Donna King, Executive Vice President of the John Locke Foundation, breaks down fresh polling on the 2026 U.S. Senate race, shifting views on tariffs and the latest on DMV reforms,

Dr. Mike Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and Extension Economist at North Carolina State University, joins Don Curtis to discuss the impact of new tariffs on the NC economy. In addition, Dr. Walden examines the recent controversy over whether politics are impacting the federal agency responsible for releasing unemployment data,

Brad Crone, President of Campaign Connections, joins Don Curtis to examine the latest updates from the 2026 U.S. Senate race now that former Governor Roy Cooper (D) and RNC chair Michael Whatley have launched their respective campaigns.

PBS North Carolina CEO David Crabtree discusses the challenges and opportunities facing public media - including recent federal funding cuts and the future of statewide broadcasting. He also shares insights on educational outreach, emergency communications and building public trust in an increasingly polarized media landscape.

Dr. David McLennan joins Don Curtis to discuss the political fallout from proposed cuts to Medicaid and public broadcasting. They also look ahead to North Carolina’s 2026 Senate race and the legal fight over FEMA grants.

NC Secretary of State Elaine Marshall joins Don Curtis to talk about the rise in new business creation and rural entrepreneurship. She also shares insights on counterfeit threats and new research shaping North Carolina’s economic future.

Mitch Kokai from the John Locke Foundation analyzes U.S. Senator Thom Tillis’ decision to not seek re-election along with what the so-called Big Beautiful Bill actually means for NC.

Political strategist Brad Crone joins Don Curtis to break down the stalled state budget and newly approved Hurricane Helene relief. Plus, they dive into the shrimp trawler controversy and what’s next for the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill.”