Former Gov. Jim Hunt backs Hagan
Following a few phone calls with us scruffy media types, Kay Hagan sent out a news release announcing she was running to take on Elizabeth Dole.
By far, the most interesting thing about the release is it quotes former Gov. Jim Hunt, who is still something of a power-broker within the Democratic party:
"Kay Hagan is one of the strongest and most effective leaders in North Carolina," former Governor Jim Hunt said. "She has been a champion of improving education and creating jobs for our entire state. She has exactly the kind of good ideas, energy and drive North Carolina needs in Washington."
This pretty much tags Hagan as the party establishment candidate, and puts Jim Neal in a difficult spot right from the get-go.
Update: I just spoke to Gov. Hunt about his endorsement of Hagan. Click here to listen to him answer whether his backing makes her "the establishement" candidate.
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