Both the North Carolina Governor's race and the Senate battle to replace Edwards in 2004 are already shaping up as bitter struggles to seize power within GOP ranks. Names such as Burr, Snyder, Ballantine, and Jones are freely tossed around by the rank and file (although, fortunately, Vinroot is not. His selling out to the RNC and Ms Dole leaving a sour taste in the mouths of many)-- as likely contenders.
No doubt Stephenson will take a lead role with one of these 2004 campaigns in the coming months. His ability to shape strategy for a state wide race viewed as superior to most of the "name" thinkers out there.
Ms Dole would have been much better served to have Ashley Stephenson in her loop than some of the others on parade at the state convention this past weekend. Stephenson a master of the grass roots battle.
North Carolina political junkies should stay tuned for the next campaign this savvy thinker engineers. No doubt it will be another winner.
J
I have read & enjoyed your comments on this and other threads lately.
You seem to be a very astute observer of the NC political scene and quite familiar with NC in general.
I saw your comments on another thread re: Liddy Dole & her swing through Edgecombe & other counties.
Edgecombe's unemployment rate is over 10% now, I think. I live there, but work in Wilson County.
FRegards,
CD