Former Gov. Bob Scott Called To Testify For Grand Jury

Bob Scott served as North Carolina governor from 1969 to 1973. He played a prominent role in his daughter's 2000 campaign.

It is unclear what investigators asked Scott behind closed doors or whether he could be a target. However, sources tell WRAL he was closely involved with the Phipps campaign and helped advise his daughter.

The Scott family has a long history in state politics. Besides being lieutenant governor in the mid-1960s and governor in the early 1970s, Scott has also served on various state committees over the years. Scott's father, Kerr Scott, also served as governor in the early 1950s.

Phipps and her father have not been charged with any wrongdoing, but two of Phipps' former aides have already pleaded guilty in the case. Linda Saunders and Bobby McLamb both admitted to extortion and fraud charges related to the 2000 Phipps campaign. Both have been cooperating with the investigation.

Friday, Phipps lawyer said she would resign. Previously,Phipps had publicly stated that she would not resign from her post despite requests from Gov. Mike Easley.

About the same time Scott went before the grand jury,

Alice Graham Underhill

added to the political drama of the situation. The former legislator with no firsthand farming experience formally announced her bid to run for Ag Commissioner. She is the daughter of longtime Commissioner Jim Graham, who supported Phipps in the last election.