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SCOTUS rejects Trump's bid over disputed California ballots

It's a blow to the administration, which has been tussling with the state in what it says is a fight to ensure all eligible voters can vote.

Politics & Policy

The Supreme Court denied the Trump administration&#x27;s request Monday to hear its case regarding more than <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="20,000 California ballots" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/02/trump-supreme-court-california-ballots-case" data-vars-content-id="dee63b53-e3c4-48bc-be63-284cffb5e8f4" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rejects Trump&#x27;s bid over disputed California ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/02/trump-supreme-court-california-ballots-case" target="_self">20,000 California ballots</a> that President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="dee63b53-e3c4-48bc-be63-284cffb5e8f4" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rejects Trump&#x27;s bid over disputed California ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> claims were cast by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="noncitizens" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/15/trump-doj-california-voters-ballots-lawsuit" data-vars-content-id="dee63b53-e3c4-48bc-be63-284cffb5e8f4" data-vars-headline="SCOTUS rejects Trump&#x27;s bid over disputed California ballots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/15/trump-doj-california-voters-ballots-lawsuit" target="_self">noncitizens</a>.Why it matters: It&#x27;s a blow to the administration, which has been tussling with the state in what it says is a fight to ensure all eligible voters can vote and have their ballots counted, as the law requires.

Trump to Axios: "No rush" to decide on bombing Iran again

He's pursuing dual tracks of diplomacy and preparation for war.

World

President Trump told Axios in a phone interview Monday he&#x27;s &quot;in no rush&quot; to decide whether to resume fighting in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="eef156c8-5936-4754-b740-847b490a1d06" data-vars-headline="Trump to Axios: &quot;No rush&quot; to decide on bombing Iran again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a>.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterm" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" data-vars-content-id="eef156c8-5936-4754-b740-847b490a1d06" data-vars-headline="Trump to Axios: &quot;No rush&quot; to decide on bombing Iran again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/2026-midterm-elections" target="_self">midterm</a> elections have been seen as an inflection point for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="eef156c8-5936-4754-b740-847b490a1d06" data-vars-headline="Trump to Axios: &quot;No rush&quot; to decide on bombing Iran again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> on whether to unleash a massive bombing campaign to try to bring the war to an end.<ul><li>But it appears the president, at least for now, will continue on dual tracks — letting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="negotiations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/28/iran-war-arab-mediators-war-post-midterms" data-vars-content-id="eef156c8-5936-4754-b740-847b490a1d06" data-vars-headline="Trump to Axios: &quot;No rush&quot; to decide on bombing Iran again" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/28/iran-war-arab-mediators-war-post-midterms" target="_self">negotiations</a> play out while preparing to go back to war if he concludes a deal isn&#x27;t reachable.</li></ul>

U.S., Russia and Ukraine to resume peace talks next week, Witkoff says

The talks will revive a diplomatic effort suspended in February due to the war in Iran, following recent meetings by Trump's envoys.

The U.S., <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Russia" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/russia" data-vars-content-id="36afefb4-7280-44ca-b1d0-50163d416164" data-vars-headline="U.S., Russia and Ukraine to resume peace talks next week, Witkoff says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/russia" target="_self">Russia</a> and Ukraine will hold peace talks in Abu Dhabi on Nov. 10-11 in an effort to reach a breakthrough on a deal to end the war.Why it matters: U.S. officials say the meeting to restart a diplomatic effort suspended in February due to the war in Iran is a result of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="talks President Trump&#x27;s envoys" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/21/russia-ukraine-putin-witkoff-peace" data-vars-content-id="36afefb4-7280-44ca-b1d0-50163d416164" data-vars-headline="U.S., Russia and Ukraine to resume peace talks next week, Witkoff says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/21/russia-ukraine-putin-witkoff-peace" target="_self">talks President Trump&#x27;s envoys</a> Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent weeks.

Final polls, models and markets see a "blue tsunami"

With sky-high expectations, some Democrats fear disappointment on Tuesday is inevitable.

The threat of a blue tsunami is bearing down on President Trump&#x27;s Washington, with virtually every major indicator forecasting a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Democratic rout" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/07/house-election-majority-wave-democratic-republican-trump" data-vars-content-id="bf77f448-d5ca-446e-a83e-d2c2df5b6ec6" data-vars-headline="Final polls, models and markets see a &quot;blue tsunami&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/07/house-election-majority-wave-democratic-republican-trump" target="_self">Democratic rout</a> in Tuesday&#x27;s elections.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Expectations for the midterms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/28/2026-election-democrats-house-midterm-results" data-vars-content-id="bf77f448-d5ca-446e-a83e-d2c2df5b6ec6" data-vars-headline="Final polls, models and markets see a &quot;blue tsunami&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/28/2026-election-democrats-house-midterm-results" target="_self">Expectations for the midterms</a> have soared so high that some Democrats fear disappointment is inevitable, particularly if the party falls short of winning the Senate — a prize that seemed beyond reach just months ago.

GOP's midterm blame game starts early

"Reflecting Pool presser was an interesting choice for closing message."

Republicans don&#x27;t know <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="if they&#x27;ll lose big or small" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/03/2026-midterms-polls-predictions" data-vars-content-id="1805342d-a82b-42fa-abde-b2f3dae90037" data-vars-headline="GOP&#x27;s midterm blame game starts early" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/11/03/2026-midterms-polls-predictions" target="_self">if they&#x27;ll lose big or small</a> on Tuesday, but they&#x27;re already bracing for an epic blame game.Why it matters: Privately, Republicans acknowledge it&#x27;s not a complicated version of Clue. The leading suspect: Mr. President, in the Oval Office, with an assortment of weapons — and one war.

North Carolina early voting surges ahead of midterms

Election researchers say strong early participation could signal higher turnout than in recent midterms.

Election

North Carolina has already had 2.8 million people vote this election, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="up 30%" data-vars-click-url="https://s3.amazonaws.com/dl.ncsbe.gov/Press/2026%20General/NC%20Absentee%20Stats%20for%202026%20General/2026-11-01%20Daily%20Absentee%20Stats%20Report%20-%202026%20General.pdf" data-vars-content-id="fd29e991-ec10-4b56-9f7d-b7d9cd89fc3f" data-vars-headline="North Carolina early voting surges ahead of midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/dl.ncsbe.gov/Press/2026%20General/NC%20Absentee%20Stats%20for%202026%20General/2026-11-01%20Daily%20Absentee%20Stats%20Report%20-%202026%20General.pdf" target="_blank">up 30%</a> from 2022&#x27;s early voting tally.Why it matters: Americans have been <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="turning out in droves" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/29/midterm-early-voting-trump-unaffiliated-voters" data-vars-content-id="fd29e991-ec10-4b56-9f7d-b7d9cd89fc3f" data-vars-headline="North Carolina early voting surges ahead of midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/29/midterm-early-voting-trump-unaffiliated-voters" target="_self">turning out in droves</a> to vote early ahead of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="midterms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/20/midterms-early-voting-states-data" data-vars-content-id="fd29e991-ec10-4b56-9f7d-b7d9cd89fc3f" data-vars-headline="North Carolina early voting surges ahead of midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/20/midterms-early-voting-states-data" target="_self">midterms</a>, with unusually strong participation among Black, Hispanic and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="unaffiliated voters" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/18/unconventional-candidates-2026-midterms" data-vars-content-id="fd29e991-ec10-4b56-9f7d-b7d9cd89fc3f" data-vars-headline="North Carolina early voting surges ahead of midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/18/unconventional-candidates-2026-midterms" target="_self">unaffiliated voters</a> in several states, according to election researchers.

Dewitt Carolinas breaks ground on Life Time Living tower

Seven other Life Time Living communities have been built across the country.

Development

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dewitt Carolinas" data-vars-click-url="https://dewittcarolinas.com/" data-vars-content-id="73a79df1-c92a-482d-a384-e49357918db9" data-vars-headline="Dewitt Carolinas breaks ground on Life Time Living tower" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://dewittcarolinas.com/" target="_blank">Dewitt Carolinas</a>, the Raleigh-based developer behind <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Exchange" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/08/14/cafe-royale-parisian-style-cafe-coming-to-the-exchange-in-midtown-raleigh" data-vars-content-id="73a79df1-c92a-482d-a384-e49357918db9" data-vars-headline="Dewitt Carolinas breaks ground on Life Time Living tower" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/08/14/cafe-royale-parisian-style-cafe-coming-to-the-exchange-in-midtown-raleigh" target="_self">The Exchange</a> development, broke ground Thursday on its next tower in Midtown Raleigh. Why it matters: The 20-story Life Time Living tower is the third vertical project to emerge at The Exchange, joining the 1000 Social office building and One Renaissance Center. <ul><li>In total, The Exchange is one of the most expensive developments being built in the city. </li></ul>

Excited or anxious? Tell us how you feel about NC's midterms

With major races and constitutional changes on the ballot, we want to hear how you're feeling.

The 2026 midterms are underway, and we want to know how North Carolina voters are feeling.Why it matters: North Carolina has a rare open <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. Senate seat" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/09/21/north-carolina-senate-race-cooper-whatley-trump" data-vars-content-id="68b0a0b1-ff56-4a55-837f-58ae77252326" data-vars-headline="Excited or anxious? Tell us how you feel about NC&#x27;s midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/09/21/north-carolina-senate-race-cooper-whatley-trump" target="_self">U.S. Senate seat</a>, plus competitive races for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Congress" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/03/04/the-results-are-in-sort-of" data-vars-content-id="68b0a0b1-ff56-4a55-837f-58ae77252326" data-vars-headline="Excited or anxious? Tell us how you feel about NC&#x27;s midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/03/04/the-results-are-in-sort-of" target="_self">Congress</a> and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state legislature" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/10/15/north-carolina-state-house-senate-races-wake-nash" data-vars-content-id="68b0a0b1-ff56-4a55-837f-58ae77252326" data-vars-headline="Excited or anxious? Tell us how you feel about NC&#x27;s midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/10/15/north-carolina-state-house-senate-races-wake-nash" target="_self">state legislature</a>.<ul><li>Voters also will decide on three transformational <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="constitutional amendments" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/10/06/nc-constitutional-amendments-2026-explained" data-vars-content-id="68b0a0b1-ff56-4a55-837f-58ae77252326" data-vars-headline="Excited or anxious? Tell us how you feel about NC&#x27;s midterms" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/10/06/nc-constitutional-amendments-2026-explained" target="_self">constitutional amendments</a>.</li></ul>

AI startup with heavy Duke ties eyes North Carolina for growth

Serval is led by a married couple that met at Duke.

Business

In a sea of fast-growing AI startups in San Francisco, one of them has a particular heavy Blue Devil influence at the top. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Serval" data-vars-click-url="https://www.serval.com/" data-vars-content-id="6a407cc4-1a6a-4742-b7ab-9a7097ef649e" data-vars-headline="AI startup with heavy Duke ties eyes North Carolina for growth" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.serval.com/" target="_blank">Serval</a>, whose AI-assisted IT support software is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="valued at $1 billion" data-vars-click-url="https://www.reuters.com/technology/ai-startup-serval-valued-1-billion-after-sequoia-led-round-expand-it-automation-2025-12-11/" data-vars-content-id="6a407cc4-1a6a-4742-b7ab-9a7097ef649e" data-vars-headline="AI startup with heavy Duke ties eyes North Carolina for growth" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/ai-startup-serval-valued-1-billion-after-sequoia-led-round-expand-it-automation-2025-12-11/" target="_blank">valued at $1 billion</a>, is led by the married couple Tatiana Birgisson and Jake Stauch, who met at Duke more than a decade ago and both founded Durham-based startups as undergrads.

North Carolina quartz mining operation could land $56M in Chips Act funds

The investment was first announced by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick at a Trump rally.

Announced without much detail <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="onstage by President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/10/21/trump-north-carolina-sibelco-investment-lutnick-unknown" data-vars-content-id="2707e095-92bb-4020-842b-75cc28689c96" data-vars-headline="North Carolina quartz mining operation could land $56M in Chips Act funds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/10/21/trump-north-carolina-sibelco-investment-lutnick-unknown" target="_self">onstage by President Trump</a>, more information is emerging on a federal investment in a quartz-mining operation in the North Carolina mountains.Why it matters: Sibelco, which operates a quartz mine that is of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="great importance to the global tech industry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/10/01/hurricane-helene-tech-chip-shortage-spruce-pine-quartz-supply" data-vars-content-id="2707e095-92bb-4020-842b-75cc28689c96" data-vars-headline="North Carolina quartz mining operation could land $56M in Chips Act funds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/10/01/hurricane-helene-tech-chip-shortage-spruce-pine-quartz-supply" target="_self">great importance to the global tech industry</a> in Spruce Pine, said Thursday it could land <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$56 million" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sibelco.com/en/news/sibelco-and-u-s-department-of-commerce-sign-letter-of-intent-for-up-to-56-million-in-chips-act-funding-to-advance-high-purity-quartz-innovation-for-semiconductor-manufacturing-in-the-united-states" data-vars-content-id="2707e095-92bb-4020-842b-75cc28689c96" data-vars-headline="North Carolina quartz mining operation could land $56M in Chips Act funds" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sibelco.com/en/news/sibelco-and-u-s-department-of-commerce-sign-letter-of-intent-for-up-to-56-million-in-chips-act-funding-to-advance-high-purity-quartz-innovation-for-semiconductor-manufacturing-in-the-united-states" target="_blank">$56 million</a> in Chips Act funding to advance its work in mining high-purity quartz.

In North Carolina, Trump announces 'big plant.' Details remain scarce.

Sibelco, a quartz mining company, is one of the largest employers in rural Mitchell County.

On stage in Greenville on Tuesday, President Trump touted breaking news for the state of North Carolina. Sibelco, a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="quartz mining company" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/10/01/hurricane-helene-tech-chip-shortage-spruce-pine-quartz-supply" data-vars-content-id="52d1f7b4-b42f-47c9-bbb7-99e3d4c9ae58" data-vars-headline="In North Carolina, Trump announces &#x27;big plant.&#x27; Details remain scarce." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/10/01/hurricane-helene-tech-chip-shortage-spruce-pine-quartz-supply" target="_self">quartz mining company</a> with a big operation in Spruce Pine — more than 300 miles from Greenville — was planning a major expansion. <ul><li>He invited Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on stage to announce the news: &quot;We&#x27;re ​announcing Sibelco is going to build silicon manufacturing. ​It&#x27;s quartz ​manufacturing. It is basically the ‌foundation ⁠of semiconductors,&quot; Lutnick said during the rally, saying it was an investment worth &quot;hundreds of millions of dollars.&quot; </li></ul>

Former Research Triangle Foundation CEO looks ahead

Former Research Triangle Foundation CEO Scott Levitan led RTP into RTP 3.0.

After nearly a decade leading the Research Triangle Foundation, Scott Levitan retired as the organization&#x27;s CEO this fall. Why it matters: His tenure at RTF — the nonprofit that manages the regional economic hub that is the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Research Triangle Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/10/08/new-book-dives-into-the-miracle-of-research-triangle-park" data-vars-content-id="9d8d653c-7ea2-4171-9662-db5dde18d8bc" data-vars-headline="Former Research Triangle Foundation CEO looks ahead" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/10/08/new-book-dives-into-the-miracle-of-research-triangle-park" target="_self">Research Triangle Park</a> — was a pivotal one for the park&#x27;s future. <ul><li>While COVID-19 created a groundswell for remote work, Levitan spearheaded the effort to make RTP a place worth driving to, getting the $1.5 billion <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Hub RTP" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/02/18/hub-rtp-lands-its-first-office-tenant-genesys" data-vars-content-id="9d8d653c-7ea2-4171-9662-db5dde18d8bc" data-vars-headline="Former Research Triangle Foundation CEO looks ahead" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/02/18/hub-rtp-lands-its-first-office-tenant-genesys" target="_self">Hub RTP</a> project off the ground, creating Boxyard RTP, expanding The Frontier, and kickstarting potentially transformative new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="land-use changes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/29/research-triangle-park-3-redevelopment-rezoning-land-laws" data-vars-content-id="9d8d653c-7ea2-4171-9662-db5dde18d8bc" data-vars-headline="Former Research Triangle Foundation CEO looks ahead" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/29/research-triangle-park-3-redevelopment-rezoning-land-laws" target="_self">land-use changes</a> called RTP 3.0. </li></ul>

Duke Endowment donates $100 million to N.C. Children's Hospital

The gift comes from the Duke Endowment, a Charlotte-based foundation founded by James Buchanan Duke.

Health

The Duke Endowment is donating $100 million toward the creation of the North Carolina Children&#x27;s Hospital in Apex. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jointly run" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/01/28/duke-unc-unveil-new-details-joint-nc-childrens-hospital-north-carolina" data-vars-content-id="00bf131d-b038-47a8-9c56-473cfeef5d0d" data-vars-headline="Duke Endowment donates $100 million to N.C. Children&#x27;s Hospital" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/01/28/duke-unc-unveil-new-details-joint-nc-childrens-hospital-north-carolina" target="_self">Jointly run</a> by UNC Health and Duke Health, N.C. Children&#x27;s is one of the largest development efforts in the entire state and would be the first freestanding children&#x27;s hospital in North Carolina. <ul><li>It&#x27;s expected to break ground next year and create 8,000 new jobs once it opens in the early 2030s.</li></ul>

Interest rates continue to weigh on home purchases

The number of homes cutting prices continue to rise, but monthly payments remain high.

Real Estate

Rising mortgage rates continue to soften demand for homes in the Raleigh area and force homeowners to reduce prices. Why it matters: With more homes on the market, Raleigh buyers could be getting additional negotiating room, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="according to data from Homes.com" data-vars-click-url="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.homes.com/reports/raleigh-housing-market/__;!!Al82Z4c!wRQsnVPp9TqI32U5NQdJwNIODLO2ZOFDIXj5qBD3n0X22BlnbYlIJcxbMsBEYP6RKFTtseG-juiQSamxM-CX$" data-vars-content-id="e2f79add-30df-43ca-9105-f53fca12c985" data-vars-headline="Interest rates continue to weigh on home purchases" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.homes.com/reports/raleigh-housing-market/__;!!Al82Z4c!wRQsnVPp9TqI32U5NQdJwNIODLO2ZOFDIXj5qBD3n0X22BlnbYlIJcxbMsBEYP6RKFTtseG-juiQSamxM-CX$" target="_blank">according to data from Homes.com</a>. <ul><li>Across the Triangle, more than half of listed homes in September reduced their initial asking prices, Stacey Anfindsen, a local appraiser, wrote in his monthly Triangle Area Residential Realty market report. </li></ul>

Former Commerce Secretary warns of AI disruption to job market

Gina Raimondo's new nonprofit wants to fund innovative safety net and training ideas.

Former Biden administration Commerce Secretary <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gina Raimondo" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/29/raimondo-moderate-ai-lane-2028" data-vars-content-id="0f16cc18-9b4e-4e5a-b5db-db28a480ed14" data-vars-headline="Former Commerce Secretary warns of AI disruption to job market" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/29/raimondo-moderate-ai-lane-2028" target="_self">Gina Raimondo</a> warns the U.S. is unprepared for the job disruption AI could bring.Why it matters: Citing inaction in Congress, Raimondo says she is using her new nonprofit <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Raise Us" data-vars-click-url="https://www.raiseus.ai/" data-vars-content-id="0f16cc18-9b4e-4e5a-b5db-db28a480ed14" data-vars-headline="Former Commerce Secretary warns of AI disruption to job market" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.raiseus.ai/" target="_blank">Raise Us</a> to urge state governments to begin experimenting with solutions to their safety nets and workforce training.

The North Carolina Courage have one last chance at the playoffs

The Courage are expecting their final home game to be a sellout on Sunday.

Sports

The North Carolina Courage have it all to play for in their final game of the regular season on Sunday. Why it matters: To make the National Women&#x27;s Soccer League playoffs, the Courage need to defeat the Denver Summit in Cary on Sunday and need the Seattle Reign to either lose or draw their game against the Orlando Pride. <ul><li>No other path to the postseason exists at this point. All 16 NWSL teams will play at the same time on Sunday. </li></ul>

Charlotte

Banana Ball returns to North Carolina in 2027

Wacky baseball is coming back to Charlotte and Durham.

Wacky <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="baseball" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/09/banana-ball-charlotte-truist-field-2026-firefighters-texas-tailgaters" data-vars-content-id="575783ca-5262-417c-9cd5-3fcaf8592b57" data-vars-headline="Banana Ball returns to North Carolina in 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2025/10/09/banana-ball-charlotte-truist-field-2026-firefighters-texas-tailgaters" target="_self">baseball</a> will return to North Carolina in 2027. Why it matters: Banana Ball, made popular by the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Savannah Bananas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/10/08/savannah-bananas-nats-park-banana-bowl" data-vars-content-id="575783ca-5262-417c-9cd5-3fcaf8592b57" data-vars-headline="Banana Ball returns to North Carolina in 2027" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/10/08/savannah-bananas-nats-park-banana-bowl" target="_self">Savannah Bananas</a>, has expanded to include multiple teams, drawing massive crowds at ballparks and football stadiums across the country.

What we're watching on election night in North Carolina

Will it be a blue wave for Democrats in North Carolina or an overstatement by pollsters?

Politics

After months of ads, polling, rallies, tens of millions of dollars in spending and interviews, it&#x27;s time to actually count votes in North Carolina&#x27;s midterm elections. Why it matters: The 2026 election results could reshape which policies and laws advance in Washington and Raleigh.

Duke yet again the favorite as college basketball returns

Duke is once again the favorite to win a national championship.

Once again, the Duke Blue Devils are loaded on talent and considered one of the favorites to win a national championship this year.Why it matters: The college basketball season in the Triangle tips off on Monday, and Duke is far from the only interesting storyline in the area.<ul><li>While Duke basketball coach Jon Scheyer tries again to get over the hump and win his first championship, both UNC and N.C. State are welcoming new coaches.</li></ul>

Anxiety grips North Carolina readers ahead of election

More than half of 530-plus Axios readers surveyed feel nervous or scared, while 42% remain hopeful.

News

Anxiety is the dominant mood among more than 530 Axios readers in North Carolina who responded to a survey about the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="upcoming election" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/election" data-vars-content-id="ac175489-0018-4f8f-8fc5-72e31b12c897" data-vars-headline="Anxiety grips North Carolina readers ahead of election" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/election" target="_self">upcoming election</a>.Why it matters: Election-related anxiety can extend beyond the ballot box and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="affect people&#x27;s work" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/10/20/texas-am-university-study-election-midterm-stress-work" data-vars-content-id="ac175489-0018-4f8f-8fc5-72e31b12c897" data-vars-headline="Anxiety grips North Carolina readers ahead of election" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/10/20/texas-am-university-study-election-midterm-stress-work" target="_self">affect people&#x27;s work</a> and personal lives.

Meet the robot coming to Raleigh's Marbles museum

The new robotic arm will move plastic balls through a playful assembly line at Marbles' expansion.

A new wing under construction at <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Marbles Kids Museum" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/03/26/marbles-kids-museum-plans-expansion" data-vars-content-id="754a08d1-24c2-44b8-ab9f-fb3baf303bb3" data-vars-headline="Meet the robot coming to Raleigh&#x27;s Marbles museum" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/03/26/marbles-kids-museum-plans-expansion" target="_self">Marbles Kids Museum</a> hopes to spark curiosity in children about the high-tech jobs of now.Why it matters: Don&#x27;t worry — nobody is handing jobs out to elementary schoolers. <ul><li>But with the artificial intelligence boom expected to worsen shortages the U.S. already faces for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="engineers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/04/08/north-carolina-faces-a-degree-shortfall-in-key-industries-report-finds" data-vars-content-id="754a08d1-24c2-44b8-ab9f-fb3baf303bb3" data-vars-headline="Meet the robot coming to Raleigh&#x27;s Marbles museum" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/04/08/north-carolina-faces-a-degree-shortfall-in-key-industries-report-finds" target="_self">engineers</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="construction workers" data-vars-click-url="https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/the-construction-labor-shortage-in-2026-what-every-employer-needs-to-know/" data-vars-content-id="754a08d1-24c2-44b8-ab9f-fb3baf303bb3" data-vars-headline="Meet the robot coming to Raleigh&#x27;s Marbles museum" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/the-construction-labor-shortage-in-2026-what-every-employer-needs-to-know/" target="_blank">construction workers</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="electricians" data-vars-click-url="https://boostpoint.com/industries-skilled-trades/electrician-shortage/" data-vars-content-id="754a08d1-24c2-44b8-ab9f-fb3baf303bb3" data-vars-headline="Meet the robot coming to Raleigh&#x27;s Marbles museum" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://boostpoint.com/industries-skilled-trades/electrician-shortage/" target="_blank">electricians</a>, some in the Triangle are hoping to light a spark at a young age.</li></ul>

Seth Jarvis is back, and Canes have another star on the way

Alexander Nikishin has signed a one-year deal after a contract standoff, rejoining the NHL's top team.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Carolina Hurricanes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/09/11/canes-training-camp-morrisville-lane-arena-security" data-vars-content-id="e57c0926-1fa4-4a72-8257-5bb41787efb5" data-vars-headline="Seth Jarvis is back, and Canes have another star on the way" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/09/11/canes-training-camp-morrisville-lane-arena-security" target="_self">Carolina Hurricanes</a> are back in Raleigh after a lengthy road trip for a nationally televised showdown with the Boston Bruins.Why it matters: The Tuesday-night matchup between the NHL&#x27;s top two teams will also mark star player <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Seth Jarvis&#x27;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/10/09/meet-seth-jarvis-carolina-hurricanes" data-vars-content-id="e57c0926-1fa4-4a72-8257-5bb41787efb5" data-vars-headline="Seth Jarvis is back, and Canes have another star on the way" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/10/09/meet-seth-jarvis-carolina-hurricanes" target="_self">Seth Jarvis&#x27;</a> first home game of the season.

Life sentence in UNC student's murder after 14 years

Miguel Salguero-Olivares was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

A jury on Friday convicted Miguel Salguero-Olivares of murdering UNC-Chapel Hill student Faith Hedgepeth more than a decade ago.<ul><li>Salguero-Olivares is sentenced to spend life in prison.</li></ul>The big picture: The case was a mystery that baffled the university community and tortured Hedgepeth&#x27;s loved ones as it sat unsolved.

Breaking down the ballot: N.C. Supreme Court

The race for a seat on the state's highest court is one of the most important and overlooked.

Democratic state Supreme Court Justice <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Anita Earls" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/24/democrats-have-a-big-funding-advantage-in-state-supreme-court-race" data-vars-content-id="e2383bad-7fc8-4392-8e72-f473b71537b7" data-vars-headline="Breaking down the ballot: N.C. Supreme Court" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/24/democrats-have-a-big-funding-advantage-in-state-supreme-court-race" target="_self">Anita Earls</a> faces a challenge from longtime conservative lawmaker Sarah Stevens in one of North Carolina&#x27;s most consequential, yet underrated, races.Why it matters: Recent elections to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="North Carolina Supreme Court" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/01/20/exclusive-anita-earls-raises-13-million-in-second-half-of-2025-for-supreme-court-race" data-vars-content-id="e2383bad-7fc8-4392-8e72-f473b71537b7" data-vars-headline="Breaking down the ballot: N.C. Supreme Court" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/01/20/exclusive-anita-earls-raises-13-million-in-second-half-of-2025-for-supreme-court-race" target="_self">North Carolina Supreme Court</a> — the state&#x27;s highest court that determines whether the legislature and the governor pass laws compliant with the Constitution — have come down to a few hundred votes.

Things to do in the Triangle this Halloween weekend

From spooky parties to the City of Oaks Marathon, there's plenty to do this weekend.

Things to Do

Halloween is upon us, and the Triangle has a packed weekend of concerts, festivals, parties and sports.<ul><li>If you&#x27;ve aged out of trick-or-treating, here are some ideas for your weekend.</li></ul>

Who should pay for a Raleigh neighborhood's Halloween popularity

Raleigh is requiring resident Jesse Jones to get a permit and pay for insurance

Every year, Raleigh&#x27;s Oakwood neighborhood becomes the nexus of the city&#x27;s Halloween celebrations, attracting thousands of children to trick-or-treat.<ul><li>They come, in part, because Oakwood is one of the city&#x27;s most walkable neighborhoods, with Victorian homes and a historic cemetery. But also because residents like Jesse Jones go to great lengths to decorate their homes for the occasion. </li></ul>

Local journalist turned comedian has a new streaming special

Pete Smack's new special can be streamed on Prime, Apple TV and Tubi.

Pete McEntegart has done a little bit of everything, from working in investment banking and starting his own tech company to writing for Sports Illustrated and television shows. <ul><li>But the 57-year-old Raleigh resident&#x27;s newest venture might be his bravest, as he tries to make it as a stand-up comic. </li></ul>Why it matters: McEntegart, who most recently edited the local tech publication <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="GrepBeat" data-vars-click-url="https://grepbeat.com/" data-vars-content-id="9aaad9e3-1b22-4164-85a4-78535a49b699" data-vars-headline="Local journalist turned comedian has a new streaming special" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://grepbeat.com/" target="_blank">GrepBeat</a>, has released his first <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="comedy special " data-vars-click-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7byHqmkPWeY" data-vars-content-id="9aaad9e3-1b22-4164-85a4-78535a49b699" data-vars-headline="Local journalist turned comedian has a new streaming special" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7byHqmkPWeY" target="_blank">comedy special </a>under the name <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pete Smack" data-vars-click-url="https://petesmack.com/" data-vars-content-id="9aaad9e3-1b22-4164-85a4-78535a49b699" data-vars-headline="Local journalist turned comedian has a new streaming special" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://petesmack.com/" target="_blank">Pete Smack</a>.

Here's what to do this weekend across the Triangle

From pumpkin flotillas to Dracula, here are the top events this weekend in the Triangle.

It&#x27;s shaping up to be a beautiful fall weekend in the Triangle. Here&#x27;s how you can take advantage of it: 🪩 Listen to electronic music at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Slingshot Festival of Music" data-vars-click-url="https://www.slingshotfestival.com/" data-vars-content-id="0f02e203-0206-4960-90da-9445c2abb645" data-vars-headline="Here&#x27;s what to do this weekend across the Triangle" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.slingshotfestival.com/" target="_blank">Slingshot Festival of Music</a> on Friday and Saturday.

Watch Raleigh scientists uncover a 75-million-year-old dinosaur

Scientists are extracting a rare, nearly complete skeleton that could reveal a new species.

Paleontologists in a downtown Raleigh lab are extracting a 75-million-year-old dinosaur fossil from stone — and anyone can stop by to watch them work.Why it matters: The ostrich-like skeleton being unearthed could be a new dinosaur species, according to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences" data-vars-click-url="https://www.naturalsciences.org/" data-vars-content-id="60fd58b1-62e4-4547-a699-8581216ae366" data-vars-headline="Watch Raleigh scientists uncover a 75-million-year-old dinosaur" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.naturalsciences.org/" target="_blank">North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences</a> research team.

How to enjoy the N.C. State Fair without spending big

From handmade crafts to giant pumpkins, some of the best attractions won't cost you extra.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="N.C. State Fair" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/10/10/what-to-know-before-visiting-the-n-c-state-fair-276519" data-vars-content-id="5387052a-83a2-42d4-91f8-c1ca389e56a1" data-vars-headline="How to enjoy the N.C. State Fair without spending big" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2023/10/10/what-to-know-before-visiting-the-n-c-state-fair-276519" target="_self">N.C. State Fair</a> is entering its second week in Raleigh, with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="free admission Thursday" data-vars-click-url="https://foodbankcenc.org/events/state-fair" data-vars-content-id="5387052a-83a2-42d4-91f8-c1ca389e56a1" data-vars-headline="How to enjoy the N.C. State Fair without spending big" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://foodbankcenc.org/events/state-fair" target="_blank">free admission Thursday</a> for anyone who brings six cans of food. Why it matters: North Carolina&#x27;s biggest annual event has plenty to offer beyond rides and food, especially if you&#x27;re hoping to save money.

Chef Michael Lee's Japanese-Peruvian fusion spot opens this week

This is Chef Michael Lee's second new restaurant this year after M Hansik.

Food and Drink

M Restaurants, one of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="most popular restaurant groups" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2023/02/03/the-triangles-most-influential-restaurant-empires" data-vars-content-id="57beb697-6d05-4f06-9139-3055b9ff1a57" data-vars-headline="Chef Michael Lee&#x27;s Japanese-Peruvian fusion spot opens this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2023/02/03/the-triangles-most-influential-restaurant-empires" target="_self">most popular restaurant groups</a> in the Triangle, is launching its newest restaurant this week. Why it matters: M Nikkei, a restaurant that plans to combine the style of Peruvian and Japanese cooking, will open Thursday in the former M Pocha space in downtown Durham. <ul><li>Chef Michael Lee closed M Pocha, which served Korean street food, earlier this year, and immediately teased a plan to open a nikkei-style restaurant. </li></ul>

Charlotte and Triangle restaurants win 2026 Michelin honors

Counter- kept its Michelin Star, while restaurants in Charlotte, Raleigh and Durham earned new honors.

Charlotte and Raleigh-area restaurants earned four new Bib Gourmands Wednesday night, while Charlotte&#x27;s Counter- retained its Michelin Star as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Michelin Guide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/10/31/michelin-guide-american-south-how-to-watch" data-vars-content-id="1afd4571-fea2-4ab9-8512-27115b135770" data-vars-headline="Charlotte and Triangle restaurants win 2026 Michelin honors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/10/31/michelin-guide-american-south-how-to-watch" target="_self">Michelin Guide</a> unveiled its 2026 American South selections.Why it matters: Michelin&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="arrival in the South last year" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/11/04/michelin-guide-south-edition-carolina-restaurants-stars" data-vars-content-id="1afd4571-fea2-4ab9-8512-27115b135770" data-vars-headline="Charlotte and Triangle restaurants win 2026 Michelin honors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/11/04/michelin-guide-south-edition-carolina-restaurants-stars" target="_self">arrival in the South last year</a> put North Carolina&#x27;s dining scene on an international stage. This year&#x27;s awards recognize both returning favorites and newcomers making their mark on the region&#x27;s culinary scene.

Standard makes a lunch play in North Hills

From fried tofu to Topsail Island oysters, here's what caught our attention at the North Hills spot.

We met up for a meal at the new <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Standard" data-vars-click-url="https://standardbeerandfood.com/north-hills-innovation-distrct/" data-vars-content-id="b90caef1-b8ed-4c73-8f1d-021fb2900734" data-vars-headline="Standard makes a lunch play in North Hills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://standardbeerandfood.com/north-hills-innovation-distrct/" target="_blank">Standard</a> location in North Hills Innovation District on Monday.Driving the news: The restaurant is looking to gain a foothold in Raleigh&#x27;s lunch scene by opening at 11am every day of the week.

Gallicchio's Market & Eatery opens in Raleigh's Oakwood neighborhood

Gallicchio's serves pastas, salads and a variety of Italian sandwiches.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gallicchio&#x27;s Market &amp; Eatery" data-vars-click-url="https://gallicchios.com/" data-vars-content-id="c156a81e-c802-4892-b21c-547858dc3080" data-vars-headline="Gallicchio&#x27;s Market &amp; Eatery opens in Raleigh&#x27;s Oakwood neighborhood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://gallicchios.com/" target="_blank">Gallicchio&#x27;s Market &amp; Eatery</a> is now open on Raleigh&#x27;s Person Street in the Oakwood neighborhood. Why it matters: Gallicchio&#x27;s adds a new Italian-style market and deli in the former home of (Ish) Delicatessen, a beloved sandwich shop that closed its doors this year in the space it shared with Person Street Pharmacy.

Healthy bowl restaurant picks RTP for first location

Little Barrow will serve build-your-own grain bowls in Hub RTP.

The Horseshoe development at Hub RTP has landed yet another food concept. State of play: Little Barrow, a new concept created by Durham entrepreneur Bruce Kramer, has signed a 2,482-square-foot lease at 3151 Elion Dr., next to the Indian restaurant Cheeni.

Dampf Good BBQ drops plans for Durham location after backlash

The restaurant's owners were facing backlash for a string of conservative political posts a few years ago.

Dampf Good BBQ, the Michelin-recommended Texas-style barbecue joint, will not expand to Durham after all, its owner, Nick Dampf, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="said on social media Wednesday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/dampfgoodbbq/reel/DeMeHbBA2WL/?hl=en" data-vars-content-id="b2ee1a57-1299-4847-b6a1-c12eff98e573" data-vars-headline="Dampf Good BBQ drops plans for Durham location after backlash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/dampfgoodbbq/reel/DeMeHbBA2WL/?hl=en" target="_blank">said on social media Wednesday</a>. Why it matters: Dampf has faced mounting backlash over choosing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Durham&#x27;s Geer Street" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/09/22/dampf-cary-bbq-restaurant-expands-to-durham" data-vars-content-id="b2ee1a57-1299-4847-b6a1-c12eff98e573" data-vars-headline="Dampf Good BBQ drops plans for Durham location after backlash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/09/22/dampf-cary-bbq-restaurant-expands-to-durham" target="_self">Durham&#x27;s Geer Street</a> for a permanent location after local residents, activists and social media users discovered a string of conservative <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="social media posts" data-vars-click-url="https://www.reddit.com/r/bullcity/comments/1wmykog/trump_loving_lgbtq_women_hating_racist_dampf_good/" data-vars-content-id="b2ee1a57-1299-4847-b6a1-c12eff98e573" data-vars-headline="Dampf Good BBQ drops plans for Durham location after backlash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.reddit.com/r/bullcity/comments/1wmykog/trump_loving_lgbtq_women_hating_racist_dampf_good/" target="_blank">social media posts</a> made a few years ago. Many of Dampf&#x27;s posts criticized same-sex families, drag shows and things like critical race theory. <ul><li>Geer Street has long prided itself on its LGBT inclusivity, and a previous church-run coffee shop on the street also faced protests due to its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="stance on same-sex marriage" data-vars-click-url="https://indyweek.com/news/pioneers-durham-hutchins-showroom-close/" data-vars-content-id="b2ee1a57-1299-4847-b6a1-c12eff98e573" data-vars-headline="Dampf Good BBQ drops plans for Durham location after backlash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://indyweek.com/news/pioneers-durham-hutchins-showroom-close/" target="_blank">stance on same-sex marriage</a>. </li></ul>

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