Governor Josh Stein Vetoes North Carolina Election and Judicial Bills

Governor Josh Stein vetoed two Republican-backed bills on August 17, 2026, during a "Protect Our Vote" event at the Executive Mansion in Raleigh. The first, House Bill 958, would have reduced the early voting period for primaries and special elections from 17 to 10 days, permitted post-election ballot challenges, and mandated state auditor audits of county election administrations. Stein described the measure as "anti-voter legislation" and a "direct attack on voter access."

The second, House Bill 377, would have granted North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul Newby the authority to suspend trial court judges without pay during misconduct investigations, provided the North Carolina Judicial Standards Commission recommended the action. Stein argued the bill would have a "chilling effect on judicial independence" and would politicize the courts.

Republican leaders and state officials defended the legislation. House Speaker Destin Hall argued that the judicial bill was necessary to hold judges accountable for public safety, while State Auditor Dave Boliek maintained that post-election audits are a "commonsense, objective way to boost public confidence." Representative Hugh Blackwell added that the election bill contains practical reforms.

House Speaker Hall and other Republican leaders vowed to override both vetoes when the General Assembly returns in November. The final outcome will depend on a small number of swing votes in the House.