Moore files for governor's race, challenges Perdue to debate

RALEIGH (AP) -- State Treasurer Richard Moore has officially entered the race for governor.

The Democrat filed candidacy papers yesterday at the State Board of Elections in Raleigh.

Moore has served as state treasurer since 2001. He previously served as crime control and public safety secretary under then-Governor Jim Hunt.

Moore's chief rival in the May 6 Democratic primary is Lieutenant Governor Beverly Perdue. Moore says he thinks undecided voters will push him to the nomination.

Moore yesterday again challenged Perdue to a debate. He says the handful of previous televised events haven't allowed a real discussion of the issues.

Perdue and another Democrat, Dennis Nielsen of Nash County, have already filed candidacy papers. Five Republicans have filed. Filing ends at noon Friday.

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