WPTF Morning News

Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page discusses why he is running against Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger in the Republican primary for Senate District 26. Page addresses claims made in campaign ads, outlines his views on immigration and casino gambling, and argues the district needs more transparency and local representation.

Barbara Hagen, Vice President of Marketing for ThriftBooks discusses new data revelations show Americans want to reduce screen time and read more in 2026 but have trouble getting started. They’re inviting the country to get their pages in by launching a "500 Billion Page Challenge."

Leslie Counselor, Regional CEO for Eastern Carolinas BioMed Red Cross discusses the blood shortage across the state.

Charlie Berens – Comedian – appearing at Meymandi Hall on April 18 - talks with Lisa Price about "THE LOST & FOUND TOUR" and his new stand-up special "NEIGHBORLY" which can be streamed for FREE on YouTube.

North Carolina Rail Division Director Jason Orthner discusses another year of record ridership for NC By Train and what’s driving the surge in rail travel. He also explains how severe weather affects rail operations, highlights new and expanded routes, and outlines major infrastructure projects shaping the future of passenger rail across the state.

Chas Webb, co-chair of the American Society of Civil Engineers’ report card project, explains why North Carolina earned an overall C-minus for its infrastructure. He discusses aging water systems, low marks for dams and wastewater, how aviation fared statewide, and why sustained funding and new technology are critical to future improvements.

Jackson Hewitt Chief Tax Officer Mark Steber explains major tax law changes taking effect this year, why many Americans could see larger refunds, and who stands to benefit the most. He also shares why filing early matters, how to protect against refund fraud, and what taxpayers should know before April 15.

Ardis Watkins, Executive Director of the State Employees Association of North Carolina discusses the letter sent by the group to GA leaders and Governor Stein about elimination of unfilled jobs, hiring, and what they would like done to improve roles for State Employees.

Colonel Mark Almond with the North Carolina National Guard discusses with Lisa Price the new National Guard museum being constructed on Blue Ridge Road in Raleigh, and the long history of the National Guard in our state.

Former North Carolina Sen. Floyd McKissick Jr. shares personal memories of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., his father’s role in the civil rights movement, and the progress made since the 1960s. He also reflects on the setbacks facing civil rights today and urges listeners to remain engaged in protecting the movement's gains.

Nationally recognized youth activist and Emory Law student Greear Webb shares what the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday means to young leaders today. Webb discusses justice, community, public service, and how Dr. King’s vision continues to shape his path in law and civil rights.

Aviation analyst Jay Ratliff breaks down a new FAA advisory warning airlines about potential military activity and GPS interference over parts of Latin America. He also explains why airlines are tightening rules on lithium battery devices and what travelers should know before flying.

Mark Hall, Vice President of Partner Relations with Hope Center Ministries spoke with Lisa Price about the organization, their locations, history, and to promote the “Beyond the Blind” fundraising event on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Johnson Community College with speaker Jase Robertson of Duck Dynasty

President Trump has considered invoking the Insurrection Act in Minnesota, this coming as a response to the public response to ICE activity in Minneapolis. Tony Riggsbee talks with CBS News Legal Analyst Thane Rosenbaum about the President's comments and what invoking the Insurrection Act might mean.

Tony Riggsbee speaks with Alex Campbell the Public Policy Analyst for the NC Budget & Tax Center to discuss the NC Commissioners Economic Forum this week and ideas and his thoughts on the speakers, their thoughts and forecasts, and the Durham Economy for All forum on Jan. 22.

Tony Riggsbee joins Candace DeMatteis, PFID Vice President of Policy and Advocacy to discuss poll by the Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease (PFID) revealing most American voters, regardless of political affiliation, support the continued availability of FDA-approved vaccines and express concern over declining childhood vaccination rates.

The Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Weekend is more than a celebration; it’s a call to reflect, serve, and come together as a community. Jon Champion speaks with Pam Thompson Smith, Program Manager for the Triangle MLK Jr. Committee, to discuss the events planned across the region, the legacy of Dr. King, and the many ways people can participate, volunteer, and give back.

Kerwin Pittman, Founder and Executive Director of Recidivism Reduction Education Program Services, Inc. (RREPS) spoke to Lisa Price about serving 11 years and six months in prison for conspiracy to commit murder, and how this inspired him to purchase the former Wayne Correction Center in Goldsboro to create re-entry housing and a workforce campus where formerly incarcerated people can attain job s...

Garner Mayor Buddy Gupton joins Tony Riggsbee to discuss Garner's participation in the National Community Survey and also our community's MLK Celebration, which will be this coming Sunday at Garner Performing Arts Center.

Dr. Jeffrey Tayloe, Jr. founder of Goldsboro Pediatrics, PA, and former president of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the NC Pediatric Society joins Tony Riggsbee to talk about what you need to know about hepatitis b vaccine changes and safety OpEd in the N&O.

Tony Riggsbee joins Dr. Michael Bitzer, Professor of Politics & History Director, Center for North Carolina Politics & Public Service with Catawba College to discuss the state legislators who changed office and the expanding power of the presidency with recent ICE activities and protests.

Tony Riggsbee speaks with CBS News White House Correspondent Natalie Brand about the President recent actions towards Jerome Powel, as well as the recent protest and potential American response in Iran.

Rawle Andrews Jr., Executive Director of the American Psychiatric Association Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), discusses with Lisa Price how new year’s resolutions are shifting toward mental health with 53% of U.S. adults feeling anxious about 2026 uncertainties.

Tony Riggsbee speaks with Rob Tart, the CEO of the Durham Rescue Mission to discuses what they have planned for this year and how you might be able to help.

Tony Riggsbee joins Dr. Michael Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and Extension Economist at North Carolina State University and a member of the Graduate Economics faculty with The Poole College of Management to discuss comparison to the 1990’s economy article, student loan repayment program, and oil stock prices possibly rising due to action in Venezuela.