1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

I am writing as your constituent to urge you to oppose Senate Bill 58 (SB58), which would prohibit the North Carolina Attorney General from challenging presidential executive orders in court. I am deeply concerned that this bill undermines the independence of the Attorney General and weakens the essential checks and balances that protect our democracy. The Attorney General is a constitutional officer, elected by the people of North Carolina to serve as our chief legal advocate and protector of the public interest. The office has a longstanding responsibility to defend the rights and interests of North Carolinians, including by taking legal action when federal executive orders threaten our state’s economy, environment, or fundamental rights. SB58 would strip the Attorney General of this critical authority, making North Carolina the only state in the nation to impose such a restriction. Limiting the Attorney General’s ability to challenge executive orders undermines the separation of powers and erode the checks and balances that are vital to a healthy democracy. It also prevents the Attorney General from defending North Carolinians against federal overreach, even when courts have found such challenges to be justified and successful. Our state has benefited when the Attorney General has been able to act independently, successfully protecting billions in funding for our universities, rural communities, and essential public services. Any legislation that undermines this independence is bad for North Carolina and its people. Please stand up for the independence of the Attorney General’s office and vote NO on SB58.