SHELBY -- Republican candidates visited Cleveland County Saturday morning to speak at the 10th District Executive Committee meeting as one of the final stops before filing day begins Monday.

For the first time in years, the district meeting was held in Cleveland County at the county office building on South Post Road. Despite the long hiatus, Shelby is the third largest city in the 10th district, and no one denied its importance to a successful campaign.

"The 10th district is, in a way, the heart of the Republican voting base in western North Carolina," said Chief of Staff for the North Carolina GOP Chris McClure.

"We have had the opportunity to let the Republican party see and hear the candidates to make their decision," said Chair of County GOP Wayne King, who later introduced and fully endorsed Congressman Patrick McHenry.

Following keynote speaker McHenry, candidates for Governor, Lt. Governor, House, Senate and other positions took the podium to explain their reasons for running.

A straw poll for governor was given to the audience, and of 61 votes, State Sen. Fred Smith won with a tally of 37. Attorney Bill Graham received 12 votes, Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory finished with 11 and former Supreme Court Justice Bob Orr received one.

"That's the result of hard work," said candidate Smith.

Republican candidates for governor:

Bill Graham -- "The status quo is going to change ... because we're offering a difference. I've tried to inspire people that their democracy can work again through the gas tax effort."

Pat McCrory -- "Sometimes it takes a mayor to understand what's happening in our neighborhoods, schools and streets. If we are not safe, we can forget the future economic vitality of our everyday life."

Fred Smith -- "We've not elected a Republican governor in this state for 20 years. We've got to give these people a clear conservative choice. There is no substitute for extra effort and hard work."

Republican candidates for Lt. Governor:

Robert Pittenger -- "With me winning the Lt. Governor position, we will be able to have a free and open debate on important issues that we don't have today because we aren't recognized by the current Lt. Governor."

Greg Dority -- "I didn't bring a gavel -- I brought a serious message. The state government is burning a hole in taxpayers' pocket. Illegal immigration is killing us in this state, because North Carolina remains a magnet for illegal immigration.".

The article above is by David Allen and was published in the Shelby Star on February 9, 2008. It is available online HERE.