What appears to be a setback for Gov. Beverly Perude could prove to be a great benefit to the state when the N.C. General Assembly returns to work next month. Her decision to decline a re-election bid leaves her free to fight for education funding and comprehensive tax reform without the repercussions of electoral rejection in November’s general election.

Were it only so that she would have willing allies in that fight, one that will see her push for increased appropriation for public schools in light of last year’s cuts. That issue — and the need for a more streamlined, modernized tax code — are top issues facing North Carolina, and Perdue can advance the cause of both before she departs public office in one year’s time.

Though whispers have swirled around her for months, the governor made it official last week when she announced her intention to step down after only one term in office. The surprise move left potential Democratic nominees scrambling to gauge their electoral prospects and threw a significant wrench into the plans of former Charlotte Mayor and likely Republican nominee Pat McCrory.

For the complete article, please pick up a copy of The Daily Reflector or purchase today’s electronic edition at http://www.reflector.com/circ-store. Current home delivery and electronic edition subscribers may log in to access this article at no charge. To become a subscriber, please click here or contact Customer Service at (252) 329-9505.