State Auditor Dave Boliek

The article argues that American political traditions, such as respecting adversaries and committing to open debate, are giving way to prioritizing power at all costs. This cynical trend is noted in North Carolina, where Republican leaders have allegedly adopted a brand of raw power politics. A specific concern is the transformation of the state auditor’s office into a hyperpartisan weapon, illustrated by Auditor Dave Boliek overseeing elections in an embarrassingly partisan fashion.

The Rocky Mount City Council voted against halting utility cutoffs despite a recent incident where a family was found dead after their electricity was disconnected due to non-payment. Constituents strongly criticized the decision and called for council members' resignations, asserting that such disconnections constitute issuing a sentence. State lawmakers have begun investigating the city’s financial management regarding utility services.