Orr cites illegal immigrant labor on arena

ryanteaguebeckwith — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 10:51:47 -0400

Bob Orr sharply criticized rival Pat McCrory Wednesday on illegal immigration.

McCrory, Charlotte's seven-term mayor, implied during a recent GOP gubernatorial debate that he had cut off city contracting opportunities to companies that hire illegal immigrants, David Ingram reports.

But, Orr said, McCrory has allowed contracts to continue on two high-profile Charlotte projects despite the work of illegal immigrants.

But Orr cited a June 4, 2006, article in the Observer that said: "McCrory acknowledges undocumented workers likely had a role building Charlotte Bobcats Arena and expressed uncertainty about whether the NASCAR Hall of Fame could be completed within budget without illegal immigrant workers."

"I can't let him keep going around talking about leadership and how tough he is on immigration without setting the record straight," Orr, a former N.C. Supreme Court justice, said at a news conference.

McCrory's gubernatorial campaign did not immediately return a request for comment.

Orr criticized McCrory's record on other aspects of immigration. He questioned whether McCrory is improperly taking credit for a program at the Mecklenburg jail that makes it easier to deport illegal immigrants.

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Orr cites illegal immigrant labor on arena