North Carolina Governor’s Race: Josh Stein Wins, Defeats Republican challenger Ted Budd

In a closely watched race, Democrat Josh Stein has emerged victorious in North Carolina’s 2024 gubernatorial election, securing a second term as the state’s governor. Stein, who has served as the state’s attorney general since 2017, defeated Republican challenger Ted Budd, a congressman from the state’s 13th district.

The victory is significant not only for Stein, but for the state’s political landscape, as North Carolina has been one of the most competitive battleground states in recent years. The outcome of this race was closely tied to national issues, including abortion rights, healthcare, and the economy, all of which played key roles in shaping the election.

Throughout his campaign, Stein emphasized his commitment to expanding access to affordable healthcare, improving public education, and tackling economic inequality. He made a concerted effort to position himself as a pragmatic leader who would prioritize the needs of working families and vulnerable communities. His policy platform included support for Medicaid expansion, higher teacher pay, and measures to make prescription drugs more affordable.

In his victory speech, Stein highlighted the importance of his win in light of national and state-level challenges. “This is a victory for the values that make North Carolina strong,” he said. “We will continue to fight for affordable healthcare, better schools, and an economy that works for everyone.”

Stein also campaigned heavily on abortion rights, a critical issue in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. His position against efforts to restrict abortion access resonated with many voters in the state, particularly in light of controversial actions taken by the state legislature in recent years to limit reproductive rights.

Ted Budd’s campaign, meanwhile, was largely focused on national issues, including immigration, crime, and taxes. Budd, a staunch conservative who was a key supporter of former President Donald Trump’s policies, campaigned as a candidate who would bring more economic growth to the state, particularly through tax cuts and deregulation.

Budd also sought to capitalize on the national Republican focus on combating crime, pledging to bolster law enforcement and tighten immigration controls. However, his stance on social issues, including abortion restrictions, appeared to alienate some voters, particularly suburban women and young voters who were concerned about the future of reproductive rights.

Budd was also affected by the national political environment, with a rising tide of frustration over Republicans’ handling of economic issues like inflation and healthcare. Despite his alignment with conservative voters, the growing support for Stein’s progressive policies in key urban areas ultimately proved decisive.

Stein’s re-election is seen as a victory for Democrats in the South, where GOP dominance has been entrenched in recent years. It could also have broader implications for future elections, particularly as North Carolina’s shifting demographics—such as a growing urban population and changing racial makeup—continue to tilt the state toward the center-left.

As Stein prepares for his second term, the political landscape in North Carolina remains highly competitive, with ongoing battles over voting rights, the economy, and social issues likely to define future elections. For now, though, Stein’s victory provides a much-needed boost for Democrats, reaffirming his position as a central figure in the state’s political future.