though some say mainstream media coverage hasn't give the public an accurate view of the people or issues. Jon Ham, publisher of Carolina Journal, analyzes Tea Party media coverage from the time of the movement's birth, through the sometimes raucous town hall meetings over health insurance reform, and into the midterms. Ham also discusses what tea party-related candidates who've been elected to office can expect, and the impact of so-called new media on how people gather news and information. Then we turn to voter fraud questions. Before Republicans earned big victories in the 2010 elections, some GOP leaders raised concerns about the issue. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson will discuss fraud questions raised in our state. Then you'll hear from Wall Street Journal columnist John Fund, who has followed voter-integrity issues for years, documenting his top concerns in the book "Stealing Elections: How Voter Fraud Threatens Our Democracy." As the GOP rides the high of major electoral gains, John Locke Foundation president John Hood cautions Republicans against getting carried away. In a recent presentation to JLF's Shaftesbury Society, Hood warned that "wave" elections like the one witnessed in 2010 almost always lead to some setbacks in the next election cycle. That's followed by a look at "redesigned" high schools. State education leaders tout the schools in an effort to boost student performance and reduce North Carolina's high school dropout rate. State Superintendent of Public Instruction June Atkinson and Lt. Gov. Walter Dalton recently praised these redesigned schools in a presentation to lawmakers. You'll hear their comments, along with reaction from Terry Stoops, JLF Director of Education Studies. And finally, the Founders of our country designed government to be the servant of the people, but here in North Carolina, the policies of the last decade have turned that premise on its head. John Locke Foundation Vice President for Research Roy Cordato explains how the government is making all types of decisions for the people and what we should do about it.

CJ Radio #392: Which Issues is the GOP-Led Legislature Likely to Address?

Sun, 21 Nov 2010 09:00:00 -0500

The votes are in, the winners have savored their victories, and now the work of governing North Carolina begins. With the state facing an estimated $3.5 to $3.9 billion budget gap next year, fiscal matters are at the top of the priority list. But, according to Becki Gray, vice president of outreach at the John Locke Foundation, the GOP-led legislature is likely to address other issues of interest to fiscal conservatives. Gray also discusses issues JLF would like to see the new legislature address, such as ending the state lottery and repealing S.B. 3, the renewable energy mandate on utilities. Then we turn to a broader discussion of conservative victories across the nation. William Kristol, editor of The Weekly Standard, says Republican wins in the recent elections demonstrate the strength of limited-government conservative ideas and the power of the Tea Party movement. Kristol discusses the implications of the recent election and looks ahead to 2012. Next, the N.C. Governor's Crime Commission has spent $2.5 million during the past four years on efforts to help prisoners reintegrate into society after they've completed their sentences. Executive director Gwendolyn Burrell recently described the commission's priorities in a presentation to state lawmakers. You'll hear highlights. That's followed by a look at the ease of accessibility of government information. If you've ever searched the Internet for information about North Carolina state government, you might have noticed that www.NCGov.com is not particularly helpful. State government officials have noticed as well. State Chief Information Officer Gerald Fralick outlined for lawmakers this year a plan to improve that website. You'll hear his comments, along with reaction from Rep. Joe Tolson, D-Edgecombe, and Joseph Coletti, John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies. And finally, it's time for a pat on the back for Gov. Perdue from Daren Bakst, the John Locke Foundation's director of legal and regulatory studies. Bakst praises the governor's executive order that directs agencies to look for onerous rules and regulations and institute annual reviews and cost-benefit analyses. Bakst wants the governor to go further and he explains why cutting regulations is a positive move for business and taxpayers.

CJ Radio #391: The Voters Speak: GOP Takes Control of Legislature

Sun, 14 Nov 2010 09:00:00 -0500

North Carolinians have spoken and historic change is coming to the state legislature. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses the election results and the impact on Gov. Perdue and some of the longtime power brokers who will soon find themselves in the minority. He also discusses the dismal showing for sales tax hikes that appeared on the ballot. Fourteen counties put the referendum on the ballot and all 14 were defeated -- most by wide margins. Then we turn to political history. The late Sen. Jesse Helms was one of North Carolina's most important political figures of the 20th century. Alexander Solzhenitsyn was an acclaimed author and critic of the Soviet Communist regime. Few people know that Helms and Solzhenitsyn had a close connection. But Stella Snyder, a writer and researcher who served as editorial assistant for Helms' memoir, sheds light on that connection in a recent paper for the N.C. History Project and Jesse Helms Center. She discusses key elements of her work. Next is look at the state's alarming fiscal mess. The new General Assembly will face a budget gap of more than $3 billion when it returns to Raleigh in 2011. Legislative economist Barry Boardman recently offered outgoing lawmakers a progress report on the state's finances. You'll hear highlights from his report. That's followed by a fascinating discussion with Max Borders. A book titled Rules for Radicals has attracted attention in recent years, but Borders of the Free to Choose Network is more interested in the idea of "radicals for rules." Borders, who writes for the Ideas Matter blog, explains the importance of rules in helping a society interact with minimal conflict. And finally, North Carolina has earned the dubious distinction of joining the Tax Foundation's list of the top 10 states with the worst business tax climates. John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies Joe Coletti explains the factors that led to the ranking, as well as why this study differs from others that claim North Carolina is a great place to do business.

CJ Radio #390: Federal Investigation Into Gov. Perdue’s Campaign

Sun, 07 Nov 2010 09:00:00 -0500

Gov. Beverly Perdue has confirmed that her campaign committee is being investigated by the federal government over questions about campaign finance issue. Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses what we know and what we don't know, some of the players involved, and potential overlap between the Perdue and Mike Easley campaign finance investigations. Then we turn to the promised benefits from federal health care reform. Months after President Obama signed the health care legislation into law, those benefits are still unclear. State legislators had plenty of questions about the law during a recent presentation from Pam Silberman, president and CEO of the N.C. Institute of Medicine. You'll hear highlights from that meeting. Then we move to American history. Even if you're an avid student of American history, chances are good that you haven't thought much about the 1924 presidential election. Raleigh finance executive Garland Tucker explained during a recent presentation to the John Locke Foundation's Shaftesbury Society why he decided to write a book about that election titled The High Tide of American Conservatism. That's followed by a look at changes in the way universities teach English composition. The changes offer a good example of the recent decline of academic standards within higher education, according to arguments made in a recent presentation by N.C. State English Professor R.V. Young, editor of the journal Modern Age. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Fiscal and Health Policy Joe Coletti delves further into the costs and benefits of ObamaCare. Coletti analyzes reactions from major businesses that are trying to anticipate the costs and rules, as well as reaction from insurance companies that are seeking to determine what they will and won't be required to offer their customers. Coletti also offers recommendations for market reforms of the health insurance industry.

CJ Radio #389: How Do You Make an Informed Vote for Judicial Seats?

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 09:00:00 -0400

When you walk into the voting booth, you’ll also be casting a ballot for several statewide judicial candidates. But how do you evaluate a potential judge or justice? What role, if any, do endorsements play in a judicial race? Retired North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Bob Orr offers tips and resources to help voters get to know the candidates and make an informed choice. He also explains the role of endorsements and explains why the races are now officially non-partisan. Then we turn to health insurance reform. President Obama signed health care reform legislation into law in March, but many details of that legislation are still unclear. The N.C. Medical Society and News 14 Carolina held a recent televised forum on unresolved issues. You’ll hear highlights from that forum — including comments from state health director Dr. Jeffrey Engel, the Medical Society’s Bob Seligson, and Carolinas Medical Center CEO Michael Tarwater — along with reaction from Joseph Coletti, John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies. Next, we turn to the upcoming election and the fight for control of the General Assembly. Most pundits and analysts have predicted big Republican gains in this year's elections. Don't tell Senate Majority Leader Martin Nesbitt, D-Buncombe. You'll hear portions of Nesbitt's recent address to Buncombe County Democrats. Nesbitt says polls show support for Democrats, and he explains that his party needs to win the election to be able to continue drawing the state's election maps in Democrats' favor. That's followed by a look at religion and philosophy. Even if you don't believe in God, you're still religious. That's the argument Eric Dent, professor of management and former dean of the UNC-Pembroke School of Business, makes about the way philosophical values permeate our lives. Dent explains that our "religious" beliefs shape out attitudes toward public policy choices. And finally, we get the details on the recent North Carolina Supreme Court ruling on the case that looked at Gov. Mike Easley's move of $80 million from the state's Highway Trust Fund and into the general operating fund. Jeanette Doran of the North Carolina Institute for Constitutional Law explains the ruling, why it is a win for NCICL's clients and taxpayers, and refutes claims by the losing side that Gov. Perdue can feel free to engage in the same financial move without worry.

CJ Radio #388: Voters in 11 N.C. Counties Asked to Hike Sales Tax

Sun, 24 Oct 2010 09:00:00 -0400

Races for Congress and the legislature are getting a lot of attention, but a number of North Carolina counties will ask voters to make a critical decision of another kind: whether or not to approve a quarter-cent sales tax hike. John Locke Foundation Local Government Analyst and Director of Research Michael Sanera analyzes the fiscal situation of the counties in question and discusses local government trends in spending and taxing. Then we turn to health insurance and health care. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina earned headlines recently when it announced plans to refund $155 million to 215,000 individual health insurance customers. State Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin trumpeted the announcement as great news, and Blue Cross CEO Brad Wilson explained why the insurer is able to make the repayments. You'll hear their comments, along with reaction from Joseph Coletti, John Locke Foundation Director of Health and Fiscal Policy Studies. Next, when you think of traditional Southern conservatism, the word "Catholic" might not come to mind immediately. But Douglas Minson of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute has found a number of ties between Catholic thought and conservative Southern ideas. He outlined those ties during a presentation this year for the N.C. History Project. You'll hear highlights. That’s followed by a look at one of the most interesting stories in recent North Carolina history. It involves state government's efforts to recover its original version of the Bill of Rights. David Howard recounts that story in the book Lost Rights: The Misadventures of a Stolen American Relic. Howard recently discussed key elements of the story, which started with an FBI sting operation in 2003. And finally, we turn to K-12 education. Five public charter schools are suing the Durham public school system for more than $5 million they say the district has kept from them over the past five years. John Locke Foundation Director of Education Studies Terry Stoops explains the suit's issues and discusses a court ruling from Charlotte that addressed the money public systems must provide to local charters, which are part of the public system.

CJ Radio #387: Will voters Hand the GOP the General Assembly?

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 09:00:00 -0400

All 170 seats in the General Assembly will be on the November 2nd ballot, but a handful of competitive races will decide whether Democrats retain their longtime control of the House and Senate or whether the Republicans will assume power. Civitas Institute Senior Legislative Analyst Chris Hayes dissects the dynamics at play in the key races. While Hayes has been busy crunching numbers for North Carolina legislative races, other pundits have been studying the likelihood that Republicans will win big nationally. Democratic consultant Gary Pearce, Republican strategist Marc Rotterman, and John Locke Foundation President John Hood discussed likely outcomes during a recent JLF election preview Headliner event in Raleigh. You’ll hear highlights from their discussion. Then we turn the issue of so-called "market failure." Twenty years have passed since N.C. State economist Stephen Margolis helped debunk the notion that the standard QWERTY typewriting keyboard succeeded because of some "market failure." Margolis continues to challenge arguments that government experts need to play a greater role in preventing such "failures." He discussed the topic recently with a John Locke Foundation audience. That’s followed by a look at economic freedom around the world. The late economist Milton Friedman spent most of his career trumpeting the value of economic freedom. On this year's Friedman Legacy for Freedom Day, Fayetteville State University professor Edward Stringham explored the enduring importance of economic freedom. Stringham has helped measure the impact of economic freedom in countries around the world. And finally, Carolina Journal Managing Editor Rick Henderson discusses the latest developments in two key campaign finance investigations. Last week we learned of subpoenas in the John Edwards saga, where investigators are believed to be zeroing in on whether the Edwards campaign used donor dollars to help support Edwards mistress Rielle Hunter. In the other development, we learned the SBI will look at questions swirling around unreported campaign flights taken by the Beverly Perdue campaign.

CJ Radio #386: Midterm Election Looms: Is a Shakeup Coming?

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 09:00:00 -0400

Early voting begins in just days - October 14 - in a midterm election that has political strategists from both major parties analyzing and spinning. But even neutral analysts like the John Locke Foundation's John Hood say the election cycle is full of fascinating political dynamics. Hood discusses the role being played by unaffiliated voters, what impact voter views of Washington is having on the candidates, and the state of the Burr-Marshall-Beitler race for U.S. Senate and key congressional races in three or four North Carolina districts. Then we turn to one of the nation's leading electoral experts, Washington Examiner senior political analyst Michael Barone, for his assessment of the election dynamics. Barone recently traveled to North Carolina to offer his views for a John Locke Foundation audience. In an exclusive interview, Barone explains why the political winds have shifted so forcefully toward Republicans during the past two years. Next we look at the debate over a controversial proposal from North Carolina sheriffs. They say the growth in accidental prescription overdose deaths across the state should lead to a change in state law: Sheriffs want access to information from a state prescription drug database. Sheriffs association executive vice president Edmond Caldwell, Dare County Sheriff Rodney Midgett, and Cherokee County Sheriff Keith Lovin recently told lawmakers how that information could help them fight crime linked to prescription drug abuse. That's followed by an assessment of the clean up underway with regard to the state's crime lab. North Carolina legislators recently heard a progress report. You'll hear former federal agent Chris Swecker offer details from his audit of the SBI crime lab, along with questions from Rep. Rick Glazier, D-Cumberland. You'll also hear Attorney General Roy Cooper respond to the question of whether the state crime lab should be moved out from under SBI jurisdiction. And finally, John Locke Foundation Director of Legal and Regulatory Studies Daren Bakst reacts to comments from N.C. sheriffs heard earlier in the show. Bakst says the proposal to give sheriffs access to a prescription drug database is one of the worst ideas he's heard in years, and anyone concerned about privacy rights should be concerned by what could occur. Bakst also weighs in on the controversial Supreme Court ruling that recently addressed the definition of a "life sentence" for North Carolina inmates.