By Helen Wilson
While greeting delegates early this morning, Chief Justice Paul Newby swore in the 2026 YAG Conference. As a former judge and current Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court, Newby spoke about leadership, responsibility, and the foundation of our rights.
He challenged delegates with a central question: What is the source of our rights? Throughout his speech, his answer became clear. Our rights do not come from the government alone, but from a higher source – a foundation that shapes the social contract rather than being defined by it.
Newby recently returned from Ukraine, where he encouraged judges working amid conflict. He reminded delegates how fortunate we are to debate in peace and to exercise freedoms many around the world are still fighting for.
Working directly in the Supreme Court of North Carolina, Newby sees firsthand the disagreements and controversies that shape the state. Still, he emphasized unity in purpose. “Everybody is trying to do what is best for our state,” Newby said. “You can disagree on how someone attempts to make change.”
His message reflected the Golden Rule: treat others as you want to be treated. As the United States and North Carolina approach their 250th anniversaries, he urged young leaders to engage thoughtfully with the issues that define who we are.
Involvement in Youth and Government, he said, opens doors to opportunities that can shape both your life and the lives of others. He closed with a final reminder: “Let your views be known, but in a kind and respectful way.”
