NC News

Mecklenburg Sheriff Faces Removal Petition

Rep. Carla Cunningham, D-Mecklenburg, has joined forces with former Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office deputies to petition for the court-ordered removal of Sheriff Garry McFadden.

The petition accuses McFadden—one of five county sheriffs who refused to honor federal U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainers—of retaliating against crime victims and whistleblowers, misusing official resources, weaponizing the internal affairs unit, and threatening a state legislator.

In the petition, Cunningham said McFadden told her the people of Mecklenburg County would “come after” her if she didn’t vote to sustain one of Democratic Gov. Josh Stein’s vetoes.

The filing coincides with Stein endorsing Cunningham’s opponent, Rodney Sadler, in the March primary, underscoring intra-party tension surrounding Cunningham, who has periodically voted with Republicans on key issues. Court review of the petition is pending, with a legislative hearing scheduled for Jan. 22.

NC Auditor Finds $1.04B in Lapsed Salaries

North Carolina’s Office of the State Auditor has revealed that long-term vacancies in state government have generated $1.04 billion in lapsed salaries. As of Aug. 6, 2025, 8,838 positions vacant for six months or longer—averaging 825 days—contributed to the unspent funds.

In a Dec. 30 press release, State Auditor Dave Boliek announced that the Division of Accountability, Value, and Efficiency (DAVE) will release a comprehensive report on the vacancies and lapsed salaries this month, including responses from agencies subject to the analysis.

The data is available on a public dashboard published by DAVE in compliance with Session Law 2025-89, which requires reporting on vacancies lasting six months or longer. Boliek said the tool brings “transparency to the dollars and cents behind vacancies in state government.”

NASCAR Program Seeks Short-Track Drivers

The Kulwicki Driver Development Program, a Concord-based nonprofit, has opened applications for its 2026 season, seeking top short-track stock car drivers across North America. Applications are due by Jan. 23.

The initiative honors the legacy of NASCAR Hall of Famer and 1992 Cup champion Alan Kulwicki by identifying talented “Underbirds”—such as 2024 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion Ty Majeski—who demonstrate perseverance on and off the track. Five finalists will be selected to compete for the Kulwicki Cup.

Applicants are judged on race results, civic involvement, fan engagement, and embodiment of Kulwicki’s independent spirit, with preference going to drivers ages 16-25 who have experience in late-model racing, though no age limit applies. Anyone competing in NASCAR’s national series is ineligible.

The program provides unique paid support, including stipends, media training, and mentorship.