Former Gov. Jim Hunt and his wife Carolyn showed at a Wilson rally over the weekend for former President Bill Clinton.

Hunt, the former four-term governor who is still probably the state’s most influential Democrat, has not endorsed in the May 6 Democratic primary, Rob Christensen reports.

But Hunt likely knows how his appearance the Clinton rally is likely to be perceived.

Hunt’s former chief political lieutenant, former state Democratic chair Betty Rae McCain introduced Clinton at the Wilson rally. And helping Hillary Clinton in the state are a number of top Hunt loyalists including former state party chairman Tom Hendrickson, Winston-Salem businessman Bert Bennett and Jane Patterson, the former secretary of administration.

Hunt and Bill Clinton had a close working relationship. Hunt’s last two terms as governor coincided with Clinton’s presidency.

Earlier: Hunt endorsement would matter. 

Former President Bill Clinton will meet with key supporters later today at a reception at the Raleigh home of former Ambassador Jeannette Hyde.

“It’s actually for people willing to endorse Hillary Clinton or be on the statewide steering committee,” Hyde told Rob Christensen. “It’s kind of a briefing on the campaign and a thank you.”

Clinton will attend the private event after first appearing at public events in Charlotte and Cary.

Helping put the event together is former state Democratic chairman Tom Hendrickson, a Raleigh businessman. Among those expected to attend are former state Democratic chairwoman Barbara Allen, and Jane Patterson, a former secretary of administration.

Among the North Carolinians expected to endorse Clinton — although not attending tonight’s event — are retired Charlotte bank executive Hugh McColl; Hugh Shelton, the former chairman of the joint chiefs of staff; and poet Maya Angelou, according to Hyde.