WPTF Afternoon News

Host Jeff Hamlin speaks with Nate French, Communications Director at Wake Forest University, about the Democratic Party's challenges following their Election Day losses. From messaging missteps to shifts in Hispanic voter support for Donald Trump, French offers insights into what went wrong in 2024 and how the party can evolve for future elections. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of the Democratic autopsy.

Host Jeff Hamlin talks with Tiffany Wright from AAA Carolinas about the nearly 80 million travelers expected to hit the roads and skies this Thanksgiving. Wright shares insights on this record-breaking holiday travel forecast, including a projected 71.7 million car travelers, and offers tips for navigating crowded roads and staying safe during the busiest travel week of the year.

Host Jeff Hamlin speaks with Jennifer Greene, Executive Director of the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association, about the challenges faced by western N.C. Christmas tree farms after Hurricane Helene. Despite devastating losses from mudslides in Avery County, the Cartner family farm delivered a 20-foot tree destined for the White House. Greene shares insights on how the storm affected the industry and the resilience of N.C. tree growers.

Host Jeff Hamlin talks with Stephanie Hawco from RDU Airport about the exciting launch of a direct flight to Calgary, Canada, scheduled for next year. Hawco shares insights on this new route and other upcoming destinations, highlighting RDU's continued growth and its efforts to expand travel options for the Triangle area. Tune in to learn more about the future of air travel at RDU.

Host Jeff Hamlin speaks with Sherard Johnson, founder of RNS Sports, about the organization’s mission to combat rising violence in Durham. In light of eight shootings in just four days, Johnson explains how RNS Sports engages local youth through basketball pickup games, offering a safe and positive environment. Learn how sports can foster community and provide alternatives for at-risk youth in this inspiring conversation.

Host Jeff Hamlin interviews Kathy Kaufman, a member of Kehillah Synagogue, about the community backlash surrounding an artistic banner displayed at Peace & Justice Plaza in Chapel Hill. Part of Sadie Rose's "The Power of Good Trouble" series, the banner features a pro-Palestine protester and has drawn criticism from Jewish community members. Kaufman shares her perspective on the controversy and the broader conversation around art, activism, and community sensitivity.

Host Jeff Hamlin interviews Anderson Clayton, Chairwoman of the North Carolina Democratic Party, about the party’s significant wins in the 2024 election. Despite national setbacks, Josh Stein secured the governorship, Rachel Hunt claimed the Lieutenant Governor’s office, and Mo Green narrowly defeated Michele Morrow for State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Clayton discusses the strategies behind these victories and what sets North Carolina apart in the broader political landscape.

Steve Rao joined Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News to provide political commentary on the news of the day

Anthony DeHart and Steve Rao are joined by NC State Senator Jay Chaudhri, Minority Whip

Raju Gadiraju is the CIO at the Division of Employment Security. He joined the state government in 2016 after a successful career in the private sector, coming from Oxford University Press, a global company. Raju is known for his outstanding leadership, collaboration, and innovation. Raju led transformative projects and was awarded the 2020 Public Sector CIO of the Year for his role in managing the pandemic. Recently, he received a NASCIO award in 2024 under the Digital Governance category. Raju holds a master’s degree in Computer Science and has been a proud North Carolina resident since 2003, deeply committed to the state's growth and prosperity. Outside of work, he’s a family man and outdoors enthusiast, with two sons pursuing careers in medicine after graduating from Duke."

Host Jeff Hamlin interviews N.C. State economics professor emeritus Mike Walden to discuss the economic outlook under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. With food prices at an all-time high, Walden explains the role of universal tariffs, the complexities of trade policies, and the challenges involved in lowering grocery costs. Tune in for insights into how Trump's economic agenda, including potential tax reforms and regulatory changes, may impact American households and businesses alike.

Join host Jeff Hamlin as he speaks with Jamie Curtis, General Manager of Koka Booth Amphitheatre, about the highly anticipated N.C. Chinese Lantern Festival in Cary. Running from November 16 to January 12, the event features over 40 stunning new displays, vibrant performances, and family-friendly activities. Learn how this festival, with its iconic silk lanterns and unique art installations, celebrates the Chinese New Year while bringing cultural and economic vibrancy to the Triangle area.(Getty Image: Stephen Chernin)

Host Jon Champion interviews Gaile Osborne, Executive Director of the Foster Family Alliance of North Carolina, on the challenges facing the foster care system this holiday season. With a 21% drop in foster homes and limited resources after recent hurricanes, Osborne shares insights into the Holiday Hope Toy Drive, an initiative to bring gifts and support to 1,000 foster children across North Carolina. Discover the impact of community involvement and ways to help make the holidays brighter for these children.

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for office, he has named Stephen Miller as deputy chief of staff and Tom Homan as “border czar” to lead his immigration agenda, which includes mass deportations and reviving Trump-era border policies. Chris Cooper, author of Anatomy of a Purple State, joins Jeff Hamlin to discuss the implications of these appointments for immigration policy and share insights into North Carolina's election trends.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has declared that Republicans are prepared to take action on Donald Trump's "America First" agenda if he returns to the White House. In this episode, former North Carolina Secretary of State Rufus Edminsten joins Jeff Hamlin to break down what Johnson’s statements mean for the GOP’s approach to border security, unified government, and other conservative priorities.

Join host Jeff Hamlin as he interviews NOAA’s David Easterling from the National Centers for Environmental Information, located in Asheville, NC. They discuss Helene's effects on western North Carolina, the link between climate change and increased heavy rainfall, and the challenges of understanding Helene’s magnitude. Learn how scientists like Easterling and climate scientist Jake Fortune are using the world’s largest environmental archive to examine our shifting climate.

Jeff Hamlin speaks with Gerald Cohen, economist at the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business Institute, about the economic implications of President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed policies, including new tariffs aimed at reshaping the U.S. economy. As inflation continues and the Federal Reserve recently lowered interest rates, Cohen analyzes how these shifts might affect consumers, business owners, and the broader economic landscape. He provides insights into potential impacts on both domestic and international markets, helping listeners understand what they might expect in the coming months.

Jeff Hamlin talks with Dr. Laura Gabayan, author of Common Wisdom, about handling the post-election season with family and friends who may not share your political views. With half the country experiencing either relief or disappointment, Dr. Gabayan provides practical advice on how to keep holiday gatherings comfortable and respectful. She shares insights on maintaining connections, avoiding unnecessary conflict, and finding common ground amid political differences, helping listeners focus on togetherness and understanding as they navigate potentially tense family dynamics this season.

Jeff Hamlin speaks with Larry Olson, spokesperson for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, about their tribute to Fire Captain Nathan Burgess, who lost his life to occupational cancer in 2023. In recognition of his service and dedication, the foundation has paid off the mortgage on his family’s home in Willow Springs, North Carolina, as part of their ongoing mission to support the families of fallen first responders. Olson reflects on Captain Burgess's legacy, his commitment to service, and the foundation’s work to honor those who make the ultimate sacrifice. This episode commemorates Veterans Day with a tribute to an inspiring firefighter and family man.

Tom Murry joined Steve Rao and Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News

In this episode, host Jon Champion and guest host Morrisville Councilman Steve Rao are joined by Raleigh’s Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan Melton. Melton dives into the unexpected election victory of former President Trump, sharing his insights on the demographic shifts that influenced the results and what this means for the future of the Democratic Party. Transitioning to Raleigh’s growth and development, Melton discusses his plans for increasing affordable housing options and expresses his excitement to work alongside Raleigh’s newly elected mayor, Janet Cowell.

Jeff Hamlin speaks with Tammy Cobb, Executive Director of Alamance Arts, about The Life and Art of Charles Schulzexhibit currently on display in Graham, North Carolina. The exhibit celebrates the legacy of Charles Schulz, creator of the Peanuts comic strip, and explores the timeless themes he illustrated through beloved characters like Snoopy and Charlie Brown. Cobb shares insights into Schulz’s life, his artistic journey, and how Peanuts resonated with readers worldwide by exploring friendship, resilience, and the humor of everyday life. Discover how this exhibit showcases Schulz’s role as the visionary and sole creative force behind the iconic Peanuts Gang.

Jeff Hamlin talks with Phil Napoli, Professor of Public Policy at Duke University, about the implications of Donald Trump’s election and his unconventional approach to media engagement. Trump’s decision to bypass traditional news outlets like 60 Minutes and The Washington Post in favor of popular platforms like The Joe Rogan Experience marks a fundamental shift in how presidential candidates connect with the public. Professor Napoli examines how Trump became the first Republican in two decades to win the popular vote, exploring what this approach means for the future of political coverage, media influence, and the evolving landscape of public discourse.

Jeff Hamlin speaks with Steven Greene to break down the results of Election Night, where Donald Trump made history by winning a second nonconsecutive term as the 47th president of the United States. Trump’s victory marks a historic comeback as the first former president to regain power since 1892, and the first convicted felon to hold the office. The episode also discusses Vice President-elect JD Vance, who at 40 will be the highest-ranking millennial in government. Greene provides insights on the significance of this election, the challenges facing the new administration, and the implications for American politics.

Jeff Hamlin speaks with Mitch Kokai, Director of Communications for the John Locke Foundation, about Donald Trump’s victory in North Carolina over Kamala Harris in the presidential race. Trump’s win in this key battleground state continues North Carolina's recent history of favoring Republican candidates, with only one Democratic win since 1980. Kokai discusses Trump’s last-minute campaign push in North Carolina and examines the state’s role in shaping the national political landscape, providing insights on why the state remains a critical factor in presidential elections.

Election Day is in full swing. It will be a substantially important day in national and state history. In North Carolina, Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein is running against Republican Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson for the governor's seat. It's the first time since 2012, Roy Cooper will not be on the ballot because he's hit his term limit. The Secretary of State race is between longtime incumbent Elaine Marshall, who has been in office since 1997, against Republican Chad Brown. Tom Campbell, the host of longtime North Carolina political talk show N.C. Spin, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Election Day.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump made their final pitches to voters in the same parts of Pennsylvania at roughly the same time. They spent the last full day of the presidential campaign in a state that could make or break their chances. In Pittsburgh, Trump delivered what his campaign aides described as his closing argument after his rally at Madison Square Garden was derailed by crude and racist jokes. He was then going to Michigan. Harris was en route to Pittsburgh while Trump was speaking there. Nate French, Wake Forest University Professor of Communication, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the final days of the election

In this episode, Kerry Haynie, the Dean of Social Sciences at Duke University, joins Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the presidential election as Americans cast their votes to decide between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Haynie provides an analysis of the historic campaign, marked by upheaval and sharp divisions, and offers insights into voter turnout and potential outcomes. Despite isolated reports of minor issues, Election Day has proceeded smoothly in most areas. Haynie also reflects on the significance of this election and what it could mean for the future of American politics.

Wake County Representative Abe Jones joins Jon Champion to discuss pressing issues for North Carolina voters as the 2024 election approaches. In a conversation focused on voter engagement, Jones shares his insights on the challenges of fostering unity in a polarized political climate and the potential impact of these divides on North Carolina’s future. Highlighting the importance of informed participation, he reflects on the critical role voters will play in shaping state and national outcomes in the coming election.

In this episode, Greear Webb calls in to share his insights with Jon Champion on the power of the youth vote. They discuss how this demographic's engagement can significantly impact future elections and shape political discourse. Webb emphasizes the importance of bridging divides and finding common ground after the election, highlighting strategies for fostering dialogue and cooperation among different groups. His perspective sheds light on the critical role young voters play in driving change and influencing the political landscape.

In this episode, Ambassador Susan Rice, the former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and National Security Advisor, joins Jon Champion to share her insights on the upcoming election. With her extensive experience in national and global security, Rice discusses the key issues at stake and what they mean for the future of the country. Her perspective sheds light on the complexities of the current political landscape, emphasizing the importance of informed voter engagement and the impact of leadership on both domestic and international fronts.

Tammy Fitzgerald from the North Carolina Values Coalition joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to share her perspectives on the upcoming elections and the Republican outlook in North Carolina. Expressing cautious optimism about Mark Robinson’s gubernatorial bid despite polling deficits, Fitzgerald highlighted high early voting turnout among Republicans. She criticized the opposition’s focus on abortion in campaign ads, noting Robinson’s past but emphasizing his commitment to the anti-abortion stance. On the presidential race, Fitzgerald believes Trump is poised to win North Carolina based on recent polling. She also addressed tight down-ballot races, advocating for younger, reform-minded candidates for Secretary of State and Superintendent of Public Instruction, and expressed strong support for Dan Bishop’s Attorney General run as a law-and-order candidate.

Former Congressman Joe Walsh joins Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to share his concerns about the future of the Republican Party under Donald Trump’s influence and his support for Kamala Harris. Once a Tea Party member himself, Walsh reflects on the GOP’s shift toward authoritarianism fueled by fear and anger, and he openly acknowledges his role in energizing this base. Now, he sees the movement as a significant threat to democracy. Although uneasy with certain campaign tactics that mock “MAGA” supporters, Walsh emphasizes the need to confront the dangers of the movement head-on. He remains optimistic that support from quiet Republicans and independents could lead to stronger-than-expected turnout for Harris in the upcoming election.

In this episode, host Anthony interviews Bob Butler, chairman of the Morrisville Veterans Foundation and a local councilman, about the ongoing development of a Veterans Memorial in Morrisville, North Carolina. Bob shares the history of this initiative, which began eight years ago when community members recognized the need for a memorial, noting that Morrisville was among the few municipalities without one. The project has since transitioned into a nonprofit, overcoming challenges, especially during the pandemic, and is now making significant progress, including securing granite donations and nearing its fundraising goal for construction documents. Bob emphasizes the memorial's purpose as a reflective space honoring the sacrifices of U.S. Armed Forces veterans while highlighting the community's diversity and recreational offerings, particularly a cricket facility known as one of the best in the region. Listeners are encouraged to support the memorial project through donations on the foundation's website.

In this episode, Morrisville Town Councilman Steve Rao and Prakash Devepalli, vice chair of the Triangle Area Hindu temples, join Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the significance of Diwali and the community initiatives surrounding it. Prakash shares insights about the mission of the Triangle Area Hindu temples, emphasizing their commitment to uniting the community through humanitarian services and cultural events. He highlights Diwali's themes of light, renewal, and kindness while announcing a fundraising 5K walkathon scheduled for November 3rd at Morrisville Community Park. The event aims to raise $5,000 for victims of Hurricane Eileen in Western North Carolina, with proceeds going to agencies directly assisting those affected. Prakash reflects on how Diwali fosters community spirit and harmony, encouraging participation in the walkathon while promoting the values of compassion and service inherent in the celebration.

Lucy Marques

Morrisville Town Councilman Steve Rao and BAPS temple leader Viren Patel join Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss this year’s Diwali celebrations at the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Morrisville, North Carolina. Patel shares the temple's 20th anniversary milestones and BAPS’s legacy of 50 years of service in North America. Highlighting Diwali as a festival celebrating light over darkness, Patel explains how the theme, "Luminous 50," aligns with BAPS's community-focused mission. The conversation covers service initiatives such as disaster relief in Western North Carolina and outlines the weekend festivities, including a Diwali celebration on Saturday and a children’s event on Sunday, all aimed at preserving cultural traditions through community engagement.

Latino voters are expected to play a major role in who gets a seat in the White House. There are over 300,000 registered Latino voters in North Carolina. In Raleigh, an event is underway to mobilize the Latino demographic. A grassroots, non-partisan group has conducted phone banking in the final remaining days of early voting. The Latino community is very diverse with Hispanics, Puerto Ricans and residents from Central America. The Hispanic Federation is a non-partisan organization. Lariza Garzon, Director of North Carolina Operations for the Hispanic Federation, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss their efforts to get out the vote.

North Carolina favorites Domani, TiaCorine, and Reuben Vincent will headline the final CAROLINADAZE concert in downtown Greensboro this Sunday, November 3rd, a culmination of a statewide concert series and part of an all-out push to get out the vote for Election Day. Organizers expect more than 1,000 attendees at the Sunday concert, predominantly college students: a sign of the incoming wave of young people showing up to the polls this coming Tuesday, motivated by this pivotal movement for our state and country. Concert organizers and community leaders will be on hand to educate attendees about how to vote on Election Day and who they can turn to for resources and support, including the nonpartisan election protection hotline available by calling 888-OUR-VOTE.

Congressman Wiley Nickel joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to provide insights into the local impact of Vice President Kamala Harris's recent rally speech. Nickel emphasized her focus on key issues such as housing costs and childcare, which resonate deeply with North Carolina voters. As the election approaches, he highlighted the tight race between Harris and Donald Trump, predicting that voter turnout would ultimately determine the outcome. Despite reports of the Harris campaign reallocating funds, Nickel noted a strong energy among voters during his travels across the state. He advocated for emphasizing economic achievements like job creation and infrastructure improvements while contrasting them with Trump’s record, underscoring the importance of mobilizing voters in this pivotal election.

Jimmy Patel-Nguyen from North Carolina Asian Americans Together (NCAAT) joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the expanding influence of Asian American voters in North Carolina and their potential impact in the 2024 elections. With over 235,000 eligible Asian American voters in a key battleground state, the demographic’s civic engagement is on the rise. Patel-Nguyen shared NCAAT’s commitment to voter education and engagement, particularly on issues such as reproductive rights, economic challenges, healthcare, crime, and education. He also touched on Vice President Kamala Harris’s role as an Asian American leader and her unique resonance within the community.

Jim Carl from the Carolina Theater in Durham joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to share his top horror film recommendations for Halloween. As the curator of Retro film nights, Jim offers a blend of iconic slashers like Halloween and Friday the 13th and lesser-known gems such as Suspiria and Silent Scream. Whether you're a fan of recent hits like Get Out and Five Nights at Freddy's or prefer classic thrills, Carl’s recommendations promise a chilling experience perfect for Halloween night.

N.C. State Economics Professor Emeritus Mike Walden joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the recent 2.8% growth rate of the U.S. economy from July through September. Consumer spending surged, accounting for 70% of activity and growing at a strong 3.7% annual pace, reflecting resilience even as high interest rates persist. Walden also highlighted the role of increased exports, which contributed to the third quarter’s growth at an impressive 8.9% rate. The conversation offers insights into what these numbers mean for the U.S. economy as the presidential race heats up.

Christian Adams, Commissioner of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the upcoming presidential election and the legal safeguards established since the January 6 Capitol insurrection. Adams detailed new election laws and systems implemented by Congress to support the peaceful transfer of power, addressing potential legal challenges and concerns over misinformation. He also provided insight into the preparedness of pro-democracy advocates and officials as the nation heads into a potentially volatile post-election period.

Durham Bulls General Manager Mike Berling joined Jon Champion on the WPTF Afternoon News to celebrate the Bulls' recent honor as Minor League Baseball's 2024 Triple-A Organization of the Year. Berling discussed the Bulls' dedication to offering affordable family entertainment and enhancing fan experiences, as well as the renovations made to improve player facilities, including expanded locker rooms and new batting cages. He credited the City of Durham for its partnership in revitalizing the area around the ballpark, showcasing a model for minor league organizations across the country.

Billionaire investor and "Shark Tank" star Mark Cuban joined Jon Champion on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss his support for Vice President Kamala Harris’s economic and immigration policies. Cuban praised Harris's commitment to maintaining or lowering taxes for those earning under $400,000 and her plans to address high healthcare costs by reforming pharmacy benefit managers. He contrasted her vision with former President Trump’s tariff policies, warning of potential price hikes for consumers. Cuban also shared his concerns about Trump’s proposed mass deportation approach, favoring Harris’s structured immigration reforms, including pathways to residency and citizenship.

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, American voters are expressing deep concerns about the nation’s political stability, according to a new survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. The poll reveals widespread unease over potential political violence, threats to election integrity, and the future of democracy itself. Duke University political science professor Mac McCorkle joined Jeff Hamlin to share insights into the current political climate, reflecting on voter anxieties and the challenges that may impact Election Day.

Music enthusiasts gathered at Raleigh’s Red Hat Amphitheater for the ‘Music for the Mountains’ benefit concert, uniting to support Western North Carolina. The event, organized by Band Together, raised over $1 million to aid the region, drawing a crowd of passionate music lovers and supporters. Thorne Daubenspeck, Executive Director of Band Together, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the inspiration behind the concert, the collaborative effort involved, and the impact the funds will have on mountain communities.

The North Carolina State Fair concluded on Sunday, drawing hundreds of thousands to Raleigh for an 11-day celebration of agriculture, food, and entertainment. Perfect fall weather greeted fairgoers throughout most of the event, with the highest turnout on Saturday at over 125,000 attendees. Despite a rainy final day, spirits remained high as guests enjoyed the last of this year’s attractions. Heather Overton from the N.C. Department of Agriculture joined Jeff Hamlin to recap the fair’s success, the crowd favorites, and the impact on the community.

During a recent rally at Madison Square Garden, former President Donald Trump and his supporters drew criticism for a series of racially charged and inflammatory statements targeting Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. Trump’s childhood friend David Rem labeled Harris as "the Antichrist" and "the devil," while businessman Grant Cardone disparaged her with comments that further fueled controversy. Judge Bob Orr, a former North Carolina Supreme Court Associate Justice, joined Jeff Hamlin to share his insights on the rally’s rhetoric, Trump’s closing message, and the potential effects on the upcoming election.