Good morning. Republican and Democratic elected officials in North Carolina and across the nation use their power to skew election results and limit competition from independent candidates, former Gov. Pat McCrory said during a stop in Fayetteville on Thursday.
“The rules are outrageous. The rules are meant to discourage any competition outside of Republicans and Democrats,” he said. And the two major parties also make most general elections meaningless thanks to partisan primaries that often predetermine the outcomes of general elections, he added. Read more in today’s lead story.
Welcome to CityView Today. In today’s newsletter, about 600 students from across Cumberland County gathered at South View High School Wednesday for a high-energy driving safety showcase that paired gravity-defying basketball stunts with a sobering message: risky choices behind the wheel can cost lives. Plus, Senior Columnist Bill Kirby Jr. returns with his Friday notes column.
Thanks for reading,
Valeria Cloës
Magazine Editor & Lead Copy Editor

Pat McCrory: Republicans, Democrats Block Competition from Independents
The former North Carolina governor visited Fayetteville this week and talked rigged elections, gerrymandering, and why voters need more choices.
More from CityView
Slam DUNK: Driving Safety Showcase Reaches 600 Students at South View High
About 600 students from across Cumberland County gathered at South View High School Wednesday for a high-energy driving safety showcase that paired gravity-defying basketball stunts with a sobering message: risky choices behind the wheel can cost lives.
THE KIRBY FILE: Familiar Face Assumes Leadership of Promoting City and County Tourism
Michelle Williams has been on the job as the new president and chief executive officer of DistiNCtly Fayetteville since January 1.
Events
KIDS NIGHT OUT AT THE GARDEN
- Where: Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville
- When: 6-9 p.m. today
- What: In this out-of-this-world evening adventure, kids will explore the wonders of the moon and stars through hands-on science experiments, moon-themed crafts, and glow-in-the-dark games.
WINTER HIGH TEA
- Where: Anchor Allies, 1204 Bragg Blvd., Fayetteville
- When: 1-5 p.m. today
- What: Join us for a winter-themed high tea at our Siren’s Lounge.
R&B KARAOKE
- Where: World of Beer Bar & Kitchen, 1944 Skibo Road, Fayetteville
- When: 8 p.m. today
- What: Join us for R&B Karaoke Night, featuring classics and favorites from past decades to today.
Obituaries
Faye Livengood Humphrey
Faye Livengood Humphrey, 86, passed away on Wednesday, January 14.
Willie Earleane Oliver
Willie Earleane Oliver, 74, passed away on Tuesday, December 30.
Deborah Naomi Borner
Deborah Naomi Borner, 36, passed away on Saturday, January 10.
Until tomorrow!
🏢 City and county government offices and the court system will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday. Click here for more information on city closures and services. For more information on county closures, click here. And click here for information on the Fayetteville Public Works Commission closure.





