Money In Politics

January 8, 2013 - The parent company of Reynolds Tobacco is a key sponsor of events celebrating North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory's inauguration this weekend, capping an aggressive year of political spending by the tobacco giant.

December 21, 2012 - Wealthy Republican donor Art Pope has been building influence and clout for years in North Carolina. Appointed this week to direct the state's budget, he now finds himself with his hands on the levers of power.

December 21, 2012 - The GOP control of the House came despite more votes for Democrats. How did that happen? Republicans used dark money to control redistricting in many states, as the experience of North Carolina illustrates.

December 21, 2012 - There are growing calls for better gun regulation in the wake of the Sandy Hook elementary school massacre. But what are gun-control advocates up against when they take on the National Rifle Association?

December 21, 2012 - Dec. 22 marks four years since a coal ash impoundment collapsed at a TVA power plant in Tennessee, inundating a community and two rivers. As EPA drags its feet over issuing federal coal ash rules, politicians backed by industry interests are maneuvering to block the agency's ability to protect people and the environment -- even though their states have been adversely affected by poor regulation.

November 21, 2012 - Conservative donor Art Pope's money helped the GOP take control of North Carolina's legislature in 2010. In 2012, Pope's family, business and groups helped fuel even bigger Republican gains in the battleground state.

November 14, 2012 - Outside groups unleashed more than $14 million into North Carolina state races, helping fuel Republican victories across the state.