The News & Observer is tracking major developments across North Carolina on Sept. 11, 2026, from a presidential campaign stop to a beloved Durham restaurant’s closing.
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Here’s a quick look at the top stories you shouldn’t miss today.
Trump heads to Gastonia: President Donald Trump will address supporters Wednesday at Gastonia Municipal Airport, the White House said. The visit aims to give a boost to Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley in his hometown.
CDLs resume for non-citizens: The North Carolina DMV can again issue commercial driver’s licenses to non-citizens after complying with federal policies. New federal rules, however, make it harder for immigrants to obtain a CDL, and the licenses may be rare going forward.
Rethinking Nash Square: Raleigh is considering a redesign of downtown’s Nash Square that could expand the central plaza around the fallen firefighters memorial, widen the circular path for added seating and reclaim road and parking space.
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A notable El Niño ahead: North Carolina may be facing one of the most significant El Niño patterns on record, a climate cycle in which parts of the Pacific Ocean heat up. The pattern tends to bring wetter winters to the state and other Southern states.
Lula & Sadie’s closing: A beloved Southern food restaurant in Durham is closing after six years of serving customers. The spot will shift its focus to catering, so fans can still get its dishes.
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists. The source reporting referenced above was written and edited entirely by journalists.
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