[JohnnyZ]

How could a RINO such as her get elected to public office in such a conservative area?

Trial lawyers cut across party lines -- see Lindsey Graham. Her only other thing is gays, but she at least claims to be pro-life and is endorsed by NC Right to Life in her senate races. She's personally popular with her constituents, and voters don't always follow strict ideological standards, rather personal impression. I don't think she puts "I LOVE GAYS" on her campaign signs, shall we say.

[Kuksool]

***voters don't always follow strict ideological standards, rather personal impression.***

This is what is wrong with politics today. Too many voters select the candidate who has the most personal appeal rather than examining his/her stand on the issues. Sen. John Edwards and Jesse Helms were first elected to the US Senate largely due to their personal impressions on the voters.