Last week, we asked you what you think about Flock cameras.
The controversial technology can be used to identify license plates, and according to some police advocates, can help solve crimes. But they’re raising concerns about mass surveillance and privacy.
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(Video by Dylan Rhoney/Cardinal & Pine)
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Lots of you wrote us to give your 2 cents on Flock cameras. Most of you opposed them. Here are some of the messages we received. They have been lightly edited for brevity and clarity.
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- “I am against unwarranted government surveillance in every form.” — Paul Spanbauer
- “I just think that it’s unneeded, it’s unconstitutional, and I see these being in place and used for more nefarious reasons down the line. I just say nix the operation!!!” — Samantha Ristau
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“I think they have a use in fighting crime, but they are also an invasion of privacy of the average law abiding citizens.” — Jonathan Crank
- “These flock cameras are another step toward invasion of our privacy, another step in private interference and must be used in utmost caution. There must be cautious rules in their use.” — Davis Hinkle
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“Flock camera are a mixed bag. They can easily be abused to track down immigrants, innocent legal ones and illegal ones as well as being an invasion of privacy. Big brother is always watching and this is not far from 1984. What’s next, monitoring of phone conversations. What is happening in this country is a travesty of justice and very scary.” — Melanie Walker
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“If people aren’t doing anything in public to be concerned about it being wrong, then why should one worry if one is shown by a camera? Let the police catch those who are breaking the law using anything available to them. I approve of flock cameras.” — Sylvia
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“AI is constantly wrong and it can be manipulated by corrupt officials. We are supposed to be guaranteed to right to face our accuser in court in these cases, but how the hell do you face a camera or an AI program? Hell no to flock cameras.” — Eddie Knight
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“I think they’re a good idea. If you don’t do anything wrong, why worry?” — Mark Levin
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Thanks for writing, y’all.
For more on Flock cameras and how they’re being used in North Carolina, check out this info from C&P reporter Dylan Rhoney.
Here’s what else is in today’s C&P newsletter:
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- Sunset in Chatham County
- A bargain hunter’s dream returns
- What’s behind the Cyclosporiasis drama
- Getting ready for new election laws
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Billy Ball
Senior Newsletter Editor, Cardinal & Pine
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A bargain hunter’s dream, the 100-mile yard on US Highway 21 begins this week in North Carolina. (Shutterstock)
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“3 things happening in NC” is Cardinal & Pine’s weekly guide to the people, places, storylines, and events shaping NC news.
This week, we have big doings on a proposed PFAS deal with the Trump administration, and some glorious news for the bargain shoppers out there.
The 100-mile yard sale on US Highway 21 returns this week to western NC. You can expect sales across five counties, stretching all the way into Virginia.
C&P contributor Ryan Pitkin tells you what you need to know in this week’s “3 things happening in NC.”
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The Abortion Access Now campaign unites leading reproductive health, rights, and justice organizations from across the country to build and lead a broad, inclusive vision for abortion access and coverage. We envision a future where abortion is legal as well as accessible, affordable, and free from criminalization, stigma, or fear. Where everyone is supported in getting the care they want, no matter who they are, how much money they have, where they live, or where they come from. Learn more.
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1. Parasitic infections likely linked to farming practices, not restaurants. NC Health News
“Two state experts break down the mysteries around a complicated foodborne infection, Cyclosporiasis, that’s been gaining traction in North Carolina and across the nation.”
2. Black lands, Mexican bands: how a southern rural family built a Latino cultural hub. The Guardian
“As the Latino population of North Carolina booms, opportunities abound – and Donal Gooch is capitalizing on changing nature of his home region.”
3. US soldier killed in Iraq was a 30-year-old father from North Carolina. Associated Press
“A U.S. soldier killed in Iraq during a controlled detonation of an Iranian drone was a 30-year-old father from North Carolina who had served for nearly a decade, according to a military statement Tuesday and his family.”
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As we approach election season (again), there are a lot of voter changes to unpack. Look for us to do that in Cardinal & Pine’s upcoming 2026 voter guide.
But in the meantime, here’s some important news.
Recently, the North Carolina State Board of Elections—which came under Republican control in 2025—approved a rule change to state election procedures.
Under this new rule, it will be much easier for local boards of elections to toss your provisional ballot if you don’t bring an approved photo ID to vote.
Voters without a proper ID can complete an exemption form explaining their situation.
Prior to Thursday, all five county board members had to agree to reject a ballot cast using the exemption form.
Under the rule approved by the Republican majority on the board of elections, a simple majority would be sufficient to discount a ballot cast using the exemption form.
Before becoming official policy, this change must be approved by the North Carolina Rules Review Commission, which is also controlled by Republicans.
In other words, this is probably going to happen. So let’s all get smarter and prepared. What are some acceptable forms of ID in North Carolina?
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Are you enjoying this newsletter?
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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 Ryan Pitkin, Dylan Rhoney, and USA Today Network via Reuters Connect. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.
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