March 2025

The Senate Democrats’ New Boss

State Sen. Sydney Batch and her chief of staff, Lisa Stifler, conduct a meeting. (Cornell Watson for The Assembly)

State Sen. Sydney Batch ousted one of N.C.’s most venerated leaders. Can she lead Democrats back to relevance?

A file photo of Maurice Devalle when he worked for the Highway Patrol. (Photo credit Casey Mozingo, courtesy of The Goldsboro News Argus)

The state Supreme Court is weighing the definition of “good moral character.” The decision could upend occupational licensing.

Tundra swans and other migratory waterfowl enjoy a managed impoundment that feeds into Lake Mattamuskeet. (Andrea Bruce for The Assembly)

The largest natural lake in the state and an important national refuge for migrating birds is facing an ecological catastrophe.

A Columbus County farmer prepares for the spring planting season. (Photo by Les High for Border Belt Independent)

Farmers say they’re waiting for federal payments for conservation and climate change programs, as well as emergency loans.

Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., talks with reporters before a Senate Judiciary Committee in November 2024. (Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call via AP Images)

N.C. Republicans are wondering why Trump’s advisers are going after someone they see as the best chance at retaining a Senate seat.

UNC's study of fluoride in water is taking place in Kinston. (Julia Wall for The Assembly)

Both sides of the fluoride-in-water debate say they want a rigorous scientific study. Now UNC-Chapel Hill is doing it in Kinston.

Photo illustration made using Canva.

North Carolina churches are raising concerns about ICE enforcement in places of worship.

Attendees of the North Carolina Association of Educators Summer Leaders Conference write down their ideas. (Angelica Edwards for The Assembly)

Educators in Durham and Guilford counties last year. Can teachers leverage those wins into statewide gains?

Travis Dove for The Assembly

The news organization is building a ten-market local news network across the state.

Join The Quad for an exclusive look at how the Trump administration’s first moves are playing out at North Carolina’s colleges and universities.