Easley endorses Perdue for governor

RALEIGH (AP) -- Governor Mike Easley says Lieutenant Governor Bev Perdue will be a great governor because she understands the importance of education to North Carolina's
economy.

Easley endorsed Perdue during a news conference today at the state Democratic Party headquarters. Perdue defeated State Treasurer Richard Moore in the Democratic primary last night.

Easley says Perdue is used to getting things done in state government. He referenced Perdue's time as a state legislator, her efforts to increase salaries for teachers and her support of the state's Smart Start pre-kindergarten program.

Perdue says her campaign will be defined by "kitchen table issues."

Perdue will face Republican Pat McCrory in the November general election.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)