Summary

In North Carolina, Republican lawmakers passed legislation stripping powers from newly elected Democratic officials, including limiting the governor’s authority over elections and judicial appointments.

Critics, including Democratic leaders and advocacy groups, label the moves a “power grab” undermining democracy, citing rushed processes and lack of public input.

Republicans defend the changes as balancing state government. Protesters and lawsuits have emerged in response, while gerrymandering and contested elections fuel broader concerns about democratic erosion.

The controversy reflects wider trends in U.S. state politics targeting checks on majority party power.