Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,

In the August 14, 2025 edition of this paper, Rep. Jimmy Dixon’s column bore the headline “Liberal machine backs Roy Cooper’s bid to ‘Californicate’ North Carolina.” I do not know if Rep. Dixon wrote that headline or if it was supplied for him. Either way, the headline is hardly worthy of publication and appeals to the baser instincts of your readers and Duplin County voters.

The term “Californication” first appeared in Time magazine in 1966 and later in the 1970’s to describe the widespread development of land and the increasing influence of California culture nationwide. Nevertheless, the combination of the words California and fornication is not a subtle or innocent description.

Gov. Cooper has faithfully served North Carolina for several decades. It is one thing to disagree with your opponent and offer constructive alternative policies. It is quite another thing to disparage that person’s character and motives, even with a casual reference to “Californication.” While the headline supposedly lays blame on the “liberal machine,” it also directly attributes a vulgar intent to Gov. Cooper.

Gov. Cooper is a man of faith and a ruling elder in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) who has dedicated his life to serving the people of North Carolina. Disagree with him if you must, but do not stoop so low as the article’s headline blatantly does.

Philip and Nancy Gladden

Wallace, North Carolina