McCrory’s rise, reckoning and political legacy, with author Andrew Dunn

Pat McCrory helped shape modern Charlotte during his record-setting tenure as mayor. But his four years as North Carolina governor — and the political controversies that followed — left a more complicated legacy. In this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Ledger editor Tony Mecia talks with journalist and author Andrew Dunn about his new book, “The Change Agent: Pat McCrory’s Rise, Reckoning, and Legacy.” Dunn discusses McCrory’s role in bringing the light rail to Charlotte, his relationship with the Republican-led General Assembly and how the controversial HB2 law overshadowed other parts of his governorship. The conversation also explores the political fallout from the I-77 toll lanes, behind-the-scenes stories from McCrory’s career and what his experience reveals about North Carolina politics today. This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is presented by the Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte’s 2026 Parade of Homes, on Sept. 19, 20, 26 and 27, from 1 to 5 p.m. Experience inspiration and explore possibilities by enjoying this free, self-guided tour of the latest in design and craftsmanship in the Charlotte area’s most desirable homes and communities. Visit ParadeofHomesCharlotte.com to map your tour. This episode was produced by Lindsey Banks. For more information on The Charlotte Ledger, go to TheCharlotteLedger.com.