Senator to run for governor

WILMINGTON — Gubernatorial candidate Fred Smith was in Wilmington Wednesday, talking about his goals if elected.

Among the items on his agenda, he says he would support a constitutional ban on gay marriage.

The republican is currently a State Senator from Johnston County. Smith is also a contractor and home builder. He says, if elected, he wants to be a representative of the small business owner.

Sen. Smith said, “The strength of our state is our people, I believe. Families, hardworking families, hardworking farmers, entrepreneurs. The government needs to empower them by making sure our children get a good education.”

Smith entered the race for the governor’s seat back in March. He joins a republican field that already includes former Supreme Court Justice Bob Orr and anti-gas tax advocate Bill Graham.