Several wildfires erupted near North Carolina towns still recovering from Hurricane Helene, with the largest fire near Marion consuming 220 acres and leading to evacuations. Emergency crews have made progress, and evacuation orders have been lifted, though challenges remain due to debris from the hurricane.
Two North Carolina Highway Patrol troopers are on administrative leave following a deadly crash investigation, leading to the dismissal of 180 court cases due to credibility concerns over one trooper's actions.
President Donald Trump has proposed significant changes to FEMA, including potentially eliminating it, during his visits to disaster-stricken areas in North Carolina and California, sparking a debate on federal disaster response.
President Donald Trump visited Swannanoa, North Carolina, to evaluate recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene's devastation, criticizing FEMA's response and proposing direct state funding for disaster relief.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein is spearheading recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, focusing on infrastructure repair, temporary housing, and federal assistance to aid the affected communities.
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to assist the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina in obtaining full federal recognition, a step they have sought for over a century. This recognition would enable the tribe to access federal benefits for housing, schools, and healthcare. The Lumbee Tribe, with about 55,000 members, is the largest tribe east of the Mississippi River and has faced numerous obstacles in achieving federal recognition. The executive order requires the Interior Department to develop a plan within 90 days, marking a pivotal moment in the tribe's long-standing struggle. However, the move has faced opposition from other tribes, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, who argue that the Lumbee's claims lack sufficient evidence. The Lumbee Tribe's fight for federal recognition is seen as a critical step toward securing resources and support for their community.