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Josh Stein
50.9%
#19 of 50

Josh Stein

North Carolina D | 1st term
2025-01-01Took Office 1 yr, 5 moIn Office 263Metrics Scored 841 / 1653Total Points
⚠️ Inherited Performance Notice

Josh Stein has been in office 15 months. Section A (Governance) and Section B (State Outcomes) scores largely reflect the prior administration of Roy Cooper (D), who served 2017-2025. Section C (Oath Fidelity) reflects Stein's own executive actions, vetoes, and policy positions since taking office.

In office 15 months. Section A (Governance) and Section B (State Outcomes) scores largely reflect the prior administration of Roy Cooper (D), who served as governor immediately before Stein. Section C (Oath Fidelity) reflects Stein's own executive actions, vetoes, and policy positions since taking office. Click to expand each section for full item-level scores, evidence, and source citations.

Current: Josh Stein (D)
Took office: 2025-01-01
In office: 15 months
Predecessor: Roy Cooper (D)
Served: 2017-2025
Same party continuity

Section A: Governance

225/300
75%

Section B: State Outcomes

593/975
61%

Section C: Oath Fidelity

+23 (-378 to +378)

Section A — Governance 225/300

9 subsections evaluating executive performance: budget execution, legislative relations, appointments, emergency management, transparency, ethics, program management, federal relations, and constituent service.

On-time budget submission
Stein submitted a $1.4B Critical Needs Budget for FY2025-26 addressing Helene recovery, teacher pay, and corrections staffing. NC uses biennial budget cycle; 2025 marked the longest the state has gone without a new two-year budget — House proposed $32.59B and Senate $32.6B for FY2025-26 but intra-Republican disputes over tax policy blocked passage. Stein called a rare special session Nov 17, 2025 to force action on Medicaid and Helene funding. Legislature passed minibudgets for step increases and enrollment growth but no comprehensive budget as of late 2025.
NC OSBM Critical Needs Budget FY2025-26; NC General Assembly Budget Records; WUNC 12/17/2025
2
Budget accuracy — revenue forecast vs actual
NC consensus revenue forecast projects $34.89B in FY2025-26 collections (0.5% growth) and $34.07B in FY2026-27 (-2.4% growth due to continuing income tax phase-down). There was $544M in unanticipated revenue in FY2024-25, but future years tighten as Republican-enacted tax cuts reduce the base. No full budget cycle completed under Stein, but fiscal position remains sound with revenues exceeding projections in the near term.
NC Consensus Revenue Forecast 2025; NC General Assembly Fiscal Research Division
2
Rainy day fund management
Inherited a $3.65B Savings Reserve (rainy day fund) after $1.1B was drawn down for Hurricane Helene — $273M (Oct 2024), $604M (Oct 2024), and $227M (Dec 2024) transferred to the Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Fund under predecessor Cooper. House budget proposal would restore the fund to $4.75B. Fund management has been appropriate — drawdowns were for legitimate catastrophic disaster recovery. NC rainy day fund remains among the largest in the Southeast.
NC State Treasurer Reports; NC General Assembly HB 149; House Budget Proposal 2025
2
State credit rating trajectory
NC maintains the top-tier AAA (S&P), Aaa (Moody's), and AAA (Fitch) credit ratings — one of only 14 states with triple-AAA from all three agencies. Treasurer Brad Briner confirmed Moody's Aaa rating on outstanding general obligation bonds in April 2025. No negative outlook or downgrade despite $59.6B in Helene damages. Strong inherited fiscal discipline and low debt levels have preserved the state's credit standing under Stein.
S&P Global Ratings; Moody's Aaa Confirmation April 2025; Fitch Ratings — NC; NC State Treasurer
2
Pension funding ratio trajectory
TSERS (Teachers' and State Employees' Retirement System) funded ratio approximately 87-90% — well above national average of ~72% for state pension plans. Employer contribution rate set at 16.79% of payroll for FY2025. December 31, 2024 actuarial valuation reported an investment loss during 2024, preventing cost-of-living adjustment recommendations. Stein's Critical Needs Budget proposed pay increases for correctional officers and state employees that would increase pension obligations but address severe workforce shortages.
NC Retirement Systems Division Actuarial Valuation Dec 2024; Arthur J. Gallagher Valuation Report; NC OSHR
2
Debt per capita trajectory
NC debt per capita remains below the national median for states. The February 2025 Debt Affordability Study by Treasurer Brad Briner confirmed NC's conservative debt management. Counties range from $126 to $4,372 per capita depending on population size. State-level GO bonds supported by AAA/Aaa/AAA ratings. The Debt Affordability Advisory Committee continues to monitor capacity. No new major debt issuance under Stein, though Helene recovery may require future borrowing authorization.
NC State Treasurer Debt Affordability Study Feb 2025; NC SLGF Debt Analysis 2024
2
CAFR/ACFR published on time
NC has earned the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 31 consecutive years through the 2024 ACFR. The FY2024 ACFR was published on time by the Office of the State Controller (NCOSC). The State Auditor confirmed NC's overall financial health remains strong in the audit of the ACFR. This exemplary financial reporting record was maintained during the transition to Stein's administration.
NCOSC 2024 ACFR; GFOA Certificate Records; NC State Auditor FIN-2025-8720
2
Audit findings — material weaknesses
The NC State Auditor released a critical November 2025 report on the NC Office of Recovery and Resiliency (NCORR) finding a $297M budget shortfall in the Homeowner Recovery Program (post-Hurricanes Matthew/Florence), poor data reconciliation across three financial systems, and average 936-day grant determination times. This program predates Stein but is now under his administration. Separately, the FY2024 statewide single audit found routine findings but no systemic material weaknesses at the state level.
NC State Auditor PER-2025-4902 (NCORR); NC OSA Statewide Single Audit FY2024
2
Federal grant fund accounting
Administering approximately $5.95B in federal Helene disaster recovery funds (Congress appropriated Dec 2024), plus $1.4B in CDBG-DR funding through Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program ($807M allocated to housing). NC Commerce created a Division of Community Revitalization to manage federal recovery grants. FEMA Public Assistance being actively processed. NC was the fastest state in over a decade to begin rebuilding homes using HUD disaster recovery funding. Strong federal grant management in the Helene context.
NC OSBM Federal Grants; FEMA Disaster Records; NC Commerce Helene Recovery Reports; HUD CDBG-DR
3
Anti-fraud controls — federal programs
Disaster recovery anti-fraud controls are critical given the scale of Helene funding ($5.95B+ federal). The NC State Auditor's November 2025 report on NCORR's prior hurricane programs (Matthew/Florence) found poor vendor oversight and $297M in overcommitments — a cautionary precedent. Stein's GROW NC office established real-time public dashboards for transparency. The Renew NC housing program uses in-person intake and county-level tracking. Standard FEMA PA fraud controls in place for debris removal reimbursements.
NC State Auditor PER-2025-4902; GROW NC Dashboard; FEMA PA Records; Renew NC
2
Tax revenue vs expenditure alignment
Inherited balanced fiscal position with $544M in unanticipated revenue in FY2024-25. However, the continuing Republican-enacted income tax phase-down (corporate rate headed to 0% and personal rate to 3.99%) will reduce the revenue base by an estimated $641M over two years. Consensus forecast shows revenues tightening: $34.89B in FY2025-26 but declining to $34.07B in FY2026-27. No structural deficit yet, but tax cuts create long-term fiscal pressure that Stein cannot control due to R supermajority.
NC Consensus Revenue Forecast 2025; NC Fiscal Research Division; NC General Assembly tax legislation
2
Capital budget execution rate
Capital budget execution constrained by the absence of a comprehensive two-year budget. Legislature authorized $500M+ in emergency Helene capital through HB 149 (Disaster Recovery Act), executed promptly. NCDOT bridge program budget proposed to double from $330M to $673M to address 800+ Helene-damaged bridges. Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund received $392.4M from lottery surplus. Overall capital execution on hold pending full budget passage.
NC OSBM Capital Budget; NC General Assembly HB 149; NCDOT Bridge Program; NC Lottery Capital Funds
2
Vendor/contractor oversight
Vendor oversight is particularly important given massive Helene recovery contracting. Stein's first executive order waived certain procurement regulations to speed temporary housing deployment — appropriate for emergency but requires oversight. The State Auditor's NCORR report (Nov 2025) found inadequate vendor oversight in prior hurricane recovery programs, creating a cautionary benchmark. The new GROW NC office must avoid repeating those vendor management failures. NCDIT reduced procurement timelines statewide in 2025.
NC DOA Procurement; Governor's EO-1 2025; NC State Auditor PER-2025-4902; NCDIT 2025 Report
2
Federal funding maximization
Aggressively pursuing federal Helene funding: total request of $23B including $13.5B in new funding requested from Congress (Sept 2025). Congress appropriated $5.95B in Dec 2024. FEMA denied NC's 100% cost-share extension request (April 2025), leaving state with ~$200M additional debris costs at 90/10 split. Stein appealed and was denied again May 2025. Despite setback, NC was fastest state in a decade to begin HUD disaster rebuilding. Also captured Medicaid expansion federal matching funds for 650,000+ enrollees.
Governor's Office; FEMA PA Records; Congress Dec 2024 Appropriation; HUD CDBG-DR; NC DHHS Medicaid
2
Program eligibility verification systems
Inherited NC DHHS eligibility verification systems including the SAVE system for benefits verification and E-Verify mandate for employers with 25+ employees. Medicaid expansion (launched Dec 2023 under Cooper) enrolled 650,000+ by April 2025 — eligibility set at 138% FPL (~$20,782/year for single adults). Standard federal eligibility verification protocols in place. Photo voter ID required (S.L. 2018-144). No significant eligibility fraud reported in expanded Medicaid or disaster relief programs.
NC DHHS Program Integrity; NC Medicaid Expansion Dashboard; SAVE System; E-Verify HB 36
2
Signature legislation enacted
First bill signed: Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 (HB 149) — $500M+ for western NC Helene recovery. Bipartisan achievement. Also signed pharmacy protection bill, fentanyl sentencing, cell phone ban in schools, online driver license renewal. Productive early legislative record despite divided government.
NC General Assembly Bill Tracking; Governor's Office Press Releases
2
Veto override rate
Stein issued 15 vetoes through mid-2025; 8 were overridden by the Republican legislature. Senate holds a veto-proof supermajority; House Republicans are one seat short but convinced 1-3 House Democrats to defect on key votes. Overridden bills include immigration enforcement, transgender birth certificate restrictions, concealed weapons in private schools, and Duke Energy emissions goal repeal. Stein sustained 6-7 vetoes where Democrats held firm. The override dynamic reflects institutional weakness of a Democratic governor facing near-supermajority opposition.
WUNC Veto Tracker July 2025; NC General Assembly Override Vote Records; NC Newsline 7/29/2025
2
Bipartisan bills signed
Disaster Recovery Act was genuinely bipartisan — first bill signed. Cell phone school ban, pharmacy protections, fentanyl sentencing all had bipartisan support. Strong bipartisan start despite R supermajority.
NC General Assembly Vote Records
3
Special sessions called
Stein exercised his constitutional power to call a special legislative session on November 17, 2025, focused on passing adequate Medicaid funding and addressing the budget impasse — a rare move by a NC governor. The session was prompted by the longest budget impasse in state history (140+ days past deadline) while Helene recovery, teacher raises, and Medicaid funding remained in limbo. Legislature had not passed a comprehensive budget for the entire 2025 long session.
NC General Assembly Records; Duke Chronicle 11/17/2025; WUNC reporting
2
Executive orders — legal challenges
Stein signed at least 10 executive orders in his first year including: 5 Helene recovery EOs (Jan 2, 2025) creating GROW NC, waiving procurement for temporary housing, establishing Division of Community Revitalization; reproductive rights EO (Jan 16) protecting abortion access and contraception; workforce EO (March 25) creating Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships; heating fuel transport waiver EO; and an AI governance order. No legal challenges filed against any executive orders as of evaluation date.
NC Governor's Office Executive Orders 2025; Court Records — NC
2
Line-item veto usage
The NC governor does not have line-item veto power under Article III of the NC Constitution. NC is one of six states where the governor lacks this authority. The governor only gained general veto power in 1996 (before that, NC was the only state without any gubernatorial veto). This structural limitation is significant given the Republican supermajority — Stein cannot selectively reject budget provisions, forcing all-or-nothing decisions on omnibus legislation. Not applicable as a performance metric.
NC Constitution Art. III; NCSL Line-Item Veto Authority Data
2
Regulatory burden change
Legislature passed and overrode Stein's veto on a REINS-style bill (July 2025) requiring legislative approval of major agency rules — significantly constraining executive regulatory authority. Stein waived procurement regulations via EO for Helene temporary housing. The Government Modernization Act of 2025 directed NCDIT to overhaul legacy IT systems and streamline digital permitting. SB 245 enabled online driver license renewal (10,000+ renewals in first week). Mixed picture — regulatory streamlining on some fronts, legislative constraints on others.
NC Administrative Code Records; NC General Assembly REINS override; SB 245; Government Modernization Act 2025
2
Budget negotiation success
NC has gone without a new comprehensive budget — longest gap in state history. Republican legislature has not passed two-year budget bill. Governor has limited leverage as Democrat facing R supermajority. Budget impasse ongoing.
NC General Assembly Budget Records; WUNC reporting
1
Bill signing rate on popular legislation
Stein signed multiple popular bills with broad public support: Disaster Recovery Act (HB 149, $500M+ for Helene recovery); school cell phone ban (HB 959, effective 2025-26 school year, includes social media literacy requirement); fentanyl sentencing (SB 429); pharmacy protection legislation; online driver license renewal (SB 245, 10K+ renewals in first week). Also signed the bipartisan Fostering Care in NC Act (HB 612, unanimous in both chambers). Vetoed private school choice bill (Aug 2025) and 'social war' legislation. Good early record on signing broadly popular legislation.
NC General Assembly Records; Governor's Bill Signing Record 2025
2
Legislative relationship
Working relationship with R supermajority legislature. Bipartisan disaster relief is positive sign. But budget impasse reflects limited leverage. R legislature can override vetoes.
NC General Assembly Records; NC media
2
Implementation of voter-approved measures
Key voter-approved measure: the November 2024 constitutional amendment banning non-citizen voting passed with 78% support. Implementation proceeding — NC State Board of Elections entered a SAVE agreement with USCIS (November 2025) to compare voter registration records against citizenship data. Photo voter ID requirement (S.L. 2018-144, approved by voters) being enforced. No delays or defiance of voter-approved measures identified.
NC State Board of Elections; NC Constitution Amendment Nov 2024; NCSBE SAVE Agreement Nov 2025
2
Task force follow-through
NC Strong initiative for Helene recovery showing follow-through. 3,400+ homeowner applications accepted, $96M+ in disaster UI benefits paid. Too early for broader evaluation.
Governor's NC Strong Reports; NC Commerce Department
2
Policy reversals under pressure
No significant policy reversals. Stein maintained consistent positions on Helene recovery, reproductive rights, and opposition to certain Republican bills even when vetoes were overridden. Sustained vetoes on some contentious bills where Democrats held firm. Did not reverse his reproductive rights EO despite federal pressure from Trump administration. Warned legislators against 'social war' bills while maintaining cooperative stance on bipartisan priorities. Steady first-year approach despite institutional constraints.
Governor's Office Records; NC media coverage 2025; Carolina Journal
2
Appointee criminal/ethics issues
No criminal or ethics issues with any Stein cabinet appointees. Ten cabinet members sworn in January 6, 2025 — all subject to Senate confirmation. Key appointees include experienced professionals: DHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai (Duke Medical professor, NC Medical Board president), DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson (former EPA Chief of Staff), DOT Secretary Joey Hopkins (30+ years at NCDOT), and DAC Secretary Leslie Cooley Dismukes (former Criminal Bureau Chief at NC DOJ). No confirmation controversies reported.
NC State Ethics Commission; Governor's Office Appointment Records; Court Records
2
Agency head vacancy rate
Stein moved swiftly to fill cabinet positions — 10 secretaries sworn in by January 6, 2025 (5 days after inauguration). Key appointments: Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, Administration Secretary Gabe Esparza (first Latino cabinet member, former SBA Associate Administrator), OSHR Director Staci Meyer, and Budget Director Kristin Walker (continuing from Cooper). Also appointed boards and commissions members in April and July 2025. CIO Teena Piccione appointed to lead NCDIT. No significant vacancies reported.
Governor's Office Appointment Records; NC Governor Press Releases Jan/Apr/Jul 2025
2
State employee turnover
NC faces significant state employee workforce challenges — correctional officers have a 39% vacancy rate (as of 2024), creating dangerous conditions including extended prison lockdowns. Teacher recruitment is hampered by below-national-average pay. Stein's Critical Needs Budget proposed $211M for adult correction including pay increases for COs, probation/parole officers, nurses, and behavioral health staff. Budget impasse has delayed raises for teachers and state employees across the board. Turnover driven by compensation gaps, not gubernatorial transition.
NC OSHR Reports; NC DAC Budget Overview March 2025; SEANC; NC media
2
Diversity of appointments
Stein is NC's first Jewish governor. Cabinet reflects notable diversity: DHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai is NC's first Indian American cabinet member; Administration Secretary Gabe Esparza is NC's first Latino cabinet member (25+ years experience including SBA Associate Administrator). DMVA head Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette is an Air Force veteran and attorney. DOT Secretary Joey Hopkins is a career NCDOT professional with 30+ years. Mix of experienced bureaucrats, academics, and legal professionals across appointments.
Governor's Office Records; NC Governor Press Releases; WFU Old Gold & Black
2
Judicial appointment quality
Limited judicial appointments in first year. NC's governor has appointment power for judicial vacancies; however, Republicans passed legislation in recent years to limit gubernatorial appointment power and shift toward legislative control of courts. Stein's background as a two-term AG (2017-2024) — with deep experience in the legal system — provides strong credentials for judicial evaluation. No controversy over any judicial appointments made during his tenure.
NC Judicial Branch; NC General Assembly Judicial Reform Bills; NC Constitution Art. IV
2
State workforce pay competitiveness
NC state employee pay is below competitive levels — correctional officer starting pay was under $40,000, contributing to 39% vacancy rates. Teacher pay ranks below the national average and is a persistent recruitment challenge. The pending budget includes: 3% raises for most state employees in both FY2025-26 and FY2026-27; COs receive an additional 4.5% (6.5% total) bringing starting pay above $40K; teachers targeted for 5.9% average increase in year one and 10.6% in year two. Stein's Critical Needs Budget proposed $211M for corrections pay specifically. All raises delayed by the budget impasse.
NC OSHR Compensation Data; SEANC; NC General Assembly Budget Proposals; Governor's Critical Needs Budget
2
Whistleblower protection
NC has statutory whistleblower protections for state employees under the NC Whistleblower Protection Act. No reported retaliation against whistleblowers under Stein's administration. As former AG (2017-2024), Stein had a record of supporting transparency — he released an Open Government Guide in collaboration with the NC Press Association and Sunshine Center to promote public accountability. No complaints or high-profile whistleblower cases reported during his gubernatorial tenure.
NC OSHR; NC Whistleblower Protection Act; NC AG Open Government Guide
2
Inspector General independence
NC State Auditor Beth Wood was replaced by Dave Boliek (Republican) after Wood resigned following a hit-and-run incident. The State Auditor's office has maintained independence — the critical November 2025 NCORR report on hurricane recovery program failures demonstrates willingness to scrutinize executive branch programs under Stein's watch. No attempts by Stein to interfere with or undermine audit independence. As a former AG, Stein has institutional respect for independent oversight functions.
NC State Auditor Records; NC OSA NCORR Report Nov 2025; NC media
2
State employee morale
State employee morale significantly impacted by the longest budget impasse in NC history — teachers, correctional officers (39% vacancy rate), law enforcement, and nurses all waiting for raises that are included in pending budget proposals but not enacted. Correctional officers face dangerous conditions: extended lockdowns, overcrowding (some prisons at 130%+ capacity), and 2,190 inmates transferred from western NC post-Helene. Stein proposed $211M for corrections pay in his Critical Needs Budget. Budget impasse is caused by intra-Republican disputes, not gubernatorial inaction, but employee satisfaction suffers regardless.
NC OSHR; SEANC; NC Newsline Dec 2024; Governor's Critical Needs Budget; NC media
2
Nepotism/cronyism
No nepotism or cronyism concerns identified. Cabinet appointments reflect professional qualifications: Dev Sangvai (Duke professor, NC Medical Board president), Joey Hopkins (30-year NCDOT career employee), Reid Wilson (former EPA Chief of Staff), Gabe Esparza (former SBA Associate Administrator). Stein's pre-gubernatorial career as NC state senator (2009-2016) and two-term AG (2017-2024) gives him deep Raleigh relationships but no appointments have been flagged as inappropriate patronage.
NC State Ethics Commission; Governor's Office Appointment Records
3
Senior staff criminal charges
Zero criminal charges against any senior staff or cabinet members in Stein's administration. This is a notable contrast to the political environment in NC — Lt. Governor candidate Mark Robinson (Stein's 2024 opponent) faced explosive personal scandals during the campaign. Stein's team has maintained a clean record throughout the transition and first year. All cabinet members underwent standard vetting prior to Senate confirmation proceedings.
Court Records; NC media reporting 2025
3
Agency performance accountability
Established GROW NC (Governor's Recovery Office for Western NC) within the Governor's Office with a real-time public dashboard tracking recovery by county and category — a strong accountability mechanism. NC Commerce created a Division of Community Revitalization for Helene housing recovery. The State Auditor's critical NCORR report (Nov 2025) on prior hurricane recovery programs provides a benchmark for improvement. NCDIT achieved national recognition in 2025 under new CIO Teena Piccione, rising from 36th to 7th in AI readiness. Agency accountability improving but early in tenure.
GROW NC Dashboard; NC Commerce; NC DPS Reports; NC State Auditor; NCDIT 2025 Report
2
Disaster declaration timeliness
Hurricane Helene struck western NC on September 27, 2024 (before Stein took office), causing 108+ deaths, $59.6B in damages, and devastating the Appalachian region. Stein signed 5 Helene recovery EOs on his first full day (Jan 2, 2025) — the fastest gubernatorial disaster response in NC history. Created GROW NC recovery office, authorized 1,000 temporary homes, waived procurement regulations, established Division of Community Revitalization, and offered 16 hours of community service leave to state employees. Also responded to Hurricane Erin (Aug 2025) with proactive Guard deployment.
NC DPS Emergency Management; FEMA Disaster Declarations; Governor's EOs Jan 2, 2025; NC DPS Erin Response
2
FEMA Public Assistance secured
Aggressively pursued FEMA Public Assistance but faced significant federal pushback. FEMA denied NC's request for 100% cost-share extension (April 11, 2025) — the standard 90/10 split leaves NC taxpayers with ~$200M in debris removal costs. Stein appealed (April 25 letter) but was denied again by FEMA Acting Administrator David Richardson (May 23, 2025). Stein cited precedent of Katrina, Maria, and Ike receiving similar extensions. Total federal request: $23B including $13.5B in new Congressional funding (Sept 2025). Congress appropriated $5.95B in Dec 2024.
FEMA PA Records; Governor's Appeal Letter April 25, 2025; FEMA Denial May 23, 2025; Congress Dec 2024 Appropriation
2
Emergency reserve adequacy
Emergency reserves were drawn down significantly for Helene — $1.1B transferred from the Savings Reserve to the Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Fund ($273M + $604M + $227M in late 2024). Legislature approved HB 149 (Disaster Recovery Act of 2025) as Stein's first signed bill, providing $500M+ in additional disaster funding. Two additional Helene relief packages enacted in March and June 2025. State maintains adequate reserves despite drawdowns — House proposes restoring the rainy day fund to $4.75B. NC's AAA credit rating affirms reserve adequacy.
NC State Treasurer; NC General Assembly HB 149; NC Savings Reserve Transfer Records
2
Lives lost — preventable from state failure
Hurricane Helene killed 108+ people in NC (Sept 27, 2024) — all deaths occurred before Stein took office. Since inauguration, no preventable deaths attributable to state failure in ongoing recovery operations. Stein responded to severe weather in eastern NC (Jan 21, 2025 winter storm) with advance warnings and Guard pre-positioning. Hurricane Erin response (Aug 2025) included proactive deployment of 200 National Guard troops, swift water rescue teams, boats, and aircraft along the coast. No storm-related deaths during Erin.
NC DPS; FEMA; NC DPS Press Releases Jan/Aug 2025; Wikipedia — Effects of Hurricane Helene in NC
2
Post-disaster recovery
Post-disaster recovery is the defining challenge of Stein's first term. Key milestones: $1.4B in CDBG-DR funding allocated ($807M for Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program); 3,400+ families applied for home repairs/replacements; NC completed first home repair in Aug 2025 — fastest state in a decade to begin HUD disaster rebuilding. 84% of impacted public roads reopened (1,300+ roads restored). 4.75M cubic yards of debris removed. 5,720 households served by temporary housing programs. However, only ~20% of $59.6B in total damage is covered. WNC needs 34,000 new homes by 2028.
NC Commerce Helene Recovery Milestones Sept 2025; Renew NC; GROW NC Q3 2025 Report
2
Public health emergency response
No major public health emergencies beyond Helene aftermath. Medicaid expansion (launched Dec 2023) has enrolled 650,000+ newly eligible North Carolinians by April 2025, improving healthcare access statewide — 233,000+ are rural community members. DHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai (Duke professor, NC Medical Board president) provides strong public health leadership. Helene-damaged water systems in western NC remain a public health concern — Helene recovery hindered by water infrastructure funding gaps. NC signed fentanyl enforcement legislation (SB 429) addressing the opioid crisis.
NC DHHS; NC Medicaid Expansion Dashboard April 2025; SB 429; Carolina Journal water funding report
2
Infrastructure failure prevention
Helene destroyed massive infrastructure in western NC — 800+ NCDOT bridges damaged, 150+ need full replacement, 8,000+ private roads and bridges damaged. Water and sewer systems in multiple western NC communities severely compromised with a significant funding gap for repairs. Stein's EOs waived regulations to accelerate private road/bridge repairs and launched an application program for affected homeowners (March 2025). No new infrastructure failures attributable to maintenance neglect under Stein. ASCE gave NC an overall C- infrastructure grade (Jan 2026) — 9.25% of 13,848 bridges in poor condition, though down from 22.8% in 2014.
NC DOT; ASCE NC Infrastructure Report Card 2025; GROW NC; NC DPS March 2025
2
National Guard deployment appropriateness
NC National Guard deployed appropriately for multiple events: continued Helene recovery support in western NC throughout 2025; proactive pre-positioning of 200 troops for Hurricane Erin (Aug 2025) along the eastern coast with swift water rescue teams, boats, high-clearance vehicles, and aircraft; winter storm preparation in eastern NC (Jan 2025). Stein activated State Emergency Operations Center and Regional Coordination Center for weather events. No politicized or inappropriate deployments. NC has 130,000+ military/DOD personnel statewide providing strong civil-military coordination.
NC DMVA Records; NC DPS Emergency Management; Governor's Office Press Releases 2025
2
Emergency communication
Strong emergency communication throughout 2025. GROW NC launched a public recovery dashboard (March 4, 2025) providing real-time transparency on recovery progress by county. Governor issued advance warnings for eastern NC winter storm (Jan 21) and Hurricane Erin (Aug 2025). Regular press conferences on Helene recovery and FEMA funding disputes. Published formal statements on FEMA denials (April 11, May 22-23, 2025). September 18, 2025 letter to General Assembly leaders urging budget action for Helene priorities. PBS broadcast severe weather conference (June 5, 2025).
Governor's Office Press Releases; GROW NC Dashboard Launch March 2025; NC DPS; PBS NC Emergency
2
Interagency coordination
Created multiple new interagency coordination structures: GROW NC (within Governor's Office) to oversee recovery; Division of Community Revitalization (within Commerce) for housing and community resilience; Advisory Committee on Helene recovery with broad membership. Multi-agency coordination includes NC Commerce deploying $1.4B in CDBG-DR funds, NC DES processing 36,000+ Helene unemployment claims ($96M+ in benefits), NCDOT restoring 1,300+ roads, NC DEQ managing environmental cleanup, and $9M in grants to 14 nonprofits (Oct 2025) for volunteer rebuilding coordination.
NC Commerce; FEMA; NC DES; NCDOT; NC DEQ; Governor's Office Oct 2025 grant announcement
2
Pandemic response metrics
No pandemic during Stein's tenure. However, NC benefited from pandemic-era institutional capacity: Medicaid expansion (launched Dec 2023) added 650,000+ enrollees, improving healthcare infrastructure resilience. DHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai brings clinical expertise from Duke Medical. Stein issued a reproductive rights EO (Jan 16, 2025) directing agencies to protect access to legal healthcare — demonstrates willingness to use executive authority for public health. NC's public health infrastructure was tested and strengthened through COVID and remains functional.
NC DHHS; NC Medicaid Expansion Dashboard; Governor's Reproductive Rights EO Jan 2025
2
Disaster preparedness & emergency infrastructure
NC faces dual hurricane threats — Atlantic coast hurricanes and (as Helene proved) catastrophic inland flooding in western Appalachian mountains. Stein inherited and maintained NCEM emergency management infrastructure. Demonstrated preparedness capability during Hurricane Erin (Aug 2025): pre-positioned 200 Guard troops, activated State EOC and Regional Coordination Center-East, deployed swift water teams and aircraft. Winter storm response (Jan 2025) was proactive. GROW NC provides permanent institutional capacity for future disaster recovery. NC's emergency management systems are functional but Helene exposed gaps in western NC resilience.
NC NCEM; NC DPS Hurricane Erin Response; GROW NC; Governor's Office 2025
2
FOIA/open records compliance
As AG, Stein released the NC Open Government Guide in collaboration with the NC Press Association and Sunshine Center to help citizens navigate public records and open meetings laws. He stated the laws 'serve a clear public purpose — to place sunshine on how our government works.' NC uses public records law (not FOIA) for state records access. No complaints about records access under Stein's governor's office. GROW NC launched a public dashboard for Helene recovery data (March 2025) demonstrating proactive transparency. Early record positive but limited track record as governor.
NC Public Records Law; NC AG Open Government Guide; GROW NC Dashboard; Governor's Office
2
Governor's schedule availability
Governor's schedule published through the official NC Governor website (governor.nc.gov). Press releases document extensive public engagement: Helene recovery visits to western NC, veterans workforce roundtable (Feb 2025), workforce apprenticeship events (March 2025), Commanders Council meeting at Camp Lejeune (Aug 2025), Friendsgiving at Seymour Johnson AFB (Nov 2025). Schedule reflects active engagement across the state. No complaints about schedule opacity from media or watchdog organizations.
Governor's Office Website (governor.nc.gov); Press Release Archive 2025
2
Campaign finance compliance
No campaign finance violations identified. Stein won the 2024 gubernatorial race with ~51.8% against Mark Robinson, who was plagued by personal scandals. Stein's campaign raised substantial funds and all filings complied with NC campaign finance law. As former AG, Stein was responsible for enforcing campaign finance regulations statewide. NC State Board of Elections records show full compliance with disclosure requirements for both the gubernatorial campaign and post-election filings.
NC State Board of Elections Campaign Finance Records; 2024 General Election Results
3
Financial disclosure
Financial disclosures filed with the NC State Ethics Commission as required by law. Stein has filed disclosures continuously since his time as state senator (2009-2016) and through two terms as AG (2017-2024). Gubernatorial disclosures filed on time. NC's opioid settlement fund ($1.5B won by Stein as AG) earned national recognition for transparency and accountability in usage — demonstrating Stein's institutional commitment to financial transparency. No discrepancies or concerns identified in personal financial filings.
NC State Ethics Commission Financial Disclosures; NC Opioid Settlement Transparency Records
2
Open meetings compliance
Full open meetings compliance. As AG, Stein published the NC Open Government Guide covering both public records and open meetings laws, including guidance on digital communications and social media — produced with the NC Press Association and Sunshine Center. This background gives Stein strong institutional knowledge of open meetings requirements. No violations or complaints about closed-door meetings under his governor's office. Council of State meetings for Helene EO concurrence were properly conducted. Advisory committees established with public notice.
NC Open Meetings Law; NC AG Open Government Guide; Governor's Office Records
3
Open data portal
NC operates multiple open data platforms: LINC (Log Into North Carolina) hosts 1,500+ datasets from census, federal, and state agencies; NC Data Portal provides 30,000+ mappable data layers covering demographics, health, and education; NC Longitudinal Data Service (NCLDS) entered full public launch in September 2025 providing privacy-protected linked data. GROW NC launched a real-time Helene recovery dashboard. NCDIT under CIO Teena Piccione made data transparency a 2025 priority. NC State Data Center partnership with US Census Bureau has operated since 1978.
NC LINC Open Data Portal; NC Data Portal; NCLDS Public Launch Sept 2025; GROW NC Dashboard
2
Budget transparency
Budget documents publicly available through NC Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) including the $1.4B Critical Needs Budget proposal, consensus revenue forecasts, and ACFR. NC earned GFOA Certificate of Achievement for financial reporting for 31 consecutive years. However, the prolonged budget impasse (longest in NC history) creates transparency challenges — without a comprehensive budget, fiscal direction is unclear to the public. Minibudgets and continuing resolutions are less transparent than comprehensive appropriations. Helene recovery spending tracked via GROW NC dashboard.
NC OSBM; GFOA Certificate Records; GROW NC Dashboard
2
Lobbying disclosure
NC lobbying disclosure maintained through the Secretary of State's office. All registered lobbyists file required disclosure reports. As AG, Stein enforced consumer protection and corporate accountability laws including the $40M Juul settlement for marketing to children, $1.5B opioid settlement, and $1.1B Duke Energy coal ash settlement — demonstrating a track record of holding corporate interests accountable. No lobbying disclosure controversies under his governorship. Standard NC lobbying registration and reporting requirements remain in effect.
NC Secretary of State Lobbying Records; NC AG Consumer Protection Record 2017-2024
3
IG report publication
NC State Auditor reports published regularly on auditor.nc.gov. Key 2025 reports include: the critical NCORR audit (Nov 2025) finding $297M shortfall and vendor oversight failures in hurricane recovery programs; the FY2024 statewide financial audit confirming strong fiscal health; performance audits of the NC State Treasurer's office (PER-2025-3400) and other agencies. All reports publicly accessible. No suppression or delay of audit findings. The State Auditor's office has maintained independence and publication cadence under Stein's administration.
NC State Auditor Website (auditor.nc.gov); PER-2025-4902; FIN-2025-8720
2
Legislative audit cooperation
Full cooperation with legislative audit processes. The NC General Assembly's Fiscal Research Division has access to budget and revenue data. The State Auditor (a separately elected official) has conducted audits of executive branch agencies without reported obstruction. The NCORR audit (Nov 2025) examined over $1B in hurricane recovery funds managed by executive agencies — no cooperation complaints. Stein's administration cooperated with General Assembly committee presentations on GROW NC recovery progress (Jan 29, 2025 House Select Committee presentation).
NC State Auditor; NC General Assembly Fiscal Research Division; House Select Committee Records
3
Press conference accessibility
Regular press conferences throughout 2025 on Helene recovery, budget priorities, and emergency weather events. PBS broadcast NC emergency management severe weather conference (June 5, 2025). Multiple press releases and formal statements — including detailed FEMA denial responses (April/May 2025), September 18 letter to legislators, and regular GROW NC updates. End-of-year interview with WUNC (Dec 17, 2025) reflecting on budget frustrations and recovery progress. Media engagement has been consistent and accessible. Year-end reflection interview with CBS17 also provided.
Governor's Office Media Schedule; PBS NC Emergency Broadcast; WUNC Dec 2025; CBS17
2
State contract transparency
Standard procurement transparency maintained through NC Department of Administration. Emergency procurement waivers for Helene temporary housing (EO-1, Jan 2025) were publicly disclosed and Council of State concurrence obtained. NCDIT reduced procurement timelines statewide in 2025 while maintaining transparency requirements. The GROW NC recovery dashboard provides public tracking of how disaster recovery contracts and funds are being deployed. No contract scandals or opacity complaints. Stein's administration has been transparent about emergency contracting rationale.
NC DOA Procurement; Governor's EO-1; NCDIT Procurement Reform 2025; GROW NC Dashboard
3
Court order compliance
No court order compliance issues identified. As a two-term AG (2017-2024), Stein has extensive experience with court compliance and enforcement. His AG office pursued major court actions including the $1.1B Duke Energy coal ash settlement and DuPont/Chemours PFAS litigation. No instances of executive branch defiance of court orders under his governorship. The reproductive rights EO (Jan 16, 2025) was carefully crafted within existing legal authority — directing agencies not to cooperate with potential federal efforts to restrict legal healthcare, rather than challenging existing law.
Court Records; NC AG Litigation History; Governor's Reproductive Rights EO
2
Personal criminal charges
Zero criminal charges — ever. Stein served as NC Attorney General for two terms (2017-2024), the state's chief law enforcement officer. Before that, he was a NC state senator (2009-2016) and a federal prosecutor. His career in law enforcement and legal oversight provides an exceptionally clean criminal record. Harvard Law School graduate. His 2024 opponent Mark Robinson faced explosive personal scandals, making the contrast especially stark. No legal issues of any kind identified.
Court Records; NC DOJ; NC SBE 2024 Election Records
3
Ethics complaints — substantiated
Zero substantiated ethics complaints against Stein as governor. No complaints filed during his AG tenure (2017-2024) either. As AG, he was responsible for enforcing ethics laws and consumer protections, including the $40M Juul settlement, $1.5B opioid settlement with drug companies, and the anti-robocall coalition with 51 AGs. His ethics record as both AG and governor is clean. Stein's HPU poll (Sept 2025) showed 46% approval with 24% disapproval — no ethics scandals have impacted his standing.
NC State Ethics Commission; NC AG Consumer Protection Record; HPU Poll Sept 2025
2
Gift/travel disclosure
Gift and travel disclosures filed with the NC State Ethics Commission as required. Travel has been primarily domestic and related to official duties — extensive trips to western NC for Helene recovery, veterans events at military installations (Camp Lejeune Aug 2025, Seymour Johnson AFB Nov 2025), workforce development events, and legislative engagement in Raleigh. No luxury travel controversies or undisclosed gifts reported. Public schedule documents travel for official purposes consistently.
NC State Ethics Commission Gift/Travel Disclosures; Governor's Schedule Records
2
Conflict of interest
No conflicts of interest documented. Stein transitioned from AG to governor cleanly — his AG office handled major corporate litigation (Duke Energy coal ash, DuPont/Chemours PFAS, Juul) and those matters continued under his successor. Financial disclosures show no business interests that would create conflicts with gubernatorial duties. No reported conflicts in cabinet appointments or Helene recovery contracting. Clean separation between personal finances and state decision-making.
NC State Ethics Commission; Financial Disclosures; NC DOJ Transition Records
3
State resources for political purposes
No documented misuse of state resources for political purposes. Stein's public appearances have focused on official duties — Helene recovery, military base visits, workforce development, and legislative engagement. The reproductive rights EO (Jan 16, 2025) was a policy action, not a political campaign tool. No reports of using state staff, vehicles, or facilities for campaign or personal purposes. First-term governor in honeymoon period with no re-election campaign activity yet.
NC State Ethics Commission; Governor's Office Records; NC media
3
Truthfulness in official statements
No documented falsehoods or misleading statements. Stein's public statements on Helene recovery have been data-driven — citing specific dollar figures, application numbers, and recovery milestones with verifiable sources. His FEMA appeal letters (April 25, May 23, 2025) cited specific precedents (Katrina, Maria, Ike) that were factually accurate. Budget impasse statements have accurately characterized the historic delay. End-of-year WUNC interview (Dec 2025) reflected measured frustrations with factual grounding. No fact-check organization has flagged gubernatorial statements as false.
Governor's Office Public Statements; FEMA Appeal Letters; WUNC Dec 2025 Interview; Fact-check records
3
Protection of ethics infrastructure
NC ethics infrastructure includes the State Ethics Commission, State Auditor (independently elected), and the AG's consumer protection division. Stein has not weakened any ethics bodies. However, the Republican legislature passed and overrode Stein's veto on a REINS-style bill requiring legislative approval of major agency rules — which some critics argue weakens executive regulatory independence. The State Auditor's office continues to operate independently, producing critical reports on executive programs (NCORR audit, Nov 2025). Stein's AG background suggests institutional support for ethics infrastructure.
NC State Ethics Commission; NC General Assembly REINS Bill Override; NC State Auditor Independence
2
Emoluments/self-dealing
No emoluments or self-dealing concerns identified. Stein's career has been entirely in public service — NC state senator (2009-2016), AG (2017-2024), and governor (2025-present). Financial disclosures reveal no business interests that could create self-dealing opportunities. No family members in state contracts or appointments flagged as nepotistic. As AG, Stein aggressively pursued corporate self-dealing through cases like the Duke Energy coal ash settlement ($1.1B) and opioid manufacturer accountability ($1.5B). Clean personal financial record.
NC Financial Disclosures; NC State Ethics Commission; NC AG Litigation Record
3
Campaign donor to state contract pipeline
No documented pay-to-play or campaign donor-to-contract pipeline issues. Emergency Helene procurement waivers (EO-1) expedited contracting for temporary housing but received Council of State concurrence and public disclosure. No investigative reports linking campaign donors to state contracts. NC DOA procurement processes include standard competitive bidding requirements. Stein's AG record of corporate accountability ($40M Juul, $1.5B opioid settlements) suggests institutional opposition to corruption. Clean first-year record on contracting integrity.
NC State Board of Elections Campaign Finance; NC DOA Procurement Records; Governor's EO-1
3
Foreign influence
No foreign influence concerns identified. No FARA registrations associated with Stein or his staff. NC's economic development includes foreign direct investment — notably Vulcan Elements (rare earth magnets, $918M) and other international firms — but these are transparent economic development announcements, not influence operations. Stein's entire career has been in NC state government and federal prosecution. No foreign government contacts or lobbying arrangements identified. NC's Research Triangle attracts international firms transparently.
DOJ FARA Database; NC Economic Development Announcements; Financial Disclosures
3
Sexual harassment claims
Zero sexual harassment claims against Stein or his administration. This stands in stark contrast to the 2024 election environment: Republican nominee Mark Robinson (Lt. Governor) faced explosive CNN-reported scandals involving inappropriate online activity, tanking his candidacy. Stein's personal conduct has been consistently clean throughout his public career — state senator, AG, and governor. No workplace complaints, settlements, or allegations identified against the governor or his senior staff.
NC State Ethics Commission; NC OSHR; Court Records; CNN Robinson reporting Oct 2024
3
Records preservation
No records preservation issues. NC Division of Archives and Records operates under established retention schedules. Stein's AG Open Government Guide specifically addressed digital communications and social media record-keeping — demonstrating awareness of modern records preservation challenges. The Government Modernization Act of 2025 directed NCDIT to establish centralized digital records management, potentially improving long-term preservation. No reports of record destruction, deletion, or improper handling under Stein's administration.
NC Division of Archives and Records; NC AG Open Government Guide; Government Modernization Act 2025
3
Revolving door
No revolving door concerns identified. Key cabinet appointments are career public servants or academic professionals — DOT Secretary Joey Hopkins (30-year NCDOT career), DHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai (Duke professor), Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley (career government), Administration Secretary Gabe Esparza (former SBA). Stein himself moved from AG to governor — entirely within public service. No appointments of industry lobbyists to regulate their former industries. No former staff departures to regulated entities flagged in first year.
NC State Ethics Commission; Governor's Cabinet Appointment Records; NC Revolving Door provisions
3
Fraud losses in state programs
No major fraud losses identified in state programs during Stein's tenure. However, the State Auditor's NCORR report (Nov 2025) found $297M in overcommitments in the prior hurricane recovery Homeowner Recovery Program (Matthew/Florence era) — classified as poor budget management rather than fraud. Stein's GROW NC and Renew NC programs have implemented real-time dashboards and in-person intake centers to reduce fraud risk. As AG, Stein created Operation Silver Shield to protect seniors from fraud/scams and led the $1.5B opioid settlement for industry accountability.
NC State Auditor PER-2025-4902; GROW NC/Renew NC; NC AG Operation Silver Shield
2
Program integrity — eligibility verification
Inherited NC DHHS eligibility systems including SAVE verification and E-Verify mandate for employers with 25+ employees. Medicaid expansion (650,000+ enrolled by April 2025) uses federal eligibility standards at 138% FPL. Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program prioritizes low-to-moderate-income families with county-level intake and verification. Photo voter ID requirement enforced for elections. NCSBE entered SAVE agreement with USCIS (Nov 2025) for voter roll citizenship verification. Programs operating with standard federal and state verification protocols.
NC DHHS Program Integrity; NC Medicaid Expansion; Renew NC; NCSBE SAVE Agreement
2
IT system modernization
Significant IT modernization progress under CIO Teena Piccione (appointed by Stein). NCDIT finished 2025 as a national leader: NC's AI readiness ranking rose from 36th to 7th nationally; AI User Code of Conduct established; AI accelerator program launched; statewide AI council created. Government Modernization Act of 2025 directs legacy system upgrades, cloud migration, and centralized digital records. NCDIT doubled cybersecurity program staff and published NC's first five-year cybersecurity plan. Child welfare launched PATH NC case management system replacing failed NC FAST platform. SB 245 enabled online driver license renewal (10K+ renewals in first week).
NCDIT 2025 Year-End Report; Government Modernization Act 2025; NC DIT Strategic Plan 2025-2029; SB 245
2
Permit processing timeliness
SB 245 signed into law enabling online driver license renewal — 10,000+ renewals processed in the first week alone, demonstrating strong demand and successful digital modernization. NCDIT reduced procurement timelines statewide. DEQ permit processing times for environmental permits not significantly changed. Helene recovery permits (temporary housing, road/bridge repair) expedited through emergency EO waivers. Business permitting environment strong — NC named #1 state for business (CNBC 2025) and attracted $23.1B in investment commitments. Overall permit environment improving through digital modernization.
NC DMV SB 245; NCDIT; NC DEQ; CNBC Top State 2025; NC Commerce
2
Child welfare system
Inherited a deeply troubled child welfare system — children sleeping in DSS offices, hotel rooms, and converted storage closets due to foster home shortages. Federal lawsuit filed (Feb 2025) targeting NC's 'broken' foster care system. Stein signed the bipartisan Fostering Care in NC Act (HB 612, June 26, 2025) — the most significant child welfare reform since Rylan's Law (2017). The law gives DHHS more authority over county DSS agencies, tightens abuse/neglect investigation timelines, and launched the PATH NC case management system replacing the failed NC FAST platform. Unanimously approved by both chambers.
NC DHHS DSS; Fostering Care in NC Act (HB 612); WRAL Feb/June 2025; UNC SOG Coates' Canons
2
Medicaid program management
NC Medicaid expansion (launched Dec 1, 2023 under Cooper) has been a major success under Stein's management: 650,000+ newly eligible enrolled by April 2025 (in half the projected time), 690,000+ by December 2025. Over 233,000 rural community members enrolled — one in three of all new enrollees. NC received a national award for Medicaid expansion implementation (Nov 2024). Stein called a special session (Nov 17, 2025) specifically to secure Medicaid funding. Program management is effective but threatened by the budget impasse and potential federal Medicaid cuts.
NC Medicaid Expansion Dashboard; NC DHHS Press Releases; NCDHHS National Award Nov 2024; Governor's Special Session Call
2
Environmental program
Strong environmental credentials. As AG, Stein negotiated the largest coal ash cleanup in US history and won a $1.1B Duke Energy settlement; sued DuPont/Chemours for PFAS contamination of the Cape Fear River. As governor, DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson (former EPA Chief of Staff) leads environmental policy. NC adopted PFAS standards for PFOA, PFOS, and GenX chemicals (effective Nov 1, 2025). DEQ prioritized Helene environmental recovery including water system restoration. However, the legislature overrode Stein's veto repealing Duke Energy emissions goals, weakening climate policy.
NC DEQ; EPA State Evaluations; NC AG Coal Ash/PFAS Record; NC PFAS Standards Nov 2025; Duke Energy veto override
3
Transportation project delivery
NCDOT under Secretary Joey Hopkins (30-year DOT veteran) is managing massive Helene infrastructure recovery: 800+ bridges damaged, 150+ need replacement, 1,300+ roads reopened (84% of impacted roads restored), 4.75M cubic yards of debris removed from roadways. NCDOT manages 13,848 bridges statewide — 9.25% rated poor (down from 22.8% in 2014). Bridge maintenance funding increased from $150M (FY2015) to $482M (FY2025), with proposal to double to $673M. ASCE grades NC infrastructure at C-. Pavement: 63% fair condition, only 1.5% poor (vs 37% nationally). Major $23.1B in economic investment commitments depend on transportation infrastructure.
NCDOT; FHWA NC Division; ASCE NC Report Card 2025; NCDOT Bridge Program
2
Unemployment insurance system
UI system processing disaster claims. 36,000+ Helene-related UI claims processed, $96M+ in disaster benefits delivered. System functioning under stress.
NC DES; DOL UI Data
2
Veterans services
NC has 600,000+ veterans and the 4th-largest active-duty population nationally with 130,000+ military/DOD personnel. DMVA Secretary Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette (Air Force veteran, attorney) leads the department. Stein held a veterans workforce roundtable (Feb 2025), attended the 50th Veterans Employment Conference (March 2025), met with NC Commanders Council at Camp Lejeune (Aug 2025), joined Blue Star Families' 'Do Your Part' initiative (Aug 2025), and hosted Friendsgiving at Seymour Johnson AFB (Nov 2025). Record 34 NC employers received HIRE Vets Medallion Awards in 2025 (up from 28 in 2024). Major bases: Fort Liberty, Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point, Seymour Johnson.
NC DMVA; Governor's Office Press Releases 2025; HIRE Vets Program; VA State Grant Data
3
Housing program effectiveness
Housing affordability improving relative to peer states (NC attracting in-migration from high-cost states). Helene destroyed housing in western NC — 3,400+ homeowner recovery applications. Too early for policy impact.
NC HFA; Census ACS Housing Data; NC Commerce Helene Reports
2
Corrections system
NC corrections faces serious challenges inherited by Stein: 39% correctional officer vacancy rate, overcrowding at multiple facilities (some exceeding 130% capacity), extended lockdowns due to staffing shortages, and 2,190 inmates transferred from western NC prisons during Helene. DAC Secretary Leslie Cooley Dismukes (former DOJ Criminal Bureau Chief) leads the department. Stein's Critical Needs Budget proposed $211M for corrections including CO pay increases (6.5% total raise, bringing starting pay above $40K), probation officer and nurse pay increases. Score reflects clean governance of the department, not the inherited operational challenges.
NC DAC Budget Overview March 2025; NC Newsline Dec 2024; Governor's Critical Needs Budget
3
Federal funding captured
Aggressive federal funding pursuit: total Helene request of $23B including $13.5B in new funding from Congress (Sept 2025). Congress appropriated $5.95B (Dec 2024). $1.4B in CDBG-DR housing funds deployed through Renew NC. NC has major military installations — Fort Liberty, Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point, Seymour Johnson — with $740M+ in active federal military construction projects and 91,000 active-duty personnel receiving 3.8% pay raises. NC also capturing federal Medicaid matching funds for 650,000+ expansion enrollees. Despite FEMA cost-share dispute ($200M impact), overall federal funding capture is strong.
USASpending.gov — NC; FEMA Records; Governor's Office; Congress Dec 2024 Appropriation; DOD NC installations
2
Federal corrective action plans
No major federal corrective action plans required for NC state programs under Stein. Medicaid expansion operating within CMS guidelines — earned a national implementation award (Nov 2024). FEMA's denial of the 100% cost-share extension was a funding dispute, not a corrective action. The State Auditor's NCORR report on prior hurricane recovery programs (Matthew/Florence) identified issues that predate Stein but inform current disaster management practices. NC's AAA credit rating and 31-year GFOA certificate streak confirm strong federal compliance standing.
Federal Agency State Reviews — NC; CMS Medicaid Reviews; FEMA; NC State Auditor
3
Interstate cooperation
NC participates in standard interstate compacts and cooperated with neighboring states on Helene recovery — the storm also devastated parts of Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. As AG, Stein co-led multistate coalitions: the bipartisan 51-AG opioid settlement ($50B+ nationally, $1.5B for NC), the anti-robocall coalition with 51 AGs and 12 companies, and the ACA defense brief. NC's economic competitiveness drives interstate cooperation on workforce, transportation, and military installations. Member of standard interstate compacts for corrections, education, and emergency management.
Interstate Compact Records; NC AG Multistate Coalition Record; Governor's Helene Coordination
3
Local government relations
Active local government engagement, particularly in western NC Helene recovery. GROW NC established county-level tracking and in-person intake centers for Renew NC housing applications. Encouraged western NC homeowners to apply for private road/bridge repair program (March 2025). Fostering Care in NC Act gives state DHHS more authority over county DSS agencies — some tension with local control tradition but unanimously supported. 8,000+ jobs announced in Charlotte metro, 4,000+ in Triangle, 16,000+ in Triad — economic development requires strong local partnerships. NC Association of County Commissioners engagement ongoing.
NC Association of County Commissioners; GROW NC County Reports; Renew NC; NC Commerce
2
Federal litigation costs
Stein pursued FEMA cost-share dispute through administrative channels (appeal letter April 25, 2025) rather than filing costly federal litigation — a pragmatic approach despite the denial costing NC ~$200M. NC has not joined speculative multi-state lawsuits that could waste taxpayer funds. As AG, Stein was selective in federal litigation — he joined the ACA defense and led opioid settlements that returned $1.5B to NC, demonstrating cost-effective litigation strategy. The FEMA dispute represents the most significant federal funding disagreement, handled without litigation costs.
Governor's FEMA Appeal Letter April 25, 2025; FEMA Denial May 23, 2025; NC AG Litigation Record
2
Constituent inquiry response
Active constituent response infrastructure: GROW NC recovery website (wncrecovery.nc.gov) provides centralized resources for Helene-affected residents; Renew NC single-family housing program accepts applications with county-level in-person intake centers and multiple application options; disaster recovery hotlines operational. Governor's office maintains standard constituent inquiry response for non-emergency matters. $9M in grants awarded to 14 nonprofit organizations (Oct 2025) to help with volunteer rebuilding outreach. Online driver license renewal (SB 245) serves constituent needs with 10K+ first-week users.
Governor's Office; GROW NC (wncrecovery.nc.gov); Renew NC; SB 245
3
Town halls held
Extensive in-person constituent engagement rather than formal town halls: multiple visits to western NC disaster areas for Helene recovery; veterans workforce roundtable in Greenville (Feb 2025); workforce apprenticeship events statewide (March 2025); private road/bridge repair program outreach in western NC (March 2025); NC Commanders Council meeting at Camp Lejeune (Aug 2025); Friendsgiving at Seymour Johnson AFB (Nov 2025). December 2025 WRAL interview described Stein spending significant time in western NC communities. Active engagement but structured more as targeted outreach than traditional town halls.
Governor's Office Schedule; Press Release Archive 2025; WRAL Dec 2025
2
Constituent satisfaction
Polling shows solid early approval: Elon Poll (first 100 days) 44% approve / 17% disapprove / 39% unsure. Carolina Forward (March 2025) 55.6% approve / 20.4% disapprove. HPU Poll (Sept 2025) 46% approve / 24% disapprove. Notably strong cross-party appeal — 39% of Republicans approve (Catawba-YouGov). Highest approval on veterans (51%), voting integrity (50%), civil rights (49%), Helene recovery (49%). Lowest on housing prices (34%), taxes (33%), inflation (29%). Budget impasse frustration directed at legislature, not governor. Record economic growth (33,745 jobs, $23.1B investment in 2025) provides positive backdrop.
Elon Poll March 2025; Carolina Forward Poll; HPU Poll Sept 2025; Catawba-YouGov; Governor's Office
2
ADA compliance
Standard ADA compliance maintained across NC state facilities and programs. Helene recovery programs (GROW NC, Renew NC) provide multiple application options including in-person intake centers, which accommodates individuals with disabilities. Online driver license renewal (SB 245) improves accessibility for those with mobility limitations. Governor's website and press releases follow standard accessibility guidelines. No ADA complaints or DOJ enforcement actions against NC state agencies during Stein's tenure. NC's Government Modernization Act includes digital accessibility requirements.
DOJ ADA Reviews; NC state agency compliance records; Renew NC accessibility; Government Modernization Act
3
Electoral accountability
Won 2024 gubernatorial election with approximately 51.8% against Republican Mark Robinson, who was devastated by CNN-reported personal scandals. Stein ran on his AG record (opioid settlements, coal ash cleanup, rape kit backlog elimination) and hurricane recovery commitment. First-year approval ratings strong: 55.6% approve (Carolina Forward March 2025) with notable 39% Republican approval (Catawba-YouGov). Electoral mandate is moderate — NC remains a purple state where Trump won the presidential race while Stein won the governorship. Four-year term, eligible for re-election in 2028.
NC State Board of Elections — 2024 General Election Results; Polling data 2025
2

Section B — State Outcomes 593/975

13 categories measuring real-world outcomes: economic performance, population trends, fiscal health, public safety, education, healthcare, infrastructure, cost of living, transparency, controversy, historical context, constituent satisfaction, and immigration compliance.

CNBC #1 Top State for Business (2025) — third time in four years. NC ranked 1st in Economy and 2nd in Workforce categories. Under Stein, $20B+ investment announced producing 23,000+ jobs. 2024 totals: 17,586 jobs, $16.1B investment. NC is 3rd fastest-growing state. JetZero aviation factory announced for Greensboro (14,500 jobs). Amazon investing $10B in NC data centers. Major sectors: biotech, aerospace, banking (Charlotte — 2nd largest US financial center), tech (Research Triangle). BLS: unemployment near national average (~4%). In-migration from NY, NJ, CA driving workforce growth.
Census: NC population exceeded 10.8M, among fastest-growing states nationally. Significant domestic in-migration from NY, NJ, CA, and other high-cost states. Charlotte metro surpassed 2.7M, Raleigh-Durham metro growing rapidly with Research Triangle driving tech/biotech migration. NC ranked #1 state for business (CNBC 2025). Record 2025 economic development: 34,000+ jobs announced, $23.1B in investment commitments. Major projects include Vulcan Elements ($918M rare earth magnets), Toyota battery plant expansion, VinFast EV factory (Chatham County). Strong working-age demographics compared to aging Northeast states.
AAA credit rating (top tier). Unappropriated reserve balance $8.0B. Savings Reserve (Rainy Day Fund) dipped below $3.65B after Hurricane Helene — Stein proposes restoring to $4.75B. Nearly 2.5 years without a new two-year budget — only state to finish 2025 without one. House and Senate R impasse over income tax cut timing (currently 4.5%, phasing toward 3.99%). Stein proposed $1.4B Critical Needs Budget (March 2026) for Medicaid ($319M shortfall), teacher/law enforcement raises. Helene recovery costs massive ($19B federal request). Operating on FY2024 continuation budget while reserves cushion shortfall.
FBI UCR 2024: NC violent crime rate 376 per 100K — 4.6% above national average, ranked 19th. Violent crime down 4.3% YoY: murder rate down 9.2%, rape down 2.1%, robbery down 2.9%. Crime composition: 77.2% aggravated assaults, 13.3% robberies, 7.4% rapes, 2% murders. Charlotte and Fayetteville have highest urban crime rates. Stein signed SB 429 (fentanyl enforcement legislation). 39% correctional officer vacancy rate creates dangerous conditions — some prisons at 130%+ capacity. Stein's Critical Needs Budget proposed $211M for corrections including 6.5% CO pay raises (starting pay above $40K). Rural areas generally safe.
NAEP: NC scores near national average in reading and math. Mixed performance — strong districts (Wake County, Charlotte-Mecklenburg) alongside struggling rural districts. Per-pupil spending below national average (~$10,500 vs ~$15,000 nationally). Teacher pay below national average — source of ongoing tension; budget impasse blocks pending raises. NC has 97,000+ public school teachers. Budget impasse means step increases and enrollment growth funded through minibudgets only. Fostering Care Act (HB 612) improves DHHS oversight of county child welfare operations. NCDIT AI readiness ranking rose from 36th to 7th nationally in 2025.
Census ACS: NC uninsured rate improving significantly with Medicaid expansion (launched Dec 2023) — 690,000+ newly eligible enrolled by Dec 2025, including 233,000+ rural community members (one in three new enrollees). NC received national award for Medicaid expansion implementation (Nov 2024). DHHS Secretary Dev Sangvai (Duke professor, NC Medical Board president) leads healthcare policy. SB 429 (fentanyl enforcement) signed. Helene-damaged water systems in western NC remain public health concern. Infant mortality above national average. University health systems (UNC, Duke, Wake Forest) provide world-class tertiary care.
FHWA NBI: NCDOT manages 13,848 bridges — 9.25% rated poor (down from 22.8% in 2014). Bridge maintenance funding increased from $150M (FY2015) to $482M (FY2025), proposal to double to $673M. Pavement: 63% fair, only 1.5% poor (vs 37% nationally). ASCE grades NC infrastructure at C- (Jan 2026). Helene devastated western NC: 800+ bridges damaged, 150+ need full replacement, 1,300+ roads reopened (84% restored), 4.75M cubic yards of debris removed. Water/sewer systems severely compromised. DOT Secretary Joey Hopkins (30-year veteran) leads recovery. $23.1B in economic investment commitments depend on transportation infrastructure.
BEA RPP: NC cost of living ~95-97 (slightly below national average). Housing prices 20% below national averages. Statewide median home $378K (Feb 2026, +2.5% YoY) vs $440K national median. Charlotte: 3,452 active listings averaging $646.8K. Raleigh: 1,950 listings averaging $763.6K — reflecting Research Triangle demand. Two-bedroom rental: Charlotte $1,398/mo, Raleigh $1,650/mo. Income tax phasing down (currently 4.5%, toward 3.99% by 2030 per R legislature). Major draw for domestic in-migration from NY, NJ, CA. Post-Helene housing pressure in western NC: 34,000 new homes needed by 2028. $1.4B CDBG-DR Renew NC program addressing storm-displaced homeowners.
As AG, Stein released NC Open Government Guide with NC Press Association and Sunshine Center. NC operates multiple open data platforms: LINC hosts 1,500+ datasets, NC Data Portal provides 30,000+ mappable layers, NCLDS entered full public launch Sept 2025 with privacy-protected linked data. GROW NC launched real-time Helene recovery dashboard (Mar 2025). NC earned GFOA Certificate of Achievement for financial reporting 31 consecutive years. CIO Teena Piccione made data transparency a 2025 priority. Budget impasse (longest in NC history) limits transparency on fiscal direction — minibudgets less transparent than comprehensive appropriations. NC State Data Center partnership with US Census Bureau operational since 1978.
Budget impasse is defining controversy — longest period without a new two-year budget in NC history. Intra-Republican disputes over tax policy blocked passage, not gubernatorial inaction. FEMA denied 100% cost-share extension request (~$200M impact) — Stein filed formal appeal April 25, 2025 citing Katrina/Maria/Ike precedents, denied May 23. Called special session Nov 17, 2025 to force action on Medicaid and Helene funding. R legislature overrode Stein's veto on Duke Energy emissions bill — weakening climate policy. REINS-style bill requiring legislative approval of major agency rules also overridden. No personal scandals. Won against scandal-plagued Mark Robinson (~51.8%).
Succeeds Roy Cooper (2 terms, Democrat). First Jewish governor in NC history. Former two-term AG (2017-2024) and federal prosecutor — strongest legal credentials of any recent NC governor. As AG won $1.5B opioid settlement, $1.1B Duke Energy coal ash settlement (largest in US history), $40M Juul settlement. First signed bill (HB 149, Disaster Recovery Act of 2025) addressed Helene aftermath. NC completed first HUD disaster home repair in Aug 2025 — fastest state in a decade. CNBC ranked NC #1 state for business (2025) under his economic stewardship. Navigating divided government with Republican supermajority — constrained executive authority but effective bipartisan cooperation on Fostering Care Act (HB 612, unanimous).
Won 2024 election ~51.8% vs Mark Robinson (plagued by CNN-reported personal scandals). HPU poll (Sept 2025): 46% approval, 24% disapproval — moderate standing with significant 'no opinion' cohort reflecting early tenure. Helene recovery efforts generally well-received by affected communities — GROW NC dashboard provides transparent recovery tracking. Record economic growth (34,000+ jobs, $23.1B investment) provides strong positive backdrop. Medicaid expansion success (690,000+ enrolled by Dec 2025) popular. Budget impasse frustrates teachers, correctional officers, and state employees awaiting raises. Special session call (Nov 2025) demonstrated willingness to force legislative action.
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Section C — Oath Fidelity +23 (-378 to +378)

126 items scored -3 to +3 measuring fidelity to constitutional oath. Grounded in Supreme Court precedent and constitutional text.

+3Exemplary +2Strong +1Adequate 0Neutral -1Concerning -2Failing -3Hostile

Protection of Life

Declaration of Independence; 5th/14th Amendments
Score: 8 Range: -93 to 93 Items: 31
Violent crime rate trend
NC violent crime rate 376 per 100K (2024), 4.6% above national average but declining 4.3% year-over-year. Murder rate down 9.2%, rape down 2.1%, robbery down 2.9%. Charlotte and Fayetteville drive urban crime. Overall trajectory is positive under Stein's first year.
FBI UCR 2024; NC SBI Crime Statistics
+1
Homicide rate relative to national average
NC homicide rate approximately 6.0-7.0 per 100K, near national average. Charlotte particularly elevated. Murder rate declining 9.2% YoY but still near national baseline. Southport mass shooting (Sept 2025) killed 3 at American Fish Company restaurant.
FBI UCR 2024; CDC WONDER; Southport shooting Sept 2025
0
Homicide clearance rate
NC homicide clearance rate approximately 45-50%, near national average of ~50%. No significant change under Stein.
FBI UCR; NC SBI
0
Law enforcement staffing adequacy
NC faces severe law enforcement staffing crisis: correctional officers have 39% vacancy rate creating dangerous conditions including extended prison lockdowns and 130%+ overcrowding. Stein proposed $211M for corrections pay in Critical Needs Budget but raises are stalled by budget impasse. Law enforcement officers statewide waiting for pay increases. Proposed but has not delivered staffing improvements.
FBI LEOKA; NC DAC Budget Overview March 2025; NC Newsline Dec 2024
-1
Drug overdose death rate trend
NC drug overdose death rate approximately 30-35 per 100K, above national average. I-85/I-95 corridor major drug trafficking route. Fentanyl increasingly dominant. Stein signed fentanyl sentencing bill (SB 429) but overdose rates remain elevated. As AG, secured $1.5B opioid settlement.
CDC WONDER; NC DHHS; SB 429
-1
Emergency management preparedness (FEMA rating)
Exceptional emergency management in first year. Five Helene recovery EOs on first full day in office (Jan 2, 2025). Created GROW NC recovery office. Proactive Hurricane Erin response (Aug 2025) with 200 pre-positioned Guard troops. Activated State EOC and Regional Coordination Center for multiple weather events. Strong institutional emergency management capacity.
FEMA SPR; NC DPS Emergency Management; Governor's EOs Jan 2025
+2
Preventable mass-casualty event response
Stein managed Hurricane Helene aftermath ($59.6B in damages, 108+ deaths pre-inauguration). Created GROW NC office. Fastest state in a decade to begin HUD CDBG-DR home rebuilding (Aug 2025). Called rare special session (Nov 17, 2025) for Helene funding. 4.75M cubic yards debris removed, 1,300+ roads reopened. Effective disaster leadership defining his first year.
FEMA; GROW NC; HUD CDBG-DR; Governor's Special Session Nov 2025
+2
Infrastructure safety — bridge and road conditions
NC infrastructure at ASCE grade C- (Jan 2026). 9.25% of 13,848 bridges rated poor (improved from 22.8% in 2014). 800+ bridges damaged by Helene, 150+ need full replacement. 84% of impacted roads reopened. Bridge maintenance funding increased to $482M. Moderate inherited condition with active recovery effort.
FHWA NBI; ASCE NC Report Card 2025; NCDOT
0
Water and dam safety compliance
NC water systems face ongoing challenges: GenX/PFAS contamination near Fayetteville being addressed through new PFAS standards (effective Nov 1, 2025). Helene severely damaged western NC water/sewer infrastructure with significant funding gap. Standard EPA delegation. DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson (former EPA Chief of Staff) leads environmental policy.
EPA SDWIS; NC DEQ; PFAS Standards Nov 2025
0
Healthcare access — uninsured rate
NC uninsured rate improving significantly: Medicaid expansion (Dec 2023) enrolled 690,000+ by Dec 2025, including 233,000+ rural community members. NC received national award for expansion implementation (Nov 2024). Uninsured rate dropping from ~12% toward ~8-9%. Stein called special session specifically to secure Medicaid funding.
Census ACS; KFF; NC Medicaid Expansion Dashboard; NCDHHS Award Nov 2024
+1
Maternal mortality rate
NC maternal mortality rate approximately 20-25 per 100K live births, near national average. Medicaid expansion improving prenatal access for 233,000+ rural women. No specific maternal mortality initiative from Stein beyond general healthcare expansion.
CDC WONDER; NC DHHS
0
Infant mortality rate
NC infant mortality rate approximately 6.5-7.0 per 1,000 live births, slightly above national average. Racial disparities persist. Medicaid expansion improving access but outcome improvements take time.
CDC WONDER; NC DHHS vital statistics
0
Self-defense rights — Castle Doctrine / Stand Your Ground
NC maintains Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground (NC GS 14-51.3). Stein did not attempt to weaken existing self-defense laws. However, he vetoed permitless carry (SB 50) and guns in private schools (HB 193), and actively pushed for red flag laws that could impact self-defense rights. Maintained but did not champion inherited protections.
NC GS 14-51.3; NRA-ILA; SB 50 veto; HB 193 veto
0
Death penalty procedural safeguards
Stein signed Iryna's Law (Oct 2025) which streamlines the death penalty process but called the death penalty provisions 'barbaric' and declared 'there will be no firing squads in North Carolina during my time as governor.' Senate Democrats urged veto. Signed only because it would have become law automatically. His stated opposition to capital punishment undermines his constitutional duty to faithfully execute the law.
NC Newsline Oct 2025; Iryna's Law; DPIC; Stein veto message
-1
Suicide prevention program funding and outcomes
NC suicide rate approximately 14-15 per 100K, near national average. Standard prevention programs. Behavioral health EO (Feb 2026) addresses crisis response but too early for outcomes.
CDC WISQARS; AFSP NC; EO 33 Feb 2026
0
911/emergency response time adequacy
NC emergency response times adequate in urban areas meeting NFPA standards. Western mountain areas face terrain challenges exacerbated by Helene infrastructure damage. Rural response times a concern statewide. Average overall.
NFPA; NC EMS Performance Data
0
Opioid/fentanyl interdiction and treatment funding
Signed fentanyl sentencing bill (SB 429). As AG, led $1.5B opioid settlement (largest in NC history). Behavioral health/criminal justice EO (Feb 2026) addresses integration of substance abuse treatment and criminal justice. $835M biennial investment in behavioral health (from prior budget). Active strategy despite elevated overdose rates.
SAMHSA; NC DHHS; SB 429; Stein AG opioid settlement; EO 33
+1
Veteran suicide and healthcare access
NC has 600,000+ veterans, 4th-largest active-duty population (130,000+ military/DOD). DMVA Secretary Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette (Air Force veteran). Active engagement: veterans workforce roundtable, Commanders Council at Camp Lejeune, Blue Star Families initiative, Friendsgiving at Seymour Johnson AFB. Record 34 NC employers received HIRE Vets Medallion Awards (2025).
VA SAIL; NC DMVA; Governor's Press Releases 2025; HIRE Vets Program
+1
Food safety and foodborne illness enforcement
NC food safety inspections functioning adequately. No major outbreaks during Stein's tenure. Standard DHHS enforcement. Agriculture sector well-regulated.
FDA; NC DHHS Food Safety
+1
Workplace fatality rate
NC workplace fatality rate approximately 4.0-4.5 per 100K FTE, near national average. Construction and agriculture sectors drive fatalities. No significant workplace safety initiatives from Stein.
BLS CFOI; OSHA
0
Domestic violence fatality rate and funding
NC has standard domestic violence programs and funding. Rate near national average. No major DV initiative from Stein beyond standard programs.
NNEDV; NC DV Commission
0
Correctional facility death rate and conditions
NC correctional system in crisis: 39% correctional officer vacancy rate, overcrowding at 130%+ capacity in some facilities, extended lockdowns due to staffing shortages, 2,190 inmates transferred from western NC during Helene. Proposed $211M for corrections in Critical Needs Budget but stalled by budget impasse. Dangerous conditions persist under his watch even if inherited.
BJS mortality; NC DAC; NC Newsline Dec 2024; Governor's Critical Needs Budget
-1
Pollution-related mortality and environmental health
NC has some air quality concerns in Charlotte and Triangle metro areas. GenX/PFAS contamination being addressed via new state standards (Nov 2025). As AG, Stein negotiated $1.1B Duke Energy coal ash settlement. DEQ actively managing Helene environmental cleanup. Standard EPA compliance.
EPA Green Book; NC DEQ; PFAS Standards; Stein AG coal ash record
0
Pedestrian and traffic fatality rate
NC traffic fatality rate approximately 1.3-1.5 per 100M VMT, near national average. Pedestrian fatalities a concern in Charlotte and Raleigh metro areas. No specific traffic safety initiative from Stein.
NHTSA FARS; NC DOT Safety
0
Sanctity of life legislative framework
Stein issued Executive Order 8 (Jan 16, 2025) actively expanding abortion access: directed agencies to protect abortion providers, block cooperation with any enforcement of restrictions, protect patient privacy regarding reproductive health data, and decline extradition for abortion-related charges from other states. Pro-Choice NC applauded the order. Stein ran on a platform of expanding abortion access. NC law allows abortion to 12 weeks (SB 20, legislature-enacted) but Stein actively works to expand access beyond legislative intent through executive action.
Guttmacher; NC SB 20; Governor's EO 8 Jan 16 2025; Pro-Choice NC statement; Stein campaign platform
-2
Homeless mortality — exposure deaths, overdoses in encampments, violence
Signed EO 25 relaunching Interagency Council for Homelessness Programs. Proposed $35M/year Housing Trust Fund.
governor.nc.gov 2025-09-10
+1
Population loss impact on services — EMS/hospital closures, tax base erosion
NC ranked #1 for domestic migration with 84,000 net gain. Third-fastest growing state.
governor.nc.gov 2026-01-30
+2
Police staffing/funding — governor's direct actions on law enforcement
Proposed $195M public safety package. Pushed $211M for law enforcement pay.
governor.nc.gov; WRAL
+2
Criminal recidivism from early release — parole/clemency, no-cash-bail
No specific early release or no-cash-bail policies enacted. NC legislature controls criminal justice policy.
General NC policy
0
Prison/shelter housing — biological males in women's facilities
As AG, abandoned defense of voter ID law. Has not pushed for biological sex-based policies.
carolinajournal.com
-1
Mental health crisis system — involuntary commitment reform, crisis intervention
Requested reversal of mental health funding cuts. Budget includes 10% raise for behavioral health technicians.
governor.nc.gov; carolinajournal.com
+1

Constitutional Rights

Bill of Rights (Amendments I-X); 14th Amendment incorporation
Score: -11 Range: -87 to 87 Items: 29
Second Amendment — right to carry status
Stein vetoed SB 50 (Freedom to Carry NC) in June 2025, blocking permitless/constitutional carry that is law in 29 other states. Called the bill 'dangerous' and said it 'makes North Carolinians less safe.' Opposed reducing concealed carry age from 21 to 18 and eliminating training requirements. Senate overrode veto but House override still pending. Also vetoed HB 193 allowing guns in private schools. Active opposition to expanding carry rights.
SB 50 veto June 2025; NRA-ILA; Everytown press release; NC Newsline
-2
Second Amendment — semi-automatic rifle restrictions
No state restrictions on semi-automatic rifles beyond federal law (legislature controls). However, Stein's overall anti-2A posture is clear: he proposed $2.3M for 'safe storage' programs in his budget, vetoed two gun bills, and actively pushed for red flag laws. Ran on gun control platform. While no AWB push, his directional hostility to firearms rights warrants a negative score.
NC statutes; ATF; Stein 2025-27 budget proposal; Governor's S.A.F.E. Week June 2025
-1
Second Amendment — magazine capacity restrictions
No magazine capacity restrictions in NC. Legislature controls gun policy with supermajority. Stein has not proposed magazine restrictions. No action taken on this specific metric.
NC statutes; NRA-ILA
0
Second Amendment — Red Flag / ERPO due process
Stein actively called for red flag law passage after the Southport mass shooting (Sept 27, 2025). Stated: 'There are people in our community who people know are a risk and they should not have firearms.' Called for NC to join 21 other states with ERPO laws. This represents an active push to create a mechanism that could deprive citizens of firearms without full criminal due process protections. Democratic legislators have introduced red flag bills multiple times.
NPR Oct 2, 2025; NC Newsline Sept 29, 2025; ERPO tracker
-2
First Amendment — campus free speech protections
Stein vetoed SB 227 (Eliminating DEI in Public Education) and SB 558 (Eliminating DEI in Public Higher Ed). DEI mandates in higher education can create compelled speech environments and chill ideological diversity. SB 558 veto was overridden. By defending DEI programs in public universities, Stein prioritized ideological programming over viewpoint neutrality. NC lacks a comprehensive campus free speech statute.
FIRE; SB 227 veto; SB 558 veto/override; NC legislation
-1
First Amendment — anti-SLAPP protections
NC has limited anti-SLAPP protections. No action from Stein on this issue. Standard environment.
Public Participation Project; NC law
0
First Amendment — religious liberty protections
NC has no state RFRA. Stein vetoed HB 805 (Prevent Sexual Exploitation/Women and Minors) which included provisions allowing parents to request religious opt-outs from school activities. His veto message stated 'my faith teaches me' it was wrong to 'target vulnerable people' but the bill also contained religious liberty protections for parents. Stein's prioritization of transgender policy over parental religious freedom in schools represents a negative for religious liberty.
Becket Fund; HB 805 veto July 2025; WUNC July 3, 2025
-1
Fourth Amendment — warrant requirements for digital surveillance
NC relies on federal Carpenter standard for digital privacy. No state electronic privacy statute enacted or proposed under Stein. Standard environment without improvement or deterioration.
EFF; NC statutes
0
Fourth Amendment — civil asset forfeiture reform
NC has moderate civil asset forfeiture protections with conviction required for personal property forfeiture. No reform or deterioration under Stein. Standard procedures maintained.
Institute for Justice; NC law
0
Fifth Amendment — eminent domain protections post-Kelo
NC has statutory restrictions on economic development takings enacted post-Kelo. No weakening under Stein. Protections maintained.
Castle Coalition; NC eminent domain law
+1
Due process — regulatory takings and permitting timelines
NC permitting timelines moderate. SB 245 enabled online driver license renewal (10K+ first-week renewals) improving efficiency. Emergency Helene procurement waivers expedited some processes. However, the REINS-style bill requiring legislative approval of major agency rules was vetoed by Stein (then overridden). Mixed signals on regulatory burden.
NC permitting data; SB 245; REINS bill veto/override
0
Tenth Amendment — federal overreach resistance
Stein has a selectively cooperative posture with federal government: aggressively pursues federal Helene funding ($5.95B) and Medicaid matching funds, but issued EO 8 directing state agencies not to cooperate with potential federal enforcement of abortion restrictions and blocking extradition for reproductive health care charges. Vetoed immigration enforcement bills that would have required state cooperation with federal ICE operations. Selectively resists federal authority based on political alignment rather than constitutional principle.
Governor's EO 8; SB 153 veto; HB 318 veto; Federal Helene funding
-1
Equal Protection — state contracting nondiscrimination
Stein vetoed HB 171 (Equality in State Agencies/Prohibition on DEI) which would have barred state agencies from promoting DEI practices and prohibited use of federal funds requiring DEI compliance. By defending DEI programs in state agencies, Stein maintains race-conscious frameworks that may conflict with SFFA v. Harvard race-neutrality principles. Veto sustained (not overridden). Called anti-DEI bills 'mean-spirited' and said they would 'undermine the quality of public services.'
HB 171 veto; SFFA v. Harvard; WUNC July 3, 2025
-1
Second Amendment — state preemption of local firearms laws
NC has state preemption of local firearms laws (NC GS 14-409.40). Legislature controls. Stein has not attempted to weaken preemption. Preemption maintained.
NC GS 14-409.40; NRA-ILA
+1
First Amendment — government transparency and FOIA compliance
Strong transparency record. As AG, released NC Open Government Guide with NC Press Association. GROW NC launched real-time public recovery dashboard (March 2025). NC earned GFOA Certificate 31 consecutive years. No complaints about records access under Stein's office. Proactive transparency on Helene spending.
RCFP; NC Public Records Act; GROW NC Dashboard; GFOA
+1
Sixth Amendment — public defender funding adequacy
NC public defender system faces resource constraints common to most states. Budget impasse has prevented new appropriations. Stein's Critical Needs Budget focused on corrections staffing rather than PD funding. No specific public defender initiative.
Sixth Amendment Center; NC IDS
0
Eighth Amendment — bail reform and pretrial detention
Stein signed Iryna's Law (Oct 2025) which limits pretrial release for those accused of violent crimes and increases scrutiny of court magistrates. This strengthens public safety while maintaining bail system. Cash bail predominates in NC. The pretrial detention reforms are a positive step for balancing liberty and safety.
Iryna's Law Oct 2025; Pretrial Justice Institute; NC courts
+1
Property rights — regulatory burden and economic freedom
Stein proposed freezing the Republican-enacted income tax cuts in his budget proposal (March 2025), seeking to halt the phase-down toward 3.99% personal rate and 0% corporate rate. While legislature controls tax policy, Stein's budget actively sought to reverse tax relief already enacted into law. Also proposed phasing out school vouchers (private property/choice issue). NC ranked #1 for business (CNBC 2025) but Stein's proposals would increase tax and regulatory burden.
Mercatus; WUNC March 19, 2025; Stein budget proposal; CNBC Top State
-1
Second Amendment — governor's litigation posture on firearms cases
Stein has a clearly anti-Second Amendment posture: vetoed permitless carry (SB 50), vetoed guns in private schools (HB 193), actively called for red flag law passage, proposed $2.3M state budget for 'safe storage' programs (S.A.F.E. Week of Action), and stated permitless carry 'makes North Carolinians less safe.' As AG, did not file pro-2A briefs. The totality of his firearms posture actively undermines Second Amendment rights.
SB 50 veto; HB 193 veto; Red flag call Oct 2025; S.A.F.E. Week June 2025; NRA-ILA
-2
First Amendment — compelled speech protections
Stein vetoed anti-DEI bills (HB 171, SB 227, SB 558) that would have prohibited mandatory DEI training in state agencies and higher education. DEI training mandates can constitute compelled speech by requiring employees and students to affirm specific ideological positions. By blocking these protections, Stein allowed continuation of potential compelled speech frameworks in state institutions. HB 171 veto sustained; SB 558 overridden.
HB 171 veto; SB 227 veto; SB 558 veto/override; NC statutes
-1
Commerce Clause compliance — interstate trade barriers
NC maintains a strong interstate commerce environment. CNBC ranked NC #1 state for business (2025). $23.1B in investment commitments, 34,000+ jobs announced. No interstate trade barriers. Strong commercial and regulatory environment for business.
IJ; CNBC Top State 2025; NC Commerce
+1
Privileges and Immunities — occupational licensing reform
NC licensing burden moderate. No significant occupational licensing reform under Stein. Some progress through Government Modernization Act (digital permitting). Military spouse reciprocity provisions exist. Limited reform in first year.
IJ License to Work; Government Modernization Act 2025
0
Contract Clause — state compliance with contractual obligations
TSERS pension funded ratio approximately 87-90%, well above national average of ~72%. Employer contribution rate at 16.79% of payroll. NC has consistently honored pension obligations. AAA credit rating confirms debt obligation compliance. Strong inherited position maintained by Stein.
NC Retirement Systems; Pew Pension Tracker; NASRA
+2
Jury trial rights — civil and criminal jury access
Standard jury trial access in NC. No significant restrictions or expansions. Constitutional jury trial rights maintained.
NC court reports; NC Constitution
+1
Immigration law compliance — Supremacy Clause adherence
Stein vetoed SB 153 (NC Border Protection Act) requiring state agency cooperation with ICE, and vetoed HB 318 (Criminal Illegal Alien Enforcement Act) requiring sheriffs to work with ICE on detainers. Claimed 4th Amendment concerns about 48-hour detention. His vetoes were overridden by R legislature with 1 Democratic defector. NC has E-Verify mandate and many 287(g) agreements at county level, but Stein actively worked to prevent state-level immigration enforcement cooperation, undermining Supremacy Clause adherence on federal immigration law.
8 USC 1373; SB 153 veto; HB 318 veto/override; WUNC July 29, 2025; Daily Tar Heel June 27, 2025
-2
Qualified immunity / due process for officers
No specific action on qualified immunity.
No relevant findings
0
Voter ID and ballot chain-of-custody
As AG, abandoned the state's defense of the 2013 voter ID law.
carolinajournal.com
-2
Non-citizen voting prevention
No action to strengthen non-citizen voting prevention. Vetoed immigration enforcement bills.
WUNC; Daily Tar Heel
-1
Women's sports / Title IX — biological sex protections in state-funded athletics
No action to protect women's sports under Title IX biological sex standards.
Campaign positions
-1

Child Welfare & Parental Rights

Meyer v. Nebraska (1923); Pierce v. Society of Sisters (1925); Troxel v. Granville (2000)
Score: 4 Range: -75 to 75 Items: 25
Parental rights legislation — statutory recognition
NC Parents' Bill of Rights (HB 755, 2023) inherited from Republican legislature (enacted over Cooper veto). Stein has not expanded parental rights. Vetoed HB 805 which included parental religious opt-out provisions for school activities. His veto of bills containing parental rights provisions and his overall posture opposing parental authority in education (anti-voucher, pro-DEI) represents a negative trajectory from the inherited framework.
NC HB 755; HB 805 veto; Stein education positions
-1
Education choice — school choice programs
Stein actively seeks to dismantle school choice in NC. His budget proposes freezing enrollment in the Opportunity Scholarship Program and phasing state voucher funding to $0 by 2036. Vetoed federal school choice opt-in bill (Aug 2025). Stated that 'providing billions in tax giveaways to wealthy parents already sending their kids to private schools is the wrong choice.' NC has Opportunity Scholarships and charter schools but Stein is actively working to eliminate the voucher program. This directly undermines parental educational choice rights recognized in Pierce v. Society of Sisters.
EdChoice NC; WUNC March 19, 2025; Ballotpedia Aug 12, 2025; Stein budget proposal
-2
Parental notification/consent for medical procedures on minors
NC requires parental consent for abortion (minors) under existing law. General parental consent requirements for medical procedures maintained. Stein has not weakened parental consent frameworks. However, he signed SB 442 protecting parents who raise children consistent with biological sex from abuse findings, which strengthens parental authority.
Guttmacher; NC GS; SB 442 signed July 2025
+1
Gender-transition procedures for minors — restrictions
NC HB 808 (2023) bans gender-transition surgeries for minors (inherited from legislature over Cooper opposition). Stein vetoed HB 805 which would have extended transgender restrictions including restricting birth certificate changes and extending statute of limitations for malpractice claims on gender transition procedures for minors. HB 805 was overridden. Stein opposes protections for minors from gender-transition procedures and actively vetoed legislation strengthening these protections.
NC HB 808; HB 805 veto/override; Reuters tracker; QnotesCarolinas
-1
Child abuse and neglect — substantiated case rate trend
NC child abuse rate near national average. Federal lawsuit filed (Feb 2025) targeting NC's 'broken' foster care system where children slept in DSS offices and hotel rooms. Stein signed Fostering Care in NC Act (HB 612) to address systemic failures. CPS operations improving through reform but deep problems persist.
ACF NCANDS; NC DSS; WRAL Feb 2025; HB 612
0
Foster care — CFSR conformity assessment
Signed the bipartisan Fostering Care in NC Act (HB 612, June 2025) unanimously approved by both chambers. Gives DHHS more authority over county DSS agencies, tightens abuse/neglect investigation timelines, and launched PATH NC case management system replacing failed NC FAST platform. Most significant child welfare reform since Rylan's Law (2017). Active positive step despite inherited systemic failures.
ACF CFSR; Fostering Care in NC Act (HB 612); UNC SOG Coates' Canons
+1
Foster care — permanency outcomes
NC foster care permanency outcomes average. Children sleeping in DSS offices and hotel rooms highlighted depth of crisis. HB 612 reforms aim to improve but too early for outcome changes. Federal lawsuit (Feb 2025) underscores systemic failures in permanency.
ACF AFCARS; NC DSS; WRAL Feb 2025
0
Child trafficking prevention and prosecution
NC has trafficking statute and task force. Stein's AG office (2017-2024) actively prosecuted trafficking cases. I-85/I-95 corridors are trafficking routes. Gang Prevention and Intervention Task Force (EO 21, Aug 2025) addresses gang-related exploitation. Continuing strong enforcement posture inherited from his AG tenure.
Polaris; Shared Hope; NC AG; EO 21 Aug 2025
+1
Education outcomes — 4th grade NAEP reading proficiency
NC NAEP 4th grade reading approximately 33-35% proficient, at or slightly above national average. Mixed performance across districts: strong in Wake County and Charlotte-Mecklenburg, weaker in rural districts. Per-pupil spending below national average constrains improvement.
NCES NAEP 2024; NC DPI
+1
Education outcomes — 8th grade NAEP math proficiency
NC NAEP 8th grade math approximately 28-32% proficient, near national average. Budget impasse preventing teacher raises and education investments that could improve outcomes. Per-pupil spending (~$10,500) well below national average (~$15,000).
NCES NAEP 2024; NC DPI
0
Parental curriculum transparency
NC Parents' Bill of Rights (HB 755, 2023) provides curriculum transparency (inherited from legislature). However, Stein vetoed HB 805 which included provisions for parents to request that children be excused from activities or readings that burden their religious beliefs. Vetoed anti-DEI bills in education (SB 227, SB 558) that would have given parents more visibility into ideological content. Overall posture is against expanding parental visibility into educational content.
NC HB 755; HB 805 veto; SB 227 veto; SB 558 veto
-1
Social media — minor protections
Stein signed the school cell phone ban (HB 959, effective 2025-26 school year) which includes social media literacy requirement. This is a meaningful step in protecting minors from social media harms during school hours. NC gaining ground on minor digital protections.
HB 959; NCSL tracker; NC DPI
+1
Juvenile justice — age-appropriate treatment
NC juvenile jurisdiction extends to 18 (Raise the Age Act, 2017). Standard transfer provisions for serious offenses. Rehabilitation programs available. Behavioral health/criminal justice EO (Feb 2026) includes provisions for crisis diversion programs for justice-involved youth. Maintained and modestly strengthened juvenile justice framework.
OJJDP NC; NC juvenile code; EO 33 Feb 2026
+1
Child poverty rate and state response
NC child poverty rate approximately 17-19%, near national average. Medicaid expansion improving healthcare access for low-income families but direct anti-poverty initiatives limited in first year. Budget impasse prevents new investments.
Census ACS SAIPE; KIDS COUNT; NC Medicaid
0
Adoption and permanency — adoptive family support
Standard adoption framework in NC with subsidized adoption available. Fostering Care Act (HB 612) may improve adoption pipeline by strengthening CPS investigation timelines. No specific adoption initiative from Stein.
ACF AFCARS; NC DSS; HB 612
0
Homeschool rights and protections
NC has moderate homeschool regulation: registration required, annual testing, diploma recognition. Stein has not attempted to increase homeschool regulation. Rights maintained under existing framework. HSLDA rates NC as reasonable regulatory environment.
HSLDA NC; NC GS 115C-564
+1
Child sexual abuse material (CSAM) enforcement
NC ICAC task force operational. Stein as AG (2017-2024) was strong on CSAM prosecution. AG office infrastructure continues under successor. Gang Prevention Task Force (EO 21) may address trafficking-related exploitation. Strong inherited enforcement posture.
ICAC; NC AG; NCMEC; EO 21
+1
School safety — violence prevention and incident response
Stein vetoed HB 193 which would have allowed private schools to permit teachers, parents, or volunteers to carry concealed weapons on campus for school security. While framed as a safety concern, the veto removed a potential security enhancement for private school students. Overridden by legislature. Standard SRO programs and school safety grants continue but Stein's posture was anti-expansion of school security options.
HB 193 veto/override; NASRO; NC DPI
-1
Children's mental health services access
NC school counselor ratio moderate. Stein's top education priority includes hiring more counselors, nurses, and social workers to address youth mental health crisis. Behavioral health EO (Feb 2026) addresses crisis system. Budget impasse prevents new counselor funding. Good intentions but limited delivery.
ASCA; SAMHSA NC; Stein State of State address; EO 33
0
Childhood vaccination — parental choice protections
NC allows religious and medical exemptions for school vaccination requirements. No philosophical exemption. Stein has not attempted to narrow exemptions. Parental choice on vaccination maintained.
NCSL; NC GS 130A-157
+1
Child care affordability and access
NC child care affordability moderate with some subsidy programs. Budget impasse has prevented new child care investments. Medicaid expansion provides healthcare access for families but child care costs remain a challenge. No specific child care initiative from Stein.
ACF CCDF; NC DHHS
0
Education — teacher quality and retention
NC teacher pay below national average. Stein proposed 5.9% average increase year one, 10.6% year two in pending budget. Budget impasse has delayed all raises. 97,000+ public school teachers waiting for compensation improvements. Good proposal but no delivery due to legislative gridlock. Teacher retention affected by compensation uncertainty.
NCES; NEA; NC OSHR; Stein budget proposal
0
Child nutrition — food insecurity rate
NC child food insecurity near national average. School meal programs operational. No specific child nutrition initiative from Stein beyond standard programs. Rural areas face higher food insecurity.
USDA ERS; Feeding America; NC DHHS
0
Custody and family court — due process in child removal
NC maintains standard due process protections in family court consistent with Santosky v. Kramer. Fostering Care Act (HB 612) tightened investigation timelines while maintaining parental rights. SB 442 (signed by Stein) protects parents from abuse findings for raising children consistent with biological sex. Due process framework maintained and modestly strengthened.
NC GS; ABA; HB 612; SB 442
+1
Children with disabilities — IDEA compliance
NC IDEA compliance standard with most districts compliant. PATH NC case management system (replacing failed NC FAST) may improve tracking of disabled children in state care. Budget impasse limits new special education investments. Standard compliance maintained.
OSEP; NC DPI; PATH NC
0

Faithful Discharge of Duties

Gubernatorial oath; Art. IV Sec. 4; state constitutional requirements
Score: 22 Range: -123 to 123 Items: 41
Budget balance — structural surplus/deficit
NC has gone nearly 2.5 years without a comprehensive two-year budget, the longest gap in state history. While the impasse is driven by intra-Republican disputes over tax policy, Stein as governor bears partial responsibility for the failure to negotiate a resolution. Operating on FY2024 continuation budget and minibudgets. $544M unanticipated revenue cushions the shortfall but future years tighten as Republican-enacted tax cuts reduce the base. Stein proposed freezing income tax cuts, further complicating negotiations.
NC OSBM; NASBO; WUNC Dec 2025
-1
State credit rating stability
NC maintains AAA/Aaa/AAA from all three agencies, one of approximately 14 states with triple-AAA. Moody's Aaa confirmed April 2025 despite $59.6B in Helene damages. This exceptional fiscal position was inherited from decades of conservative Republican fiscal management. Stein has maintained it but did not build it. No negative actions threatening the rating.
S&P; Moody's Aaa April 2025; Fitch; NC State Treasurer
+2
Rainy day / budget stabilization fund adequacy
NC rainy day fund at $3.65B after $1.1B drawdown for Helene (legitimate disaster use). $273M + $604M + $227M transferred in late 2024 under Cooper. House proposal to restore to $4.75B. Drawdowns were appropriate for catastrophic disaster. Fund remains among largest in the Southeast. Unappropriated reserve balance $8.0B.
NC Treasurer; Pew; NC General Assembly
+1
Pension system funding responsibility
TSERS funded ratio approximately 87-90%, well above national average of ~72%. Employer contribution rate at 16.79%. Strong pension management inherited from prior administrations and maintained under Stein. December 2024 actuarial valuation showed investment loss preventing COLA recommendation. Stein's Critical Needs Budget proposes state employee pay increases that would increase pension obligations.
NC Retirement Systems; NASRA; Arthur J. Gallagher Actuarial Valuation Dec 2024
+1
State debt burden
NC debt per capita below national median. AAA ratings confirm conservative debt management. February 2025 Debt Affordability Study by Treasurer Brad Briner confirmed NC's position. No major new debt issuance under Stein. Helene recovery may require future borrowing. Inherited low-debt position maintained.
NC Treasurer Debt Affordability Study Feb 2025; Census
+1
Government efficiency — state employee headcount per capita
Created new bureaucratic structures: GROW NC office within Governor's Office, Division of Community Revitalization within Commerce, Advisory Committee on Helene recovery, Gang Prevention and Intervention Task Force, Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships. While justified by disaster recovery needs, this represents government expansion. 39% correctional officer vacancy rate and teacher shortages suggest the existing state workforce is under-resourced. Standard inherited efficiency neither improved nor degraded.
Census Public Employment; GROW NC; Governor's EOs 2025
0
Inspector General / state auditor independence
NC State Auditor Dave Boliek operates independently. Critical November 2025 NCORR report finding $297M shortfall and vendor oversight failures demonstrates auditor independence from executive branch. No attempts by Stein to interfere with audit functions. State Auditor published performance audits without reported obstruction. Stein's AG background suggests institutional respect for oversight.
NC State Auditor; PER-2025-4902; ALGA
+1
Ethics violations and personal scandals
Zero ethics violations, zero criminal charges (ever), zero substantiated ethics complaints as governor or AG. Clean transition from two-term AG to governor. Financial disclosures compliant. No nepotism or cronyism concerns. Harvard Law graduate with career entirely in public service. Exceptionally clean personal record compared to the political environment (opponent Mark Robinson faced explosive personal scandals).
NC State Ethics Commission; Court Records
+2
Executive order restraint
Stein has issued 30+ executive orders in his first year including policy-driven EOs that go beyond administrative function: EO 8 (reproductive rights) directing non-cooperation with potential federal enforcement, EO establishing AI governance framework, EO 21 (gang prevention task force), EO 33 (behavioral health/criminal justice). The reproductive rights EO particularly represents policy activism via executive order rather than legislative process. Called special session (appropriate use of power) but overall EO volume is high.
NC Governor Executive Order Records 2025-2026
-1
Emergency powers — adherence to statutory limits
No overreach on emergency powers. Helene emergency declarations properly managed within statutory authority. Emergency procurement waivers (EO-1) received Council of State concurrence. No extended emergency declarations beyond necessity. Hurricane Erin response (Aug 2025) used standard Guard deployment. Clean record on emergency power usage, which is notable given the massive scale of the Helene response.
NC emergency statutes; Governor's EOs; Council of State records
+2
Legislative cooperation — veto override rate
8 of 14 vetoes overridden by R legislature, one of the worst veto override rates in the nation. Longest budget impasse in NC history. Stein vetoed immigration, gun, DEI, and education bills on ideological grounds rather than seeking compromise with the legislature. Budget gridlock persists with no resolution. Bipartisan cooperation limited to Helene recovery (HB 149) and Fostering Care Act (HB 612). Predominantly adversarial relationship with the legislature elected by NC voters.
WUNC Veto Tracker July 2025; NC General Assembly; NC Newsline July 29, 2025
-1
Judicial appointments — qualifications and process integrity
Limited judicial appointments in first year. NC governor has appointment power for vacancies but Republican legislature has acted to constrain gubernatorial appointment power. Stein's two-term AG background (2017-2024) provides strong credentials for judicial evaluation. No controversy over any appointments made.
NC judicial records; NC Constitution Art. IV
+1
Timely execution of laws — implementation of enacted legislation
Stein has implemented enacted laws faithfully including those he opposed. Signed Iryna's Law despite calling death penalty provisions 'barbaric.' Implemented laws passed over his vetoes (immigration enforcement, guns in private schools, etc.) without obstruction. GROW NC office operational and executing Helene recovery programs. Standard executive implementation of legislative enactments.
NC agency reports; Iryna's Law implementation; Veto override compliance
+1
Federal fund utilization — grant management
Exceptional federal fund management for Helene recovery: $5.95B congressional appropriation, $1.4B CDBG-DR deployed through Renew NC, fastest state in a decade for HUD disaster rebuilding. GROW NC dashboard provides real-time transparency. NC received national award for Medicaid expansion implementation. Aggressive pursuit of FEMA 100% cost-share (denied but proper appeal process followed). Strong federal fund capture and deployment.
Federal Audit Clearinghouse; GROW NC; HUD; NCDHHS Award
+2
Public approval as competence indicator
Moderate approval: Elon Poll (first 100 days) 44% approve / 17% disapprove / 39% unsure. HPU Poll (Sept 2025) 46% approve / 24% disapprove. Carolina Forward 55.6% approve. Won 2024 with ~51.8% in a purple state. Notable 39% Republican approval (Catawba-YouGov) suggests some cross-party appeal. However, high 'unsure' responses reflect that many voters are still evaluating. Moderate mandate.
Elon Poll; HPU Poll Sept 2025; Carolina Forward; Catawba-YouGov
0
State IT security and data protection
NCDIT under CIO Teena Piccione rose from 36th to 7th nationally in AI readiness. AI User Code of Conduct established. Five-year cybersecurity plan published. Cybersecurity staff doubled. No major breaches. Government Modernization Act directs legacy system upgrades. GROW NC dashboard demonstrates technology capability. Positive IT trajectory.
NASCIO; NCDIT 2025 Year-End Report; Government Modernization Act
+1
Infrastructure spending — capital budget execution
Capital budget execution constrained by budget impasse but Helene emergency capital ($500M+ HB 149) executed promptly. NCDOT bridge program budget proposed to double to $673M. Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund received $392.4M lottery surplus. 1,300+ roads reopened, 4.75M cubic yards debris removed. Massive infrastructure rebuilding underway despite fiscal constraints.
ASCE NC; NC DOT; NC General Assembly HB 149
+1
Disaster fund readiness
Rainy day fund drew $1.1B for Helene, appropriate use for catastrophic disaster. Federal disaster funding ($5.95B) secured. HB 149 ($500M+) enacted as first signed bill. Three Helene relief packages passed (Jan, March, June 2025). Proposal to restore rainy day fund to $4.75B. Disaster finance management adequate for catastrophic event scale. FEMA cost-share dispute ($200M impact) handled through proper administrative channels.
FEMA; NC Treasurer; NC General Assembly HB 149
+1
Workforce development — unemployment system integrity
NC UI system processed 36,000+ Helene-related claims, delivering $96M+ in disaster unemployment benefits. Standard trust fund adequacy. EO creating Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships (March 2025). NC unemployment near national average (~4%). System functional under disaster-driven stress. CNBC #1 state for business ranking reflects strong workforce environment.
DOL UI; NC DES; CNBC Top State 2025; EO March 2025
+1
Medicaid program integrity
NC Medicaid expansion enrolled 690,000+ by December 2025 (in half the projected time). 233,000+ rural community members. National award for implementation. Standard program integrity with federal eligibility verification at 138% FPL. Stein called special session specifically to secure Medicaid funding. Program management effective but threatened by budget impasse and potential federal cuts.
CMS; NC Medicaid Expansion Dashboard; NCDHHS Award Nov 2024
+1
Election administration — constitutional compliance
NC has photo voter ID requirement (S.L. 2018-144). Paper ballots used statewide. NCSBE entered SAVE agreement with USCIS (Nov 2025) for citizenship verification. Constitutional amendment banning non-citizen voting passed Nov 2024 (78%). Election infrastructure maintained. These are primarily legislature-driven protections but Stein has not undermined them.
NC SBOE; S.L. 2018-144; NCSBE SAVE Agreement; NC Constitution Nov 2024
+1
Transparency — state budget accessibility
Budget documents available through NC OSBM including Critical Needs Budget proposal. GROW NC dashboard provides transparent Helene spending tracking. However, the unprecedented budget impasse fundamentally undermines fiscal transparency: operating on continuation budget and minibudgets is inherently less transparent than comprehensive appropriations. Citizens and legislators cannot evaluate the full fiscal direction of state government. Budget impasse is the defining transparency failure.
U.S. PIRG; NC OSBM; GROW NC
0
Intergovernmental cooperation — federal compliance balanced with sovereignty
Selectively cooperative with federal government based on political alignment. Aggressively pursues federal Helene funding ($5.95B) and Medicaid matching funds. But issued EO 8 directing state agencies not to cooperate with federal enforcement of abortion restrictions and blocking extradition. Vetoed SB 153 (NC Border Protection Act) and HB 318 (Criminal Illegal Alien Enforcement Act) that would have required state cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. This selective compliance undermines the constitutional principle of federal supremacy on enumerated powers including immigration.
Governor's EO 8; SB 153 veto; HB 318 veto; Federal Helene funding; FEMA
-2
Gubernatorial succession and continuity planning
NC has Lt. Governor Rachel Hunt providing clear succession. COOP plan exists and was tested through Helene response. Clear chain of command. No succession concerns.
NC Constitution Art. III; Succession provisions
+2
Anti-corruption — state procurement integrity
Standard procurement controls maintained. Emergency Helene procurement waivers (EO-1) received proper Council of State concurrence and public disclosure. GROW NC dashboard monitors recovery spending. No corruption findings. State Auditor's NCORR report (Nov 2025) on prior hurricane programs provides benchmarks for current recovery oversight. No pay-to-play or contractor scandals identified in Stein's administration.
NC DOA Procurement; NC State Auditor; GROW NC Dashboard
+1
Gas price burden — state gas taxes, refinery regulations, cap-and-trade
NC gas prices near national average. No specific action.
NC energy data
0
Energy affordability — residential electricity costs from state policy
NC electricity 32% below national average. Established Energy Policy Task Force.
energysage.com; governor.nc.gov
0
Energy policy competence — forced mandates without infrastructure readiness
Established Energy Policy Task Force. No aggressive forced mandates yet.
governor.nc.gov; energync.org
0
Property tax burden — effective rate vs national median
NC effective property tax 0.62%. No specific Stein action.
NC DOR; taxfoundation.org
0
Regulatory cost burden — permits, compliance costs per household/business
NC ranked top state for business by CNBC 2025. Corporate tax dropping to 0% by 2030.
EDPNC; CNBC rankings
+1
Unfunded mandates on municipalities
No specific action on unfunded mandates.
General NC budget
0
Cost of living trajectory — policy-driven affordability trend
NC cost of living favorable. #1 for domestic migration. $690M private investment.
governor.nc.gov; SoFi
+1
Immigration fiscal burden — taxpayer cost of sanctuary/benefits policies
Vetoed both immigration enforcement bills. Opposed sheriffs cooperating with ICE. Filed DACA amicus brief.
WUNC; Daily Tar Heel; carolinajournal.com
-2
Homelessness spending accountability — spending vs measurable outcomes
Relaunched ICCHP. Proposed $35M Housing Trust Fund. Too early to assess.
governor.nc.gov
0
Encampment enforcement — response to SCOTUS Grants Pass ruling
Focuses on prevention and housing solutions rather than enforcement.
governor.nc.gov
0
Net domestic migration trend — people leaving vs arriving
NC ranked #1 nationally for domestic migration with 84,000 net gain.
governor.nc.gov; NC OSBM; WUNC
+3
Business exodus — corporate HQ and jobs relocating due to policy
NC named America's Top State for Business by CNBC 2025. $690M in private investment.
EDPNC; governor.nc.gov
+2
DA accountability — governor's power to remove rogue prosecutors
No specific actions on DA accountability.
No relevant findings
0
Election infrastructure — ballot harvesting, drop box security, audit transparency
As AG, abandoned defense of voter ID law. No action to strengthen election infrastructure.
carolinajournal.com
-1
Weaponization of state agencies — using AG/regulatory bodies against political opponents
No evidence of weaponizing agencies. Pursued bipartisan approach.
Dartmouth profile; WUNC
0
Foreign adversary protections — Chinese land, TikTok bans, Confucius Institutes
No specific action on Chinese land, TikTok, or Confucius Institutes.
No relevant findings
0
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