? At a Cary debate on education issues, Beverly Perdue goes on the attack, accusing Pat McCrory of wanting to end Smart Start & More at Four and once again asserting that he favors universal vouchers. McCrory parries and thrusts, emphasizing the need for accountability and a greater focus on vocational education.

? President Bush will visit NC on Sept. 30, campaigning and raising money for the McCain-Palin ticket. Elizabeth Dole likely won’t be in attendance. The Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee makes up a little fundraising ground in August, possibly helping Dole.

? Dole and other senators postpone action on an offshore-drilling measure until after the election. Passed in the House, it has been lauded as a means of opening up supply but would actually have the effect of closing off most offshore oil and gas resources from development. The N&O fact-checks the Dr. Seuss ad against Kay Hagan, calling it accurate.