Wages, economic worries take center stage at NC AFL-CIO convention

Like a lot of people who’ve moved to North Carolina in recent years, Christa Jackson was looking for a lower cost of living. These days, she’s not finding it.

“I moved here three years ago from Los Angeles. Never thought that my very fuel-efficient, 12-gallon car would cost me $46 to fill-up here,” said Jackson. “It’s ridiculous.”

Jackson, a member of the Actors Equity Association, attended the North Carolina AFL-CIO’s annual convention in Cary to discuss policies that would improve the outlook for working families struggling in the current economy.

Gov. Josh Stein did not shy away from addressing one of the greatest economic disparities in the state as he addressed the convention Thursday.

A new report released over Labor Day weekend ranked North Carolina as the worst state in the country for workers. By contrast, in each of the last six years, North Carolina has been ranked number one or number two in the nation for business.

Labor Day 2026: North Carolina ranks best for business economy, dead last for workers (opens in a new tab)

“The General Assembly has not raised the minimum wage in 17 years,” said Stein. “And the minimum wage for tipped workers is $2.13 an hour. You have to work an hour to fill up your gas tank with half a gallon.”

Republican state lawmakers have argued it’s unnecessary to raise the $7.25 minimum wage because many employers already pay more than that in the current labor market. But advocates say that isn’t always the case, especially in rural areas where unemployment is higher.

Stein also pointed out that North Carolina is the only state in the country with a complete ban on collective bargaining by public employees.

“Shame! Shame!” responded union members in the audience.

Stein told the audience of 250 labor activists that it is possible to build an economy that supports both working people and businesses.

“Strengthen public education. Invest in workforce development, including apprentices. Lower the cost of living. And make sure that you all have a seat at the table,” said Stein.