North Carolina Republican lawmakers have passed a bill to strip incoming Democratic governor and attorney general of key powers before losing their veto-proof majority in the Legislature. The legislation would give the state auditor the authority to appoint members to the state’s election board, a power currently held by the governor. The bill also includes measures to shorten the time for voters to fix ballot errors and require counties to count ballots more rapidly. The legislation was passed quickly and without consultation with the State Board of Elections staff. It also proposes prohibiting the attorney general from taking legal positions contrary to those of the Legislature, thus limiting his power. Additionally, the bill strips the governor of some powers in filling judicial vacancies and creating new Superior Court positions nominated by legislative leaders. The move has been criticized by Democrats as a power grab. Republican lawmakers defended the bill, saying it was necessary to ensure balance on the election board and make decisions about elections. The changes come as Republicans are on track to lose their supermajority in the Legislature, making it difficult to override any future vetoes from the incoming attorney general. The bill also reflects ongoing political tensions between the Democratic governor and the Republican-led Legislature in the battleground state.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
