? Last night’s gubernatorial debate on WRAL makes headlines around the state. Most accounts play up contentious exchanges on offshore drilling, school choice, and negative ads. Just before the debate begins, WTVD reports that its latest Survey USA poll puts McCrory head of Perdue by eight points. Here is my take on the debate.
? The same SUSA poll gives Elizabeth Dole a 48-40 lead over Kay Hagan, which would be a significant change from the neck-and-neck results of earlier surveys. An association of state troopers endorses Hagan, citing her legislative record. A New Republic blogger speculates that Barack Obama’s organization in NC will mainly help Hagan, rather than truly put the state in contention for president. Dole distances herself from the revolting comments of Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell. Dole and Hagan react to news of the federal takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, with Dole claiming vindication for her earlier criticism of the companies and Hagan claiming a link to Bush administration policies.
