North Carolina Gov. Beverly Perdue’s abrupt decision to decline a bid for re-election sets up a compelling and surprisingly wide-open race to replace her. Presumptive Republican nominee Pat McCrory, the former Charlotte mayor that Perdue defeated in 2008, will face off against a to-be-determined Democratic opponent selected by voters in May’s primary.

This promises to be a critical election for North Carolina, one that will determine if the state should continue the policies advanced under a Republican legislative majority or continue a balance of power through divided government. Residents should be prepared for an engaging debate, one of contrasting ideas and philosophies for the future of this state.

After successfully fighting for three years to remain in public view, Pat McCrory formally launched his gubernatorial bid this week by holding a kick-off event in Greensboro. His message was simple: North Carolina cannot afford to extend the record of its two previous Democratic chief executives, Perdue and the disgraced Mike Easley. He hopes to become the state’s third Republican governor since 1900.

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