A longtime Jim Black supporter says he contributed money to two Republicans in 2003 to help Black.
But W. Brian Barry of Charlotte says no one urged him to write the checks to the campaigns of then Reps. Michael Decker and Steve Wood.
Barry wrote $500 checks to both campaigns on January 27, 2003. He says he knew from media coverage at the time that both Decker and Wood were perceived to be potential supporters of Black’s speakership.
Barry’s characterization of the contributions elicited surprised reactions from Republican elections board members Lorraine Shinn and Charles Winfree. Both wondered aloud how Decker and Wood would know that Barry’s contribution was designed to help Black.
