North Carolina is the only state in the nation that was expected to pass a budget in 2025 and failed to do so.

That fact is now drawing criticism not only from Democrats, but from the conservative John Locke Foundation, which published a piece this week calling out the legislature for not sending a budget to Gov. Josh Stein yet.

Stein issued a press release calling on the legislature to reach a compromise, saying, "Time is of the essence, and the people of North Carolina deserve better. I'm at the table. We must come together to give our teachers and law enforcement pay raises, fully fund Medicaid, and support our state employees."

This week on The SEANC View Podcast, our team discusses the stalled budget. We also talk about the upcoming candidate filing and the 2026 election, and delve into State Auditor Dave Bullock's rapid report on DHHS, which reveals $386 million in lapsed salary funds.

The episode also covers the State Health Plan's new Lantern program and Monday's Town Hall in Goldsboro (see below), honors DOT and Wildlife employees who received the Governor’s Award for Excellence for their response to Hurricane Helene, and concludes with a look at Thanksgiving traditions.