GOP installs NC election board chair who's peddled election denial and unsubstantiated voter fraud claims

After moving control of North Carolina elections into the GOP-led N.C. State Auditor's office, Republicans have appointed a long-time conservative activist in Art Pope's network to chair the state election board who has pushed harsh voter restrictions and unsubstantiated claims of widespread voter fraud.

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Institute Index: Profiting off deportation

A by-the-numbers look at Southern private prison companies, their ties to the Trump administration, and the profits they're poised to rake in as deportations rise.

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From the Archives: Allison Riggs on fighting for an inclusive democracy

This week, Justice Allison Riggs' election to the N.C. Supreme Court was settled after her Republican conceded after six months of contesting the results. Featured here is Facing South's interview with Riggs in 2021, when she worked as a voting rights attorney.

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Dear friends,

Thank you again to all of our readers who have continued to support the Institute and our work for democracy and justice in the South.

In these dangerous times, we are humbled and deeply appreciative of the ongoing contributions of Southerners and South-watchers who make our projects for change possible.

We have been looking at how the Institute can retool our programs to best meet the moment. Through our strategic planning process, we've identified three key ways the Institute can best be an agent for change now:

We Hold the Powerful Accountable: Our deep-dive investigations expose injustice and hold corporate and political interests accountable in the South.

We Shift the Narrative About the South: The Institute challenges stereotypes about the region, providing information and analysis that builds support for progressive action.

We Build Leadership for Change: Through our Julian Bond Fellowship Program, internships, and sponsoring innovative projects, we develop next-generation leadership and organizations that can build a better future.

One way you can support our vision for a better South is by making a donation to the Institute. Donate of $100 or more today and we'll send you our new "Eyes on the Prize" tote bag!

Thank you for your support.

Chris Kromm, Executive Director and Publisher

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A Tennessee bill that would have given public schools the right to refuse enrollment to children based on immigration status was defeated, thanks to a campaign led by immigrant, faith, education, and business groups. (Tennessee Lookout)

In Texas, public officials at all levels are propping up a Texas Bitcoin mining boom that's threatening the state's water and energy systems. (Texas Observer)

26 states, including 11 in the South, are creating their own versions of DOGE, using them to justify deep cuts to public services and programs and weaken labor and environmental standards. (Economic Policy Institute)

On the 60th anniversary of Medicaid — and as funding for the program is under attack — the fight to defend health care access in the Deep South has echoes of the civil rights struggle. (Stateline)

In a scathing 570-page ruling, a federal three-judge panel ruled that the Congressional map Alabama Republicans passed in 2023 not only violated the civil rights of Black voters, but did so intentionally. (The Downballot)

Bishop William Barber, II offered his views on protest and politics after being one of three faith leaders arrested in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda for praying in opposition to Republican budget cuts. (Politico)

"40 Acres and a Mule" is more than a promise that was never kept. The federal government gave more than 1,200 formerly enslaved people land titles, only to take the land back, fueling a wealth gap that remains today. (Reveal and the Center for Public Integrity)

VIDEO: Trump voters in West Virginia have a message for the administration: "Don't forget working people." (More Perfect Union)