Speaker

When you're supposed to be top dog in the pack of North Carolina political reporters, expectations can run pretty high. For example, you probably should have something that's actually interesting to say every now and then. Especially in your high-profile Sunday newspaper column the week after a majority Democratic caucus chooses its candidate for Speaker.

Okay, I admit it. I was looking forward to Rob Christensen's column this Sunday morning. Right up until I read it. With a collection of warmed-over right-wing talking points, Christensen has joined the Party of Greed echo chamber, parroting the same old same old that Republicans have been trying to scare people with for months.

In his position as Majority Leader, Hackney often delivered the summary for Democrats in floor debates. Here’s his speech at the end of the debate on the budget last year. Call it the straining-at-gnats speech and it has a funny moment with Paul Stam.

Congratulations Joe Hackney

According to News & Observer Joe Hackney is Democrats' choice for Speaker of the House. Follow the action and comments in the Hackney speaker link above with updates by Kirk Ross.

The rumor mill has been operational all through the holidays and the latest ripples in the mill pond concern a possible plea bargain by Jim Black with federal prosecutors. Rumor has it that Jim Black is considering pleading to five felony counts and a two year sentence to avoid indictment on up to 50 felony counts with a protracted and expensive legal battle sure to produce damaging, even if not conclusive, evidence.

Whether a plea bargain is imminent or a federal indictment is to follow it seems apparent that a successor to Black in House District 100 will need to be found. Though the House does not formally convene until January 24th at 12 noon, terms began today January 1st. While the race for Speaker of the House is shaping up this is a great opportunity to search for a progressive candidate who could represent the dynamic demographics and vibrant economy of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and surrounding counties and municipalities should Black choose or, be forced to resign.

With Jim Black tangled up in ropes of his own making, positioning for Speaker of the North Carolina House is shifting into high gear. O-No! covered it today as did NC Policy Watch.

On Wednesday, three veteran lawmakers acknowledged their intentions to run for speaker if Black can't hold the position. Among them is Majority Leader Joe Hackney of Orange County, who previously had declined to talk about the possibility of a speaker's race. "It's obvious that there will be some people exploring that option as we go along, and I'd be one of them," Hackney said.