Public Radio for the Piedmont and High Country
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Judges Won't Block Two Latest Constitutional Amendments

In this May file photo, Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and House Speaker Tim Moore pause prior to a news conference in Raleigh. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome, File)

A state judicial panel says questions on two new proposed amendments to the North Carolina Constitution should remain on November ballots.

Three trial judges unanimously denied Friday a motion sought by Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper to block the amendments. A quick appeal to the state Supreme Court is expected.

A majority on the same judicial panel last week prevented referendums for previous versions of the amendments the Republican-controlled General Assembly approved from going on ballots. That prompted legislators to submit slightly different amendments and questions.

Cooper's lawyers argued those questions still were misleading. But attorneys for GOP lawmakers said the new referendums are clearly written.

The amendments — if voters approve them — would swing control over judicial vacancies and state election board membership from the governor to the legislature.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Support quality journalism, like the story above,
with your gift right now.

Donate