WakeMed leaders have defended a proposed partnership with Charlotte-based Atrium Health, despite state officials' concerns about costs, transparency, and the effect of another major health system merger. The proposed agreement, which would see Atrium invest $2 billion into WakeMed while WakeMed maintains a majority of seats on its Board of Directors, would create 3,300 new health care jobs and allow the hospital system to expand services more quickly. The deal was delayed by the Wake County Board of Commissioners after strong pushback from elected officials and community members. State Auditor Dave Boliek praised the decision to delay the vote, while state employee Nicole Hunter expressed concern over the potential effects of consolidated services. WakeMed President and CEO Donald Gintzig said the partnership was the best path forward, with the hospital spending two years conducting due diligence before concluding the partnership.