Recorded live at UNCW's Burney Center on October 7, WHQR joined Port City Daily, WECT, and The Seahawk to put questions to the three Republicans and three Democrats running for state House and Senate seats representing parts of New Hanover County.

State Senator Michael Lee’s record on regulating Duke Energy and PFAS pollution has played a prominent role in campaign ads in his race against Democrat Jessica Bichler. While not exhaustive, WHQR explored several of the main claims, comparing Lee’s responses with experts and past reporting.

Hurricane Helene and the economic troubles it left behind influence what politicians say on the campaign trail.

At a Greenville rally this week, President Donald Trump said he will order swift settlement of remaining claims only if Republicans hold Congress.