News & Observer week in review May 2-8
Griffin concedes NC Supreme Court race after federal ruling
Republican Jefferson Griffin has conceded the NC Supreme Court race to Democratic incumbent Allison Riggs, ending a contentious six-month legal battle. Griffin’s unprecedented challenge to overturn more than 65,000 votes was rejected by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers. The State Board of Elections will certify Riggs’ 734-vote victory on May 13, maintaining the court’s composition of five Republicans and two Democrats.
Reported by Kyle Ingram, published May 7
Firing squad as execution option stalls in General Assembly
Some North Carolina Republicans introduced House Bill 270 this legislative session, which would have introduced a firing squad and electrocution as alternative execution methods alongside lethal injection. But while the bill passed through committees, it did not reach a full House vote by a key legislative deadline. The bill followed South Carolina’s model, which recently carried out its first firing squad execution in the state’s history. North Carolina’s legislation aimed to address the state’s nearly two-decade pause on executions due to legal challenges.
Reported by Avi Bajpai, published May 5
Triangle housing market shows signs of volatility this spring
The Triangle housing market is experiencing increased volatility with more deals falling through and longer selling times. Raleigh’s median sale price reached $438,500 in February, up 14.8% from last year, while Durham’s rose to $420,000, up 5%. Market uncertainty is attributed to new tariffs and budget cuts affecting various sectors. Despite challenges, well-presented homes in desirable locations still attract multiple offers, and inventory has increased by over 50% in both cities.
Reported by Chantal Allam, published May 3
Award-winning Duck-Rabbit Brewery closes after two decades
The Duck-Rabbit Craft Brewery in Farmville has permanently closed after more than 20 years of operation. Founded in 2004, the brewery filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, despite its impressive track record of winning multiple awards. That includes several medals at the 2022 Carolinas Championship of Beer and the Great American Beer Festival. Known for its milk stout and various other year-round offerings, the closure marks another setback for North Carolina’s brewing industry, following recent shutdowns of other establishments like New Anthem’s locations.
Reported by Renee Umsted , published May 5
New Publix store set to open in Rolesville
A new Publix grocery store is scheduled to open at 821 S. Main St. in Rolesville on May 21 at 7 a.m. The 46,791-square-foot facility will employ approximately 140 associates. This expansion is part of Publix’s broader growth strategy in the Triangle area, with three more stores planned for Johnston, Wake and Durham counties. The Florida-based grocer currently operates 10 stores in the Triangle region, contributing to the area’s dynamic grocery retail landscape.
Reported by Renee Umsted, published May 2
NC Republicans aim for June budget agreement with Gov. Stein
North Carolina Republican legislators are working to deliver a state budget to Gov. Josh Stein by June, with Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger expressing confidence in meeting this timeline. The process involves passing both Senate and House versions before final negotiations. Republicans are seeking Democratic support, particularly in the House where they lack a supermajority. The budget must reach Stein by June 20 to allow the full 10-day review period.
Reported by Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan, published May 4
This story was originally published May 8, 2025 at 6:17 PM with the headline "News & Observer week in review May 2-8."