Clinton described N.C. as a "good example", with a strong economy, strongjob growth and rising test scores. He said the entire nation needs tosupport a push for higher education standards. Improvements could be made,he said, in enabling schools to prepare students for the growing number ofhighly-skilled, high-end jobs.
The president said Governor Hunt had been a mentor of his when Clinton took office as governor of Arkansas 18 years ago. He called Hunt's SmartStart program an example he'll spread nationwide.
The lawmakers seemed very receptive to Clinton's message. There were a few protesters carrying signs and banners outside. Eleven Republicanrepresentatives had voted against having the president come to N.C.Thursday.
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