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Gov. Perdue Debuts in Charlotte

NC Governor-elect Bev Perdue in Charlotte. hspace=2
NC Governor-elect Bev Perdue in Charlotte. hspace=2

http://66.225.205.104/JR20081107a.mp3

There were undoubtedly quite a few business leaders and public officials in the Charlotte audience last night who still fear Perdue will care more about Raleigh's needs than their own when she takes office. For them, she made the symbolism of her speech crystal clear. "I want to remind you that this is my very first public appearance as the governor-elect of North Carolina and I chose to make that appearance here in the Queen City," said Perdue, to applause from the crowd. Perdue pledged to do right by Charlotte - both with funding for roads and with attention to the city's economy. "I come into this office knowing that I can't rely just on the capitol leadership to get things done," said Perdue. "And yes, I look forward to partnering with you - because I think you would come and shoot me if I didn't - to continue to do road investments and transit investments in this great city. We'll do that together." Perdue told the Charlotte crowd she continues to meet with Wells Fargo and will do quote "whatever it takes" to make sure the bank keeps a strong presence in North Carolina as it acquires Wachovia. After the event, she told reporters she plans to open on office here, where she'll spend several days a month. She also says Charlotteans will fill key roles on her transition team and administration.