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Democrats hit the anti-incumbency trap

"If we let socialists hijack the Democratic Party, then we risk losing the races we should win."

Politics & Policy

Democrats are learning a hard lesson Republicans know all too well: The party out of power doesn&#x27;t just ride the anti-incumbency wave — it can also get swept up in it.Why it matters: The populist energy surging through the left after President Trump&#x27;s return to the White House is roiling Democratic primaries and fueling establishment fears about the party&#x27;s general election chances.

Exclusive: Workers are crossing job boundaries with AI, OpenAI research shows

Exclusive: OpenAI says workers cross job boundaries with AI

Business

Workers are using ChatGPT to do tasks typically associated with specialists, according to new OpenAI research first shared with Axios.Why it matters: It adds to growing evidence that AI is changing the division of labor within companies.

Cracks appear in the vision of off-grid AI data centers

Is there a reckoning coming for the off-grid AI boom?

Energy & Climate

Local backlash and reliability concerns are challenging the vision of an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/technology/automation-and-ai" data-vars-content-id="d5f14d51-980c-4a3e-963f-17b37a1485b8" data-vars-headline="Cracks appear in the vision of off-grid AI data centers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/technology/automation-and-ai" target="_self">AI</a> boom built quickly using large off-grid data centers.Why it matters: If giant projects stumble, trillions of dollars in AI investment and the industry&#x27;s plans to rapidly expand data centers could be at risk.

Big Tech lines up in support of open-weight AI

The new alliance sharpens the divide between firms selling closed models and companies that benefit from cheaper, customizable AI.

Technology

Tech companies are rallying behind open weight AI models — and not just the usual suspects.Yes, but: Notably absent from the support: Anthropic.

Medicare Advantage payment debate targets quality ratings

The five-star rating system could be ripe for an overhaul.

Health

Challenges with the Medicare Advantage quality rating system are colliding with a broader reckoning over how the federal government pays Medicare Advantage plans.Why it matters: The five-star rating system, which governs billions of dollars in Medicare Advantage bonus payments, could be ripe for an overhaul as policymakers question how much the privatized Medicare program should cost taxpayers.

North Carolina misses Nolan's ultimate "Odyssey" experience

The state has no 70mm IMAX theaters, though Raleigh's giant-screen theater is still showing the film.

Things to Do

The purest form of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Christopher Nolan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2026/07/15/christopher-nolan-movies-ranked" data-vars-content-id="e5ae0c71-88cd-4d3a-a6c7-0b1c5ef629cd" data-vars-headline="North Carolina misses Nolan&#x27;s ultimate &quot;Odyssey&quot; experience" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2026/07/15/christopher-nolan-movies-ranked" target="_self">Christopher Nolan</a>&#x27;s &quot;The Odyssey&quot; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="can only be seen" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/17/odyssey-imax-christopher-nolan" data-vars-content-id="e5ae0c71-88cd-4d3a-a6c7-0b1c5ef629cd" data-vars-headline="North Carolina misses Nolan&#x27;s ultimate &quot;Odyssey&quot; experience" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/17/odyssey-imax-christopher-nolan" target="_self">can only be seen</a> in the 25 U.S. theaters equipped with 70mm IMAX screens — and none are in North Carolina.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Movie theaters" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/07/2026-box-domestic-office-start" data-vars-content-id="e5ae0c71-88cd-4d3a-a6c7-0b1c5ef629cd" data-vars-headline="North Carolina misses Nolan&#x27;s ultimate &quot;Odyssey&quot; experience" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/07/2026-box-domestic-office-start" target="_self">Movie theaters</a> are enjoying their strongest run since COVID — driven in part by major film studios turning major releases into <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="can&#x27;t-miss events" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/02/live-experience-movies-entertainment-stocks" data-vars-content-id="e5ae0c71-88cd-4d3a-a6c7-0b1c5ef629cd" data-vars-headline="North Carolina misses Nolan&#x27;s ultimate &quot;Odyssey&quot; experience" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/02/live-experience-movies-entertainment-stocks" target="_self">can&#x27;t-miss events</a> like Nolan&#x27;s latest.

North Carolina's oldest Black-owned bank is merging with a South Carolina bank

M&F Bank, founded in 1907, is the oldest Black-owned bank in North Carolina.

M&amp;F Bank, North Carolina&#x27;s oldest Black-owned bank, said Wednesday it will merge with South Carolina&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Optus Bank" data-vars-click-url="https://www.optus.bank/" data-vars-content-id="1ddedd64-c038-43bf-8d00-4fbe43f5264c" data-vars-headline="North Carolina&#x27;s oldest Black-owned bank is merging with a South Carolina bank" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.optus.bank/" target="_blank">Optus Bank</a> in a move that will create the largest Black-owned bank in the country. Why it matters: The merger will lead to big changes for M&amp;F Bank, which was founded as Mechanics and Farmers Bank in 1907 and was a pillar of Durham&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Black Wall Street" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ncanchor.org/anchor/durhams-black-wall-street" data-vars-content-id="1ddedd64-c038-43bf-8d00-4fbe43f5264c" data-vars-headline="North Carolina&#x27;s oldest Black-owned bank is merging with a South Carolina bank" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ncanchor.org/anchor/durhams-black-wall-street" target="_blank">Black Wall Street</a>.<ul><li>After the merger, the combined banks&#x27; headquarters will move to Columbia, S.C., and the M&amp;F Bank name will eventually make way for Optus on its local branches in two years&#x27; time. </li></ul>

DNA tests raise questions about Outer Banks shrimp labels

Researchers found only 11 of 22 restaurants accurately labeled wild-caught American shrimp.

Food and Drink

Half the shrimp marketed as &quot;wild-caught American&quot; at Outer Banks restaurants last month was actually imported, according to genetic testing by SeaD Consulting.Why it matters: Consumers often pay premium prices at the coast expecting genuine U.S.-caught shrimp, even as cheaper imported shrimp dominates the wider market.

Duke Energy and state reach agreement on lower rate increase request

Duke Energy's proposed residential rate increase has dropped from 18% to 9.5%.

News

After months of hearings with state administrators and receiving feedback from the public, Duke Energy has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reached an agreement" data-vars-click-url="https://starw1.ncuc.gov/NCUC/ViewFile.aspx?Id=79460baa-e4e7-49fc-a207-af41ad81252d" data-vars-content-id="ee105bbe-44a8-4f87-a1a2-05d9ed06f56d" data-vars-headline="Duke Energy and state reach agreement on lower rate increase request" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://starw1.ncuc.gov/NCUC/ViewFile.aspx?Id=79460baa-e4e7-49fc-a207-af41ad81252d" target="_blank">reached an agreement</a> to cut its proposed residential rate increase request from around 18% to around 9.5%. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Duke Energy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/03/05/duke-energy-is-betting-new-battery-storage-facilities-will-help-it-use-more-renewable-energy" data-vars-content-id="ee105bbe-44a8-4f87-a1a2-05d9ed06f56d" data-vars-headline="Duke Energy and state reach agreement on lower rate increase request" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/03/05/duke-energy-is-betting-new-battery-storage-facilities-will-help-it-use-more-renewable-energy" target="_self">Duke Energy</a> is the dominant supplier of electricity for North Carolina residents, and the rates it charges customers are set through a highly regulated process with the N.C. Utilities Commission.

Wake County ending era of online mug shots

The county says the move helps protect automatic expunctions, but it changes public access to arrest records.

Public Safety

Wake County will stop publishing mug shots and daily arrest reports online next month, citing concerns that outdated records can undermine the newly automated expunction process.Why it matters: Mug shots can create the perception of guilt even if a person is innocent, and the way they linger online can <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="haunt people for years" data-vars-click-url="https://joinnia.com/innocent-mug-shot-internet/" data-vars-content-id="028c6b38-c706-464d-b421-4aa9d7405512" data-vars-headline="Wake County ending era of online mug shots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://joinnia.com/innocent-mug-shot-internet/" target="_blank">haunt people for years</a>.<ul><li>Yes, but: The new policy will require local crime reporters to go to downtown Raleigh to access official arrest records in-person.</li></ul>

State Auditor finds questionable spending and intimidating work conditions in Cary

The report comes in the wake of Cary's former town manager resigning.

Politics

A much-anticipated <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.auditor.nc.gov/documents/reports/investigative/inv-2026-cary" data-vars-content-id="7aa35940-764d-4f17-a52d-395f04293d6d" data-vars-headline="State Auditor finds questionable spending and intimidating work conditions in Cary" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.auditor.nc.gov/documents/reports/investigative/inv-2026-cary" target="_blank">report</a> on the town of Cary&#x27;s management and finances found a litany of questionable spending decisions and a hostile work environment. Why it matters: The report comes after the resignation of former Town Manager Sean Stegall, who came under investigation after public records requests <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="unearthed several questionable financial decisions" data-vars-click-url="https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article313663372.html" data-vars-content-id="7aa35940-764d-4f17-a52d-395f04293d6d" data-vars-headline="State Auditor finds questionable spending and intimidating work conditions in Cary" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article313663372.html" target="_blank">unearthed several questionable financial decisions</a>. <ul><li>Wake County District Attorney Lorrin Freeman says a criminal investigation into the financial management of North Carolina&#x27;s 7th largest municipality is ongoing.</li></ul>

The area around Dix Park continues to see apartment surge

The area has seen a huge uptick in investment since Dix Park broke ground.

Development

The area between downtown Raleigh and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dix Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/02/06/dix-park-big-year-play-plaza-record-attendance-trolls" data-vars-content-id="e8cf355b-150b-4b5d-a1c0-a3f0f3ea8b0f" data-vars-headline="The area around Dix Park continues to see apartment surge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/02/06/dix-park-big-year-play-plaza-record-attendance-trolls" target="_self">Dix Park</a> continues to add apartments at a fast clip. Why it matters: The area, sometimes referred to as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="West End" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2024/08/02/raleigh-west-end-neighborhood-development-kane-apartments-retail" data-vars-content-id="e8cf355b-150b-4b5d-a1c0-a3f0f3ea8b0f" data-vars-headline="The area around Dix Park continues to see apartment surge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2024/08/02/raleigh-west-end-neighborhood-development-kane-apartments-retail" target="_self">West End</a> at the edge of Boylan Heights, is one of the most rapidly changing corners of downtown and is being boosted by its close proximity to the park.

North Carolina picks new Opportunity Zones that could attract billions

The state hopes to be more strategic in the tracts it selects for Opportunity Zones

This month, North Carolina&#x27;s Department of Commerce will nominate 202 census tracts across the state to be considered as &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Opportunity Zones" data-vars-click-url="https://www.commerce.nc.gov/data-tools-reports/opportunity-zones-north-carolina" data-vars-content-id="5909adad-61c4-4186-bbf2-99b2f23c5ea4" data-vars-headline="North Carolina picks new Opportunity Zones that could attract billions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.commerce.nc.gov/data-tools-reports/opportunity-zones-north-carolina" target="_blank">Opportunity Zones</a>.&quot;Why it matters: The decision — which would grant those tracts significant tax benefits — could have large ramifications for those communities and potentially attract hundreds of millions of dollars in real estate investments.

Raleigh's economy keeps on ticking

A wide range of industries are posting growth in the Raleigh area.

Raleigh&#x27;s economy continues to show strength heading into the second half of 2026, even as <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="hiring growth slows nationally" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/02/jobs-june-trump-federal-reserve" data-vars-content-id="8b078753-86bf-4ac4-a7ed-82bf22d8fc78" data-vars-headline="Raleigh&#x27;s economy keeps on ticking" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/02/jobs-june-trump-federal-reserve" target="_self">hiring growth slows nationally</a>, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pnc.com/content/dam/pnc-com/pdf/aboutpnc/EconomicReports/Regional%20Economic%20Reports/2026/PNC_Regional_Economics_Analysis_Raleigh_July_2026.pdf" data-vars-content-id="8b078753-86bf-4ac4-a7ed-82bf22d8fc78" data-vars-headline="Raleigh&#x27;s economy keeps on ticking" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pnc.com/content/dam/pnc-com/pdf/aboutpnc/EconomicReports/Regional%20Economic%20Reports/2026/PNC_Regional_Economics_Analysis_Raleigh_July_2026.pdf" target="_blank">new report</a> by PNC Bank&#x27;s regional researchers. Why it matters: Hiring in the Raleigh-Cary metro area grew at the 6th-highest rate among all metro areas to start the year, according to PNC, despite it being only the 50th-largest metro area in the country.

Hurricanes parade shows hockey's rise in North Carolina

Massive crowds celebrated the championship with players and coaches in downtown Raleigh.

Sports

A parade celebrating the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Carolina Hurricanes&#x27;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/01/carolina-hurricanes-stanley-cup-final-raleigh" data-vars-content-id="55caf8f8-a46d-4d1d-a50e-4c427338fe2a" data-vars-headline="Hurricanes parade shows hockey&#x27;s rise in North Carolina" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/01/carolina-hurricanes-stanley-cup-final-raleigh" target="_self">Carolina Hurricanes&#x27;</a> Stanley Cup win brought tens of thousands of fans to downtown Raleigh on Saturday.Why it matters: The celebration underscored how deeply the Hurricanes have embedded themselves in a fast-growing Southern hockey market.<ul><li>This is the second NHL championship for the Canes in franchise history, and their first in 20 years. </li></ul>

What the Hurricanes Stanley Cup run meant to Raleigh

The Stanley Cup buzz is reinforcing the case that the Triangle can support more major-league sports.

In a region of divided loyalties and transplants, the Carolina Hurricanes&#x27; run to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="winning the Stanley Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/15/carolina-hurricanes-win-stanley-cup" data-vars-content-id="d3700a5c-7000-4464-a797-f103cfc48edd" data-vars-headline="What the Hurricanes Stanley Cup run meant to Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/15/carolina-hurricanes-win-stanley-cup" target="_self">winning the Stanley Cup</a> has given the Triangle and its 2.3 million residents something to rally around.Why it matters: You could feel it in the streets, with watch parties and bars from Raleigh to Durham slammed in a way usually reserved for Final Four runs.

Democrats try to pressure Duke Energy to put data center pledge into writing

Duke Energy says it will continue discussions on new data center rules. Governor wants them now.

Duke Energy, North Carolina&#x27;s dominant utility, has signed onto a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="White House-backed pledge" data-vars-click-url="https://www.whitehouse.gov/ratepayer-protection-pledge/" data-vars-content-id="b28dbefa-1c5b-4018-a787-dea22e927f63" data-vars-headline="Democrats try to pressure Duke Energy to put data center pledge into writing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/ratepayer-protection-pledge/" target="_blank">White House-backed pledge</a> to shield households from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="absorbing any costs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2026/07/23/trump-data-centers-governors-ratepayers-protection-pledge/91013327007/" data-vars-content-id="b28dbefa-1c5b-4018-a787-dea22e927f63" data-vars-headline="Democrats try to pressure Duke Energy to put data center pledge into writing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2026/07/23/trump-data-centers-governors-ratepayers-protection-pledge/91013327007/" target="_blank">absorbing any costs</a> related to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center building boom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/02/nc-data-center-legislation-regulation-noise-water-electrical-costs" data-vars-content-id="b28dbefa-1c5b-4018-a787-dea22e927f63" data-vars-headline="Democrats try to pressure Duke Energy to put data center pledge into writing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/02/nc-data-center-legislation-regulation-noise-water-electrical-costs" target="_self">data center building boom</a>. <ul><li>Now, North Carolina&#x27;s top Democrats want to see that pledge written in legally enforceable writing. </li></ul>Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Data centers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/11/charlotte-data-center-boom-electric-bills-water-use-noise-concerns" data-vars-content-id="b28dbefa-1c5b-4018-a787-dea22e927f63" data-vars-headline="Democrats try to pressure Duke Energy to put data center pledge into writing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/11/charlotte-data-center-boom-electric-bills-water-use-noise-concerns" target="_self">Data centers</a> have become a notable political football in the state, with both Democrats and Republicans responding to rising concern from residents over electricity costs.

Democrats have a big funding advantage in state Supreme Court race

Earls has raised nearly 14 times as much as Stevens.

State Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls, a Democrat, has notched a huge funding advantage over her Republican challenger. Why it matters: The race for Earls&#x27; seat on the state Supreme Court, which swung from a Democratic majority to a Republican one in 2022, will be one of the most-watched statewide races in this year&#x27;s mid-term elections.

Local Limelight with Omie's owner Addison Yarbrough

Omie's, known for its seasonal drinks, recently turned four years old.

When Addison Yarbrough took over a former tire shop on Roxboro Street four years ago, the place looked like it was covered in an inch of grime, and a drum of waste oil had been left behind. Why it matters: Today that building — now painted blush pink and decidedly less greasy — is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Omie&#x27;s Coffee Shop, " data-vars-click-url="https://www.omiescoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="ed0c709a-4d3d-48f0-be21-c363ba9dadbf" data-vars-headline="Local Limelight with Omie&#x27;s owner Addison Yarbrough" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.omiescoffee.com/" target="_blank">Omie&#x27;s Coffee Shop, </a>one of the Triangle&#x27;s most popular spots for adventurous latte flavors and community events. (Even the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jonas Brothers were fans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.newsobserver.com/living/food-drink/article312710446.html" data-vars-content-id="ed0c709a-4d3d-48f0-be21-c363ba9dadbf" data-vars-headline="Local Limelight with Omie&#x27;s owner Addison Yarbrough" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.newsobserver.com/living/food-drink/article312710446.html" target="_blank">Jonas Brothers were fans</a>.)

Meet the Duke startup trying to put a satelitte in space

The Durham-based startup is built off more than a decade of research from Duke University.

Backed by more than $7 million in seed funding, a Duke University spinout is hoping to launch a new generation of satellite cameras into space in the next few years.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Extellis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.extellis.com/" data-vars-content-id="9e0c7a4e-4522-4a0c-baf3-36f5d89ebb0d" data-vars-headline="Meet the Duke startup trying to put a satelitte in space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.extellis.com/" target="_blank">Extellis</a> is one of the latest startups to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="emerge from research at Duke University" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2023/10/18/duke-unc-nc-state-startup-money" data-vars-content-id="9e0c7a4e-4522-4a0c-baf3-36f5d89ebb0d" data-vars-headline="Meet the Duke startup trying to put a satelitte in space" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2023/10/18/duke-unc-nc-state-startup-money" target="_self">emerge from research at Duke University</a>, which is increasingly turning promising advancements in labs into real-world companies growing in the Triangle.

Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi

Makus Empanadas serves traditional Argentine cuisine in Raleigh and Durham.

Our <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/29/wake-forest-norse-brewing-scandinavian-food-beer" data-vars-content-id="bdbe39c3-1704-417e-a55a-c8a307660b40" data-vars-headline="Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi" 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/wake-forest-norse-brewing-scandinavian-food-beer" target="_self">World</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/17/joining-the-karavan" data-vars-content-id="bdbe39c3-1704-417e-a55a-c8a307660b40" data-vars-headline="Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/17/joining-the-karavan" target="_self">Cup</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="eats" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/22/a-taste-of-senegal-in-raleigh" data-vars-content-id="bdbe39c3-1704-417e-a55a-c8a307660b40" data-vars-headline="Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/22/a-taste-of-senegal-in-raleigh" target="_self">eats</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="series" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/02/a-detour-to-portugal-in-fuquay-varina" data-vars-content-id="bdbe39c3-1704-417e-a55a-c8a307660b40" data-vars-headline="Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/07/02/a-detour-to-portugal-in-fuquay-varina" target="_self">series</a> heads next to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Makus Empanadas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.makusempanadas.com/" data-vars-content-id="bdbe39c3-1704-417e-a55a-c8a307660b40" data-vars-headline="Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.makusempanadas.com/" target="_blank">Makus Empanadas</a>, a no-frills restaurant serving some of the Triangle&#x27;s best empanadas.Driving the news: Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, stayed alive with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="an epic comeback" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/miami/2026/07/08/miami-fans-react-to-argentina-comeback-win" data-vars-content-id="bdbe39c3-1704-417e-a55a-c8a307660b40" data-vars-headline="Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/miami/2026/07/08/miami-fans-react-to-argentina-comeback-win" target="_self">an epic comeback</a> over Egypt earlier this week — making this the perfect time to sample Argentine cuisine.Zoom in: The Durham location is in a Hope Valley strip mall. Makus is pronounced &quot;make us&quot; — as in &quot;please make us some empanadas.&quot;<ul><li>Interior walls are lined with photos of the founders — best friends who grew up in Argentina — as well as star Argentine athletes like Messi, his predecessor Diego Maradona, and basketball player Manu Ginóbili.</li></ul>Best bites: The menu centers on empanadas ($4.25 each), baked pockets of dough filled with meat, veggies or cheese. They arrive piping hot, stamped with letters indicating what&#x27;s enclosed.<ul><li>Our favorites were the ham and cheese, spinach and pork chimichurri.</li><li>We also loved the chipa ($4.75 for four rolls), circular cheesy bread that is addictively chewy inside thanks to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tapioca starch" data-vars-click-url="https://theargentineexperience.com/blog/argentine-chipa-recipe-what-is-it/" data-vars-content-id="bdbe39c3-1704-417e-a55a-c8a307660b40" data-vars-headline="Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://theargentineexperience.com/blog/argentine-chipa-recipe-what-is-it/" target="_blank">tapioca starch</a>.</li></ul>⚽️ What&#x27;s next: The World Cup is being narrowed to a field of four this weekend. Winners will join <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="France/Morocco" data-vars-click-url="https://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/live/world-cup-bracket-schedule-scores-results-live-updates-quarterfinals-203257966.html" data-vars-content-id="bdbe39c3-1704-417e-a55a-c8a307660b40" data-vars-headline="Empanadas in the Triangle for Messi" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/live/world-cup-bracket-schedule-scores-results-live-updates-quarterfinals-203257966.html" target="_blank">France/Morocco</a> in the semifinals:<ul><li>Spain vs. Belgium Friday at 3pm.</li><li>Norway vs. England Saturday at 5pm.</li><li>Argentina vs. Switzerland Saturday at 9pm.</li></ul>If you go: There are two Makus locations:<ul><li>411 W. Morgan St., Raleigh (inside Morgan Street Food Hall).</li><li>1125 N.C. 54 #304, Durham.</li></ul>

Charlotte

NC falls in business ranking as growth hurts affordability

CNBC: NC still good for business but faces growth challenges.

North Carolina <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fell" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/26/charlotte-growth-population-1-million" data-vars-content-id="060d06cd-210d-412c-8141-aaa1721ada0d" data-vars-headline="NC falls in business ranking as growth hurts affordability" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2026/05/26/charlotte-growth-population-1-million" target="_self">fell</a> from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CNBC&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/09/americas-top-states-for-business-full-rankings.html" data-vars-content-id="060d06cd-210d-412c-8141-aaa1721ada0d" data-vars-headline="NC falls in business ranking as growth hurts affordability" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/09/americas-top-states-for-business-full-rankings.html" target="_blank">CNBC&#x27;s</a> No. 1 state for business to No. 2 after losing ground in categories related to affordability, crime and worker protections.Why it matters: North Carolina is still considered one of the best states to do business. But this year&#x27;s ranking comes with a few warning signs for the state as it grapples with rapid growth.

Raleigh moves to enact youth curfew in response to "teen takeover" 

A "teen takeover" in Brier Creek and Glenwood South led to several shootings.

The Raleigh City Council moved Tuesday to enact a youth curfew in the city after “teen takeovers” led to violence across the city over the holiday weekend. Why it matters: The proposal would mark a major shift in how Raleigh responds to juvenile crime, and underscores the challenge <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="cities nationwide face" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/27/youth-curfew-extension-teen-takeovers-navy-yard" data-vars-content-id="92d56842-92d7-4012-88ae-1db22faa7073" data-vars-headline="Raleigh moves to enact youth curfew in response to &quot;teen takeover&quot; " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/03/27/youth-curfew-extension-teen-takeovers-navy-yard" target="_self">cities nationwide face</a> as social media-fueled youth gatherings increasingly test public safety resources.

The RTP 3.0 era officially begins

RTP 3.0 are an ambitious set of land reforms that could bring a mixed-use future to the business park.

A new era is officially underway in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Research Triangle Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/11/25/research-triangle-park-clears-final-hurdle-rtp-30-rezoning-durham-wake-counties" data-vars-content-id="46dc624c-56d1-464b-8fc9-73a8726be7fb" data-vars-headline="The RTP 3.0 era officially begins" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/11/25/research-triangle-park-clears-final-hurdle-rtp-30-rezoning-durham-wake-counties" target="_self">Research Triangle Park</a> after the companies and landowners based in the 7,000-acre campus gave the final approval to its RTP 3.0 land rules. Why it matters: The land-use changes, which had already been approved by Wake and Durham counties, could significantly change the built environment of the Triangle&#x27;s most influential economic engine of the past six decades. <ul><li>Nearly 400 companies are based in RTP, ranging from behemoths like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="IBM" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/10/21/ibm-campus-future-research-triangle-park-moving-employees" data-vars-content-id="46dc624c-56d1-464b-8fc9-73a8726be7fb" data-vars-headline="The RTP 3.0 era officially begins" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/10/21/ibm-campus-future-research-triangle-park-moving-employees" target="_self">IBM</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lenovo" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/09/22/lenovos-next-20-years-in-the-triangle-is-all-about-ai" data-vars-content-id="46dc624c-56d1-464b-8fc9-73a8726be7fb" data-vars-headline="The RTP 3.0 era officially begins" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/09/22/lenovos-next-20-years-in-the-triangle-is-all-about-ai" target="_self">Lenovo</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Biogen" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/07/21/biogen-investment-research-triangle-park-manufacturing-facilities-north-carolina" data-vars-content-id="46dc624c-56d1-464b-8fc9-73a8726be7fb" data-vars-headline="The RTP 3.0 era officially begins" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/07/21/biogen-investment-research-triangle-park-manufacturing-facilities-north-carolina" target="_self">Biogen</a> to hundreds of startups. </li></ul>

Durham hit-and-run spotlights dangers facing cyclists

A rider remains hospitalized after a vehicle crossed the centerline and struck two cyclists.

Two Durham cyclists were injured Saturday in a hit-and-run, leaving one cut and bruised and the other still hospitalized.The big picture: The crash underscores how dangerous the Triangle&#x27;s roads can be for people traveling without cars.

An all-star cooking collab comes to Raleigh

Ricky Moore, of Saltbox Seafood Joint, will team up with Saif Rahman of Peregrine.

Two of the Triangle&#x27;s most captivating chefs — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Saltbox&#x27;s Ricky Moore" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2022/06/14/durham-chef-ricky-moore-of-saltbox-wins-james-beard-award" data-vars-content-id="1aaf708c-a496-4278-93f2-407323458236" data-vars-headline="An all-star cooking collab comes to Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2022/06/14/durham-chef-ricky-moore-of-saltbox-wins-james-beard-award" target="_self">Saltbox&#x27;s Ricky Moore</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Peregrine&#x27;s Saif Rahman" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/03/19/saif-rahman-peregrine-raleigh-ramadan-iftar-bangladeshi-southern-fusion" data-vars-content-id="1aaf708c-a496-4278-93f2-407323458236" data-vars-headline="An all-star cooking collab comes to Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/03/19/saif-rahman-peregrine-raleigh-ramadan-iftar-bangladeshi-southern-fusion" target="_self">Peregrine&#x27;s Saif Rahman</a> — are teaming up next month for an exclusive dinner in Raleigh.Why it matters: The meal, cooked over an open flame, will celebrate North Carolina&#x27;s eating habits and culinary practices.

Good Fortune elevates Chapel Hill's cocktail scene

Good Fortune pairs a dramatic design with thoughtful cocktails, plus a welcome drink before you order.

Good Fortune, a Chinatown-inspired cocktail bar, quietly opened on Franklin Street in April with an eye-catching design and a meticulously crafted drinks menu.Why it matters: Good Fortune adds a polished new cocktail destination to downtown Chapel Hill, and it&#x27;s building an audience during the slower summer season.

Richmond

A Richmonder's guide to Richmond

Want to spend a weekend in Richmond? We've got you covered.

👋 Hey there, Raleigh. Karri Peifer from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Richmond" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond" data-vars-content-id="a01be18b-17c0-4d01-8ddb-dc529f510c6e" data-vars-headline="A Richmonder&#x27;s guide to Richmond" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond" target="_self">Axios Richmond</a> here, inviting you to pop up for a day trip or weekend visit sometime soon.<ul><li>You know Richmond, the city just like Raleigh, only grittier and more crime-riddled, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="according to three dudes in this thread" data-vars-click-url="https://www.city-data.com/forum/city-vs-city/2186773-raleigh-nc-vs-richmond-va-40.html" data-vars-content-id="a01be18b-17c0-4d01-8ddb-dc529f510c6e" data-vars-headline="A Richmonder&#x27;s guide to Richmond" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.city-data.com/forum/city-vs-city/2186773-raleigh-nc-vs-richmond-va-40.html" target="_blank">according to three dudes in this thread</a> — but, hey, allegedly it&#x27;s cheaper up here, so trade-offs…</li></ul>

Why Triangle Town Center should be a stop on your barbecue journey

Lechon Latin BBQ serves Puerto Rican-style barbecue.

It&#x27;s inarguable that there are fewer and fewer reasons to go to Triangle Town Center these days, as the 24-year-old mall <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="continues to lose tenants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.newsobserver.com/news/business/article314469707.html" data-vars-content-id="fac2f206-2a7a-420f-af43-2198151f73c4" data-vars-headline="Why Triangle Town Center should be a stop on your barbecue journey" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.newsobserver.com/news/business/article314469707.html" target="_blank">continues to lose tenants</a>. Why it matters: Yet, like many of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="lesser-visited strip malls" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/17/joining-the-karavan" data-vars-content-id="fac2f206-2a7a-420f-af43-2198151f73c4" data-vars-headline="Why Triangle Town Center should be a stop on your barbecue journey" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2026/06/17/joining-the-karavan" target="_self">lesser-visited strip malls</a> that dot the region, some culinary delights remain, including the excellent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lechon Latin BBQ &amp; Bar" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/Lechonlatinbbqjoint/" data-vars-content-id="fac2f206-2a7a-420f-af43-2198151f73c4" data-vars-headline="Why Triangle Town Center should be a stop on your barbecue journey" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/Lechonlatinbbqjoint/" target="_blank">Lechon Latin BBQ &amp; Bar</a>.

Viceroy serves British-Indian favorites in downtown Durham

England's semifinal offers a timely reason to revisit downtown's stylish British-Indian pub and restaurant.

Viceroy has become a downtown Durham staple for its elevated British-Indian fusion cuisine.Why it matters: England&#x27;s World Cup semifinal against Argentina makes this a fitting time to revisit one of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Triangle&#x27;s best" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/07/25/best-restaurants-triangle-durham-raleigh-chapel-hill-2025" data-vars-content-id="4e68aace-3233-4d11-b2fe-01a9ffd81ce7" data-vars-headline="Viceroy serves British-Indian favorites in downtown Durham" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/07/25/best-restaurants-triangle-durham-raleigh-chapel-hill-2025" target="_self">Triangle&#x27;s best</a> British-inspired restaurants.

Tell us about your favorite restaurants

Axios Raleigh is putting together its annual list of best restaurants.

It&#x27;s that time of the year again: We&#x27;re putting together our annual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="best restaurants list" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/07/25/best-restaurants-triangle-durham-raleigh-chapel-hill-2025" data-vars-content-id="49fb89d5-a330-4356-970f-3d390a872e8d" data-vars-headline="Tell us about your favorite restaurants" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/raleigh/2025/07/25/best-restaurants-triangle-durham-raleigh-chapel-hill-2025" target="_self">best restaurants list</a>, and we want to hear your thoughts.<ul><li>Our list is based on a little bit of everything: atmosphere, service, food quality, consistency and other criteria.</li></ul>

Inside North Carolina's iconic hot sauce: Texas Pete

Nearly a century after its debut, Texas Pete has become one of North Carolina's most enduring brands.

The Texas Pete factory in Winston-Salem is an assault on the senses.<ul><li>Workers and robots move in sync as conveyor belts churn out bottles of hot sauce and salsa. The air is thick with the sinus-clearing aroma of freshly cut peppers, shipped by train from New Mexico.</li></ul>Why it matters: For nearly a century, TW Garner Foods has made one of America&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="most popular" data-vars-click-url="https://www.newsweek.com/map-usa-states-hot-sauce-preference-food-spicy-franks-redhot-2022585" data-vars-content-id="d28d3cf0-fcf1-4085-98cd-9ab2301e7d4b" data-vars-headline="Inside North Carolina&#x27;s iconic hot sauce: Texas Pete" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.newsweek.com/map-usa-states-hot-sauce-preference-food-spicy-franks-redhot-2022585" target="_blank">most popular</a> hot sauces in Winston-Salem. Now it&#x27;s trying to ensure <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Texas Pete" data-vars-click-url="https://texaspete.com/?srsltid=AfmBOor49HMp9ee0O7m7YJTtZXm1WtGo6UKoizRLEnKhFDXQdJMiG1bb" data-vars-content-id="d28d3cf0-fcf1-4085-98cd-9ab2301e7d4b" data-vars-headline="Inside North Carolina&#x27;s iconic hot sauce: Texas Pete" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://texaspete.com/?srsltid=AfmBOor49HMp9ee0O7m7YJTtZXm1WtGo6UKoizRLEnKhFDXQdJMiG1bb" target="_blank">Texas Pete</a> thrives for another century.

Norse Brewing brings Scandinavia to Wake Forest

Norway and Sweden play Tuesday, making this gnome-filled brewery a timely Triangle dining stop.

Wake Forest&#x27;s locally owned <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Norse Brewing Company" data-vars-click-url="https://wakeforest.norsebrewingco.com/" data-vars-content-id="608211e3-01c5-4ba5-95b9-4a4e0e09eafc" data-vars-headline="Norse Brewing brings Scandinavia to Wake Forest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://wakeforest.norsebrewingco.com/" target="_blank">Norse Brewing Company</a> is a timely stop for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/06/08/how-to-watch-world-cup" data-vars-content-id="608211e3-01c5-4ba5-95b9-4a4e0e09eafc" data-vars-headline="Norse Brewing brings Scandinavia to Wake Forest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/06/08/how-to-watch-world-cup" target="_self">World Cup</a> fans, serving Scandinavian-inspired food and beer in its charming, gnome-filled downtown tavern.Why it matters: Norway and Sweden&#x27;s knockout matches Tuesday make it an ideal time to sample Scandinavian cuisine without leaving the Triangle.

A Michelin-starred chef is bringing Indian fine dining to Chapel Hill

Ayra will open in the East 54 development in Chapel Hill

A Michelin-starred chef is helping open one of Chapel Hill&#x27;s most anticipated restaurants later this summer. Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ayra" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ayranc.com/" data-vars-content-id="15597dd1-adce-4211-9958-b8def41706b1" data-vars-headline="A Michelin-starred chef is bringing Indian fine dining to Chapel Hill" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ayranc.com/" target="_blank">Ayra</a>, a partnership between renowned chef Sujan Sarkar and the owners of Lime &amp; Lemon, will bring another Indian fine dining option to the Triangle.

Richmond restaurant group to open a sushi restaurant in Raleigh

Lucky AF is the second restaurant Eat Restaurant Partners will open in Raleigh.

Richmond-based <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Eat Restaurant Partners" data-vars-click-url="https://eatrp.com/" data-vars-content-id="b041342c-4706-4afc-aaea-3de5435b3835" data-vars-headline="Richmond restaurant group to open a sushi restaurant in Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://eatrp.com/" target="_blank">Eat Restaurant Partners</a> plans to open a second restaurant in Raleigh early next year.Why it matters: The group is expected to begin construction on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lucky AF" data-vars-click-url="https://getluckyaf.com/" data-vars-content-id="b041342c-4706-4afc-aaea-3de5435b3835" data-vars-headline="Richmond restaurant group to open a sushi restaurant in Raleigh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://getluckyaf.com/" target="_blank">Lucky AF</a> — short for Asian fusion — at Ridgewood Shopping Center on Wade Avenue in the next few months.

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