Small businesses endorse McCrory for NC governor

CARY -- Republican Pat McCrory's bid for North Carolina governor has earned the support of small businesses.

The state chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business announced its endorsement of McCrory on Friday. The Charlotte mayor said he is honored by the trade groups' support.

McCrory told supporters at a Cary automotive shop he worked long hours at the small business owned by his late father that made adhesives for concrete and metal. McCrory said his father struggled in part due to government mandates placed on small business.

McCrory said if he's elected, he would push for ways to limit frivolous lawsuits and encourage companies to provide employee health insurance.

McCrory faces Democrat Beverly Perdue in the November election.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)