Just got out of federal court hearing on the case involving church leaders challenging @NC_Governor exec orders. Judge James Dever III asked, "Why doesn't the governor trust the leaders and members of religious entities in the same way he trusts, seemingly, everyone else?" @WNCN
The judge repeatedly brought up the example of people working side by side at places like UPS and Amazon but not being allowed to gather for worship on the weekend @WNCN
He also brought up the provision that allows for 50 people to attend a funeral service but still caps indoor religious services at 10. "What's the difference?" he asked @WNCN
He questioned a line in the most recent executive order that says services "shall take place outdoors unless impossible." Dever sought clarification on what "impossible" means and ultimately who has to determine that? @WNCN
"I don't question the good faith of anyone. I don't question the good faith of the governor. I don't question the good faith of the plaintiffs," Judge Dever said @WNCN
The plaintiffs are seeking a temporary restraining order. Even though specific churches are named as parties in the lawsuit, they told the judge they want his decision to apply statewide @WNCN
Judge Dever did not announce a decision in court and left for another hearing @WNCN
Following the hearing, Solicitor General Ryan Park (who represented the Governor) declined to comment. Dr. Ronnie Baity, who brought the case, said he was optimistic the judge would rule in favor of the churches @WNCN
JUST IN: @NC_Governor office responds to decision in federal case regarding churches and the state’s executive orders. He won’t appeal @WNCN 
