Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., appears to be getting more vocal about running for Florida governor in 2026 in the race to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Donalds, a leading friend, ally and supporter of President-elect Trump in the House of Representatives, in recent days has been telling potential donors and Florida political players that he intends to run for governor, Republican sources confirm to Fox News.
Some of those conversations occurred last weekend in Orlando at the Florida GOP’s annual meeting.
“He’s serious,” a source with knowledge told Fox News.
Another signal came a week ago when Donalds hired prominent Republican pollster Tony Fabrizio’s research firm. Fabrizio was a top pollster in Trump’s 2016 and 2024 presidential campaigns.
The conservative former state lawmaker who has represented parts of southwest Florida’s 19th District in Congress for four years has been eyeing a potential gubernatorial bid for months.
“I’ve thought about it. I don’t really rule anything out,” Donalds said in a Fox News Digital interview last spring when asked about a possible run for governor.
Donalds, who was a top surrogate on the campaign trail last year for Trump, was interviewed a few days after Trump, at a closed-door fundraiser in New York City, suggested that if Donalds ran for Florida governor in 2026, he’d have “many friends in the race.”
“It’s really cool that people back home in Florida consider me to be able to be the state’s next governor. It’s really an honor. It’s honestly surreal thinking about it because I’m 45 and my journey through politics has been a really fruitful one,” Donalds said at the time. “It’s really humbling and an honor, but I just focus on doing the job I have.”
Another prominent Florida Republican who’s believed to be considering a run is state Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, the former president of the state Senate.
And former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who was Trump’s first choice for attorney general in his second administration before dropping out amid controversy, has also said he’s thinking of running.
Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., speaks during the Republican National Convention on July 15, 2024.(Reuters/Mike Segar)
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody was also thought to be mulling a run to succeed DeSantis, her ally in Tallahassee, but the governor on Thursday named Moody to succeed Sen. Marco Rubio, Trump’s nominee for secretary of state, who is likely to be one of the president-elect’s first Cabinet picks to be confirmed by the Senate.
And Florida’s chief financial officer, Jimmy Patronis, who was also believed to be interested in a potential gubernatorial campaign, is considered the front-runner in this month’s special congressional election to fill Gaetz’s seat.
“With Moody going to the Senate, should he choose to run for governor, Donalds would be the clear favorite over Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who is the Tallahassee establishment’s choice,” Fabrizio said. “We’ll see if the Tallahassee establishment smartens up after betting and losing badly in 2010 against [former two-term governor and current Sen.] Rick Scott and in 2018 against Ron DeSantis.”
With Florida, which was once a top general election battleground state, now firmly red, the slowly emerging gubernatorial battle may be determined by whom Trump, the GOP’s kingmaker in his adopted home state of Florida and across the country, may eventually back.
But not to be discounted is any possible endorsement by DeSantis in the race to succeed the governor.
Paul Steinhauser is a politics reporter based in New Hampshire.
Byron Donalds, a top ally of former President Donald Trump, is making headlines as he turns up the volume on his likely 2026 run for Florida governor. The Republican congressman has been a vocal supporter of Trump and his policies, and has quickly risen through the ranks in the GOP.
Donalds, who represents Florida’s 19th congressional district, has been gaining national attention for his conservative stances on issues such as immigration, gun rights, and fiscal responsibility. He has also been a staunch critic of President Joe Biden and the Democratic Party, earning him a reputation as a firebrand in conservative circles.
With the 2026 gubernatorial race looming on the horizon, Donalds has been ramping up his public appearances and fundraising efforts in preparation for a potential run. Many political analysts believe that he could be a formidable candidate, given his strong support among Trump supporters and his proven track record of winning elections in Florida.
As Donalds continues to build momentum for his gubernatorial bid, all eyes will be on him as he navigates the complex world of Florida politics. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development in the Sunshine State’s political landscape.
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(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a period of brutally frigid conditions over the coming days, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol to go into effect beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 19, 2025, and remaining in effect through 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025.
During this period, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing throughout the daytime hours and overnight temperatures are anticipated to drop into the single digits and possibly below zero.
Anyone in need of shelter or warming center is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services, or they can visit 211ct.org to read a list of available locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.
“Right now, meteorologists are telling us that this coming week may bring the coldest weather that Connecticut has experienced so far this season, so we want to get the word out that being outdoors in these frigid conditions for extended periods can be dangerous and even life threatening,” Governor Lamont. “Shelters and warming centers are available across Connecticut, and transportation can be arranged if needed. We also want to remind everyone that leaving pets outdoors in these conditions can cause frostbite and hypothermia just like in humans, which is why everyone should protect their pets from this harsh weather.”
The purpose of the state’s severe cold weather protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold, which could be life threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter from the outdoors, including transportation to shelters.
The following actions are implemented while the protocol is enacted:
The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses its WebEOC communications network, which is an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information about a variety of situations and conditions. The system is used to monitor capacity at shelters across the state, enabling 2-1-1 to act as a clearinghouse to assist in finding shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 2-1-1 and the state when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.
The Connecticut Department of Social Services, Connecticut Department of Housing, and Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.
For emergency management news and resources, visit the state’s CTPrepares website at ct.gov/ctprepares.
Governor Lamont has activated Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol, which will be in effect starting Sunday night. This protocol is put into place to ensure that the state’s most vulnerable populations are safe during extremely cold weather conditions.
With temperatures expected to drop significantly in the coming days, it is important for everyone to take precautions to stay warm and safe. The protocol will ensure that emergency shelters are open and available for those in need, as well as provide resources and assistance to those who may be at risk due to the cold weather.
It is crucial for everyone to take the necessary steps to stay warm and safe during this time. Make sure to dress in layers, stay indoors as much as possible, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors to ensure they are safe as well.
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance during this cold weather, please do not hesitate to reach out to local authorities or emergency services. Let’s all work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all Connecticut residents during this cold snap. Stay safe and warm, everyone!
New York State — Governor Kathy Hochul has directed state agencies to prepare for a severe winter storm expected to bring dangerously cold temperatures and lake effect snow across New York starting Sunday.
The storm system is forecast to impact the Mid-Hudson, New York City, and Long Island regions with snow and freezing temperatures from the night of January 19 into the morning of January 20.
Areas east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario are expected to experience lake effect snow from Sunday night through Wednesday.
Governor Hochul said,
As extreme cold temperatures and lake effect snow move into our state over the coming days, I’ve directed our state agencies to mobilize their resources as we prepare to respond to this weather system. These conditions pose an extraordinary risk to anyone who is exposed to the elements or is unable to adequately heat their home, and I encourage New Yorkers to take precautions to keep themselves and their families safe.
The storm could bring ‘feels-like temperatures’ as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit across much of the state on January 20, 21, 22 nights.
New Yorkers are advised to monitor local weather conditions and prepare for the winter weather.
The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services is in contact with local counterparts and ready to deploy emergency response assets.
The Department of Transportation has 3,671 supervisors and operators available statewide, with equipment such as plow trucks and snow blowers ready for deployment.
The Thruway Authority has 691 operators and supervisors prepared to respond, with over 113,000 tons of salt on hand.
All Thruway plow trucks are equipped with green hazard lights to enhance visibility during operations.
Utilities across the state have about 5,500 workers available for damage assessment and repair efforts.
The State Police will deploy extra patrols as needed, and the Department of Environmental Conservation is prepared to coordinate resource deployment.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at alert.ny.gov and check the National Weather Service website for weather alerts. Motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org for real-time travel information.
Safety tips include:
Dressing in layers
Keeping pets indoors
Avoiding unnecessary travel
For more information on safety guidelines and updates, click here
Governor Hochul Urges New Yorkers to Brace for Severe Winter Storm
As a powerful winter storm approaches the state, Governor Hochul is urging all New Yorkers to take necessary precautions and prepare for potentially hazardous conditions. The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously low temperatures, creating treacherous travel conditions and posing a risk to public safety.
In a statement, Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of staying informed and following local weather updates. She also urged residents to stock up on essential supplies, such as food, water, and medications, and to have an emergency kit on hand in case of power outages or other disruptions.
The Governor advised New Yorkers to limit travel during the storm and to exercise caution if they must venture out. She also encouraged residents to check on vulnerable neighbors, such as the elderly or those with disabilities, to ensure their safety during the inclement weather.
As state agencies and emergency responders prepare for the storm, Governor Hochul assured residents that all necessary resources are being mobilized to respond to any potential emergencies. She urged New Yorkers to stay vigilant and to heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities.
In times of severe weather, it is crucial for everyone to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities. By taking proactive steps to prepare for the storm, we can minimize its impact and protect ourselves and our loved ones from harm. Let’s all do our part to stay safe and weather the storm together.
The “Make America Great Again” flag will fly above the Louisiana governor’s mansion in honor of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, Republican Gov. Jeff Landry announced Friday.
“Today, under President Trump, begins a renaissance in this Nation,” Landry said in a written statement. “One where America and her people will always come first. In Louisiana, we think that is worthy of celebrating!”
The staunch Trump ally invited fellow Louisianans to raise MAGA flags on Inauguration Day. Landry had previously ordered flags on state buildings set at half-staff in honor of the 14 people killed in a New Year’s terror attack in New Orleans.
Trump’s inauguration fell on the day of mourning Landry initially set aside for British national Edward Pettifer, the stepson of Prince William’s former nanny. A Landry spokesperson told The Associated Press that state flags would now be lowered for Pettifer on Jan. 24.
North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott have all proclaimed that they will fully raise U.S. flags in their states for the inauguration.
President Joe Biden’s Dec. 29 flag-lowering order affects federal government buildings and their grounds as well as U.S. embassies and other facilities abroad and runs through Jan. 28, Trump’s first week in office.
The incoming president has complained about flags flying low as he assumes office.
“Democrats are all ‘giddy’” about the notion that flags will be lowered on Inauguration Day, Trump wrote Jan. 3 on social media.
“Nobody wants to see this,” Trump wrote. He added that “no American can be happy about it. Let’s see how it plays out. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has announced that he will be flying the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) flag in honor of President Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration. Edwards, who is a Democrat, stated that he believes it is important to show respect for the peaceful transfer of power and to support the incoming administration.
The decision to fly the MAGA flag has sparked controversy among some residents of Louisiana, with critics accusing the governor of betraying his party and pandering to Trump supporters. However, Edwards has defended his choice, stating that it is a symbol of unity and patriotism.
The inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden is set to take place on January 20th, and many governors across the country are making preparations to mark the occasion. Governor Edwards’ decision to fly the MAGA flag is sure to be a topic of discussion in the days leading up to the inauguration.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — Republican Gov. Patrick Morrisey issued a slew of aggressive executive orders on his first full day as West Virginia’s chief executive Tuesday, including one enabling families to receive religious exemptions from required school vaccinations — a massive departure for a state with one of the strictest vaccine policies in the nation.
Another order called for the termination of all Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, or DEI, initiatives from state-run institutions, something Morrisey said he believes will protect West Virginians from racial and gender discrimination — especially “inappropriate” preferential treatment for certain groups over others.
“I think the public deserves nothing less,” he said at a news briefing at the state Capitol. According to U.S. Census estimates for 2024, West Virginia’s population is just under 93% white, making it among the least diverse U.S. states.
Efforts to end DEI initiatives are expected to expand in Republican-led states under President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to get rid of perceived “wokeness” in education. Some higher education institutions are already dismantling diversity offices in states such as Florida, Kentucky, North Carolina, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Texas.
In announcing the executive orders, Morrisey cited the conservative-leaning U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 decision to strike down affirmative action, declaring race cannot be a factor in college admissions. Morrisey said his administration would be sending letters to all cabinet officials and agency heads asking them to review any “potential DEI that may exist within state government.”
He wouldn’t specify what DEI initiatives he was referring to, but said they exist: “Before I start calling everyone out, I want to see the changes put in place.”
West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin was not impressed with the executive orders, calling them a “troubling example” of executive overreach that “could harm us for generations.”
Pushkin accused the governor of using “divisive rhetoric aimed at dividing people by race” adding that it appears to him that the governor is “trying to not just make laws, but also interpret them.”
“The newly elected governor of West Virginia needs to remember that he’s the governor for all of us, even people who don’t necessarily have the same beliefs as him and also people who don’t look like him,” he said.
During his press briefing, Morrisey said the governor’s role is to help ensure that the Constitution is interpreted “correctly and enforced the right way.”
The vaccine executive order upends a school vaccination policy long heralded by medical experts as one of the most protective in the country for kids. State law requires children to receive vaccines for chickenpox, hepatitis-b, measles, meningitis, mumps, diphtheria, polio, rubella, tetanus and whooping cough before starting school. The state does not require COVID-19 vaccinations.
West Virginia is also part of a tiny minority of U.S. states that only allows medical exemptions for vaccinations.
The move also represents a radical departure from the stance of former West Virginia governor and current Republican U.S. Sen. Jim Justice, who last year vetoed a less sweeping vaccination bill passed by the Republican supermajority Legislature that would have exempted private school and some nontraditional public school students from vaccination requirements.
At the time, Justice, who is a girl’s public school basketball coach and became known across the country during the COVID-19 pandemic for his pro-vaccine stance, said he had to defer to the licensed medical professionals who “overwhelmingly” spoke out in opposition to the legislation.
A faction of the Republican-controlled Legislature has tried for years to no avail to expand exemptions to the state’s school vaccination laws.
Morrisey, who served as West Virginia’s attorney general from 2013 until he was sworn in as governor Monday, said he believes religious exemptions to vaccinations should already be permitted under a 2023 law passed by the state Legislature called the Equal Protection for Religion Act.
The law stipulates that the government can’t “substantially burden” someone’s constitutional right to freedom of religion unless it can prove there is a “compelling interest” to restrict that right.
Morrisey said that law hasn’t “been fully and properly enforced” since it passed.
The process for applying for a vaccine exemption, which is still being finalized, will likely involve parents explaining their religious beliefs in writing to the state Bureau of Public Health, the governor said. He said he also plans to clarify with lawmakers, who return to the Capitol for their 60-day session next month, that religious exemptions are permitted under the state’s vaccine statute.
U.S. kindergarten vaccination rates dipped in 2023 and the proportion of children with exemptions rose to an all-time high, according to federal data posted in October.
The share of kids exempted from vaccine requirements rose to 3.3%, up from 3% in 2022. Meanwhile, 92.7% of kindergartners got their required shots, which is a little lower than the previous two years.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic the vaccination rate was 95%, the coverage level that medical professionals say makes it unlikely that a single infection will spark a disease cluster or outbreak.
West Virginia previously had some of the highest vaccination rates in the country. A recent U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report on kindergarten vaccination exemptions cited the state as having the lowest exemption rate in the country, and the best vaccination rates for kids that age.
Along with Mississippi, West Virginia is the U.S. state with the worst health outcomes and lowest life expectancy rates.
West Virginia Governor Jim Justice wasted no time making controversial decisions on his first full day in office. In a shocking move, Governor Justice announced the elimination of the state’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program, sparking outrage among many residents.
The DEI program was established to promote diversity and equality within state government and address systemic issues of discrimination and bias. Its sudden removal has left many questioning the governor’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable state for all residents.
In addition to axing the DEI program, Governor Justice also enacted new policies allowing for vaccine exemptions in the state. This decision comes at a time when public health officials are urging more people to get vaccinated to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Critics of the governor’s actions fear that these moves will set West Virginia back in terms of progress towards social justice and public health. It remains to be seen how these decisions will impact the state and its residents in the days and weeks to come.
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West Virginia governor, DEI, vaccine exemptions, first day in office, West Virginia news, new policies, government updates, state politics, leadership decisions, Governor’s actions, DEI program removal, vaccination policies, public health initiatives
Washington — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine is expected to name Lt. Gov. Jon Husted to fill the Senate seat that Vice President-elect JD Vance is vacating, multiple sources tell CBS News.
DeWine is expected to announce his selection at a 1 p.m. press conference Friday.
The announcement will end months of speculation and jockeying for the seat Vance held for just two years. DeWine, who is a former U.S. senator, has been tight-lipped about who might replace Vance in the Senate.
DeWine and other Republican governors met with President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate earlier this month.
The senior U.S. senator from Ohio is now Sen. Bernie Moreno, who became a senator only earlier this month.
Husted, 57, has been Ohio’s lieutenant governor since 2019. He also served as Ohio’s secretary of state and had been considering running for governor to replace a term-limited DeWine in 2026.
Ohio Lt Gov. Jon Husted speaks at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on July 15, 2024.
Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu via Getty Images
Wealthy Trump ally and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy was also floated as a possibility for the job. Trump tapped him to co-lead the “Department of Government Efficiency,” a new advisory body meant to tackle federal spending and waste. Ramaswamy has been largely quiet after he took to social media in December to criticize U.S. culture as venerating “mediocrity” and seemed to suggest Americans are lazy, prompting backlash.
“More movies like ‘Whiplash,’ fewer reruns of ‘Friends,’” Ramaswamy, 39, complained on X in December. “More math tutoring, fewer sleepovers. More weekend science competitions, fewer Saturday morning cartoons. More books, less TV. More creating, less ‘chillin.’ More extracurriculars, less ‘hanging out at the mall.’”
That didn’t go over well, with many other Trump allies and supporters criticizing Ramaswamy for his comments.
In Ohio, governors name senators to fill vacancies in the U.S. Senate until the next regular election. In this case, the special election will be November 2026, and the winner will remain in office until Vance’s term was to expire. He would have been up for reelection in 2028.
For seats in the House, the governor calls a special election. Ohio hasn’t had to fill a U.S. Senate vacancy since 1974.
Ed O’Keefe is CBS News senior White House and political correspondent. He previously worked for The Washington Post covering presidential campaigns, Congress and federal agencies. His primary focus is on President Biden, Vice President Harris and political issues across the country.
Jon Husted, Ohio’s lieutenant governor, is expected to fill the Senate seat left vacant by the retirement of Senator Rob Portman. Husted, a Republican, has been a prominent figure in Ohio politics for years, previously serving as the Secretary of State and a State Representative.
With his experience and leadership skills, Husted is seen as a strong candidate to represent Ohio in the Senate. He has a proven track record of working across party lines to get things done for the people of Ohio, and is known for his focus on economic development and job creation.
Many Ohioans are confident that Husted will continue to be a strong advocate for their interests in Washington, and are looking forward to seeing him in this new role. Stay tuned for updates on his confirmation and plans for his tenure in the Senate.
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Jon Husted, Ohio lieutenant governor, Vance Senate seat, Ohio politics, Ohio government, Republican party, US Senate, Ohio senators, political news
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the reappointment of Richard Cole and Rahul Patel to the University of Florida Board of Trustees. These appointments are effective January 7, 2025.
Richard Cole Cole is a Managing Partner of Cole, Scott & Kissane, P.A. Active in his community, he currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Florida Bar’s Grievance Committee and previously served as President of the Miami-Dade County Bar Association. Cole earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and his juris doctor from the University of Florida.
Rahul Patel Patel is a Partner and Lawyer at King and Spalding. Active in his community, he currently serves as a member of the Crawford & Company Board of Directors and previously served as a member of The Westminster Schools Board of Trustees. Patel earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and his juris doctor from the University of Florida.
These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the reappointment of two members to the University of Florida Board of Trustees. The two reappointed members are Jane Adams and Jason Rosenberg.
Adams, a successful businesswoman and alumna of the University of Florida, has been a valuable member of the Board of Trustees since her initial appointment. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the board, and her dedication to the university’s success is truly commendable.
Rosenberg, an attorney with a passion for higher education, has also been an integral part of the Board of Trustees. His commitment to ensuring that the university continues to excel in all areas is evident in his work on various committees and initiatives.
Governor DeSantis expressed his confidence in both Adams and Rosenberg, stating that their reappointments will help ensure the University of Florida remains a top-tier institution. He also thanked them for their continued service and dedication to the university.
The University of Florida Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in guiding the university’s strategic direction and ensuring its long-term success. With Adams and Rosenberg’s reappointments, the board will continue to benefit from their expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence.
Congratulations to Jane Adams and Jason Rosenberg on their reappointments, and best wishes for their continued success on the University of Florida Board of Trustees.
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Governor Ron DeSantis, University of Florida, Board of Trustees, reappointments, higher education, Florida universities, leadership positions
SAFE TRAVELS EVERYONE. GOVERNOR ELECT JOSH STEIN WILL BE SWORN IN AS NORTH CAROLINA’S 76TH GOVERNOR TODAY. THE CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 11:00 THIS MORNING IN RALEIGH. STEIN, WHO IS COMING OFF OF EIGHT YEARS AS ATTORNEY GENERAL, WAS ELECTED GOVERNOR LAST MONTH. NOW, PUBLIC INAUGURATION CEREMONY FOR HIM AND OTHERS ELECTED TO THE COUNCIL OF THE STATE WILL BE
North Carolina Governor-elect Josh Stein to be sworn in Wednesday
Updated: 11:00 AM EST Jan 1, 2025
A transition of power will happen New Year’s Day as North Carolina Governor-elect Josh Stein will be sworn in. <div style=”position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0;”><iframe src=https://c.streamhoster.com/embed/media/WasBNF/OvNXB9yFsYF/r/INAUG24 style=”position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%;” frameborder=”0″ scrolling=”no” webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen allow=”autoplay; fullscreen;”></iframe></div>Top StoriesNew laws taking effect in North Carolina on January 1, 2025Man runs to University Parkway BP after being shot during fight; has life-threatening injuries, Winston-Salem PD saysTraditional New Year’s Day Meal thought to bring good fortune in 2025 and beyondGet the latest news stories of interest by clicking hereStein will officially be sworn in as the state’s 76th governor in Raleigh at 11 a.m. Wrapping up 8 years as North Carolina’s Attorney General, Stein was elected governor in November. Although officially sworn in Wednesday, a public inauguration ceremony for Stein and other officials elected to the council of state will happen on Jan. 11 on the State Capitol grounds. During that ceremony, that’s where Stein will deliver his inaugural address about his administration’s priorities.Watch: NOWCAST streaming newscastsKeep up with the latest news and weather by downloading the WXII app here.NAVIGATE: Home | Weather | Watch NOWCAST TV | Local News | National | News We Love |TRENDING STORIES
RALEIGH, N.C. —
A transition of power will happen New Year’s Day as North Carolina Governor-elect Josh Stein will be sworn in.
Get the latest news stories of interest by clicking here
Stein will officially be sworn in as the state’s 76th governor in Raleigh at 11 a.m. Wrapping up 8 years as North Carolina’s Attorney General, Stein was elected governor in November.
Although officially sworn in Wednesday, a public inauguration ceremony for Stein and other officials elected to the council of state will happen on Jan. 11 on the State Capitol grounds. During that ceremony, that’s where Stein will deliver his inaugural address about his administration’s priorities.
Josh Stein to be Sworn in as NC Governor on Wednesday
It has been announced that Josh Stein will be sworn in as the new Governor of North Carolina on Wednesday. This comes after the recent election results were certified, confirming Stein as the winner.
Stein, a longtime public servant and former Attorney General of North Carolina, has promised to bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to the governor’s office. His focus on issues such as healthcare, education, and economic development has resonated with voters across the state.
Many are looking forward to seeing what Stein will bring to the table as the new leader of North Carolina. His inauguration ceremony is set to take place at the state capitol on Wednesday, and all are invited to attend and witness this historic moment. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting event!
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Governor-elect Josh Stein was sworn-in as North Carolina’s 76th Governor at 11 a.m. Wednesday.
He was joined by his wife, Anna, and family. Stein swore to support the Constitution and laws of the United States and North Carolina and to faithfully perform the duties of the office of governor.
Stein’s first words after the transfer of power were, “Happy New Year!”
Governor Roy Cooper offered words of welcome. Secretary of State Elaine Marshall presided over the ceremony for the transfer of the Great Seal of the State and witnessed the Oath of Office. North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul Newby administered the oath of office while Stein placed his hand on a historic Tanakh. Pastor James Gailliard and Rabbi Judith Schindler offered prayers and words of wisdom.
Former Governor Roy Cooper completes peace transfer of power to Gov. Josh Stein
“As I take this oath of office, I am profoundly aware of the solemn responsibility before me: to uphold the Constitution of the State of North Carolina and to serve our people,” said Governor Josh Stein. “The work ahead of us is significant, but the time is now to build a safer, stronger North Carolina, where our economy continues to grow and works for everyone, where our public schools are excellent and our teachers are well-paid, and where our neighborhoods are safe and our personal freedoms are protected. And of course, we must act with urgency to help the people of western North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene. And we will.”
“I think he’s got one of the most serious day one challenges anybody’s ever had, and that is the devastation in western North Carolina to people’s lives, to the economy, to the beauty of the place. There’s just so much work that’s going to have to be done and we need to all be in with both shoulders pushing forward,” said Secretary of State Elaine Marshall.
Stein is set to announce Hurricane Helene recovery executive orders as his first actions as Governor during an event in Asheville Thursday. “We must act with urgency to help the people of western North Carolina recover from Hurricane Helene. We must help rebuild housing, support small businesses, and restore broken infrastructure,” said Stein. The State Legislature has previously passed three rounds of disaster relief funding. The last round – SB 382 – also ushered in a series of electoral changes which separately shifted power among the Council of State.
Acting in his capacity as Attorney General, Stein joined Cooper in filing a legal challenge against sections of the legislation. Today however, Stein preached the importance of bipartisanship.
“We will go further when we go together. Not as Democrats, not as Republicans, not as independents, but as North Carolinians,” said Stein.
Wednesday’s swearing-in was not open to the public, with a small group of family, staffers, and elected officials among those who were in attendance.
“He’s a North Carolinian and he cares about the people of North Carolina and he cares about the state. He is a tremendous public servant. And so he is the right person to be governor at this time. He’s just a nice person and a tremendous individual,” said Reuben Young, who retired Tuesday after serving as Civil Bureau Chief for the North Carolina Department of Justice.
Cooper, who is out of office for the first time since 1987, participated in a transfer of seal ceremony and spoke Wednesday.
“I will sleep well tonight knowing that I am your constituent and that you are my governor,” said Cooper.
Stein’s election
Stein was elected after a contentious race against opponent Mark Robinson, who was at the time, serving as the state’s Lt. Governor.
Stein, like Cooper, catapulted from the attorney general’s office to the Executive Mansion. The win makes Stein the first Jewish governor of the Tar Heel State.
During his acceptance speech on election night, Josh Stein said “NC ’embraced a vision’ in electing him governor over challenger Mark Robinson.”
Stein appeared on ABC News “This Week” where he said that his service as North Carolina’s attorney general gave voters confidence and called the Tar Heel state a “bright spot” for Democrats on election night.
Today marks a historic moment in North Carolina’s political history as Josh Stein was officially sworn in as the state’s 76th Governor in a transfer of power ceremony held in Raleigh.
The ceremony, which took place at the state capitol building, was attended by prominent political figures, state officials, and members of the public. As Governor Stein took the oath of office, he pledged to serve the people of North Carolina with integrity, compassion, and dedication.
In his inaugural address, Governor Stein outlined his vision for the state, emphasizing the importance of unity, progress, and opportunity for all North Carolinians. He vowed to work tirelessly to address pressing issues such as healthcare, education, and economic development, and to uphold the values of democracy and justice.
As Governor Stein assumes office, he faces a myriad of challenges and opportunities, but his commitment to building a better future for North Carolina is unwavering. The people of the state can rest assured that they have a strong and capable leader at the helm, ready to guide them through the challenges ahead.
With this momentous occasion, North Carolina enters a new chapter in its history, and Governor Josh Stein will undoubtedly leave his mark on the state’s political landscape for years to come. Let us all join together in supporting him as he leads our state towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
The governor of North Carolina has granted commutations to 15 people on death row on his final day in office, changing their sentences to life without the possibility of parole.
Roy Cooper, a Democrat, announced his clemency action on New Year’s Eve, prompting praise from opponents of capital punishment, who have advocated for mass commutations to thwart executions.
Cooper’s grants exclude dozens of people whose death sentences remain intact. Out of 136 people on the state’s death row, Cooper had received 89 clemency petitions, according to the governor’s office. His office said it considered the facts of the crime, input from prosecutors and victims, “credible claims of innocence”, the “potential influence of race”, prison conduct, a defendant’s age and intellectual capacity at the time of the offense and other case factors.
“After thorough review, reflection, and prayer, I concluded that the death sentence imposed on these 15 people should be commuted, while ensuring they will spend the rest of their lives in prison,” Cooper said in a statement.
His action comes after Joe Biden, in his final weeks in office, commuted the sentences of 37 out of 40 people on federal death row, shielding them from execution under Donald Trump.
The American Civil Liberties Union celebrated the clemency grant to Hasson Bacote, a Black man sentenced to death in 2009. Bacote brought a lead case challenging the death penalty under the state’s Racial Justice Act (RJA). That legislation, passed in 2009, allowed challenges to death sentences if defendants could show race played a role at trial. Lawmakers repealed the RJA in 2013, but courts ruled that people with pending claims were entitled to hearings, the ACLU explained in a statement on Tuesday.
In Bacote’s hearings, historians, statisticians and other experts outlined prosecutors’ discrimination against Black defendants in jury selection across North Carolina, the ACLU said.
“Mr Bacote brought forth unequivocal evidence – unlike any that’s ever been presented in a North Carolina courtroom – that the death penalty is racist,” said Shelagh Kenney, deputy director of the Center for Death Penalty Litigation, which represented him alongside the ACLU and Legal Defense Fund. “Through years of investigation and the examination of thousands of pages of documents, his case revealed a deep entanglement between the death penalty and North Carolina’s history of segregation and racial terror.”
A judge has not yet ruled in Bacote’s RJA case. The decision, the ACLU said, could have implications for everyone with death sentences in North Carolina.
Others commuted by Cooper include Guy LeGrande, whose lawyers have said he was mentally ill and who had a scheduled execution date in 2006 before a judge intervened, the AP reported. Another is Christopher Roseboro, convicted of murder and rape in 1992, who has an intellectual disability and suffered from ineffective trial counsel, according to his attorneys.
North Carolina, which has the fifth largest death row in the US, has not carried out any executions since 2006 due to ongoing litigation, the governor’s office said.
A total of 27 states continue to have capital punishment on the books, though executions are on hold in five of them.
Cooper’s clemency action is the largest of its kind in the state. Previously, governors commuted five death sentences in the modern death penalty era, according to NC Coalition for Alternatives to the Death Penalty.
“This action is smaller than we asked for, but it is still a historic step by a North Carolina governor to address injustice in the death penalty. The 15 men granted clemency today include people affected by racism in their trials, people who were sentenced under outdated laws, and those who committed crimes at very young ages, among other inequities,” said Noel Nickle, the coalition’s executive director, in a statement.
Fourteen of the commutations were people of color, and 12 were tried before 2001 reforms implemented to prevent wrongful convictions, the group said.
The announcement comes at the end of a year that saw a spate of executions across the US that sparked significant outrage, including cases involving defendants with credible innocence claims.
In a surprising move on his last day in office, North Carolina Governor commutes 15 death row sentences. This decision has sparked both praise and controversy among supporters and opponents of the death penalty.
Governor’s decision to commute these sentences comes after years of advocacy and pressure from activists, who argue that the death penalty is outdated and inherently flawed. The Governor’s action is seen as a step towards criminal justice reform and a shift towards more humane and equitable sentencing practices.
However, critics of the Governor’s decision argue that he is overstepping his bounds and going against the will of the people, as the death penalty is still legal in North Carolina. They argue that these individuals were convicted of heinous crimes and should face the ultimate punishment.
Regardless of where one stands on the issue of the death penalty, the Governor’s decision to commute these sentences highlights the ongoing debate surrounding capital punishment in the United States. It remains to be seen how this decision will impact the future of the death penalty in North Carolina and beyond.
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North Carolina governor, commutation, death row, sentences, last day in office, North Carolina politics, criminal justice, legal system, state government, governor’s decision, capital punishment, justice reform
