? School merger remains a hot political topic in some parts of North Carolina, and both gubernatorial candidates seem inclined to allow local communities to decide the issue, rather than allowing the state legislature to force a unitary system in each county. But Pat McCrory and Beverly Perdue do disagree on other education issues, such as the optimal financing and priorities in the community college system.
? Perdue releases a new plan to address the needs of North Carolina’s mental-health system. In response, McCrory questions why she didn’t act to reform mental health during her years in the General Assembly. Speaking to supporters down east, Perdue pledges not to overlook the interests of rural and small-town communities.
? The N&O‘s Rob Christensen profiles Elizabeth Dole, observing that her Washington experience and personal style are key elements of her campaign and Kay Hagan’s challenge of it. How much time Dole has spent in the state is another theme of Hagan’s campaign, a message she repeats during a campaign stop in Navassa. Campaigning with McCrory in Lexington, Bob Dole discusses his wife’s position on the emerging financial rescue package and her previous attempts to rein in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In Winston-Salem, Dole also says John McCain should do more in NC to help himself and other GOP candidates. Hagan questions Elizabeth Dole’s effectiveness on the issue of financial regulation.
