North Carolina Republican lawmakers passed a bill that would strip the state’s incoming Democratic governor and attorney general of key powers before the GOP most likely loses its veto-proof supermajority. The legislation allows the state auditor, a Republican, to appoint members to the State Board of Elections, shifting control from the governor’s office, which will remain in Democratic hands. It also includes provisions to speed up ballot counting and require faster resolution of ballot errors.
The bill was introduced quickly and passed by both chambers of the GOP-controlled Legislature. Democratic Governor Roy Cooper criticized it as a “power grab,” while the executive director of the State Board of Elections raised concerns about the changes affecting the counting of votes. Republicans defended the bill as necessary to ensure balance on the board responsible for elections.
The legislation also limits the attorney general’s ability to take legal positions contrary to the Legislature and curtails the governor’s authority in appointing judges. This move comes as Republicans are likely to lose their supermajority, which would make it harder for them to override vetoes from the incoming attorney general.
The bill is seen as a response to years of conflict between the Democratic governor and Republican-controlled Legislature in North Carolina. Democrats have accused Republicans of seeking political revenge with the changes. Despite criticism, the bill passed and is now awaiting Governor Cooper’s decision on whether to sign it into law.
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