National and statewide upsets, a resounding win for the bonds, a commission split continues and more in our election analysis. Also: why the Blade will never normalize the unacceptable Above: The precinct map of votes for Roy Cooper and Gov. Pat McCrory in Buncombe County. Well, that happened. After a

Survive. Organize. Resist. A few words that must be said, about what happened, where our city and country are going and what we have to do. Above: Protesters and police outside the Civic Center entrance during the Sept. 12 Trump rally. Photo by Max Cooper. I’m not in despair because

It’s that day, with major national, state and local races on the ballot. Here’s information about where to vote, and how to protect your rights at the polls. Welcome back, readers. Today is Election Day and while many of our readers and local voters already cast their ballots during early

For the first time in its 135-year history, WNC’s Central Labor Council is bringing together local unions in a united effort to get out the vote. A look behind local labor’s push to get people to the polls. Above: Representatives from local unions gather for a group photo during recent

A growing backlash against city staff, pit of despair vexations, downed trees, arcane communication strategies and a busking agreement as Council heads towards Halloween (and Election Day) Above: A slide from a presentation at the Oct. 25 Council meeting about the so-called “Pit of Despair” across from the Basilica of St.

Housing, inequity, the powers of county staff, HB2, education, development and more in our questionnaires for the candidates for the Buncombe County chair and commissioner seats Above: the Buncombe County Courthouse  Welcome back, readers. We’re in the middle of early voting right now. Today you can vote at eight locations

Name: David King Profession: Ferrier In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Proud Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I believe county government and elected officials have a responsibility to serve every citizen of Buncombe County, not a political agenda, which is why I

Name: Nancy Nehls Nelson Profession: Retired AT&T Bell Labs Project Manager In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I am an engaged community advocate that has the experience to be a significant voice on the Buncombe County

Name: Ed Hay Profession: Attorney In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I’m running because county government faces new challenges in funding education, creating jobs, and adequately planning for future growth. I want to be part of the

Name: Brownie Newman Profession: Partner, Headwaters Solar In up to two words, describe your political affiliation: Democrat In one brief sentence, describe yourself and why you’re running: I am running to support our public schools and teachers, protect our mountain communities and to make sure Buncombe County remains a great