FCC & Federal Appointments: President Trump nominated North Carolina native Danielle Thumann Severs to the FCC, a move that could shift control of the commission and affect whether the agency can operate with a full quorum. Criminal Justice & Public Safety: The NC Alcohol Law Enforcement Division and the state ABC Commission suspended the 601 Bar’s permits in Dunn after a fatal Aug. 2 shooting tied to a history of violence and repeated calls for service. Attorney General Politics: Sen. Bill Cassidy said he’ll support Todd Blanche for attorney general, helping keep Blanche’s confirmation on track after GOP opposition from other senators. State Elections & Policy: North Carolina’s election board approved early voting plans for 80 counties, as lawmakers continue pushing election changes toward the governor. Legal & Civil Rights: DOJ accused Duke Law School of illegally using race-linked proxies in admissions, raising new questions about how universities comply with federal civil-rights rules. Local Government & Community: Wayne County approved more than $342,000 in opioid settlement funds for recovery-focused programs, including a day reporting center and a nonprofit support effort. Pageantry & Culture War: A Duplin County woman says she was stripped of her Miss North Carolina USA title over conservative Christian beliefs and political views, after resurfaced comments sparked the removal.