At-large City Council member Anthony Foxx announced today he's running for mayor next year regardless of whether incumbent Mayor Pat McCrory wins the governor's race.
Foxx, a Democrat, told me he's rounded up enough early support to go for it. Among those supporters, he said -- and I was prying, he wasn't just tossing out these names -- are retired Bank of America CEO Hugh McColl Jr. and local Democratic Party bigwig Cammie Harris. McColl usually -- but not always -- backs Democrats.
Foxx told me he had decided just within the past few weeks, although he's been thinking about running for months. But he sent letters to supporters or potential supporters late last week. "I would defind that as the point of no return."
He'll probably face impressive opposition, likely Republican council member John Lassiter (if McCrory is ensconced in Raleigh) and possibly Democratic state Sen. Malcolm Graham, who's also been thinking about running for mayor for some time. Both are generally well-regarded and, in my experience, do a good job as elected officials, as does Foxx.
"Why now?" I asked Foxx. He gave a thoughtful and even visionary answer, which in a politician is refreshing. (Note: Lassiter and Graham could probably do the same. Many elected officials can't.) Part of it was a discussion of the current problems the city faces and how many of them are, in fact, regional problems: The economy. Transportation. The environment.
"When I ask people where the city's going, it's a microcosm of the country," he said. "People don't know where we're going."
Foxx grew up in Charlotte, went to Davidson and NYU law school. He's been on the council since 2005.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Foxx reels in big-name backers
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6 comments:
Someone please ask "Little Anthony and His Imperials" if he would make the Police Chief get a legitimate degree.
Are you kidding me? Monroe does not need a degree. He is not white.
For the record Hugh McColl also gave $1000 to GOP county commissioner Dan Ramirez in May.
JAT
For those narrow-minded folks who feel the need to speak ill of Mr. Foxx, I suggest that you get to know him, his stands on the issues, and his approach to work, family, and life. He is an upstanding man who would do a terrific job for this city.
If you don't personally know Mr Foxx, then don't spread your vile remarks on a public forum.
Geez, give the guy a break from your negative criticism.
If you know of any proven negativity about Mr Foxx, then say it, otherwise hush.
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