Wayne Goodwin grew up poor and with a father with debilitating mental health challenges.  These two experiences shaped the Hamlet native and his politics. In 1996, Wayne was 28-years old when he was elected to represent Richmond County in the NC House, a seat he held for 8 years before running for statewide office.     Wayne's life has been marked by incredible success and heart-wrenching loss, including the 2020 death of his beloved wife and political partner Melanie.  Wayne shares their love story and memorializes her service as a legislator who succeeded him in the General Assembly in 2005.   Skye and Brian also break down the latest John Locke Foundation/Civitas poll, talk about the Wilmington Trump/Budd rally, GOP/Dem messaging in swing legislative districts, the politics of Hurricane Ian, Tweet of the Week, and more.   The Do Politics Better podcast is sponsored by New Frame, the NC Travel Industry Association, and the NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association.