In 2025, uncertainty defined the country’s business climate. From tariffs and interest rates to softening labor and housing markets, the year brought hesitation to many parts of the country. North Carolina was not immune to those pressures. But the state entered the year well-positioned to navigate them — and in several key areas, to buck national trends altogether.

Just seven months after contract execution on May 9, the state’s housing recovery program has already moved from planning to real, visible results in communities that were hit hardest. In previous hurricanes, months often passed before programs were fully operational. This time, the program launched in just 38 days, setting an aggressive pace that has continued through every stage of implementation.

That rapid start mattered.

If North Carolina is to remain a place where neighbors help neighbors and local solutions thrive, then our elected leaders must make it clear: Washington has no business using government power to intimidate the people who strengthen our communities. 

Welcome back President Trump!