Democrat Roy Cooper, the outgoing governor of North Carolina, vetoed a bill this week that sought to strip Democrats powers in the state and give the Republican Party more power.
The legislation would notably revoke the authority of Cooper's successor to appoint members to the state elections board.
The Legislation
The Republican-controlled General Assembly pushed through the sweeping legislation in under 24 hours during last week's lame-duck session. The measures aim to diminish the authority of Governor-elect Josh Stein, a Democrat, and other statewide offices, including attorney general, superintendent of schools and lieutenant governor—roles set to be held by Democrats next year.
Although the bill includes some provisions for Hurricane Helene relief, critics argue that the allocated funds are minimal and much of the aid cannot be utilized until the General Assembly meets again next month. Additional relief efforts could require billions more in the months ahead.
Democrats and their allies dismissed the disaster relief measures as a superficial cover for what they view as a series of partisan power grabs by Republicans. The GOP's efforts come as its veto-proof majority may end later this year, depending on the outcome of recounts in several tight races from the November 5 General Assembly elections.
Cooper Vetos The Bill
In his veto statement, Governor Cooper condemned the bill as a "sham," criticizing it for failing to deliver adequate relief to western North Carolina. Cooper added that the bill "merely shuffles money from one fund to another in Raleigh."
"This legislation was titled disaster relief but instead violates the constitution by taking appointments away from the next Governor for the Board of Elections, Utilities Commission and Commander of the NC Highway Patrol, letting political parties choose appellate judges and interfering with the Attorney General's ability to advocate for lower electric bills for consumers," Cooper said a statement.
What's Next for the Legislation
The legislation now heads back to the General Assembly, where Republicans are expected to launch an override effort in Raleigh next week. Success would require full attendance and unanimous support from GOP lawmakers in both the House and Senate.
Securing an override may prove difficult, as three House Republicans voted against the bill earlier this month. All three represent districts affected by Helene's historic flooding, with one lawmaker citing the rushed legislative process as his reason for opposing the measure.
Though Republicans will retain control of both chambers in January, Governor-elect Josh Stein could have greater success in blocking GOP-backed legislation if Democratic lawmakers stay unified to sustain vetoes.
The 131-page legislation seeks to once again reshape the appointment process for the State Board of Elections, a move that could shift the panel—currently controlled by Democrats—toward a Republican majority. Under the current system, the governor appoints members to the State Board of Elections, with the governor's party holding three of the five seats.
The new legislation, set to take effect in May, transfers appointment power to the state auditor, a position soon to be held by Republican Dave Boliek. This shift is expected to give Republicans control of the State Board of Elections and likely influence county election boards as well.
This article includes reporting from the Associated Press.
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