McCrory, Cooper speak at Wilmington Power Breakfast

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The race for governor was center stage this morning in Wilmington.

Gov. Pat McCrory, the Republican incumbent, and his Democratic challenger Attorney General Roy Cooper were in town to talk about their campaigns. It’s part of the Greater Wilmington Business Journal Power Breakfast Series.

Both candidates used the time to talk about their accomplishments and how they differ from each other on key issues, including economic development and hot-button issues in the state, including the controversial HB2. Both candidates were also asked their positions on film incentives, which are particularly important in our area.

Nearly a thousand people filled the room to hear from the nominees as the race for the governor’s mansion enters its final weeks. Not surprisingly, a big topic for both candidates was House Bill 2.

Cooper said if elected, repealing the law is at the top of his to-do list.

“To make sure that we remove that discrimination, but that we also remove this unnecessary hurdle that we have created for ourselves,” said Cooper.

He said HB2 is hurting business in the state. It’s an issue McCrory said was created by the left, specifically the Charlotte City Council.

“I personally think it’s not the city governments business or the state government’s business or the federal governments business to tell you and business what your locker room, shower and restroom policy should be. And that’s not the rules in North Carolina,” said McCrory.

The candidates also talked about education, teacher pay, and building North Carolina’s economy.