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NC Republicans Push Bill to Limit Attorney General’s Power to Challenge Trump’s Executive Orders
Raleigh -- Republicans in North Carolina have sponsored a new bill that would prohibit the state's attorney general from contesting executive orders that the president of the United States issues. Additionally, Senate Bill 58 (SB 58) would prevent the Attorney General from contesting the legality of legislation enacted by the General Assembly of North Carolina.
Many believe that this action is a reaction to Attorney General Jeff Jackson's recent engagement in a lawsuit challenging an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump.
Many believe that this action is a reaction to Attorney General Jeff Jackson's recent engagement in a lawsuit challenging an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump.
The Bill
Senate Bill 58 was introduced on February 5, 2025, by Republican Senators Eddie Settle, Bobby Hanig, and Timothy Moffitt. If passed, the law would restrict North Carolina’s Attorney General from challenging presidential executive orders and laws enacted by the state legislature in court.
Essentially, if the President or the state legislature makes a rule, the Attorney General wouldn’t be able to legally fight against it, even if they believe it’s unconstitutional or harmful to North Carolinians.
Why is this taking place?
The bill follows a lawsuit filed by Democratic Attorney General Jeff Jackson and several states to stop Trump's executive order that aims to abolish birthright citizenship, which is a constitutionally guaranteed right.
Republicans in North Carolina contend that the Attorney General shouldn't be permitted to contest federal laws or regulations through the use of state resources. They say it's a means of preventing legal issues from influencing the political course of the state.
Nonetheless, detractors claim the bill is a power grab meant to deprive the Attorney General of a crucial responsibility: defending North Carolinians' rights by opposing unjust laws.
Nonetheless, detractors claim the bill is a power grab meant to deprive the Attorney General of a crucial responsibility: defending North Carolinians' rights by opposing unjust laws.
A Trend of Changes in Power
The Republican-led legislature in North Carolina has attempted to curtail the authority of Democratic authorities before, as seen by this measure.
The General Assembly approved a measure back in December 2024 that limited the power of Attorney General Jackson and Democratic Governor-elect Josh Stein. A significant provision of that statute prohibited the Attorney General from taking part in legal actions that go against the legislature's position. This implies that even if a large number of people oppose a contentious law, the Attorney General cannot oppose it if the General Assembly approves it.
Concerns about North Carolina eroding the checks and balances that help keep the government from going too far have grown as a result of these actions.
The General Assembly approved a measure back in December 2024 that limited the power of Attorney General Jackson and Democratic Governor-elect Josh Stein. A significant provision of that statute prohibited the Attorney General from taking part in legal actions that go against the legislature's position. This implies that even if a large number of people oppose a contentious law, the Attorney General cannot oppose it if the General Assembly approves it.
Concerns about North Carolina eroding the checks and balances that help keep the government from going too far have grown as a result of these actions.
What Makes This Important to You?
North Carolinians may be impacted by this bill in the real world:
The Attorney General would not have the authority to challenge a statute passed by the federal government or state legislature that violates environmental standards, consumer safeguards, or civil rights.
Unconstitutional laws might not be challenged in court.
It might establish a precedent for additional restrictions on government jobs, which would make it more difficult for elected officials to speak for all citizens.
Opponents of the bill contend that it will reduce government accountability, while supporters contend that it will prevent litigation with political motivations.
What Takes Place Next?
The state Senate is currently considering SB 58. It will be sent to Governor Stein's desk for approval or veto if it passes both the Senate and the House.
Republicans, who have a majority, might attempt to override Stein's veto, as they have done with other laws.
Because this bill may influence how laws are challenged in the state for years to come, North Carolinians should keep up with this evolving narrative.
The state Senate is currently considering SB 58. It will be sent to Governor Stein's desk for approval or veto if it passes both the Senate and the House.
Republicans, who have a majority, might attempt to override Stein's veto, as they have done with other laws.
Because this bill may influence how laws are challenged in the state for years to come, North Carolinians should keep up with this evolving narrative.
Concluding remarks
Regardless of your stance on this law, one thing is certain: power is at stake, not just politics. Who determines what is constitutional and who has the authority to challenge laws?
Tell us what you think! Post your opinion in the comments section.
