Fred Smith's Barbecue No. 87
Republican gubernatorial candidate Fred Smith is on his way to serving barbecue in all 100 counties. I attended dinner No. 87 this evening at High Point Central High School.
The food came from Carter Brothers, a very good choice.
The event was well-attended and drew a fair sprinkling of Triad politicians.
It turns out that High Point City Councilman Latimer Alexander is Smith's cousin. Also showing up were Guilford County Commissioner Steve Arnold from High Point and state Reps. Laura Wiley from High Point, Dale Folwell from Winston-Salem and Bryan Holloway from King.
Not there in person was country singer Lee Greenwood. The crowd had to settle for a video performance of Greenwood's song, "Good to Great," written just for Smith's campaign. It's not bad.
Everyone was given plenty of time to eat, and Smith took plenty of time to speak after that. He's not a spellbinder, but he hit on solid conservative themes. While he didn't mention any opponent by name, he made a clear reference to Pat McCrory, saying the Republicans can't win with a candidate who's indistinguishable from the Democrats.
Smith, a state senator, lawyer, businessman and farmer from Clayton, said North Carolina isn't doing well enough in public education. It's wasting transportation dollars. He said people want honest government, not corruption. He wants a Taxpayer Protection Act and constitutional amendments limiting eminent domain and restricting marriage to a man and woman. He sounded some tough views on dealing with illegal immigrants.
Smith has a reputation for hard work, and he promised to give extra effort every day during the campaign and if he's elected governor. He's a solid, serious candidate.
And serving barbecue in 100 counties? Now, that's the way to run a campaign in this state.
Comments (3)
To report abuse of the comment feature on this site, please use the feedback form at the bottom of any page.
I can't say that he is too organized. I read about his meetings last year - he has visited quite a bit of the state. I reminded me of the Fish Fry's that were held in the 60's before we had primaries. I signed up to be notified, indicating my residence in Greensboro/Guilford County.
No email or notice. Not exactly a good first impression.
Posted on February 5, 2008 10:25 PM
That's definitely not good.
I was mailed an invitation to this event several weeks ago, I assume with my name and address lifted from the voter registration rolls (and I'm unaffiliated, not a Republican).
Posted on February 5, 2008 10:38 PM
While he didn't mention any opponent by name, he made a clear reference to Pat McCrory, saying the Republicans can't win with a candidate who's indistinguishable from the Democrats.* Doug
That is what Mitt said about McCain today and than to top it off, he said Bob Dole was really running as McCain without a Wheelchair.
Posted on February 5, 2008 11:52 PM