NC SPIN table talk
Published August 9, 2013
Often the conversation that goes on before taping our show or during commercial breaks is as interesting as what makes it on the air. Such was the case this week and we thought we would share some of our table talk with you.
One panelist asked who we thought might replace Kieran Shanihan as Secretary of the Department of Public Safety. Most agreed that Frank Perry, acting secretary would be a good choice but one panelist suggested the governor might be wise to choose one of the more outstanding Sheriffs in our state, specifically mentioning Wake Sheriff Donnie Harrison.
Dems ready to revolt Next Saturday the Executive Committee of the North Carolina Democratic Party will meet and there is a petition movement underway for a vote of confidence regarding the leadership of Party Chairman Randy Voller. His personal financial problems coupled with unhappiness could well lead to a vote of no confidence ,although there are Voller supporters on the extraordinarily large committee.
Who might take Voller’s place? The name most prominently mentioned is Patsy Keever, who has run for Congress and served in the NC legislature. Another name heard is Linda Coleman, former legislator and candidate for Lt. Governor.
Democratic gubernatorial candidates It should come as no surprise that a show like NC SPIN also has conversation about upcoming campaigns. The talk this week focused on who might be the Democratic nominee in 2016 to run against Pat McCrory. The recent petition campaign being led by Attorney General Roy Cooper looks like a step in positioning the AG to be a candidate. It was also speculated that Blue Cross CEO Brad Wilson might have interest, while the name of former Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker was also raised. The May 6th primary is not as far off as one might think and it isn’t too early for candidates to begin sending up trial balloons.
US Senate Be sure to watch this week’s NC SPIN as we talk about upcoming political campaigns, especially the US Senate race. Incumbent Kay Hagan is building a war chest and becoming more visible in our state. She has hired a veteran campaign manager, Preston Elliott and has opened a headquarters on Hillsborough Street in Raleigh.
Republican names include House Speaker Thom Tillis, but the far right wing of the party isn’t enamored with him. Charlotte’s Mark Harris, pastor of First Baptist Church in Charlotte is frequently mentioned, but so is Cary physician Greg Bannon.
Speaking of Tillis Matt Bales, who helped the Speaker with the Republican caucus, is leaving the Speaker’s office and is going to work with Joe Stewart at NC FREE.
