Elite 8: The Ultimate N.C. Politics Showdown

You have one day to cast your vote to fill out the Final Four

We’re down to the Elite 8 in the our bracket, and it’s clear now — these are the heavyweight contenders.

The #1 seeds are holding strong, but a few underdogs have pulled off impressive runs. The John Locke Foundation knocked off Jesse Helms, proving that intellect can outlast even the most dominant political figures. And in one of the biggest surprises, the COVID lockdowns have fought their way past historical events and scandals to reach this stage.

From governors vs. think tanks to BBQ vs. basketball, these are the matchups that define North Carolina. Who moves on to the Final Four? You decide.

Power Players Region

(1) Jim Hunt vs. (11) The John Locke Foundation

This matchup is all about power — who has it, how they wield it, and which type of influence lasts longer.

Gov. Jim Hunt was a towering political force, a four-term governor who built a modern Democratic machine and left his fingerprints on the state’s economy and education system. The John Locke Foundation obviously never held office, but its fingerprints are all over today’s conservative policy agenda.

Hunt made his impact through elections, speeches, and policy; the John Locke Foundation shaped the state through research, advocacy, and behind-the-scenes persuasion. This is the ultimate battle of institutional power vs. ideological influence. Which one defines N.C. politics more?

Moments Region

(1) The 2010 Republican Revolution vs. (14) COVID Lockdowns

Two moments that fundamentally changed North Carolina politics — but in very different ways.

The 2010 Republican Revolution was a well-planned electoral victory that flipped a century of Democratic control on its head and reshaped the state’s government for a decade. The COVID lockdowns were an unforeseen crisis, a moment that forced politicians into action and created massive political divides in the process.

One was about gaining control of the system; the other was about reacting to a system under stress. Both led to lasting policy changes, court battles, and new political alliances. But which moment had the biggest — and longest — impact?

Traditions Region

(1) East vs. West BBQ Debate vs. (10) College Basketball Rivalries

Few things divide North Carolina quite like these two debates — but in the best way possible. No matter where you go in the state, you can strike up a conversation with a stranger on either topic, and you’ll hear references to them throughout the halls of power.

Both divide the state in fierce and sometimes irrational ways. But which of these legendary rivalries carries more weight in shaping N.C.’s identity?

Rhetoric Region

(1) Esse Quam Videri vs. (3) The Elevator Queen

This is a battle between the old school and the new school of political branding. “Esse Quam Videri” is classic and represents the state’s aspiration to be authentic, real, and substantial. Cherie Berry’s “Elevator Queen” phenomenon, on the other hand, is pure meme culture. It turned the labor commissioner role from a little-known politician into a folk hero — without a single TV ad.

One is deep, timeless, and philosophical. The other is modern, viral, and unforgettable. Which one better captures North Carolina politics?

Time to vote

Polls are open for 24 hours. Cast your votes and help decide who reaches the Final Four. We’ll start the next matchup on Monday.