O'Malley Statement on Perdue Announcement

Washington, DC – DGA Chair Governor Martin O’Malley released the following statement on North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue’s decision not to seek re-election:
“For nearly a quarter of a century, Bev Perdue has been a tireless and fearless fighter for North Carolina’s families and for the state’s public schools. Bev was a public school teacher herself and earned a Ph.D in education administration before becoming the first woman to serve as Governor of North Carolina. Following in the proud tradition of Democratic governors like Terry Sanford and Jim Hunt, she spent the last three years fighting to make North Carolina’s school children her top priority in spite of tough economic times. She streamlined and reformed state government, while focusing on creating 21st Century jobs and protecting the progress North Carolina has made in public education.
“I respect Governor Perdue’s very difficult personal decision not to seek re-election, but it is true to character that she has promised to keep fighting for her priorities: helping North Carolina’s economy and making sure that every child gets a quality education.
“The DGA believes that North Carolina remains a strong opportunity for Democrats in 2012, especially now that Pat McCrory has walked in lock-step with the Republican leadership’s efforts to cut funding for North Carolina public schools and colleges. The DGA will be fully engaged and energized to make sure this seat remains in Democratic hands.”