There are two competing political narratives on the state’s budget picture. The question is whether voters will buy either one.

When a budget surplus was predicted last week, Democrats and Republicans pounced.

“Chicken Littles on the left loudly cried North Carolina would lose so much tax revenue that students wouldn’t have teachers, roads wouldn’t be built and our universities might have to close,” said Senate Boss Phil Berger.

Democratic Sen. Dan Blue responded: “Thanks to this Republican tax code, people are making less money, giant corporations are keeping more, and middle class families are paying an enormous price.”

The same happened on paying off North Carolina’s unemployment debt early. Republicans called it good management. Democrats called it cruel treatment of people without jobs.

No doubt, both parties will keep pushing these conflicting narratives. No doubt the media and pundits will debate who’s winning.

But how much difference will it all make in 2016?

Voters will vote – focusing mainly on President and Governor – based on who they believe can best manage the overall economy.

Raleigh-centric debates about surpluses and deficits aren’t likely to get many toes tapping.