State Rep. Bill Faison loaned his campaign account $500,000 as he continues to dodge the question of whether he will challenge Democratic Gov. Bev Perdue in a primary battle or seek another higher office.
For months, Faison, an Orange County Democrat, has traveled the state meeting with Democrats and touting an economic plan that includes a sales tax hike -- spark speculation that he would seek higher office. Amid Perdue's campaign troubles, Faison also questioned whether she was best suited to represent the party.
. At an event Wednesday morning, he distributed a six-page memo that appeared much like a campaign platform.
Faison said the money would go to support Democrats, but he refused to provide specifics. "I think it's important to show a commitment to the process. And to win back the legislature and keep the governor's office blue," he later told Dome.
Asked at the press conference if he would end speculation about his political ambitions, Faison declined. But he did suggest it's not too late for a candidate to enter the governor's race. He said he expects lawsuits challenging the new political district boundaries to delay the May 8 primary.
State law allows the money Faison puts in his legislative campaign committee to transfer to a gubernatorial campaign, should he choose to run.
