What it means for NC if Roe v. Wade is overturned
When President Donald Trump appointed conservative jurist Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court, there was an outcry among pro-choice activists afraid Roe v. Wade — the 1973 case that protects a woman’s right to an abortion — would be overturned.
The race is on for Macon clerk of court
The clerk of court is a humble albeit crucial office, an elected position filled by someone willing to ensure the county courthouse runs smoothly and without logistical issues. This year, Macon County Clerk Victor Perry will retire, meaning a new person will be tasked with bringing the office into a new age of technology.
Macon commissioner candidates discuss education, broadband
Several problems and opportunities await Macon County’s next board of commissioners.
Primary Election Coverage
This year’s primary election in North Carolina will take place Tuesday, May 17, but early voting begins April 28. Below is a round up of most of the elections taking place in The Smoky Mountain News’ four county coverage area, gathered all in one place so you don’t have to go searching for it. Exercise your right to vote!
Five Republicans vie to become Macon’s next sheriff
Among the sheriffs retiring in Western North Carolina who will leave big shoes to fill is Macon County’s Robert Holland, who has served in that position for almost two decades.
The race for Jackson Commission begins
Three of five seats on the Jackson County Commission are up for grabs this year — district one, district two and commission chairman.
Swain commissioner candidates weigh in on affordable housing
Swain County’s Board of Commissioners will have two new members this year, at least one of whom will emerge from the upcoming Republican Primary Election.
Democrats, Republicans target vulnerable Cawthorn in NC-11
Western North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District has garnered national attention for electing one controversial Trump-affiliated Republican congressman followed by another controversial Trump-affiliated Republican congressman who now finds himself in the fight of his political life against fellow Republicans.
Race for Jackson County School Board
Ten candidates are running for three open seats on the Jackson County Board of Education this spring. Only one incumbent is running, while two other seats will have a newcomer following the Primary Election.
Haywood commission candidates face significant challenges
Haywood County’s growing, and with that growth comes change – change not everyone is happy to see. Traditional hot-button issues like fiscal control are intricately tied into other issues like affordable housing, which are tied into still other issues like the opioid crisis, the mental health crisis and the homelessness crisis.
