February 2026

Elections

Old Wounds Reopen as Columbus County Prepares to Elect a Sheriff

by Sarah Nagem February 27, 2026March 3, 2026

Four Republicans are running in the primary in the first election since former sheriff Jody Greene stepped down.

Higher Education

UNC-CH Will ‘Scrap’ New Recording Policy, Chancellor Says

by Korie Dean and Matt Hartman February 27, 2026February 27, 2026

The move comes less than three weeks after the controversial rules were enacted.

Small Changes, Big Impact: Why Heart Month Matters for The Triangle

February is American Heart Month, and because heart disease is the leading cause of death in North Carolina, it’s an important time to prioritize heart health. Research by the National Institute of Health shows that lifestyle factors play a significant role in cardiovascular health, which means the choices we make every day can have real impact.

Sports

Duke’s Kara Lawson Doesn’t Care If You Underestimate Her

by Mitchell Northam February 27, 2026February 26, 2026

Duke’s women’s basketball team has turned its season around, but its coach is under more pressure than ever ahead of the 2028 Olympics.

Elections

Inside the Intensely Personal Battle to Be the GOP Nominee in Eastern NC

by Bryan Anderson February 27, 2026March 3, 2026

Before a Republican can attempt to oust U.S. Rep. Don Davis in the 1st District, they must navigate a five-way primary.

Environment

Regulators Nix $1.2 Billion Proposal to Dredge Wilmington Harbor

by Lisa Sorg, Inside Climate News February 26, 2026February 26, 2026

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers failed to explain how it would mitigate environmental harms, including PFAS contamination.

Higher Education

UNC System Board Sets ‘Parameters’ for Academic Freedom. Is Shared Governance Next?

by Korie Dean February 26, 2026February 26, 2026

An opponent of the academic freedom policy said it was “inauspicious,” while the chair of the system’s Faculty Assembly said it would be “a model for other states.”