WPTF Afternoon News

Steven Greene, a political science professor at N.C. State, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest developments in the 2024 presidential race. As Donald Trump heads to Michigan for a town hall and Kamala Harris answers questions at a Black journalists' forum in Pennsylvania, their campaign activities ramp up amidst investigations into a second assassination attempt against Trump. Greene provided insights on how these events might impact the race as both candidates continue to make appearances across key states.

Sloan Duvall, a student at North Carolina Central University and a delegate to the DNC, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the efforts surrounding National Voter Registration Day. With local colleges setting up registration tables and events, Duvall shared the enthusiasm and response she has observed since Kamala Harris officially became the Democratic nominee for president. He also highlighted the importance of registering before the October 11 deadline for those planning to vote in person.

Andrew Crenn from the National Weather Service joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss an approaching coastal storm expected to impact central North Carolina. Crenn explained that although the storm is not tropical, it will bring significant rain and gusty winds, with rainfall totals reaching up to three inches and wind gusts peaking at 40 mph. He noted that the strongest winds will occur between 8 p.m. and midnight, with a low risk of tornadoes. Flash flood warnings are in effect for several counties, and Crenn emphasized the importance of staying weather-aware, as rain is expected to continue throughout the week.

Jeff Brooks from Duke Energy joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss preparations for a storm expected to bring heavy rain, flash flooding, and strong wind gusts to central North Carolina. Brooks detailed how Duke Energy is closely monitoring the storm and deploying linemen to address potential power outages. He highlighted the importance of staying informed, preparing for outages, and driving cautiously around work crews. With wet ground and strong winds expected, Brooks emphasized Duke Energy’s readiness to handle downed trees and power disruptions throughout the region.

Allen Pickett, owner of Honeybee Hemp Farms, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss how the prolonged heat and dry weather have impacted his hemp crops this year. Pickett, who began growing hemp after seeing friends succumb to opioid and prescription drug abuse, shared insights into the challenges many hemp producers faced this summer. As different breeds of hemp plants flower at various times, he emphasized the significance of this peak harvest period and how the adverse conditions could affect the industry moving forward.

North Carolina Representative Zach Hawkins joined the show to discuss Vice President Kamala Harris’s recent rallies in Charlotte and Greensboro, along with her growing influence in North Carolina. He highlighted the excitement surrounding Harris’s candidacy, comparing it to the energy seen in 2008 when Barack Obama flipped the state. Hawkins also delved into Harris’s bold plans for housing, economic opportunities, and business support, emphasizing the tangible steps her administration has taken to aid middle-class Americans. He expressed optimism about the role North Carolina can play in the upcoming election.

Morrisville Town Councilman Steve Rao and longtime Cary resident Shaluka Pereira discussed Pereira’s unique way of celebrating his 50th birthday—by running 50 miles across Raleigh’s greenways. Pereira explained how the event aims to raise funds to support students in Wake County’s public schools who lack access to proper athletic gear. The conversation touched on Raleigh’s greenway system and Pereira’s commitment to giving back to the community. Steve Rao highlighted the significance of community support in this initiative.

Morrisville Town Councilman and political commentator Steve Rao joined Cary City Councilmember Sarika Bansal to discuss Cary's upcoming bond measures. Bansal highlighted two significant bonds, including a $560 million investment in parks and recreation, featuring new community centers, pickleball courts, and greenways. The second bond, a $30 million housing initiative, aims to improve affordable housing through partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Bansal shared insights on Cary’s growth, challenges, and her commitment to ensuring the town remains accessible for middle-class families. Steve Rao and Sarika Bansal also touched on local elections and the importance of political engagement.

North Carolina State Senator Val Applewhite joined Steve Rao and Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the recent debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Applewhite shared her thoughts on Harris’s debate performance, noting how she took command of the stage. The conversation covered key debate issues such as reproductive rights, fracking, and the economic policies important to middle-class Americans. They also touched on North Carolina's upcoming elections, the potential impact of Mark Robinson on the governor’s race, and how Kamala Harris might influence down-ballot races in the state.

UNC Hockey has announced a major fundraising campaign, aiming to raise $25 million to build its own arena in Chapel Hill by the 2028 season. The proposed 3,000-seat multi-use facility will be located at Carraway Village, off Interstate 40. A land purchase agreement has already been completed, with plans to close on the property by May 2025. Organizers are also seeking naming rights to help fund the project, which is expected to open by mid-2028.

Dr. David English, senior vice president for academic affairs with the UNC System, joins Jeff Hamlin to discuss record enrollment across NC public universities.

Donald Trump remains steadfast in his claim that he won the 2020 election, continuing to deny any responsibility for the January 6th insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. During the recent debate with Kamala Harris, Trump once again refused to accept his 2020 defeat and downplayed the violent aftermath of his false claims. His grievances about the 2020 election are still central to his campaign strategy. Chris Cooper, political science professor at Western Carolina University and author of Anatomy of a Purple State, joined Jeff Hamlin to analyze Trump's debate performance and ongoing election rhetoric.

A family of critically endangered red wolves will soon leave the Museum of Life and Science in Durham for a conservation center in New York. The move, scheduled for October, follows the Red Wolf Recovery Program’s decision that first-time parents Oak and Deyha are genetically valuable and should breed again next year. Sherry Samuels, Senior Director of Animal Care at the Museum of Life and Science, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the upcoming departure of the wolves and their importance in conservation efforts.

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump offered opposing visions for the country during their first presidential debate. The two clashed on abortion, immigration, and U.S. democracy, with Harris advocating for middle-class tax cuts and restoring federal abortion rights, while Trump emphasized tariffs and ending the Russia-Ukraine war. CBS News Political Reporter Hunter Woodall joined Jeff Hamlin to break down the debate and discuss the candidates' key policies ahead of November's election.

Donald Trump and Kamala Harris faced off in their first and possibly only debate of the presidential race. The Democratic vice president set the tone early by shaking Trump’s hand on stage before engaging in a 90-minute exchange on topics like economic policy, the 2020 election, and Trump’s public performances. Wake Forest University communications professor Nate French joined Jeff Hamlin to analyze the debate and its potential impact on the race.

As summer comes to a close, North Carolinians are already making travel plans for the holiday season. According to a new AAA survey, 61% of residents plan to take an overnight vacation between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, with a quarter starting their bookings as early as August. Tiffany Wright of AAA Carolinas joined Jeff Hamlin to share tips on the best travel days and advice for avoiding the busiest holiday crowds.

Tuesday’s presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will give Americans a close look at two contrasting visions for the nation. The face-to-face meeting in Philadelphia marks a key moment in a tumultuous campaign season, with Harris making history as the first woman of Black and South Asian descent to serve as vice president. Wake County Representative Maria Cervania joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the high stakes of the debate and the pressure both candidates face on stage.

National artists Janelle Monáe, Tierra Whack, and Moses Sumney are set to perform at Raleigh’s Red Hat Amphitheater for the CAROLINADAZE Music & Arts Festival, hosted by Common Cause North Carolina. The festival aims to connect young North Carolinians with their aspirations during a pivotal election year. Gino Nuzzolilo of Common Cause North Carolina joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the goals of CAROLINADAZE and its impact on the local community.

A former acquaintance of Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson said the Republican candidate for governor viewed movies at Greensboro-area shops in the 1990s and early 2000s. Robinson's campaign called the claims, first published by The Assembly, "ridiculous allegations." The Assembly’s article relied heavily on statements from a former Greensboro porn shop worker, Louis Money. The Robinson campaign forcefully rejected the claims made in the story, calling it “Democrat activist fan fiction.” Tom Campbell is a longtime political observer who hosted “NC Spin” on PBS North Carolina for decades. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Robinson’s race with Josh Stein.

Kamala Harris steps on to the presidential general election debate stage for the first time Tuesday. But the vice president and Democratic nominee has plenty of debate experience to draw on as she takes on former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump. Longtime political observers of Harris describe her debate approach as obviously influenced by her years as a prosecutor and attorney general in California. She views the events much like a jury trial, trying to win the argument on the merits but also ensure that viewers walk away with key impressions. Devin Freeman is a North Carolina Central senior and a Democratic National Committee delegate. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the importance of the debate.

North Carolina State University students, faculty and staff could be just a few weeks away from getting the results of a federal health investigation into Poe Hall. There are also new details about plans to remove PCB contamination from the building and renovate it. N.C. State Executive Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Charles Maimone answered questions about the ongoing situation at Poe Hall last month during a Q-and-A with students and administrators. The N.C. State community has been concerned about plans to renovate Poe Hall rather than tear it down completely and rebuild. Stephen Porter taught at Poe Hall for years and has been very vocal about the situation. He joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest developments.

Corey Branch joins Steve Rao and Anthony DeHart on the Wake County Roundup

Krista Covey joins Steve Rao and Anthony DeHart on the Wake County Roundup

Rachel Lee Brady Parent & advocate of Opportunity Scholarships

Vice President Kamala Harris has accepted the debate rules for her upcoming face-off with former President Donald Trump, although her campaign expressed concern about the decision to mute both candidates' microphones except during their speaking turns. The Harris campaign believes this may put her at a disadvantage in the Sept. 10 debate at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Judge Bob Orr, a former North Carolina Supreme Court justice and longtime Republican, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the implications of the rules and the latest in the race.

Lauren Kennedy Brady, Executive Director of Theatre Raleigh and a former Broadway actress, has been working alongside Ron Shelton, director of the original Bull Durham film, to adapt the story into a musical. After three years of development with a talented team of designers, the musical is set to premiere at Duke University. Brady, whose career highlights include Les Miserables, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the creative process behind the musical's production.

The University of North Carolina system has launched NC College Connect, a new initiative aimed at simplifying the college application process for public high school seniors across North Carolina. This program allows qualifying students to bypass traditional college applications and easily apply to participating UNC System and North Carolina Community College institutions. Shun Robertson, Senior Vice President for Strategy and Policy in the UNC System, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss how NC College Connect will work and its potential impact on students statewide.

Vice President Kamala Harris is set to unveil a new proposal aimed at boosting small businesses by increasing the tax deduction for startup expenses to $50,000, up from the current $5,000 limit. This significant change would allow new small businesses to spread the deduction over several years or delay claiming it until the company turns a profit. However, challenges remain, as the IRS has previously faced difficulties ensuring these tax breaks reach their intended recipients, particularly during the pandemic when fraudulent claims spiked. Jonathan Melton, a Raleigh City Councilman, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the implications of Harris’ plan for local small businesses.

A new report from TRIP, a national transportation research nonprofit based in Washington, DC, highlights the critical need for additional state and federal transportation investment to improve North Carolina's roads and bridges. The report emphasizes that rising inflation is eroding purchasing power, necessitating further investment to complete essential projects. It also includes regional breakdowns for the Asheville, Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, Triad, and Wilmington urban areas. Gary Salamido, the President of the NC Chamber, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the implications of the TRIP plan and the future of North Carolina's transportation infrastructure.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are set to face off in their first presidential debate on September 10. Nate French, a communications professor at Wake Forest University, shared insights on both verbal and nonverbal communication, emphasizing the significance of this event. French highlighted the likely discussion of critical issues such as the economy, immigration, and reproductive rights. He also noted the importance of the debate's timing. Nate French joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to explore the upcoming debate.

Wiley Nickel, Congressman for North Carolina's 13th district, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss Vice President Kamala Harris' economic plans, including a $6,000 tax credit for parents of newborns and the return of the pandemic-era expanded Child Tax Credit. These tax credits could lift millions of children out of poverty and assist middle-class families with the cost of raising children, but they may come with a significant price tag. The nonpartisan Tax Foundation estimates the 10-year cost of these initiatives at $1.6 trillion.

Molly Goldston, founder of Saving Grace Animals for Adoption, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to celebrate 20 years of the renowned animal rescue organization. Over 500 people attended the event at the Wake Forest facility to see the dogs ready for adoption and to raise awareness about the ongoing capacity crisis in North Carolina. With around 300 animals in its care, both on-site and in foster homes, Saving Grace continues to alleviate the burden on rural animal shelters. Goldston shared her vision for the future of the rescue and how it's making a difference for animals in need.

Dr. Jonathan Augustine, senior pastor of St. Joseph AME, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the upcoming Community Partnership Prayer Breakfast, an event aimed at showing support for Durham Public Schools' new leadership. Sponsored by Duke Energy, the breakfast will bring together community leaders from the state legislature, the local school board, parents, and concerned citizens at St. Joseph AME Church this Saturday. Dr. Augustine shared insights on the importance of community collaboration in strengthening local schools.

Tamikca Styles, founder of the nonprofit Pathchangers, Inc., joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the organization's mission to make homeownership more accessible for young adults emerging from the foster care system or facing homelessness. With affordable housing increasingly out of reach for many, Pathchangers is dedicated to providing stability and a fresh start for those who need it most. Tamikca shared how a place to call home can make a profound difference in the lives of young people, especially when their pasts have been challenging.

Andy Andrews, former tennis pro and NC State alum, joined Steve Rao on the Wake County Roundup to share his journey from being one of the best tennis players in North Carolina history to becoming the CEO of a real estate company. Andy discussed his early dreams of playing in the Grand Slams, his experiences competing against top players like John McEnroe, and the creation of satellite tour events for American college players. He also highlighted his involvement with Abilities Tennis, a program that supports players with disabilities, and offered insights into the current state of commercial real estate, particularly the challenges facing office spaces post-COVID. Andy's reflections on his career and his dedication to giving back to the community were both inspiring and insightful.

Dr. Clinton Robinson, Chief of Staff and Strategic Planning for Wake County Public Schools, joined Steve Rao on the Wake County Round Up to discuss the first week of school, the logistics involved in managing one of North Carolina’s largest school districts, and the innovative measures in place to ensure safety. Dr. Robinson provided an overview of the district’s size, including the number of schools, teachers, and students, as well as the introduction of the “Here Comes the Bus” app, which allows parents to track school buses in real-time. He was accompanied by Kendrick Scott, Senior Director of Security, who shared insights into the district’s security measures. Both emphasized the importance of transportation and safety in the district's strategic planning.

With the introduction of artificial intelligence into schools across the state, teachers and students are learning to navigate this new technology in the classroom. As generative AI becomes more prevalent in various industries, educators are now tasked with teaching students how to use it effectively while also addressing the challenges it presents, such as the potential for cheating on exams and tests. Allison Reid, Wake County Schools Director of Digital Learning and Libraries, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how AI is being implemented by teachers and the benefits and challenges it brings.

Vice President Kamala Harris has launched a new advertising push to spotlight her plan to build 3 million new homes over four years, aimed at curbing inflation and offering a distinct contrast to Donald Trump's approach. The minute-long ad, released Tuesday, shares Harris’s personal experience of growing up in rental housing while her mother saved for a decade to purchase a home. Targeting voters in swing states like Arizona and Nevada, the campaign is also hosting 20 events focused on housing issues. Durham County Representative Zach Hawkins joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Harris’s housing plan and its potential impact.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about a topic that is often stigmatized and taboo. Amy Brundle, a spokesperson for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, North Carolina, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the urgent need to decrease the number of suicide deaths, which have become a leading cause of death in the U.S., particularly for those aged 10 to 24. Brundle highlighted steps to identify if a loved one is in danger and the resources available, including hotlines, for those seeking help.

Michael Breziki, a seasoned political analyst and commentator, joined Steve Rao and Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss Ukraine's ongoing war and the significance of Ukraine’s recent Independence Day. Michael provided insights into the latest developments, including Ukraine's strategic advances in the Kursk region of Russia and the impacts of these moves on Russia’s military operations. He also explained the importance of Ukraine’s attacks on critical Russian oil infrastructure and why continuing to support Ukraine is vital. Additionally, Michael explored Vladimir Putin's motivations for invading Ukraine and the geopolitical implications of the conflict for the broader region. Jeff Hamlin asked whether time is on Putin's side, leading to a discussion on the long-term consequences of the war for both Ukraine and Russia.

Funeral services were recently held for Kiera Massenburg and her 6-year-old daughter Zoey Jones, the tragic victims of a murder-suicide in Wilson. Investigators revealed that Massenburg's boyfriend, Daquan Jones, was responsible for the deaths, also injuring two others before taking his own life. In the aftermath of this tragedy, Monica Kearney, Executive Director of Safe Space, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting domestic violence survivors, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to emphasize the importance of seeking help and taking steps to safely exit abusive relationships.

As Vice President Kamala Harris embarks on her fall campaign for the White House, she faces historical challenges that have stymied many before her. Since 1836, only George H.W. Bush, in 1988, has successfully transitioned from the vice presidency to the presidency. Notable figures like Richard Nixon, Hubert Humphrey, and Al Gore all narrowly lost their bids for the Oval Office. Shinica Thomas of the Wake County Commission joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss Harris's prospects for breaking the trend, analyzing the unique challenges she faces and the strategies that could help her succeed.

Tucker Perkins, President and CEO of the Propane Education and Research Council, joined Jon Champion on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the evolving role of propane in the agricultural sector. Tucker highlighted propane's traditional uses, such as grain drying and animal heating, and its expanding applications in irrigation, power generation, and even as an alternative to herbicides and pesticides in crop production. He emphasized propane's affordability, environmental benefits, and reliability compared to diesel and electricity. Tucker also discussed his book, Path to Zero, where he explores a holistic approach to achieving a cleaner climate through open dialogues about various energy sources.

Dr. Sam Brandsen, a Chapel Hill father and instructor with TheraFriends, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the ripple effects of a heartwarming moment during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. When vice presidential nominee Tim Walz shouted out to his son Gus, who emotionally responded with pride, the moment ignited conversations across the nation. Brandsen, whose son Johan is neurodivergent, shared how this event highlighted the importance of compassion and understanding in the neurodiverse community and his work with TheraFriends to support individuals with autism and other neurodivergent conditions.

Brad Senkiw, Gaming Industry Reporter with Covers.com, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the dramatic shifts in sports betting in North Carolina. After March saw a surge in betting activity, an expected summer slump led to a significant drop in wagers by the hundreds of millions. Senkiw explored whether the start of college football season could revive betting enthusiasm and what this means for North Carolina's sports enthusiasts.

Jason Husser, director of the Elon University Poll, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the results of the first survey for North Carolina's fall 2024 election season. The survey revealed high levels of concern among voters about the integrity of the vote count and potential violence following the election. Husser also provided insights into how voters view the candidates for president and governor, and highlighted the deep concerns surrounding the economy and other state issues. Notably, the poll showed close favorable ratings for Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris, with 46% for Trump and 44% for Harris.

J. Mike Blake, a writer for HighSchoolOT.com, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the lawsuit filed by Rolanda Brandon, the mother of top high school quarterback Faizon Brando from Greensboro. The complaint challenges North Carolina's name, image, and likeness (NIL) prohibitions for high school athletes and is directed at the North Carolina State Board of Education and the Department of Public Instruction. Blake provided insights into the legal implications of the case and the potential impact on high school athletics and recruitment.

Nataliia Bondarenko, a native of Ukraine and Outreach Coordinator at UNC-Chapel Hill, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to discuss the 33rd anniversary of Ukraine's independence from Russia. Bondarenko shared insights from the Ukrainian Independence Day celebrations held in Chapel Hill, which featured dance, arts and crafts, music, and food. The conversation also covered the latest developments in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, highlighting the significance of independence and the impact of recent events on the Ukrainian community.

Dr. Jeffrey Swanson, Professor at Duke University School of Medicine, joined Jeff Hamlin on the WPTF Afternoon News to delve into a Duke Health-led analysis revealing that an estimated one life is saved for every 17 instances where an extreme risk protection order (ERPO) removes firearms from individuals at risk of harming themselves or others. Swanson discussed the effectiveness of ERPOs, also known as “red flag laws,” which are civil court orders designed to temporarily restrict access to guns for those deemed an imminent threat. With 21 states and the District of Columbia having enacted these laws in recent years, Swanson explored the report's findings and the implications for public safety.

Morrisville Town Councilman and political commentator Steve Rao, along with political analyst Michael Breziki, joined Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News for a compelling conversation about Ukraine's struggle for independence. As Ukraine's Independence Day approaches, Breziki provides historical context and shares insights into the ongoing war, highlighting the current state of the battlefield. The discussion also focuses on international support for Ukraine, its importance, and the critical efforts within the Carolinas to aid the Ukrainian community. Steve Rao emphasizes the impact of this support on local Ukrainian families.