In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz welcomes Paul Barringer, a Democratic candidate for North Carolina's 13th Congressional District. Barringer, a lawyer and public servant, discusses his decision to run for office, shaped by a desire to bring grounded, ethical leadership to a district dealing with rapid urbanization and rural roots. He further elaborates on his career in health law and his work within the prison system.

The conversation covers Barringer's views on various policy issues including healthcare reform, immigration, common-sense gun laws, and the national debt, emphasizing his pragmatic and collaborative approach to governance. Liz and Paul also explore the challenges and opportunities of campaigning in a centrist district, concluding with a fun rapid-fire segment to get to know the candidate better.

In this episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis chats with Sydnie Hutchinson, a paralegal turned political candidate running for the North Carolina House of Representatives in District 108. Sydnie shares her motivation for entering politics, rooted in her extensive experience in the legal field, and discusses her community-focused platform which emphasizes affordable housing, strong public schools, accessible childcare, and healthcare. Tune in to hear about Sydnie’s grassroots campaign strategies, the challenges of running for office in a gerrymandered district, and the power of community organizing in Gaston County. Sydnie also reflects on her personal journey across different states and her return to North Carolina, underscoring the importance of local engagement and policy impact on everyday lives.

In this special bonus episode of The Foxfire Dispatch, host Liz Purvis from The Foxfire Dispatch and CJ Robinson and Adrian Brakeley from The Left of Old North reflect on the outcomes of the recent North Carolina municipal elections. We celebrate significant Democratic wins in various races, discuss the strategies that led to increased voter turnout, and share personal experiences and setups during election night.

The conversation also delves into the broader political landscape, touching on national events, grassroots organizing, and the importance of addressing affordability and everyday issues in future campaigns. Join Liz, CJ, and Adrian as we analyze the election results and what they mean for the road to the 2026 elections.