If there’s anything we’ve been repetitive about at Cardinal & Pine, it’s the power of voting. 

Tuesday’s primary election results, especially in one stunning local race, show the power of each and every vote. Michael McElroy has the rundown on Tuesday’s biggest results. 

The headline, of course, is that the single most powerful politician in NC—state Senate President Phil Berger—is behind his opponent by two votes. 

That’s not a typo. Two. Votes. 

Out of 26,000 votes cast, Berger trails his opponent, far-right local sheriff Sam Page, by two measly votes. In a recent Billy Ball Explains NC, we broke down why this race was the one to watch. It did not disappoint.

Get the latest on Tuesday’s outcomes, including the defeat of several prominent Democrats, by tapping here or on the button below.

NC Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger speaks at the Rocky Mount Events Center in Rocky Mount, NC, Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Karl B DeBlaker)

Happy Wednesday. It’s beautiful and warm outside, and the daffodils—those harbingers of spring—are blooming. 

Here’s what’s in today’s Cardinal & Pine newsletter: 

The sunset over the Intracoastal Waterway in Southport. Thanks to Cardinal & Pine reader Susan Mitchell for the soothing view. 

(Graphic by Kelly Lennon)

In the new Billy Ball Explains NC, we have a story that you won’t believe. There’s a serious rift between the US Coast Guard and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. 

Here’s why:

According to recent investigative reporting, a 23-year-old Coastie went overboard in the Pacific Ocean. The Coast Guard, naturally, went into search-and-rescue mode.

You won’t believe what happened next.

More Billy Ball Explains NC:

1. Roy Cooper, Michael Whatley clinch US Senate primaries in North Carolina. The Associated Press

“This fall’s US Senate race in North Carolina between Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley could determine which party controls Congress’ upper chamber.”

2. Thom Tillis’ legacy is a cautionary tale for the Trumpian age. MS Now

“He wasn’t MAGA enough for many of today’s Republicans, and liberals saw the senator repeatedly cave to Trump.”

3. NC teacher turnover stable in 2025, while number of teaching positions drops. WRAL

“The number of classrooms without a qualified teacher has been growing for years now.”

4. Foushee narrowly leads in NC-04 Democratic primary; recount likely. NC Newsline

“If the margin is one percentage point or less after provisional votes are counted, Allam may request a recount.”

(Via Queen City Comedy on Instagram)

We could all use a little more comedy.

The Charlotte area offers a golden opportunity starting Thursday with a Lake Norman comedy festival. “Laughs on LKN” begins Thursday, March 5 and runs through Saturday, March 7. 

The bill includes nationally recognized comedian Steve Hofstetter. Read more about it in 3 things happening in NC.

Do you want to support Cardinal & Pine’s mission while showcasing your products or services to an engaged audience of 200,000+ subscribers?

Contact advertise@couriernewsroom.com for more information.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Billy Ball. I’m an NC native and journalist. I tend to lean left on opinion, but I lean no way on facts. Today’s edition includes stories from Michael McElroy, The Associated Press, and Ryan Pitkin. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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