NORTH CAROLINA GENERAL ASSEMBLY:

Every two years there are quite a few changes in the North Carolina Senate and House. With the results of the 2018 general election, there will be changes other than just a few names, as Republicans have maintained their majority in both houses, but have lost their “super majority”. That means that Governor Cooper’s veto power may actually mean something. It could result in a longer “long session” in 2019, especially when it comes to the debates on the budget.

(As of this writing, the election results have not been certified. There are several possible races subject to a recount.)

Nine incumbents lost in the general election: eight Republicans and one Democrat.

Changes on the coastal representation:

• Senator Bill Cook retired. Rep. Bob Steinburg ran for that seat and won.
• House District 1 will be represented by Ed Goodwin, Republican from Edenton.
• Rep. Beverly Boswell was defeated in the primary by Republican Bobby Hanig. He won on Nov. 6th.
• House District 16 will be represented by Carson Smith, Republican from Hampstead. This seat was once held by Chris Millis.

In addition to updating our various contact lists for legislators, next year brings the introductions with the new legislators and building relationships.

CONGRESS:

Democrats are now in the majority in the House.

In the Senate, Republicans have maintained their majority status.

HURRICANE RELIEF:

Glenn Skinner and I have been attending meetings with DEQ, DMF and in the General Assembly working on relief for commercial fishermen. In addition, Governor Cooper has written a letter to the US Secretary of Commerce seeking a federal disaster declaration for North Carolina fisheries. NCFA has been actively working at the state and federal levels for hurricane relief.

CHRISTMAS IS A SEASON . . . NOT JUST A DAY . . .

We pray that your Christmas season will be filled with joy as you are surrounded by family and friends. Most of all, remember that Jesus is the Reason for the Season as we celebrate the birth of our Savior!