Pete is a limited government "lower-case L" libertarian. His default position is freedom. Pete recognizes that this is scary to a lot of people.Pete takes phone calls and talks about the news of the day. He believes that these discussions with the audience is helping solve the world's problems. Pete's a giver.He has been in North Carolina media for nearly twenty years, as an award-winning radio journalist, a TV reporter, and a talk show host.
Read more: http://wwnc.iheart.com/onair/pete-kaliner-46655/#ixzz4YbYI1GC0
Larry Bleiberg is a delightful, curious and imaginative travel writer who uses all his senses to engage his readers to feel the human experience. He is thoughtful and honest with a passion to inspire others to travel more.
The college sports landscape is teetering on the edge of cataclysm as the SEC and Big 10 appear poised to absorb the majority of the ACC, Big 12 and PAC-12. But is the ACC grant of rights enough of a financial deterrent to glue the Atlantic coast together for a while? Also, the Carolina Panthers have a brand new quarterback, but how heated will the battle for QB1 actually be in Spartanburg? Locally, high school football is a matter of weeks away and the fire is white-hot underneath the AC Reynolds Rockets, plus the Asheville-Buncombe Regional Sports Commission is under new leadership. Special guests include: Jim Szoke (Color commentator, Carolina Panthers Radio Network); David Glenn (Founder, contributing editor - ACC Sports Journal); Shane Laws (Head coach, A.C. Reynolds Football); and Chris Smith (Interim director - ABRSC).
It's post-Masters weekend on The Sports Freaks... what do we talk about now?
Asheville's favorite Freaks Brian Hall and Mike Morgan are joined by special guests:
Steve Forbes (Head coach, Wake Forest Men's Basketball);
Demp Bradford (President, Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission);
Brett Friedlander (Reporter, North State Journal);
and Richard Walker (Founder, CarolinaSportsHub.com)
The final Monday of Madness is tinted blue with tonight's men's basketball national championship between Kansas and North Carolina. Sports Freak In Chief Brian Hall and special guest cohost Stan Pamfilis welcome special guests: Wes Moore (head coach, NC State women's basketball); Mike Morrell (head coach, UNC-Asheville men's basketball); and Pete McDaniel (contributor, Golf Digest/PGA expert)
Fox News Radio's Jay Ratliff- Second Wave Worries: Beijing cancels 70% of flights, Why no mask guidelines from the FAA?, Southwest: No middle seats thru September, American Airlines Bans Passenger
Rania Mankarious-Crime Prevention Expert- Shootings surge in NYC amid disbanding of NYPD's plainclothes anti-crime unit
Matt Henson- DEFUND the police painted in front of the police department in massive letters...counter protesters splash more paint marking out the D and the E so it now says FUND the POLICE...and who is on the hook for paying ofr the clean up? Is anyone going to be charged for the vandalism?
Growth is good, but the opposition continues in Asheville with some celebrating the failure of the Crossroad development. Blue voters abandon their home states, bring their politics to places like NC. Democrats are seeing defections among young people, despite what they tell themselves.
Another hotel is coming to downtown Asheville, while anti-development leftists whine about traffic and the viewshed. Gov. Cooper comes to town and local media avoids the "tough questions." Democrats rejoice over new maps that will lead to a 7-0 Democrat body on Buncombe County Commission.
Simon Owen breakdown the situation of the Royal Breakup and where things go from here for Harry and Megan!
The trash from the opioid epidemic continues to spark concern and outrage. From the newly-dubbed "Despaircase" to the metal garden, needles pose risks that leaders either ignore or dismiss.
Pete fields a call from North Carolina State Treasurer Dale Folwell, ranging from the "war" on prescription opioids to a new way to follow state legislative meetings.
Pete chats with Jon Sanders of The John Locke Foundation (Raleigh, NC), tackling Duke Energy, the coal ash clean-up fiasco, and who's footing the bill now.
Asheville's public spaces continue to be ruined by vagrants and addicts, while "artists" destroy property. NY's budget deficit is driven, in part, by Medicaid costs. A NC judge says no to voter ID, making a bunch of assumptions.
Reactions to the killing of an Iranian General. The left finds out the Babylon Bee is satire. A pair of Russians prank call Maxine Waters. Ricky Gervais trashes Hollywood one last time at the Golden Globes.
The military's internal investigation determines that the "OK" hand gesture displayed by cadets during the Army-Navy football game was just "the circle game" and not signs of white supremacists. US Attorney John Durham's criminal investigation into the origins of the Russia probe zeroes in on former CIA director John Brennan. Becki Gray, Sr. VP of The John Locke Foundation, makes her weekly appearance to discuss state election filings. It's time to abandon the thory than NC is in chaos.
Congressman Mark Meadows says that he will retire rather than seek re-election. The timing and execution of his announcement raises questions. Lt. Governor Dan Forest makes his monthly appearance to discuss Jim Duncan's op-ed on Gov. Cooper's mismanagement of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, DOT, and hurricane relief. Why would Nancy Pelosi delay sending the articles of impeachment to the Senate?
Tuesday's show featured Pete's analysis of the controversy of a needle exchange in West Asheville. Neighbors aren't happy about the increased risk from needles scattered on sidewalks and drug addicts roaming the streets. Plus, the Supreme Court rules cities cannot ban the homeless from camping in public areas when there isn't shelter space available.
President Trump's scathing letter to Speaker Nancy Pelosi in protest to the attempt to impeach him. Live coverage of the House "debate" over two Articles of Impeachment: Abuse of Power and Obstruction of Congress, with Representatives making short statements. Takes for and against impeachment from local callers and national writers. Why did Buncombe County Commissioners remove Bill Stanley's name from a downtown building?
Former FBI Director Jim Comey claims he's been vindicated by the IG report on the FISA court abuses. Fox News' Chris Wallace held his feet to the fire. The left loses its mind over the Circle Game, again. West Asheville community members want changes regarding the local needle exchange.
Democrats in the House are debating articles of impeachment. If it is rammed through, many Trump supporters are talking about a violent reaction. NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson talks art... and education. Senate leader Phil Berger says the state budget impasse is completely in the Senate's hands.
Inspector General Michael Horowitz answers questions from the Senate Judiciary Committee. Democrats want to talk about everything BUT his report on the FISA court abuses.
The Inspector General's report on the FISA abuses contains conflicting information. Pete recaps the analysis of the 400 plus page report. Tracy Beanz of UncoverDC joins the program. She says the IG's conclusion doesn't square with the details.
Tracy Beanz, investigative reporter for UncoverDC, tries to help Pete make sense of the IG report. Political bias is clear when you read the report, yet Michael Horowitz's executive summary says bias wasn't proved.
Two IG reports came down today. The one pertaining to the Russia investigation claims no political bias. That conclusion is very Comey-esque. Meanwhile, the Judicial Committee holds another hearing.
Climate activism takes City Hall by storm.... Not really. Some kids skipped school to sings songs and chant outside the City Manager's office. Keith Young proposes his idea to combat climate change. Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation gives an update on the filing for 2020 elections.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi calls for articles of impeachment to be drafted. Joe Biden fat shames a Warren supporter. Phil Kerpen of American Commitment talks transparency for Big Tech.
The House Judiciary Committee holds its first impeachment hearing. A panel of partisan hack law professors isn't changing anyone's minds. "Activist Writer" Ami Worthen says Asheville tourism officials only want rich white people to visit. Brian Haynes will not run for City Council again, focusing on climate activism.
As we hit the air, Congressman Adam Schiff is at the podium declaring the President broke the rules. He won't say whether he supports impeachment, like we don't know his position. Former FBI agent Lisa Page plays the victim card, in a highly-skewed Daily Beast interview.
Academia is overrun with leftists. Their positions allow them to present their opinions and philosophies as fact or knowledge, rather than mere preferences. Governor Roy Cooper swears he did nothing wrong when negotiating his Atlantic Coast Pipeline deal, which included a $57.8M "slush fund."
The media's obsession with "fact checker" gimmicks isn't helping their credibility. The AC-T, and others, are seeing massive drops in subscriptions. Climate activists demand "action" from... local government?
Governor Roy Cooper may have broken the law in the negotiations with the Atlantic Coast Pipeline developers. Sen. Thom Tillis visits Asheville. Becki Gray gives a Raleigh update. NC Sup. Mark Johnson states a goal in seeking the office of Lt. Gov.
NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson has announced he'll run for Lt. Governor in 2020. He says he wants to take down the "administrative state" running public education.
Governor Roy Cooper faces pressure after investigators say his administration may have broken the law in negotiating the Atlantic Coast Pipeline deal. Congressional candidate filing is going to be on hold, but for how long?
US Senator Thom Tillis joins Pete hours after appearing with Transportation Secretary Elaine Chau at Asheville Regional Airport, for a big announcement.
NC 11th District Congressman Mark Meadows join Pete from outside of the ongoing impeachment hearings. Pete asks what is different in these proceedings, from what he heard in the closed-door depositions.
The House Intelligence Committee questions US-EU Ambassador Gordon Sondland. He says "everyone knew" about a quid pro quo with Ukraine.
Pete has the highlights from Tuesday's morning session of the House Intelligence Committee's hearing on the Ukraine call. Lt. Col. Vindman gets hit with some tough questions.
Attorney General Bill Barr gives a great speech to the Federalist Society, explaining the dangers of the left's strategy of "Sue 'Til Blue." Changes at Biltmore have some riled.
Former US-Ukraine Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch appears at public hearing #2 of the House Intelligence Committee's impeachment proceedings.
NC lawmakers debate and vote on new Congressional district lines. Dems really want a gerrymander in the mountains that stretches nearly 200 miles. We learn about the proper names for groups of animals. Becki Gray joins Pete to recap redistricting, the Farm Act, and much more.
NC Superintendent Mark Johnson announces a run for Lt. Gov. and more candidates for 2020. Democrats want "fairness" in Congressional races. The answer? Gerrymandering the 11th. NIMBYism at the heart of the arguments against a Malvern Hills-area development.
The state's non-union-union is willing to keep teachers underpaid, as long as Cooper gets political points.
The whistleblower who leaked the ABC news anchor's "hot mic moment" issues a statement. Eric Holder & Co. target Republican gerrymandering, not interested in Democrat sins. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation discusses all the vetoes. NC Sup. of Public Instruction Mark Johnson hints he's moving on.
An ABC news anchor claims her Jeffrey Epstein story was shot down. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest lays out his education plan, if he's elected Governor. US Senator Thom Tillis says the latest roadblock is temporary for his Justice For Victims of Sanctuary Cities Act. ANOTHER billionaire Democrat gets into the Presidential race.
The Justice For Victims of Sanctuary Cities Act, pushed by US Senator Thom Tillis, hits a roadblock. Tillis tells Pete it is just a temporary setback.
Lt. Gov. Dan Forest releases his plan for public education, if he is elected Governor in 2020. Pete also asks about the fight against sanctuary sheriffs, like Buncombe County's Quentin Miller.
The results are in from yesterday's election. NC Dems Chair says "Blue Wave" led to a win in KY. Problem is... it was practically the only one in the state. Governor Cooper vetoes a bill to kick foreigners off the voter roll. NC Treasurer Dale Folwell stops by for the first time since the Governor's office called him ineffective.
Voters go to the polls to choose local leadership. Pete gives a rundown of some of the candidates. Conservatives appear to be fleeing areas controlled by Democrats, especially in California. Voices like Ben Shapiro are, in fact, the antidote to the Alt-Right.
NCDOT's spending is so out of control, the state Treasurer is calling for a change in the Democratic leadership. Gov. Cooper's administration holds hostage scholarships for the kids of combat vets. Some Asheville breweries win gold medals, anti-tourism leftists hardest hit.
A breakthrough in the treatment for cystic fibrosis gives hope. Waste Pro is soon going to give "premium service" to the elderly. Asheville continues to grow. The metro area nears 500k and the airport's growth is a big driver.
Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller claims ICE detainer requests aren't lawful. Many judges have said they are, the Sheriff just chooses to appease the base and let dangerous criminals walk. Meanwhile, the Asheville Police Department implements its new written consent policy for searches.
Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller announces the release of a convicted sex offender, whom ICE had requested his agency hold. The release sparks a stern response from the local US Attorney.
In the midst of the leftist mockery Saturday night, President Trump was green-lighting the raid that killed ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. His death is one we can all celebrate, but the left is too busy hating the President.
The leaders in Asheville are considering a new tax to fund transit system expansion. The options: get the county on board w/ a county-wide tax or ask Raleigh for permission for a city tax. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation gives a Raleigh update, as the session could end next week, budget or no. Superintendent Mark Johnson talks school safety.
One local school teaches sex education to Kindergarteners. Is that too early? Meanwhile, as a culture, we can't define what makes a man or a woman. How is a local homeless shelter supposed to enforce a ban on men?
The Asheville City Council votes 6-1 in favor of changing the city charter, restoring at-large council elections. Vijay Kapoor, the only no vote, was the only one to speak before the vote. Jonathan Wainscott says he's disappointed in the final vote. What will Raleigh do?
US Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) proposes a bill that would allow crime victims to sue municipal governments, if they have sanctuary city policies and the crime was committed by someone who should not be here. Democrats have a hard time grasping the concept.
Asheville City Council is expected to change the charter to avoid district elections. If we legalize weed, what do we do with those already convicted? NIMBYism kills economic growth.
Pete is joined by Senator Thom Tillis, who gives his takes on the Turkey-Syria conflict and the impeachment inquiry. Hillary Clinton suggests Russia will back Tulsi, as a 3rd party candidate, to beat Democrats. Author Michael Barone discusses the evolution of the major parties. Becki Gray provides a Raleigh update.
Pete talks Turkey with US Senator Thom Tillis. He says the US wants Turkey to be "a good NATO ally, but they have to behave like the others do." Tillis also gives his take on the "impeachment inquiry."
Governor Roy Cooper's team ignores Pete's offer to ask some hard questions, after one staffer says 'that's the job.' NC Policy Watch raises a fuss over the state pension fund investing in Chemours. An NPR story totally misses the mark about education choice.
The Democratic Presidential primary debate gives us Joe Biden's "5TH sentence problem," Beto's gun-grabbiness, and hate for Tulsi. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation weighs the records of the justices running for Chief Justice of the State Supreme Court. The judge in the Planned Parenthood baby parts trafficking trial is keeping some evidence from being heard.
Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation gives us a look at the records of Chief Justice Cheri Beasley and lone Republican Justice Paul Newby.
A self-labeled "cripple" says we need to ditch the phrase "blind spot." The left's boycott of Chik-Fil-A failed miserably. LeBron James says Rockets GM wasn't thinking of "others" when he backed Hong Kong protesters.
The editorial board at the Asheville Citizen-Times puts out a piece that ignores all of the history as to WHY the city has been limited in its ability to annex and charge differential water rates.
Pete goes after NBA coach Steve Kerr for his idiotic comparison of the human rights records of the US and China. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation talks budget impasse. And NC Schools Superintendent Mark Johnson tries to clear up the controversy over iPads for teachers.
A leaked tape features NC Sen. Jeff Jackson telling students the true story about why he's not running for US Senate. Republicans "seize." Blizzard employees meet at the Orc and NBA players show their cowardice over Hong Kong. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest says the Japan trade deal is a big deal for NC.
Lt. Gov. Dan Forest joins Pete on the heels of a trip to DC. He says a new trade deal with Japan will have a great impact on NC. Lt. Dan, also, is working on a new podcast.
Turkey begins airstrikes against Kurds across the border with Syria. President Trump doubles down on the threat of economic ruin, if Turkey kills civilians. Chuck Todd goes after Senator Ron Johnson, when Johnson doesn't criticize the President, like Todd wanted him to.
The outrage mob goes after Ellen Degeneres for hanging out with George Bush. Rockets GM Daryl Morey creates controversy for the NBA, after he tweeted support for Hong Kong protesters' fight for freedom. China goes after anyone who dares to oppose them.
A school lockdown is pretty routine these days, but when an amateur reporter gets on the story, it induces panic. Asheville City Councilman Brian Haynes gets fired from Habitat for Humanity after refusing to take a drug test.
Analyzing results of polling on American's level of patriotism. Philip Caputo's book "The Longest Road" is a cross-country road trip searching for the binding force that keeps the States United. SVP of the John Locke Foundation, Becki Gray, looks at happenings in the General Assembly, including the state budget. Where were NC Democrats on 9/11/19 for budget votes? The mystery remains.
Pete gets trapped in another zipper merge debate on social media. Governor Roy Cooper allegedly threatens Senate Democrats with a primary challenge AND dares to tout a low corporate tax rate as a reason why HE has helped lead the growth in NC manufacturing jobs.
Once again Buncombe County Commission discusses Waste Pro's contract and getting county-wide trash service that caters to the elderly. NC Treasurer Dale Folwell joins Pete to talk hospital pricing. The new state legislative lines, if approved, will ensure no Republican gets a real shot at a County Commission seat.
Cam Newton's ridiculous head scarf look is apparently catching on. Men's fashion becoming more female. Ellen Frost is accused of improperly funneling $20K to Owen HS for a barn, with the help of Wanda Greene. Finally the local media puts out a pro-development viewpoint.
With the latest news coming fast and furious, from every angle, who can we believe in the White House whistleblower case? Plus Pete gives helpful tips to a local, aspiring journalist.
This week's city council meeting was packed with anti-hotel Ashevillians giving their uninformed opinions. It was a crazy week in Raleigh. Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation joins us. NC Superintendent Mark Johnson swings by the studio on his way to Clay County.
On his way across the state, Sup. Mark Johnson stops by to talk about the latest initiatives, funding, and policy fights in public education.
John Locke Foundation Senior VP Becki Gray talks about a crazy week. Darren Jackson challenges GOP to lie detector tests, the former NCGOP Chair pleads guilty, the BCBS NC CEO resigns, and another redistricting lawsuit.
Asheville City Council wants to change the city charter to restore at-large elections. The mayor reveals why they've delayed the process of fighting the law. Julie Mayfield stumbles on the reason for districts, but doesn't know it. And Lt. Gov. Dan Forest is asked to skip a Christian event, by a Muslim group.
The Democrats think they have President Trump dead to rights, but the transcript doesn't prove much. Is Trump's request any different than Biden's dealings with the Ukraine? The WWNC Non-Travelling Theatrical Troupe brings the transcript to life.
The transcript is released, featuring US President Donald Trump and Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Here's a special presentation by the WWNC Non-Travelling Theatrical Troupe!
The left has scared the daylights out of our youth over climate change. David Harsanyi, of The Federalist, says that 16 year-old Swedish girl is being used. Pete points out why she may appear to be so upset. Rachel Bovard introduces us to the Internet Accountability Project. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announces an official impeachment inquiry.
Pete Kaliner is joined by David Harsanyi, who writes at The Federalist: Greta Thunberg and other youth are indoctrinated by the left to believe the destruction of the world is imminent.
Democratic State Rep. Darren Jackson says he wants Republican leaders to take a polygraph after 9/11 "surprise" vote. Rep. Jason Saine (R) says he needs to "man up." Cheerleaders in Stanly Co. drew so much support, their football game was postponed for security reasons.
North Carolina Republican state Representative Jason Saine responds to Democratic Rep. Darren Jackson's call for GOP leaders to take a lie detector test regarding the Sept. 11th veto override vote.
The reports of illnesses linked to vaping have parents concerned. Two cases confirmed in Buncombe County. Activist kids skip school to push for implementation of the Green New Deal, including setting up national banks? And Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation fills us in on the latest doin's in Raleigh.
Lefties love them some Justin Trudeau... until the Canadian PM was caught numerous times in blackface. Asheville politics gadfly Jonathan Wainscott appears to be a voice of reason among his fellow lefties. Asheville's neighbors are growing, while the city's growth is slowing.
Buncombe County leaders discuss the changes coming with Waste Pro. Garbage Pal's Jared Breneman says he wants to help people find solutions. The NYT won't stop with the Kavanaugh sexual assault accusations, despite no evidence.
Former Trump campaign guy Corey Lewandowski gives Democrats answers they didn't see coming. A NC sheriff is indicted. His party ID wasn't mentioned. Guess what..? Local are up in arms over the road diet plan on Charlotte Street.
Buncombe County Commissioner Mike Fryar raises the concerns of several constituents over changes in Waste Pro's trash collection. Pete answers why it's not smart for city leaders to spurn the hotel industry.
NC Auditor Beth Wood keeps an eye on county books for potential fraud cases like what we saw here in Buncombe County. An introduction to the new interim APD chief in the wake of Chris Bailey's resignation. NC Lt. Gov. Dan Forest checks in on Tuesday's special election, the NCGA budget vote, and his remembrance of 9/11. A look at Andy Jackson's piece for nccivitas.org on ballot harvesting in NC's 9th Congressional District.
North Carolina's Lieutenant Governor Dan Forest makes his bi-weekly appearance on the Pete Kaliner Show to talk about Tuesday's special election for NC 9th Congressional District, NCGA's budget vote, and what he did yesterday in remembrance of 9/11.
North Carolina's State Auditor, Beth Wood, discusses keeping an eye on county books for potential fraud cases like what we saw here in Buncombe County and previews an upcoming report.
There was mass hysteria in the #ncpol community, after Republicans passed the override of Gov. Roy Cooper's budget veto. Democrats didn't show up for the 8:30am session, saying they were told no votes would be taken.
Pete is joined by NC schools Superintendent Mark Johnson. Asheville City Council makes a plan to change the city charter. The state legislature starts the process of drawing new district maps... again. Trump fires Bolton... or Bolton quits... it doesn't really matter, does it?
NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson discusses the latest student performance grades, the need for books in hurricane ravaged parts of the state, and the fact that lottery money is building new schools.
Democratic state Senate candidate Brian Caskey and his wife try to whip up the mob over toy guns at the Mountain State Fair. Governor Roy Cooper gets criticism over his inability to inspire first responders before Hurricane Dorian. NCGA begins the process of redrawing state legislative district lines.
The leftist media is gaga over a New Yorker story on how Thomas Hofeller drew NC district maps, and the data he gathered. Huffington Post is in hot water over its "reporting" of the Brett Kavanaugh saga. Pete celebrates as Think Progress is shutting down.
NCSU political science professor Andrew Taylor says a three-judge panel misused the state constitution in issuing this week's gerrymandering ruling. Democrats continue to try to use the mob to intimidate Trump supporters. Mark Meckler comes to NC to take all questions about the Convention of States project.
Want to know more about the Convention of States project? Are you a skeptic? President Mark Meckler invites you to Monday's town hall.
NC State political science professor Dr. Andrew Taylor says, even with partisan gerrymandering, the state's elections are free and open. Taylor says the maps did not violate the state constitution, as he reads it.
A three-judge panel says new state legislative district mas must be drawn and the process needs to be open to the public. Civitas Elections Policy Fellow Andy Jackson says the court found new rules legislators never had to abide by before. State Treasurer Dale Folwell is asked about the pensions of convicted county leaders. Brownie Newman and his fellow Democrats are itching to get TDA money for the city's operating budget.
Andy Jackson, Elections Policy Fellow at the Civitas Institute, joins Pete to discuss Tuesday's gerrymandering ruling and what's expected of the Republicans drawing new maps.
Governor Roy Cooper's Medicaid-in-the-budget demand forces him to veto a Medicaid proposal backed by himself... in his own budget. Three judges in Wake County say the state's current state legislative maps are unconstitutional partisan gerrymanders. The state preps for Hurricane Dorian.
Hopefully the tide is turning against the outrage mob and their PC/"cancel" culture. Becki Grey of the John Locke Foundation gives a Raleigh Update moments after another veto by Governor Roy Cooper. NC Superintendent Mark Johnson talks back to school and the ongoing battle over a young readers program.
The IG report is out and though former FBI Director James Come broke the law, there will be no charges. Sound familiar? AC-T's John Boyle's takeaways from #GangGreene Sentencing Day. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest says the Governor has failed to lead in the face of the budget stalemate.
Lt. Gov. Dan Forest says Governor Roy Cooper had the right to veto the state budget, but he's so far failed to lead toward a solution. He also addresses the attempted hit piece on his daughter working for the campaign.
Former Buncombe County Manager Wanda Greene, and her band of merry thieves are sentenced to federal prison. Was the punishment too light, just right, or too harsh? Pete takes your calls.
Pete is intrigued after finding out one of the largest guinea pig shows was just in the area. Then, Governor Cooper gives a poor performance at his Day 50 budget stalemate presser.
The SHY-fecta on Asheville City Council says the plea deal given to former Asheville cop Chris Hickman is racism. Reverend William Barber speaks to DNC, calls everything racist and says Jesus was a Socialist.
Ex-Buncombe County Manager Wanda Greene is requesting a 4-year prison sentence. President Trump's latest tweets are concerning to true conservatives. The GOP plans to pass a budget one way or another, despite the Governor's objections. Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation weighs in.
The Asheville area is popular among tourists, but just how popular? Pete has the latest numbers. Tourists oddly don't bring their kids here. In similar news, the boob rally is back this weekend.
NC Gov. Roy Cooper rejects HB 370, which would have required sheriffs to cooperate with ICE. There is a massive surplus of tax revenue, so Republicans want to give some back to the people. GOP lawmakers are looking to change their strategy for passing the budget, daring Cooper to veto more spending.
The media/left blames the law, instead of the law breakers, when it comes to immigration enforcement. Ray Nothstein talks "Red Flag" laws. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest launches his gubernatorial campaign. It's no surprise the media/left missed the whole point of the speech.
Energy Star says to keep your house unbearably hot... to save the planet. A-B Tech is shifting costs and asking for more county funding, after being robbed by Govco. Could solar energy really be worsening climate change? Asheville Police Department policies shifting under new leadership.
A handful of Democrat Senators file an amicus brief with the Supreme Court accusing justices (GOP appointees only) of being bought. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib says she won't go to Israel to visit granny, if she can't also promote the BDS movement. The Danes tell Trump that Greenland is not for sale.
Ex-Buncombe Co. Finance Director Tim Flora asks a judge to punish Wanda Greene & Co. harshly. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest backs association health plan regulations. "Tin Foil" Tom entertains with another deep conspiracy that dates back decades.
The attorney for former Buncombe County Assistant County Manager Jon Creighton asks that his client get no jail time. Creighton reportedly gave the feds 75% of their case. Does he get rewarded?
CNN's Chris Cuomo gets called "Fredo" and loses his cool. He says that's like getting called the N-word. Buncombe County DA Todd Williams explains the plea deal for former Asheville cop Chris Hickman. Governor Cooper's staff continues to claim the GOP isn't negotiating, while the state media discovers HE's been unresponsive.
Buncombe County District Attorney Todd Williams gives details about the plea deal that allows former Asheville Police officer Chris Hickman to avoid jail time. Why is a restorative justice program appropriate?
While everyone else seems to have a theory about Jeffery Epstein's reported suicide in jail, Pete waits for more details. GateHouse and Gannett are merging. What is that going to do to further the decline of news coverage at a local level?
Asheville City Council will get a chance to strike down another hotel proposal soon. A stabbing in the "Pit of Despair." Representative Chuck McGrady gets into a twitter-off with a "dumb-ass WRAL reporter."
The Democratic candidate in #NC09 race helps push the narrative that Dan Bishop is racist. He called people clowns. Outrage ensues. Meanwhile Julian Castro shares a list of Trump donors' names and employers, to try to intimidate any others. NC Treasurer Dale Folwell updates us on his transparent hospital pricing plan.
Democrat state lawmakers are calling for votes on gun control measures. Pete explains why HB86 and HB454 are bad ideas.
Once again, the left and the media immediately begin the gun control discussion following tragedy. They seem to be not interested in having "the conversation" about realistic solutions. Jeff Goldstein discusses his piece at The Federalist, saying the alt-right mirrors the left.
The left demonizes the right once again after a mass shooting. Pete talks with Jeff Goldstein who wrote "The Alt-Right Is The Mirror Image Of The New Left," at The Federalist.
The Asheville City Council is no longer interested in taking heat over hotel projects. A moratorium would assist one councilwoman's run for higher office. Beci Gray of The John Locke Foundation says lawmakers are staying busy, despite the budget impasse. NC Schools Superintendent Mark Johnson searches for a fix to another state board-created problem.
A lesser-known state law is going to force the laying off of 220 teachers with NC Virtual Public School. Sup. Mark Johnson says he will fix it, if he can.
There is no end in sight to the budget impasse. Meanwhile, lawmakers are finding other bills to fill their time.
OUTRAGE ensues after a Cherokee County gun shop puts up a billboard calling "The Squad" idiots. Governor Roy Cooper continues to refuse to negotiate in good faith with Republicans. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest says the stalemate won't end soon. Former FBI director Comey won't be charged.
The chair of the State Board of Elections steps down after telling a joke at a conference. Governor Cooper says no to a debate on Medicaid expansion. New documents raise more questions about the Governor's pipeline deal. Mario Lopez (aka AC Slater) takes heat for remarks about the parents of transgender kids.
The crime stats show the trends in NC and more locally. Asheville City Councilman Keith Young miffed at assumptions about race in crime stories/discussions. Congressman Patrick McHenry talks DC division, impeachment, and BB&T's proposed merger with SunTrust.
10th District Republican Congressman Patrick McHenry stops by to chat about the state of the economy, BB&T merging with SunTrust, and the impeachment crusade by Democrats.
The President is facing the outrage of the race baiters after his comments about Baltimore. Crab, shrimp, and lobster... the good, the bad, and the dangerous. Asheville's gun violence has risen and the deputy chief says gangs are a big reason. City leaders have no solutions.
A "study" says the US in the 10th most dangerous country for women, in the world. Laughably, North Korea failed to make the list. "The Squad" does away with unpaid internships, but there is value in that struggle. The John Locke Foundation's Becki Gray talks gerrymander lawsuit, ABC reforms, and more.
New info on the Georgia legislator who claimed to be berated by a white man at the grocery store. Witness statements show she lied... again. More people are apparently seeking therapy... because Trump.
Pete has the "highlights" from former Special Counsel Robert Mueller's pair of hearings in the House. His testimony reveals he isn't too familiar, or just can't remember, what is in his report. Plus President Trump and Democrats respond to today's events.
The leftist media is holding its collective breath in anticipation of the Mueller testimony tomorrow. A new report says former FBI director James Comey repeatedly lied to Trump, saying he wasn't under investigation. A budget deal is reached at the federal level. Trump's deficit spending will become a campaign issue.
A Georgia legislator took to social media to blast a pro-Trump "white man" who allegedly harassed her at the grocery store. It turns out he wasn't white or pro-Trump.
There is another report on how Wanda Greene & Co.'s theft is still impacting Buncombe County. A poll shows the majority of people asked support ICE deportations of illegal immigrants. Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation talks about the impact the budget stalemate is having.
The John Locke Foundation's Becki Gray talks about the negative impacts of the ongoing budget stalemate between Republicans and the Democratic Governor.
The left turns the offend-o-meter up to 11 after Trump supporters chant "Send Her Back" at ECU rally. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest was there and calls the chant "free speech." Forest also calls out NC capital media's bias, something Pete is happy to run with - featuring WRAL's "best" partisan hack.
NC Lt. Gov. Dan Forest talks about last night's Trump rally in Greenville, NC. He says the controversial chant was "free speech." Forest also calls out NC media's double standard after Gov. Cooper takes politics to the pulpit.
We look back at Ellen Frost's 2017 visit to WWNC. Her statements are revealing following the indictment of former County Manager Mandy Stone. It's been a two-day marathon for Common Cause's first expert testifying in the lawsuit over partisan gerrymandering.
As Pete begins the coverage of the partisan gerrymandering case, news breaks that former Buncombe County Commissioner Ellen Frost - ally of Wanda Greene - is facing 11 federal charges.
The Democrats are eating each other, as AOC's "Squad" bucks Pelosi and company; and the black caucus questions the Justice Democrats' motives. Becki Gray's Raleigh Report focuses on the budget stalemate. NC Superintendent Mark Johnson discusses things like the new grading system for public schools.
John Locke Foundation Senior VP Becki Gray says it is time to do what is right for the state, and end the budget impasse.
Pete tries to figure just how much ground 20 tons of cocaine could cover. The uber-sensitive are miffed about white guys cooking Chinese food. A citizenship question will not be on the Census, but President Trump presents a solution.
If NC expands Medicaid there could be some negative impacts, like more doctors who stop taking on Medicaid patients. NC Treasurer Dale Folwell reacts to the "Burn In Hell" email from a Moses Cone executive. Governor Cooper's budget "compromise" spends more than his original proposal and Republicans dangle Medicaid expansion outside the framework of the budget.
State Treasurer Dale Folwell makes the case for his Clear Pricing Project and dismisses the continued attacks by hospital officials.
Governor Roy Cooper insists he has a compromise on the budget. His "compromise" includes his side getting roughly 90% of what he wants.
The US Women's National Team, fresh off it's 2nd straight World Cup win, fights for equal pay (despite actually getting a greater percentage of the Cup's total revenue than the men's team). Other layers of their media profile include their hate of Trump and mistreatment of the American flag, but do they have any legitimate arguments? A look inside the data of soccer's compensation system says no. It's time again for the now-annual argument that air conditioning is sexist.
Amid a leftist smear campaign over his recent speech at a Salisbury church, Lt. Gov. Dan Forest joins Pete to discuss.
Abby the Spoon Lady objects Pete's assertion from a WLOS story that she is moving to Wichita to continue busking. Asheville's future after the Flat Iron Building hotel decision, as foretold by AC-T's John Boyle and city councilman Keith Young. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest responds to the smears from leftist political action committees. The latest on an offensive secret Facebook page for CBP agents. A look at "The Perception Gap" numbers among members of different political parties.
Lt. Gov. Dan Forest is being accused of being a racist by the Left over his comments on diversity during a speech at a Salisbury church. With a push from leftist think tanks Think Progress and American Bridge, the N&O published an article comparing Forest to Steve King and even White Nationalists. Breaking News: Think Progress is now up for sale, citing declining advertising during the Trump Administration. How Antifa grew from the Occupy movement.
Asheville's most famous busker, Abby the Spoon Lady, is moving back to her native Wichita, KS. How could the tourism boom and Flat Iron Building be responsible for her exodus? Becki Gray, SVP of the John Locke Foundation, checks in on the Governor's budget veto. NC Superintendent Mark Johnson discusses teacher pay and financial literacy in schools. A flyer found posted around downtown Asheville threatens businesses and civic leaders.
The US Supreme Court says partisan gerrymandering is an issue for states to regulate. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest reacts to the decision and discusses the Medicaid expansion showdown with Gov. Cooper. Democrats finally see a crisis at the southern border. SCOTUS also rules against a citizenship question on the Census.
NC Lt. Gov. Dan Forest gives his take on the redistricting fight and the Supreme Court's ruling, saying partisan gerrymandering rules should be passed in the legislatures. Also he discusses Gov. Cooper's budget showdown.
The Flatiron Building will be turned into a boutique hotel, despite the complaints from "locals." Jason Sandford of Ashevegas joins Pete in the studio. Sheriff Miller goes to Raleigh to oppose the ICE detainer bill. Democrats can't stop lying about the bill's intent or impact.
Jason Sandford of Ashevegas stops by to recap last night's decision by Asheville City Council to approve a conditional use permit for turning the Flatiron Building into a boutique hotel.
The Civitas Institute's Brooke Medina and Ray Nothstine fill in for Pete. They discuss the Democrats' excitement over "free" stuff. Andy Jackson joins his Civitas colleagues to talk about polling and the special Congressional races in NC. The 20 Democrats seeking the 2020 nomination get ready for two days of debate this week.
Mediaite editor and The Blaze writer Caleb Howe returns to discuss the affects tech companies are having on news and views. He's joined by Paula Bolyard of PJ Media, Jay Caruso of the Washington Examiner, and Melissa Mackenzie of The American Spectator.
Caleb Howe writes for The Blaze and is an editor at Mediaite. He's intrigued by the media's new coverage of friction between establishment Democrats and the freshmen disruptors like AOC, Omar, and Tlaib. He's joined by Redstate's Thomas Laduke, who encourages getting involved in local politics if you want to make an immediate impact.
NC Democratic political consultant Thomas Mills, founder and publisher of NCPolitics.com, fills in and takes your phone calls. Mills gets challenged on everything from immigration policy to abortion law.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has done it again. Now she claims the US is running "concentration camps" at the southern border. Swooning leftists try to defend the indefensible again, and those with any knowledge of history are savaging the dumbassery.
The US Supreme Court takes up the latest lawsuit over a gay couple wanting a baker to make them a wedding cake. It gets sent back to the lower court. Conservatives are increasingly convinced leftists want them to suffer harm for disagreeing on policy. 2020 Presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg pushes expanding the Supreme Court.
Is online pre-K a good program? Pete asks State schools Superintendent Mark Johnson. Johnson touts learning a trade after high school and putting students back on the state school board.
Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation joins Pete to give the latest update on the doin's in Raleigh.
Proposed bills are ruffling leftist feather, like one to allow people with a pistol permit to purchase more and one to require sheriffs to honor ICE detainer requests. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation covers opioid epidemic solutions, budget talks, and solar panel waste in her Raleigh Report. NC schools Superintendent Mark Johnson explains online Pre-K. And some study cats' actions when humans aren't around.
The guy who has racked up massive fines for running Airbnb at his Montford property is arrested. Asheville's new police chief comes from Indianapolis. Andy Jackson of the Civitas Institute joins Pete in the studio to discuss whether NC is turning blue. Asheville, no surprise, ranks high on the breweries-per-capita list.
The City of Asheville's leaders continue their search for money that isn't theirs. Extorting money from developers might pay off. The city's mass transit supporters want more funding now, but the new city manager says it's not the time. What to call the Smith, Haynes, Young voting bloc on council?
Shadow bans and de-platforming are no new thing for conservatives on social media. The latest discovery is Pinterest shutting down pro-life organization Live Action, and the platform's new standards which alsotarget Christians, as a whole.
R Street's Shoshana Weissman joins Pete, saying there could be an opportunity for Republicans to start gaining ground within city limits.
Without seeing the evidence for themselves, the media is reporting Common Cause's claims about GOP mapmaker Thomas Hofeller's files as fact. The failure to override the Governor's veto of the "Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act" could have a lasting impact. Longleaf Politics publisher Andrew Dunn and Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation weigh in. Disney, AMC, Netflix, and others are considering boycotts of states with new abortion restrictions.
With a conference committee selected, House and Senate lawmakers are expected to hammer out a final budget soon. After that, Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation says the Republicans and the Governor will spar over Medicaid expansion.
Longleaf Politics publisher Andrew Dunn joins Pete to talk about the potential impact of the fight over the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act.
75 years after the D-Day invasion, we look back at history's largest amphibious assault and listen back to highlights of our 2012 interview with local hero Andy Andrews. Also, Rev. William Barber is on trial for trespassing, Mecklenburg County's Sheriff defends (poorly) his 287-g decision, and Lt. Gov. Dan Forest talks veto override, budget negotiations, and Medicaid expansion.
As one reporter tries to track the Lt. Gov.'s movements, Dan Forest joins us to weigh in on the NC House's failure to override Gov. Roy Cooper's veto of the "Born Alive Abortion Surivors Protection Act." He also says budget negotiations are ongoing in conference committee, and that he still opposes Medicaid Expansion.
Seven years ago, World War Two veteran Andy Andrews joined Pete Kaliner to tell his story of D-Day, the Battle of The Bulge, and more. On this 75th anniversary of the journey, we look back and honor his, and others', sacrifice.
The former Parkland school resource officer who waited outside during last year's massacre is criminally charged. Is this a slippery slope? NC Treasurer Dale Folwell checks in. The NC House could not override Governor Roy Cooper's veto of the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Act, and Democrats are applauding.
The guy who won more than $2M on Jeopardy gets beaten by his own strategy. NYT writer David Brooks looks at some of the evidence that the GOP is doomed, but ignores other factors. Many PACs spent a small percentage of donations on candidates. Is that what cost the GOP the House?
One company thinks pogo stick rentals will be a hit for those looking for alternative transportation. New Bern businessman Buddy Bengel joins the Lt. Gov. race. Liberals' new standards of doxxing and assaulting political opponents will backfire. Melissa Ohden, an abortion survivor, pushes the "Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act.
Melissa Ohden survived an abortion 42 years ago. She's hoping NC legislators override Gov. Roy Cooper's veto of the "Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act." She says they shouldn't have to fight for their lives after already surviving certain death.
Buddy Bengel has announced he will run as a Republican for Lieutenant Governor in 2020. He says he aims to prove Democrats do not have a "stranglehold" on the next generation.
The owner of Gander RV said he's ready to go to jail, if necessary, over the battle over a massive American flag flying at the Statesville dealership. That won't be necessary now. Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation updates all the doin's in Raleigh. NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson talks about the new app for students to report safety threats.
NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson announced a new app will be available for middle and high school students next year. The app is used to report suspicious or troubling behavior among student bodies.
Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation gives us an update on the week's major business. She also looks ahead to next week's House vote on the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act.
The daughter of deceased GOP "Gerrymander Master" Thomas Hofeller gets her estranged father's hard drives and turns them over to the leftist group suing over NC's maps. She swears it's not personal or political. A look at the impacts of immigration on WNC. The Citizen-Times ignores all of the negatives. Pete has more sound from the Civic Center naming rights discussion at Asheville City Council's Tuesday meeting.
Special Counsel Robert Mueller says Trump can't be charged, and he MAY have committed a crime. The Supreme Court hears an abortion case. In the opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas digs deep on eugenics. Asheville City Council hears public comment on the naming rights for the Civic Center... hilarity ensues.
Local businessman Mike Summey shares some of his wisdom, so you can live within your means, save, and hopefully build wealth. His book "The Financial Security Bible" is a great gift for recent graduates. Statesville is locked in a fight with Camping World's owner over a massive US flag flying at a dealership. A new ranking gives us the worst - and best - cities in NC for driving.
Local businessman Mike Summey, author of "The Financial Security Bible," joins Pete to give financial advice to graduates and anyone seeking help with building wealth and stability.
From development to politics, everybody, in every setting, thinks their way is best. Many bills are moving in Raleigh, post-crossover deadline. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation gives us an update. Andy Jackson of the Civitas Institute discusses the partisan shake-up at the state Board of Elections. Democrats gave the job to a Democrat and raised her pay.
Board of Elections Executive Director Kim Strach was ousted, and Andy Jackson, Elections Policy Fellow at the Civitas Institute, says the move betrays Governor Roy Cooper's pleas for a non-partisan process. How does this affect his push for non-partisan redistricting?
Bills move forward in Raleigh, from waiting for the Governor to sign a major change for craft brewers to the state Senate passing a budget. Becki Gray from the John Locke Foundation gives us the latest.
Raleigh reporters, namely WRAL's Travis Fain, continue to show their bias. Asheville's Downtown Commission meets to discuss the potential renaming of the U-S Cellular Center. Harrah's Cherokee Casino has made the high bid for the naming rights. NC Lt. Gov. Dan Forest talks Hurricane Matthew relief funds. Mark Meckler, President of Citizens for Self Governance and Convention of States, updates how many are on board with the idea.
Pete Klainer talks with Mark Meckler, President of Citizens for Self Governance and Convention of States.
Federal funds for the recovery from Hurricane Matthew aren't getting to those who need it in eastern NC. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest says he hopes Governor Cooper's administration can fix the issues with CDBG funds, while praising the NC government's immediate response to disasters.
An Asheville woman who claimed to be a victim of libel after a 2016 Trump rally in Asheville sees her lawsuit against Project Veritas and James O'Keefe thrown out in court. Some well-connected people are reportedly asking former Charlotte Mayor/felon Patrick Cannon to run again. Virginia Gov.'s racist yearbook photo investigated (sort of). "Capitol Tonight" audio of a debate over whether or not the Democratic Party is a "Big Tent Party."
A new report says the Cooper administration lacked institutional knowledge to effectively use federal disaster funds. Fans of traditional public schools are refusing to compete with charters, choosing only to complain about school choice. Democrats engaged in "reverse cheerleading" following the Trump election.
Democratic Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders made an appearance at the Salvage Station today, and it was full of all the Socialist slogans you could want. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation talks budget negotiations, the 9th Congressional race, and more. Asheville City Councilman Keith Young asks his colleagues to spend nearly $8k in taxpayer money on his continued education.
With Dan Bishop winning the GOP primary in the 9th district, the media puts HB2 at the forefront of the race. NC Congressman Patrick McHenry says not much is getting done in the US House because the majority just wants to investigate Trump. Asheville City Council factions bicker over $15/hr for city workers.
NC 10th District Republican Representative Patrick McHenry talks about the partisan split in the House. And with the Democrats focused on investigating Donald Trump, he says little is getting done. He also says the new crop of leftists are posing a threat to Pelosi & Co.
The owner of Asheville's Flatiron Building says the only smart business move is to turn the property into a hotel. Despite seeing the numbers, the collectivist mob isn't hearing any of it. Pete has audio from last night's City Council meeting.
After Kim Strach is sacked by the Democrats on the state Board of Elections, even the Charlotte Observer editorial board has criticism for the partisan move. Meanwhile, Governor Roy Cooper calls for legislators to spend the projected $700M revenue surplus. The head of NCDPS has gotten $41,000 in raises since being appointed two years ago.
A man who had been threatening people along the Appalachian Trail, sadly, follows through and kills one and seriously injures another - with a machete. Meanwhile Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders says guys like this should retain their right to vote. Dr. Merrill Matthews, resident scholar at the Institute for Policy Innovation, says that may not be the best idea. The Democrats on the state Board of Elections vote to oust Executive Director Kim Strach, despite her reputation as a non-partisan watchdog.
Dr. Merrill Matthews, resident scholar at the Institute for Policy Innovation, joins Pete to discuss inmates and felons being allowed to vote. He also touches on the possible end of Medicare and the fight over medical pricing transparency in NC.
A new, large cell tower in South Asheville sticks out like a sore thumb. How should it be disguised or decorated? Some Buncombe County Commissioners seem to be okay with dipping into the county's fund balance to cover pet projects. The NCGA's crossover deadline came and went with, historically speaking, a whimper.
Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation updates us on the NCGA crossover deadline. It usually comes with a flurry of bills passing at the last minute, but not this year.
A co-founder of Facebook says the social media company has reached the point where it needs to be stopped. A Democrat votes with Republicans to override a veto and is now targeted by his own party. Asheville's "Before I Die" wall is painted over. No one was overseeing the art installation.
Lt. Gov. Dan Forest joins Pete to discuss advances in teacher pay, a push for more access to opportunity scholarships, and more.
A Rhode Island school system is taking heat after it says it will start making kids with outstanding lunch debts eat sun butter and jelly sandwiches. Outrage ensues. In local schools, kids don't seem to have really healthy choices on the menu.
After Facebook kicks off "dangerous" users, like Alex Jones and Louis Farrakhan, should they consider also blocking mainstream media members who lie? The MSM ran with the collusion lie for two years. Pete has details. Crunching the numbers of teacher pay in NC and across the nation.
Asheville's drunken, drug-addled party scene was apparently on full display this past weekend. Pete takes your calls about the way Asheville was and how we got to this. Is this what Asheville wanted to be?
The NC House debates its budget proposal for a second day. The John Locke Foundation's Becki Gray gives an update and Pete looks closer at teacher pay figures. The NCAE pushes out an "altered" photo of Wednesday's rally. And a reporter finally asks whether the teacher pay push has hurt the political cause of the Democrats and the union.
In this week's Raleigh Report, with Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation, it's all about the budget. The House sends the proposal to the Senate after approximately 100 amendments were debated.
Waynesville resident and TC Roberson grad Riley Howell's body comes home. He stood up to the UNCC shooter. New details are released about the DOJ spying on the Trump campaign. Facebook bans extremists. From the Boomers to the Xe Generation, research tries to clear up the divides.
North State Journal reporter A.P. Dillon calls the teacher's "RedForEd" rally/march/protest in Raleigh what it is (a strike) and exposes all the obvious politics in play at at a "non-political" event. Teachers want education to be a "priority," despite it taking up a majority of the state budget (by far). NC Treasurer Dale Folwell makes his monthly appearance to discuss statewide fiscal issues (including teacher pensions).
NC Treasurer Dale Folwell makes his monthly appearance with Pete Kaliner to discuss statewide fiscal issues such as teacher pensions.
NC teachers will strike tomorrow, calling for more funding, pay raises, Medicaid expansion, and even collective bargaining rights. Violence erupts in the "Socialist Utopia" of Venezuela. The guy who drew the NC district maps passed away. His daughter gave some of his hard drives to the leftists suing NC over gerrymandering.
Dr. Terry Stoops of the John Locke Foundation looks at the reasons the teacher association gives for its May Day protest tomorrow.
A writer from the Fayetteville Observer tries to channel the pro-lifer mindset... cause he used to go to church.
Do you notice the same kind of vehicle being driven dangerously? Pete says pickup truck drivers are the worst. Becki Gray of the John Locke Foundation talks about the proposals in the legislature's state budget plan. NC teachers are going on strike Wednesday, and the media continues to cover for them.
The John Locke Foundation's Becki Gray discusses some of the items and provisions lawmakers are proposing for the next budget.
ATTENTION! Stop with the stacked up one lane a mile BEFORE the lane closure. Learn the zipper merge!
In less than a week school districts will close, so teachers can protest in Raleigh. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest maintains the whole thing is illegal.
The NCAE's one-day strike is just a week away. Asheville City Schools announces it will close next Wednesday. Lt. Gov. Dan Forest says strike is unnecessary and the union keeps moving the goalposts. Pete gives a brief history of May Day, which teachers chose "coincidentally" as the day for their work stoppage.
A new forecast says Social Security will be insolvent by 2035. No surprise there. Another report says parents of millennials are blowing their retirement funds by allowing their kids to stay at home longer. Also, Asheville's budget discussions are heating up as the city faces the extra cost of cleaning the flooded soccer fields again.
The Democratic candidates for President promote free college and tuition forgiveness, healthcare for all, and allowing prisoners to vote. The US Supreme Court considers whether we should have a citizenship question on the census again.
To save costs, newspapers are having more reporters write opinion pieces. This may be why more and more people are turning away from print media. The latest example on the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Act is enraging, for Pete. Asheville continues to struggle with development, and more urban living space is necessary.
Flooding around the area gives us more examples of stupidity on the roads... and in government. The work on Asheville's flood plain soccer field gets erased with another torrential downpour. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation checks in with the weekly legislative update. The teacher's union touts polling in support of the May 1st strike. But what does it really tell us?
The Mueller Report was released this morning. Immediately everyone is an expert on the 400-plus page document. How damning is it for the President, and do the Democrats have a case for impeachment? Also, UC Berkeley puts on the worst Easter egg hunt ever, Cooper vetoes the Born Alive Abortion Survivors Act, and Russians love them some Joseph Stalin.
A "Conflict Over Gaza" conference hosted by UNC Chapel Hill features no pro-Israel speakers, a controversial performance by a Palestinian rapper, and has sparked a federal investigation. Appalachian doctors are arrested for allegedly trading pain pills for sex. Democrats say illegal immigration is not a concern of most people, despite polling showing the exact opposite.
The Senate passes the "Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act." We listen in to debate on the House floor. Plus, Governor Roy Cooper has appointed two men to the state Court of Appeals who will do anything but give us an "independent judiciary." Twitter says it may turn itself into an issues-driven platform, instead of one driven by the people who make it so entertaining.
Assessing the damage of the fire at the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. WaPo attempts to "fact check" Dan Crenshaw's backlash to comments about 9/11 from Ilhan Omar. How did criticizing her comments become "inciting violence." Netflix tweets that we should end the term "chick flick"...despite having search results for chick flick
The NC Senate debates a bill that would require doctors to care for a baby, should it survive a late-term abortion procedure. Buncombe Co. Sen. Terry Van Duyn has a tough time making an opposing argument. In California, trash pickers are making a living selling things the rich throw out.
Who is happier, dog owners or cat owners? More on the latest survey that confirms cat people are sad. Are NC's teachers breaking the law when they take a day off to protest in Raleigh? Lt. Gov. Dan Forest says they are. A developer says Asheville's Flatiron building needs to be a hotel. City Council members say no.
NC Lt. Gov. Dan Forest says regardless of the increased funding of education, by Republicans, the Democrats with the NCAE will never be satisfied. He says the May Day union/not-a-union strike is all political posturing.
Is there a way for gov't to regulate and censor social media? The UK is going to find out. Some Republicans in Raleigh have proposed a Medicaid expansion bill, but say it's NOT a Medicaid expansion bill. Plus, a study says dog owners are happier than cat owners.
Asheville tourism officials have some weak arguments as to why the city should turn down Harrah's rich Civic Center naming rights bid. The city is shunned for a whitewater paddling hall of fame project.
Several states have either engaged in or are debating the nullification of federal laws. The latest would skirt gun laws. The story of a fracas at a grocery store leads to tales of woe and warning. Asheville leaders say they don't want Harrah's money for the naming rights to the Civic Center.
A Customs official lays out the numbers of just how many people are streaming over the southern border and how many are caught. NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson discusses a proposal to give teachers $400 for classroom supplies.
NC Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson is backing a proposal to give every licensed public school teacher access to $400 to buy classroom supplies.
Technology that is supposed to improve our lives, sometimes just complicates things. NC Treasurer Dale Folwell says lawmakers aren't listening when it comes to his hospital pricing transparency proposal. The John Locke Foundation's Becki Gray discusses the NCGOP scandal, the Folwell bill, and more.
Numerous bills are being debated in Raleigh, along with a scandal involving the NCGOP Chair and others. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation joins the show.
NC Treasurer Dale Folwell continues to push for transparent pricing from the state's hospitals. He tells Pete few state lawmakers are interested in hearing the arguments.
Indictments have been handed down for NCGOP Chair Robin Hayes and political donor Greg Lindberg. State Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey blew the whistle on the bribery scandal.
NC Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey joins Pete to discuss what he can of the indictments handed down against NCGOP chair Robin Hayes, Durham businessman Greg Lindberg, and two others.
Lawmakers in Raleigh discuss a bill that would punish people for shooting grass clippings into the road. Vox says AOC's negative polling numbers are the fault of conservative media. Some NC teachers hold to the claim that their socialist logo is not a socialist logo.
The NC teachers' union/not-a-union is not hiding its love for Communism any more, apparently. A California lawmaker has a "new" idea for affordable housing. Becki Grey of the John Locke Foundation gives a Raleigh update. A French writer says she wants to vote in US elections... because... Trump.
NC teachers are asked by the union/not a union to "rally," aka strike on May 1st. A couple of millennials say they've never seen prosperity in their adult lives. A podcast claims mispronouncing names is actually racist. Pete Kaliner: hardest hit. And Lt. Gov. Dan Forest talks electoral college, ICE detainers, and more.
Pete gets into a Twitter battle with Melissa Boughton of NC Policy Watch after she asks a question about a bill that would force sheriffs to honor ICE detainer requests. The Supreme Court hears arguments over partisan gerrymandering. A federal judge strikes down NC's ban on abortions after 20 weeks. Spoiler alert: he's right.
The mayor of Chicago and the police force are upset after the DA drops the charges against Empire actor Jussie Smollett. The story screams corruption. The US Supreme Court hears arguments over partisan gerrymandering.
The Mueller Report has been released, and the leftists can't believe there are no more indictments coming. Trump says he's vindicated. Who's tired of the winning?
Amid a resurfaced sex offense from 1988, Bill Murdock steps away from Eblen Charities and the A-B Tech Board of Directors. Without a statute of limitation could new charges be sought? Becki Gray, Sr. VP of the John Locke Foundation, joins us to discuss turmoil within the University of NC system. State Superintendent of Public Education Mark Johnson weighs in on district consolidation and school safety. Would you eat meat grown from animal stem cells in in a lab?
The Board of Directors at Eblen Charities will meet this evening. Will they stand by Bill Murdock, ask for his resignation, or await more information? When looking at the community's response, it's important to consider their motives. Explanations on why Murdock and his accuser have cancelled appearances on this show (for now). A civics lesson on the Electoral College and the founders' philosophy behind it.
CNN.com releases an investigative piece detailing 31-year-old sexual abuse allegations against local charity leader Bill Murdock. Listen to secretly-recorded audio of a 1988 confrontation between Murdock and the accuser's father. Where do we go from here? Run Murdock out of town and/or bring forth new charges? What does justice look like?
Some video gamers are finding a lucrative career in what used to be solely a hobby. NC Sen. Jim Davis proposes legalization of sports gambling. An Asheville woman is suing James O'Keefe over coverage of her run-in with a Trump supporter in 2016. And Corey Atkins of the Asheville Chamber discusses moving Asheville leaders from NIMBYism to YIMBYism.
The media and Democrats looked to blame Trump after the New Zealand shooting. Some even point fingers at Chelsea Clinton. The left seems okay with packing the US Supreme Court with their judges, but were up in arms when they thought Republicans would do it in NC.
49 people were killed by a mad man in New Zealand. Newly released transcripts show Lisa Page told Congress the FBI was told not to charge Hillary Clinton with "gross negligence" regarding the private server/ email scandal. Chris Anglin attempts to disrupt the 9th Congressional District redo election.
Pete looks at what little information we have on a 30 year-old accusation against Bill Murdock, the head of Eblen Charities. Lt. Governor Dan Forest reacts to the latest numbers on teacher pay. Pete looks at the good, the bad, and the ugly bills proposed in Raleigh.
NC Lt. Gov. Dan Forest reacts to Republicans actually getting credit from leftists for raising teacher pay. Also, a freshman Senator runs a Medicaid expansion amendment. The idea is tabled, and now cannot come back up again on the floor this session.
After some Asheville City Council members said no more hotels, and would have voted down the same project last fall, who flipped? Why is an extended stay hotel near Mission Hospital more palatable now?
A far-reaching college admissions scandal involves a NC university. The leftist outrage, ginned up by CNN and Media Matters, over Tucker Carlson's past comments has blogger Sister Toldjah highlighting the targeting of conservatives. UNCA holds a secret meeting, CBD shops robbed, and the City of Asheville continues its extortion of hotel developers.
Once doxxed herself, blogger Stacey Matthews (A.K.A. Sister Toldjah), joins Pete to discuss the targeting of conservatives in "the public square."
More proof was provided over the weekend that Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is the left's Donald Trump. The HB2 controversy is being stoked as we get closer to 2020. The City of Asheville is about to spend another million dollars on replacing an astroturf soccer field, ruined by flooding.
Never Trumpers have gone "bat guano crazy," trying to get conservatives to vote for Democrats. The same Democrats talking SCOTUS packing. Hoaxes like the Jussie Smollett case thrive in a victimhood culture. NC Superintendent Mark Johnson talks about the 2030 plan and teacher pay.
Governor Roy Cooper's budget proposal includes a massive debt package and run-of-the-mill pay raises for teachers. He's celebrated for it, though. Becki Gray of The John Locke Foundation gives us a Raleigh update. Democrats in the U-S House still can't agree on the language in an anti-hate speech resolution, fighting amongst themselves.
The US House planned to pass a resolution against anti-semitism, but they can't agree on the language. The Jussie Smollett case and other hoaxes are promoted and then forgotten/forgiven by MSM. NC Treasurer Dale Folwell responds to the claims by a hospital lobbying group, regarding his hospital pricing transparency push.
NC Treasurer Dale Folwell rebuts the claims that his hospital pricing transparency push will negatively affect NC patients and close rural hospitals.
What is partisan prejudice? Who do you think researchers pin-point as the most intolerant? Antivaxxers continue to put others at risk. Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller says they will refuse ICE detainers.
Socialism star AOC says we're all gonna die from climate change, but has increased her carbon footprint. No matter how hard they push, Democrats can't convince mainstream America that socialism is the future.
Buncombe County leaders screwed AB Tech out of revenue from a voter-approved quarter-cent sales tax increase. The deal they forced the school to take is downright unethical. Plus, Mark Starling is putting himself in the "line of fire" for ABCCM's Safe and Warm Campaign.
Two bills are filed on hot-button topics related to driving. One would ban the use of handheld devices, the other could establish a bike tax. Also, Lt. Gov. Dan Forest reacts to Roy Cooper's State of the State.
Donald Trump's former attorney testifies before the House Oversight Committee. During the hearing NC 11th District Republican Mark Meadows is accused of being racist. Rep. Rashida Tailb is forced to clarify her remarks. NC lawmakers propose the framework for a "non-partisan" redistricting commission.
On Capitol Hill, Democrats again refuse to oppose infanticide. Lawmakers are again talking about the defund Planned Parenthood political football. Mark Harris won't run again in #NC09 redo.
Pete explains why he's been gone for two weeks. Vertigo is no joke. Friday a Democrat judge ruled the voter-approved state constitution amendments aren't legal. Even the leftist Observer editors are against this ruling.
Taylor Fischer, President of The Federalist Coalition, talks border security and whether Trump's national emergency declaration was ethical. A woman joins ISIS, but now says she wants back into the US.
The Official Historian of The Pete Kaliner Show, Dr. Bill Forstchen, fills in. He gives us a look back at some of history's most intriguing stories, discusses his and your favorite historical films, and talks about his NEW book "48 Hours: A Novel."
As we await Pete's return to the WWNC airwave, we revisit some recent topics. Those include NC Democtrats' attempts to expand Medicaid and the lies they use to try to sell that plan. Then, there's "The Green New Deal" and the march toward full-blown Communism.
AOC has released the vision for a "better" America that fights climate change and moves us toward full-on Socialism. Pete discusses the proposal with Josh Smith, Research Director at Utah State's Center for Growth and Opportunity. Nat Robertson of Explore Offshore talks about Governor Roy Cooper's visit to Capitol Hill to discuss climate change.
As the Green New Deal is being proposed, Pete's peeved over the anti-straw crowd. More details on Elizabeth Warren's claim that she is an American Indian. Imagine if it were a Republican. AOC and her fellow socialists swear it's the way forward.
Pete has the highlights from last night's State of the Union. Plus, NC Treasurer Dale Folwell says he's against raising the state's debt ceiling, as proposed by Roy Cooper. Elizabeth Warren apparently claimed she was an American Indian for decades.
There aren't enough votes in the US Senate to pass a bill that would stop the kind of infanticide possible under NY's new abortion law. Buncombe County leaders pick Avril Pinder as the new County Manager. Can we trust the pick? The lie continues... there is NOT a mass exodus of teachers from NC.
Pete talks about his favorite, and least favorite, ads from the big game. The leftist media protects Virginia's Lt. Gov. with the "Big D Shield." Asheville City Schools has the one of the highest achievement gaps in the state.
NC Dems push Medicaid expansion, but one of their main selling points is a flat-out lie. Is Gov. Cooper aware, or just ignorant of the facts? Pete gives his honest take on the best gaming console out there. VA's Governor's week in the news ends with someone uncovering a racisty photo from his college days.
Pete is joined by NC Lt. Gov. Dan Forest just days after he took the next step toward a 2020 gubernatorial run. They discuss school construction bonds, late-term abortion proposals, and the need for a state law against female genital mutilation.
NC Democrats are pushing for Medicaid expansion. Nationally, there is a push for Medicare For All. The media says Republicans are overreacting to NY's new abortion law. Buncombe County Commissioners plan to vote on a new county manager next week.
New York's disturbing, new abortion law is being backed in NC by two Asheville Democrats. Also, VA's Governor - a pediatrician - backs a similar bill there. The NC General Assembly is back in session and the big push by Dems is Medicaid expansion.
The News and Observer puts on full display the "Republicans Pounce" narrative, regarding Governor Roy Cooper's campaign kickoff event in New York City. Dr. Terry Stoops of the John Locke Foundation discusses the next chapter in the fight for school choice in NC. Asheville leaders can't figure out how to write an enforceable noise ordinance.
North Carolina's Supreme Court looks like it will soon be 6-1, liberal. THIS must be the "independent judiciary" the Democrats have been asking for. Governor Roy Cooper will reportedly kickoff his re-election campaign in New York with big-time Dem donors. Meanwhile Republicans are blamed for "poncing" on the corrupt pipeline deal he brokered. The former head of Starbucks says he'll run for President in 2020.
President Trump announces a "deal" to reopen the federal government for three weeks. What did he get out of it? The latest Winthrop Poll shows how people feel about discrimination, the Confederate flag, and more. Asheville City Council says it is consulting with attorneys about fighting the upcoming move to district elections.
The advent of artificial intelligence is just a few years away, they say. What could it do to us? "Crucible" author James Rollins weighs in. Rep. Patrick McHenry joins Pete to discuss the next move in the partial government shutdown. Governor Roy Cooper tells DEQ staffers NOT to speak with investigators looking into the Atlantic Coast Pipeline deal.
A lot of people say they don't feel the mainstream media can identify with them. That's more clear after TODAY's interview with Nick Sandmann, and the reactions from people who call themselves journalists but clearly showed their bias in this story.
The media jumped so quickly on the viral video starring a MAGA hat-wearing teen and a Native American man beating a drum that all of the facts were ignored. Constitutional scholar Robert Natelson talks term limits and the Convention of States Project's push for them.
The "Impeach 45" movement is bolstered by latest story that Trump told Michael Cohen to lie to the FBI. The media ignores the March For Life, once again. Phil Kerpen of American Commitment talks about his latest piece on prescription drug prices.
In a battle of the pettiest, Troll King Trump grounds Nancy Pelosi's overseas flight after she threatened to cancel his upcoming State of the Union address. Parallels between Trump and AOC can be drawn from their social media dynamics. NC Lt. Gov. Dan Forest stops by to discuss the removal of Silent Sam's pedestal, another statewide bond referendum, and more.
North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Dan Forest makes his monthly appearance on The Pete Kaliner Show. Dan discusses the removal of SIlent Sam's pedestal and resignation of Chancellor Carol Folt at UNC, a statewide bond referendum in 2020, the link between ACP permit approval and the solar industry deal, and a recent rash of violence against police.
Isis is claiming responsibility for a suicide attack that claimed American lives in Syria. What are the details of the incident, what is the White House saying about what could be the biggest one day loss of life for U.S. forces in Syria, and how will this affect withdrawal plans? Bill Zimpfer has the very latest!
A man faces charges for punching an 11 year-old girl in the face at the Asheville Mall on Saturday night. How shocked should we be? Naomi Friedman tells us about the "Stop BDS On Campus" group and her view of Tamika Mallory coming to speak at UNCA's MLK event. Also, the Women's March co-founder went on The View and was pressed on her association with anti-semite Louis Farrakhan.