The Republican race for governor is becoming a two-man race, a new poll shows.
A survey of 600 N.C. primary voters between April 7-10 found that N.C. Sen. Fred Smith and Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory have virtually identical name recognition and personal ratings.
Both candidates were known by around 70 percent of voters. The survey found that 45 percent of respondents had a favorable impression of Smith, compared to 6 percent unfavorable. In comparison, McCrory was rated favorably by 48 percent, unfavorably by 6 percent.
Two other Republicans, Bill Graham and Bob Orr, were recognized by just over half the voters and were only favorably rated by a quarter of those surveyed.
When asked their choice, 36 percent of the Republicans said McCrory; Smith, 30 percent; Graham 6 percent; Orr 5 percent; with 23 percent undecided.
The survey was done for Fred Smith's campaign by Ayres, McHenry & Associates. The margin of error was 4 percent.
PROTECTING REPORTERS' RIGHTS
U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole has joined a bipartisan group of senators to co-sponsor the Free Flow of Information Act, which provides journalists with federal protection for their confidential sources.
"The press plays a vital role in our democratic process by educating the public on many key issues," said Dole. "In order for reporters to effectively do their jobs, they must be able to preserve the trust of their sources."
Forty-nine states and the District of Columbia recognize, to varying degrees, a journalist's right to maintain source confidentiality. This would extend the protection in federal cases.
The bill would not extend source protection where there are national security concerns or imminent threats to personal safety. Also, the bill does not allow a shield for a reporter when he or she is witness to a crime.
DALTON GETS ENDORSEMENT
The N.C. Academy of Trial Lawyers has endorsed N.C. Sen. Walter Dalton, a Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor.
Academy CEO Richard M. Taylor Jr. said this week that "Walter has shown leadership on the issues important to us both as a state senator and an attorney. He has the knowledge, experience and leadership to make North Carolina a great place for all of our citizens."
"It is a great honor to receive the backing of the N.C. Academy of Trial Lawyers," Dalton said. "As a longtime member of the organization, I understand the Academy's goals and mission of protecting our rights through our justice system. I have worked with the NCATL and toward these goals as a state senator and look forward to a continued relationship as lieutenant governor."
The Academy of Trial Lawyers is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association.