Why Rep. Sue Myrick would be a good candidate
to run for North Carolina’s Senate Seat
-Past Political Positions
Sue Myrick has held several positions in government that allow her to be viewed as an experienced and successful politician. Myrick served on the Charlotte City Council from 1983-85 and was the mayor of Charlotte from 1987-1991. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 1995 and remains representing her district to this day in the House (myrick.house.gov). These positions prove her ability to successfully represent her constituents, and also give her very good name recognition throughout the state of North Carolina.
-Career prior to politics
Myrick was the former President and CEO of Myrick Enterprises (myrick.house.gov). Her prior successful business ventures make her an appealing candidate to other fellow business owners. This increases the chance that she understands the business owners and her policies will be more sympathetic to their needs and desires. Moreover, her success as a female in the business world is something many voters will find admirable.
-Public Record
Representative Myrick is well known for her staunchly conservative stance on many issues. She is the chair of the Republican Study Committee which is comprised of 90 of most conservative members of the House (Plecnik, www.intellectualconservative.com). She has established herself as a fierce supporter of tax cuts, while also insisting on smaller more efficient government. While wholeheartedly supports the Bush tax cuts, she made the news when she scolded the Bush administration with a scathing indictment in regards to the growth of government which has taken place under the President’s term.
Perhaps Myrick’s greatest political strength with North Carolina voters is her strong and aggressive pro-military record. North Carolina is home to five military bases, more than any other state in the country. The state’s electorate has a reputation for supporting pro-defense candidates. She voted in favor of the Iraq war and was a member of the President’s Working Group on Iraq (myrick.house.com). Her defense record will definitely play well in North Carolina.
-Other Factors
Being a female is a great advantage that would allow Myrick the opportunity to relate to voting females in a way many male candidates are unable. Moreover, the state has shown its willingness to support female republicans through the election of Elizabeth Dole over Erskine Bowles.
-Possible Drawbacks
Depending on how the Iraq War plays out politically, her support of the President could cast her into dangerous political waters. Furthermore, her staunch conservatism could certainly alienate certain swing voters who are looking for a more moderate candidate.
© Davidson College, 2004, Davidson College, Davidson, NC 28035
Created By Jack Hubbard
Created: 9/10/2004. Last updated: 9/10/2004.