In a heartfelt reflection fitting the seasonal sentiment, Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina has taken to the press to enumerate the many reasons he's grateful this year. Coming up on his first anniversary as governor, Stein's "25 Things I’m Thankful For in 2025" list runs the gamut, acknowledging the contributions of everyone from park rangers to farmworkers, philanthropists to teachers. A statement from the Governor's Office, released in advance of Thanksgiving, has Stein striking a tone of appreciation for the community efforts and the state’s natural charms.
Stein’s reflections, accessible on the Governor's Office website, showcase a leader trying to keenly connect with his constituents. "Helene Heroes across western North Carolina who are dedicating themselves to getting their neighbors back on their feet," he begins, referring to the regional response to the aftermath of a storm. Stein extends his gratitude to the "tireless men and women at the Department of Transportation who have reopened 98% of Helene-impacted state roads," in an effort to underscore the quick recovery and resilience of his state's infrastructure.
But not only public servants and emergency staff made the governor's list. The governor was effusive about the state’s "culture of innovation," sports achievements, and culinary delights. Stein pays homage to a diverse array of contributors to the state's vibrancy – from first responders to "the farmers who grow our food" and "the culture of innovation that fuels our leadership in life sciences, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and even dinosaur discoveries."
It's a personal message, too. Governor Stein didn't shy away from giving a special shout-out to his wife, the First Lady of North Carolina, whom he credits with changing "the narrative on opioid stigma and prison reentry in our state." Yet, the list isn't all about the big hits. It includes nods to the smaller-scale joys that cumulative uplift a community, like North Carolina’s musical talents and the "thriving statewide craft beer industry," showing an effort to really touch base with the state's cultural touchstones.
The column rounds out with a universal message, as Stein writes, "Every single person who, when they see their neighbor down, helps them get back on their feet." The governor's Thanksgiving message is comprehensive in its inclusivity, reinforcing North Carolina’s community spirit and resiliency. While political positioning often comes into play with such public statements, Stein’s list reads as a straightforward tribute to the wide spectrum of North Carolina life, as noted by the Governor's Office.
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