by Dr. Mark Creech
RevMarkCreech.org
While no direct legislative action occurred this week on the core issues that Return America typically monitors – religious liberty, parental rights, the sanctity of life, and moral policy – several developments in Raleigh deserve our attention. None of these should be viewed in isolation. Each is part of the larger landscape shaping the climate in which future policy battles could unfold.
Below is a brief overview of the three most consequential items.
1. Medicaid Funding Dispute
Governor Josh Stein says the state is more than $300 million short on Medicaid funding and wants lawmakers to return to Raleigh immediately. Republican leaders disagree. They argue his call for a special session is unconstitutional and point out that the legislature already provided nearly $600 million earlier this year—money they believe is enough to carry Medicaid well into 2026. They insist the Governor is turning this into a political fight. At the same time, the state health department has begun cutting payments to providers, which the Governor says proves more funds are needed.
Why this matters:
This situation creates uncertainty. If the Republicans are right, there is little to be concerned about at the moment, because the state is operating under last year’s budget and the core programs that matter to churches, ministries, and families are already funded. But if the Governor is right and legislators feel pressured to rush back to Raleigh, that is where the danger lies. Quick budget fixes can sometimes allow troubling social-policy provisions to be slipped in without proper review—provisions that stand against the values of Return America supporters.
These are the moments that require close watching, because political disputes like this can create openings for policies that do not reflect our convictions.
2. Legal Challenges to the NC Congressional Map
A federal three-judge panel is now considering an injunction against the congressional map passed by the General Assembly. If the map is blocked, it could reshape representation ahead of the 2026 elections. Legislative leaders are closely watching the case, as the outcome carries implications for both state and federal political dynamics.
Why this matters:
Redistricting battles influence not just electoral outcomes, but the ideological balance of the legislature itself. A shift in congressional or legislative representation can alter the trajectory of every moral, social, and cultural issue Return America cares about—from religious liberty legislation to protections for life, to the defense of biblical norms in public policy.
3. ICE Enforcement Activity Across North Carolina
ICE enforcement officers have been active across the state this week, including in Charlotte and several other communities. These operations have involved the arrest of individuals who are clearly in violation of U.S. immigration law. From a faithful biblical perspective, the government has the legitimate authority, and even the responsibility to uphold lawful borders and enforce immigration statutes. Yet many of those detained have lived here for years, worked jobs, raised families, and become woven into the life of local neighborhoods and, at times, local churches. This tension often leads to ICE officers being unfairly villainized for simply carrying out the duties assigned to them by federal law.
Why this matters:
ICE activity across North Carolina is something to monitor, not because the law should not be enforced, but because enforcement must be carried out in ways that preserve human dignity. Our immigration situation is exceedingly painful for many because it sits at the crossroads of justice and compassion. We uphold the necessity of law, yet we cannot ignore the human stories, family ties, and even some ministry relationships that make this issue so emotionally and spiritually charged.
Although the General Assembly did not advance any legislation this week directly touching the issues Return America exists to defend, the developments we have highlighted are far from insignificant. Political standoffs, legal battles, and federal enforcement actions all help shape the environment in which future legislative decisions will be made. They affect the mood, momentum, and priorities of lawmakers, and they create moments – sometimes subtle, sometimes sudden – when policies contrary to our convictions can emerge with little warning.
For these reasons, continued vigilance is essential. We watch not only the bills introduced or debated, but also the broader currents that shape North Carolina’s direction. Whether it is a budget dispute that could open the door to last-minute policy provisions, a redistricting case that may shift the ideological balance of power, or immigration enforcement that touches both law and compassion, each of these matters remind us that the work of protecting truth in public life requires both awareness, biblical resolve, and most importantly, prayer.
As always, Return America remains committed to monitoring these developments closely and standing ready to alert our supporters the moment action is needed. Together, we continue to labor for policies that honor God’s Word, safeguard our liberties, and strengthens the moral fabric of North Carolina.
