Democrats on a legislative commission charged with oversight of state spending were rebuffed when they asked for information about how private schools and crisis pregnancy centers are using taxpayer dollars. 

“We’re taking advantage of the process that’s been created,” said Senate Democratic leader Dan Blue of Raleigh. “As we look at it, that’s our responsibility.” 

While Democrats aren’t used to setting the agenda, “we have an equal interest as Democratic lawmakers in upholding our obligation to be good stewards of the public taxpayer dollars,” he said.