• By far the top story of the day is the retirement of Rep. Mike McIntyre, D-7th District, who has served since 1997. Former state Sen. David Rouzer, R-Johnston, and New Hanover County Commission Chairman Woody White, another former GOP state senator, are seeking the Republican nomination. Party heavyweights are backing each candidate.
• Meantime, New Hanover County Commissioner Jonathan Barfield, who last year announced plans to run against McIntyre for the Democratic nomination, may have a relatively clear path to the November ballot.
• Charlotte pastor Mark Harris, who’s running as a Republican for the U.S. Senate seat held by Democrat Kay Hagan, wins the endorsement of Concerned Women for America’s PAC, a group that opposes same-sex marriage and supports other culturally conservative causes.
• A preview of Iredell County races from the Mooresville Tribune indicates that there will be plenty of local, down-ballot contests across North Carolina to watch closely.
• Politico profiles 10 major donors and groups that will weigh in on key Democratic and Republican races, several on single issues including same-sex marriage, campaign finance, and gun control.