Democrats On Track to Maintain Majority of Governorships

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Governors Association (DGA) Chair Gov. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) today congratulated Bev Perdue for being elected North Carolina’s 74th Governor. In this hotly contested race, Gov.-elect Perdue defeated Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory.

“Congratulations to Bev Perdue for her historic victory tonight,” Gov. Manchin said. “We couldn’t be happier to keep North Carolina in our column, and we cannot wait to welcome Bev into our ranks.”

DGA Executive Director Nathan Daschle discussed the role the DGA played in tonight’s victory. “North Carolina represented one of the most competitive races in the country, and the DGA is proud to have played a part in Governor-elect Perdue’s success,” Daschle said. “We invested more in this race than in any other in history, and we are so pleased with the outcome. Tonight’s result is a victory for all of North Carolina.”

The win in North Carolina means the only two Democratic open seats this year will stay in the Democratic column. (In addition to Perdue winning North Carolina, Gov.-elect Jack Markell handily defeated his Republican opponent in Delaware.)

Gov. Manchin thanked Gov. Mike Easley for his years of public service. “Governor Mike Easley has served as Governor with distinction for eight years and spent many years before that in service to his state,” Gov. Manchin said. “All of my colleagues join me in wishing him the best in the next chapter of his life.”

Tonight’s victory is historic. Bev Perdue is the first female to be elected Governor of North Carolina. “Bev fought hard for tonight’s win, and she’ll fight even harder for the people of North Carolina,” Manchin said.