Age: 51
Residence: Charlotte
Family: Married, Wife Ann; Dog, Mic
Political experience: Charlotte City Council at-large member, 1989-1995; Mayor of Charlotte, 1995 to present.
Work experience: Economic Development Consultant, Duke Energy Company, 29 years
Civic involvement: U.S. Homeland Security Advisory Committee; Chairman, US Conference of Mayors Environment Committee; Past President of Republican Mayors Association; Catawba College Board of Trustees; Founder, Metrolina Coalition of NC Mayors
Religious affiliation: Christian
Favorite movies: The Godfather, Animal House and The Ultimate Gift (I played the Mayor in the movie)
Favorite books: 1984 by George Orwell; Margaret Thatcher, The Downing Street Years by Margaret Thatcher; and Benjamin Franklin by Walter Isaacson
What do you think are the top 3 issues facing North Carolina that you would address as governor?
As Governor, I will prioritize four major areas: first, the need for a sound transportation and road system for the entire state. I will implement a policy that puts the roads where the cars are not where the powerful politicians just happen to live. Second, reform our State education system to insure State Government gives teachers and parent’s flexibility, accountability and choices to educate our children. Third, fix the State criminal Justice system to insure career criminals, gangs, and illegal immigrants breaking other laws are not infiltrating our towns, schools and neighborhoods. Fourth, implement new jobs policy in which the Governor aggressively works to retain and recruit jobs to all of NC while also revising tax policy which puts less emphasis on income tax so we can support our families and remain competitive with other States. I also will help change the culture of State Government to make it more efficient, ethical, open, responsive, and visionary. My goal is to insure North Carolinas quality of life for today and for generations to come.
Explain why are you the most qualified candidate to be governor?
First, I have over 29 years of business experience in the private sector. Second, I have 12 years of successful civic leadership experience in which I have balanced $1.5 billion budgets with no property tax rate increases; decreased crime, increased jobs, implemented a 25 year transportation plan, initiated innovative measures to protect our environment. I have also been tested dealing with crises, major natural disasters and homeland security. My tenure has been successful through open, responsive and ethical leadership resulting in the citizens of my city electing me a record seven times. I also understand our great State and know its needs. I grew up in the Jamestown, where I was taught basic family and small town values. I moved to Salisbury, where I went to college and attained my NC teaching certification. I then moved to Charlotte, where the citizens gave me the opportunity to become a leader. I have the proven experience and vision to improve our quality of life for all of North Carolina.
