What others are saying about Governor Perdue

A collection of quotes reacting to North Carolina Gov. Beverly Perdue’s decision not to seek re-election in 2012:

“As the first woman to serve as North Carolina’s lieutenant governor and governor, Bev Perdue has never been afraid to break barriers. For over 25 years, she has fought for the people of the Tar Heel State — working to transform the state’s public schools, improve the health care system, protect and attract jobs for members of the military and their families, and create the jobs of the future. Michelle and I want to congratulate Gov. Perdue on her historic tenure, and we wish Bev and her family well in the future.”

— President Barack Obama.

“Gov. Perdue’s decision today is not shocking. Perdue’s economic agenda was defined by her desire to raise taxes on all North Carolinians. The numerous scandals and failures of leadership are well documented and caused people to lose faith in her abilities to lead the state.”

— Robin Hayes

State Republican Party chairman

“Gov. Perdue will leave office with a reputation as a good governor who managed this state through a difficult time. Despite the financial circumstances of our state, though, she kept a focus on education. She realized that education moves our state forward and moves our people forward. She never forgot that and it was at the core of her time as a legislator and in the executive branch. I am grateful for her service to our state and wish her well.”

— Rep. Joe Hackney, D-Orange

N.C. House Minority leader

“My message has been and will continue to be that we must fix our broken government and broken economy and put our North Carolina resources back to work. That’s why next week I plan to announce my intentions to seek the honor of serving as North Carolina’s next governor.”

— Former Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory

Republican candidate for governor

“Gov. Bev Perdue has been a champion for school children, and she has fought to keep our education system from being dismantled. She has also been a real advocate for the 99 percent in North Carolina.”

— Rep. Martin Nesbitt, D-Buncombe

Senate minority leader