NC’s Funky Separation of Powers — And Under Which Branch is the Sheriff?

North Carolina’s government structure can be…complicated. And sometimes, that complexity shows up in ways that raise more questions than answers.

UNC Law School Professor Rick Su is a leading expert on local government and he breaks down a curious exchange between a state House member and Sheriff Garry McFadden that exposed a surprising level of confusion about a basic question: what branch of government do sheriffs actually belong to?

The conversation highlights a bigger issue about North Carolina’s uniquely structured executive branch, where power is fragmented, roles can blur, and even experienced officials can get tripped up.

If you’ve ever wondered who’s really in charge in North Carolina government, this episode is your crash course in the state’s “funky” separation of powers and why it matters more than you think.

Skye and Brian also break down the latest in Berger v. Page, a constitutional amendment on property taxes, Mark Robinson is back, Rep. Mike Clampitt dies, a Senate Pro Tem rumor is unsubstantiated, TOTW, and welcome to March Madness.  

The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, the NC Pork Council, the NC Realtors, and the NC Healthcare Association.