A utility watchdog and its hired expert scoured Duke Energy rate-hike filings and uncovered numerous instances where the company inappropriately charged customers for things like political contributions and a sports team sponsorship. They're calling on state regulators to fine Duke at least $5 million for the violations.

The Texas-based group that targets alleged voter fraud is suing the IRS for refusing to grant its request for tax-exempt status. But the agency has cause to be skeptical about True the Vote's claims of non-partisanship.

Facing South's report on Art Pope's role in killing a pioneering election reform in North Carolina garners national attention -- and a statement from Pope that doesn't dispute any facts of the original story.