Brandon Kingdollar
@kingdollar.bsky.social
Politics reporter for NC Newsline. Words in the Tampa Bay Times and The Harvard Crimson. “If you’re gonna hype it, hype it with the facts.”
📫 bkingdollar@ncnewsline.com
Fan of hiking, horror, the Chicago Bears (sigh), and my cat.
📫 bkingdollar@ncnewsline.com
Fan of hiking, horror, the Chicago Bears (sigh), and my cat.
Pinned
Hey folks! My name is Brandon Kingdollar and I’m a politics reporter for NC Newsline covering politics and government in the Tar Heel state.
Questions? Tips? You can email me at bkingdollar@ncnewsline.com.
Questions? Tips? You can email me at bkingdollar@ncnewsline.com.
As early voting began in the 2026 primary, top N.C. Senate Republican Phil Berger’s campaign bashed “Democrat-aligned dark money groups” for running ads supporting his opponent, Sheriff Sam Page.
Berger campaign accuses Democrats of interfering in his primary • NC Newsline
Berger’s campaign accused “Democrat-aligned dark money groups” of running ads supporting his opponent, Sheriff Sam Page.
ncnewsline.com
February 13, 2026 at 11:29 PM
As early voting began in the 2026 primary, top N.C. Senate Republican Phil Berger’s campaign bashed “Democrat-aligned dark money groups” for running ads supporting his opponent, Sheriff Sam Page.
Early voting in North Carolina’s Republican Senate primary begins tomorrow. Here’s what you need to know about the top candidates.
Voting in the Republican U.S. Senate primary begins Thursday. Meet the top candidates. • NC Newsline
Ahead of early voting in the 2026 North Carolina primary on Feb. 12, NC Newsline interviewed leading Republican candidates for U.S. Senate on their views on the issues.
ncnewsline.com
February 11, 2026 at 2:35 PM
Early voting in North Carolina’s Republican Senate primary begins tomorrow. Here’s what you need to know about the top candidates.
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
After cyberattacks targeted North Carolina government services during the winter storms that buffeted the state, IT officials warned North Carolina lawmakers that the state is underprepared for digital threats — in part because of recent legislative actions. Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
After North Carolina cyberattacks, IT officials warn General Assembly of poor preparedness • NC Newsline
North Carolina IT officials warned lawmakers that the state is underprepared for digital threats — in part because of legislative actions.
ncnewsline.com
February 5, 2026 at 11:48 PM
After cyberattacks targeted North Carolina government services during the winter storms that buffeted the state, IT officials warned North Carolina lawmakers that the state is underprepared for digital threats — in part because of recent legislative actions. Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
North Carolina Democrats are making a bid to host the first-in-the-nation presidential primary in 2028 and usurp the title from South Carolina. But obstacles remain.
North Carolina Democrats want to vote first in the nation in 2028. Will the legislature let them? • NC Newsline
North Carolina Democrats hope to host the first-in-the-nation presidential primary in 2028 and usurp the title from South Carolina.
ncnewsline.com
February 3, 2026 at 1:18 AM
North Carolina Democrats are making a bid to host the first-in-the-nation presidential primary in 2028 and usurp the title from South Carolina. But obstacles remain.
Hundreds of protesters marched through Raleigh and downtown Durham on Friday as part of a “national shutdown” movement taking place across the U.S. to oppose the federal immigration crackdown.
Hundreds take to the streets of Raleigh and Durham to demand ‘ICE out’ • NC Newsline
Hundreds marched through Raleigh and downtown Durham on Friday as part of a “national shutdown” opposing the federal immigration crackdown.
ncnewsline.com
January 30, 2026 at 11:01 PM
Hundreds of protesters marched through Raleigh and downtown Durham on Friday as part of a “national shutdown” movement taking place across the U.S. to oppose the federal immigration crackdown.
In 1970, North Carolina led all of its neighbors in median household income. Since then, it’s grown the least of all of them.
North Carolina’s economy has boomed. Why hasn’t its median income? • NC Newsline
North Carolina’s economy has seen explosive growth since 1970, rising to eleventh in GDP in the nation. But its income growth has lagged behind the rest of the country.
ncnewsline.com
January 29, 2026 at 4:30 PM
In 1970, North Carolina led all of its neighbors in median household income. Since then, it’s grown the least of all of them.
U.S. Senate candidate and former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper called for “immediate reforms” before any additional funding for ICE and Border Patrol operations following the deaths of two Minneapolis activists during altercations with federal agents.
Roy Cooper backs conditions on Homeland Security funding after Minnesota shootings • NC Newsline
U.S. Senate candidate and former N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper called for “immediate reforms” before any additional funding for ICE and Border Patrol is approved.
ncnewsline.com
January 27, 2026 at 1:34 AM
U.S. Senate candidate and former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper called for “immediate reforms” before any additional funding for ICE and Border Patrol operations following the deaths of two Minneapolis activists during altercations with federal agents.
After North Carolina’s two largest medical providers halted gender-affirming care for patients below the age of 19, trans youth in the state are left with few options for treatment.
Trans youth under 19 left with few options for gender-affirming care in NC • NC Newsline
After North Carolina’s two largest medical providers halted gender-affirming care for patients below the age of 19, trans youth in the state are left with few options for treatment.
ncnewsline.com
January 26, 2026 at 3:58 PM
After North Carolina’s two largest medical providers halted gender-affirming care for patients below the age of 19, trans youth in the state are left with few options for treatment.
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
The most powerful Republican in the North Carolina Senate is trailing his 2026 primary opponent by 5 points in a poll released Tuesday, less than two months away from the March 3 contest. ncnewsline.com/2026/01/20/n... By @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol #nc
NC Senate Leader Phil Berger trails Sam Page by 5 points in latest primary poll • NC Newsline
The most powerful Republican in the North Carolina Senate is trailing his 2026 primary opponent by 5 points in a poll released Tuesday.
ncnewsline.com
January 21, 2026 at 12:33 AM
The most powerful Republican in the North Carolina Senate is trailing his 2026 primary opponent by 5 points in a poll released Tuesday, less than two months away from the March 3 contest. ncnewsline.com/2026/01/20/n... By @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol #nc
A look back at AG Jeff Jackson’s first year in office: his 2025 was defined by high-profile lawsuits against the Trump administration and efforts to safeguard against the threats of tomorrow.
As Jeff Jackson battles Trump, NC GOP threatens to leave him with a ‘feckless, empty shell’ of a job • NC Newsline
Jackson’s first year in office has been defined by battles with the Trump administration. NC Republicans hope to put a stop to that.
ncnewsline.com
January 19, 2026 at 4:46 PM
A look back at AG Jeff Jackson’s first year in office: his 2025 was defined by high-profile lawsuits against the Trump administration and efforts to safeguard against the threats of tomorrow.
More than 200 gathered Wednesday evening in Raleigh’s Moore Square to mourn Minneapolis activist Renee Good and to condemn ICE for her death and other violent encounters in recent months.
Hundreds mourn Renee Good at Raleigh candlelight vigil • NC Newsline
More than 200 gathered Wednesday evening in Raleigh’s Moore Square to mourn Minneapolis activist Renee Good and condemn ICE for her death.
ncnewsline.com
January 15, 2026 at 3:21 AM
More than 200 gathered Wednesday evening in Raleigh’s Moore Square to mourn Minneapolis activist Renee Good and to condemn ICE for her death and other violent encounters in recent months.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem “should resign or be removed from office,” Rep. Deborah Ross urged on Tuesday, joining a chorus of Democratic colleagues in the wake of high-profile clashes between ICE and protesters.
Rep. Ross demands Kristi Noem resign from Homeland Security • NC Newsline
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem “should resign or be removed from office,” Rep. Deborah Ross urged on Tuesday.
ncnewsline.com
January 13, 2026 at 11:47 PM
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem “should resign or be removed from office,” Rep. Deborah Ross urged on Tuesday, joining a chorus of Democratic colleagues in the wake of high-profile clashes between ICE and protesters.
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
NC Board of Elections finds Stevens campaign contributions illegal, but not intentional ncnewsline.com/briefs/nc-bo... Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
NC Board of Elections finds Stevens campaign contributions illegal, but not intentional • NC Newsline
Two contributions by lobbyists to Rep. Sarah Stevens’ Supreme Court campaign were found illegal, but not an “intentional violation.”
ncnewsline.com
January 13, 2026 at 2:45 PM
NC Board of Elections finds Stevens campaign contributions illegal, but not intentional ncnewsline.com/briefs/nc-bo... Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
Best of 2025: Amazon labor organizers challenge union election loss, alleging employer coercion ncnewsline.com/2026/01/02/n... by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Best of 2025: Amazon labor organizers challenge union election loss, alleging employer coercion • NC Newsline
Challenging a loss in a bid to unionize an Amazon warehouse in Garner, CAUSE alleges the company coerced employees to vote against the union.
ncnewsline.com
January 2, 2026 at 12:01 PM
Best of 2025: Amazon labor organizers challenge union election loss, alleging employer coercion ncnewsline.com/2026/01/02/n... by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
Really good stuff today from @kingdollar.bsky.social
Ukrainian school in Raleigh brings together refugees, longtime immigrants to keep culture alive • NC Newsline
Founded in the wake of the Russian invasion, the Ukraine House school and cultural center in Raleigh has been a source of solace and community for refugees.
ncnewsline.com
December 23, 2025 at 5:33 PM
Really good stuff today from @kingdollar.bsky.social
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
President Donald Trump launched the opening salvo in North Carolina’s midterm elections Friday night in a speech to several hundred in Rocky Mount ncnewsline.com/2025/12/20/t... Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Trump kicks off NC's 2026 midterms by attacking Roy Cooper in Rocky Mount speech • NC Newsline
President Donald Trump kicks off NC's 2026 midterms by attacking ‘radical left’ Roy Cooper in Rocky Mount speech
ncnewsline.com
December 20, 2025 at 11:49 AM
President Donald Trump launched the opening salvo in North Carolina’s midterm elections Friday night in a speech to several hundred in Rocky Mount ncnewsline.com/2025/12/20/t... Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
The Senate passed federal recognition for the Lumbee as part of a sweeping defense appropriations bill on Wednesday. It now heads to Trump’s desk for his signature.
Congress passes Lumbee recognition bill, heads to Trump’s desk • NC Newsline
The Senate approved federal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina on Wednesday following passage by the House last week.
ncnewsline.com
December 18, 2025 at 1:39 AM
The Senate passed federal recognition for the Lumbee as part of a sweeping defense appropriations bill on Wednesday. It now heads to Trump’s desk for his signature.
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
More than 2,000 supporters, including students and faculty, signed onto a petition as of Thursday opposing a University of North Carolina system proposal to require the public release of all class syllabi and materials. Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #unc #ncpol
UNC system faculty condemn proposed policy disclosing course materials to public • NC Newsline
Backers of the proposal say it’s a necessary move to restore trust, while opponents raised concerns over harassment of faculty and students.
ncnewsline.com
December 11, 2025 at 10:25 PM
More than 2,000 supporters, including students and faculty, signed onto a petition as of Thursday opposing a University of North Carolina system proposal to require the public release of all class syllabi and materials. Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #unc #ncpol
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
After more than 40 bills have failed to win recognition for the Lumbee of North Carolina, supporters hope full tribal status is finally within reach. ncnewsline.com/2025/12/10/l... Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Lumbee recognition heads to congressional vote as Trump seeks to deliver on pledge • NC Newsline
After more than 40 bills have failed to secure recognition, Lumbee supporters are hopeful that full tribal status is finally within reach.
ncnewsline.com
December 10, 2025 at 6:16 PM
After more than 40 bills have failed to win recognition for the Lumbee of North Carolina, supporters hope full tribal status is finally within reach. ncnewsline.com/2025/12/10/l... Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Republican leaders are blaming Gov. Josh Stein for a second stabbing on Charlotte public transit — this time by an alleged assailant who illegally entered the U.S. — and are demanding he cooperate more with immigration enforcement.
Second Charlotte stabbing fuels GOP calls for immigration crackdown in North Carolina • NC Newsline
Republican leaders blamed Gov. Josh Stein and Democrats for the attack, noting that the alleged assailant was in the United States illegally.
ncnewsline.com
December 8, 2025 at 9:43 PM
Republican leaders are blaming Gov. Josh Stein for a second stabbing on Charlotte public transit — this time by an alleged assailant who illegally entered the U.S. — and are demanding he cooperate more with immigration enforcement.
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
A second stabbing on Charlotte’s public transit system, this time by a man who was allegedly in the United States illegally, has drawn national attention as Republican leaders voice support for the immigration crackdown in the state. Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol #Charlotte
Second Charlotte stabbing fuels GOP calls for immigration crackdown in North Carolina • NC Newsline
Republican leaders blamed Gov. Josh Stein and Democrats for the attack, noting that the alleged assailant was in the United States illegally.
ncnewsline.com
December 8, 2025 at 9:39 PM
A second stabbing on Charlotte’s public transit system, this time by a man who was allegedly in the United States illegally, has drawn national attention as Republican leaders voice support for the immigration crackdown in the state. Story by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol #Charlotte
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
Another large-scale immigration enforcement operation appears to be underway in North Carolina, focusing on the Research Triangle and Triad area, according to immigrant advocacy group Siembra NC. Here's what we know: ncnewsline.com/2025/12/05/i... by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
ICE agents once again operating in North Carolina, activists say, including arrests in Durham • NC Newsline
Another large-scale ICE operation appears to be underway in North Carolina, focusing on the Triangle and Triad areas, according to Siembra NC.
ncnewsline.com
December 5, 2025 at 11:23 PM
Another large-scale immigration enforcement operation appears to be underway in North Carolina, focusing on the Research Triangle and Triad area, according to immigrant advocacy group Siembra NC. Here's what we know: ncnewsline.com/2025/12/05/i... by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
The U.S. Senate confirmed four of President Donald Trump’s nominees to North Carolina federal courts this week, twice as many as in his entire first term. ncnewsline.com/2025/12/04/f... by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Four Trump appointees to take the bench in North Carolina’s federal district courts • NC Newsline
The Senate confirmed four of President Donald Trump’s nominees to North Carolina federal courts this week, twice as many as in his first term.
ncnewsline.com
December 5, 2025 at 12:09 AM
The U.S. Senate confirmed four of President Donald Trump’s nominees to North Carolina federal courts this week, twice as many as in his entire first term. ncnewsline.com/2025/12/04/f... by @kingdollar.bsky.social #ncpol
Four of President Donald Trump’s nominees were confirmed to North Carolina’s federal district courts this week. That’s more than twice his number of appointments in the state in his first term.
Four Trump appointees to take the bench in North Carolina’s federal district courts • NC Newsline
The Senate confirmed four of President Donald Trump’s nominees to North Carolina federal courts this week, twice as many as in his first term.
ncnewsline.com
December 4, 2025 at 11:41 PM
Four of President Donald Trump’s nominees were confirmed to North Carolina’s federal district courts this week. That’s more than twice his number of appointments in the state in his first term.
Reposted by Brandon Kingdollar
When we asked readers why they support our work, they said they appreciate our coverage of the state legislature, Medicaid cuts and Helene recovery. We’re in the middle of our end-of-year fundraising drive. Can you step up to help us make NC a stronger, more informed state?👉 ncnewsline.com/donate/
December 4, 2025 at 3:31 PM
When we asked readers why they support our work, they said they appreciate our coverage of the state legislature, Medicaid cuts and Helene recovery. We’re in the middle of our end-of-year fundraising drive. Can you step up to help us make NC a stronger, more informed state?👉 ncnewsline.com/donate/