Duke Energy's $300K PAC spending reshapes North Carolina's 2022 elections
Duke Energy's political action committee (PAC) has poured significant funds into North Carolina's 2022 elections. The energy giant's contributions reached over $300,000, backing 77 legislative candidates across party lines. Among the recipients were top lawmakers, including Senate Minority Leader Dan Blue, Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger, and House Speaker Tim Mooreâeach receiving the maximum allowable donation of $5,400.
In August 2021, Duke Energy faced opposition when Rep. Elmer Floyd attempted to block an amendment to a contentious ratemaking bill backed by the company. Despite this, Floyd later received $5,400 from Duke's PAC in his March 2022 primary. A separate 527 group, run by former Duke employees, also spent at least $13,940 on TV ads supporting him.
Most candidates funded by Duke's PAC had either supported Senate Bill 559 or resisted amendments that would have softened its more disputed measures. Meanwhile, Rep. Larry Strickland, a conservative Republican who authored an amendment against S559, received no contributions from the company.
The PAC's influence extends to key election races. Former Sen. Wesley Meredith, a Duke-backed candidate, will challenge Sen. Kirk deViere, a Democrat who voted against S559, in November 2022. Similarly, former Sen. Mike Lee, also supported by Duke's PAC, will run against Sen. Harper Peterson, a vocal opponent of the bill.
Duke Energy has defended its contributions, stating that its employee-led PAC supports candidates from both parties whose energy policies align with the views of its workforce.
The funding highlights Duke Energy's active role in shaping North Carolina's political landscape. With over $300,000 spent in this election cycle, the company's PAC has backed candidates who largely favour its legislative priorities. The outcomes of these races could further solidify the bill's impact on state energy policy.
