The news article discusses the swearing-in of North Carolina’s new Democratic governor, Josh Stein, who succeeded Roy Cooper in the top elected position. Stein, who previously served as attorney general for eight years, took the oath from Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul Newby during a small ceremony in the old Senate chamber of the Capitol building. He expressed his gratitude and readiness to work for the people of North Carolina in his speech. Stein’s victory over GOP Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson in the November election continued a trend of Democrats leading the executive branch in the state.
Despite Republicans dominating the General Assembly and appellate courts, Democrats have won eight of the last nine gubernatorial elections in North Carolina since 1992. Stein’s powers have already been challenged by Republican lawmakers, who recently overrode a veto by Cooper that limited the governor’s authority in managing elections and other key aspects. Cooper and Stein have since sued to block some of these changes. Stein emphasized the importance of bipartisanship and urged against divisive politics in order to succeed in his priorities, which include building a safer and stronger North Carolina.
Stein highlighted the urgency of helping western North Carolina recover from the historic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene in September. He announced plans to issue executive orders in Asheville to support recovery efforts, particularly in housing, small businesses, and infrastructure. Congress recently approved legislation that will provide at least $9 billion in storm aid to North Carolina, further aiding in the recovery process. Stein, who has a background in civil rights law and served as a campaign manager for John Edwards, emphasized the need for unity and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the state.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Stein placed his hand on an 1891 edition of the Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible, symbolizing his faith and heritage as the state’s first Jewish governor. He also participated in the formal transfer of an embossing device that creates the state seal, a significant symbol of the governor’s authority. The ceremony, which was livestreamed and attended by around 100 people, marked the beginning of Stein’s term. An outdoor inauguration for Stein and other elected members of the Council of State is scheduled for January 11, in accordance with the state constitution. Many council members, including Lt. Gov. Rachel Hunt, State Auditor Dave Boliek, and Superintendent of Public Instruction Mo Green, also took their oaths during the ceremony.
