McIntyre 'seriously considering running for governor'; Barfield looking at Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WECT) - The announcement from Governor Bev Perdue Thursday that she will not run for re-election is creating a domino effect across the state of North Carolina.

McIntyre was in Carolina Beach Friday morning and said he's seriously considering running for governor. This stems from an emailed statement sent from the McIntyre for Congress campaign Thursday.

Congressman Mike McIntyre (D-NC 7) said in a statement Thursday that he is open to considering a run for governor. McIntyre is up for re-election in the newly-redesigned 7th District this year after his toughest re-election battle in 2010.

Here's Congressman McIntyre's statement on Governor Perdue's announcement:

"Governor Beverly Perdue has been a dedicated and determined North Carolina public servant. She has always done her best to put North Carolina first, she has been a true champion for our state's educational system and a fighter for ensuring that our kids get a world-class education. Dee and I wish her and her family the best! My heart and passion are in public service and going to work each and every day to build consensus and move North Carolina forward," Congressman Mike McIntyre said. "The ideals and issues that make our state and nation great do not belong to either political party. I love North Carolina; I love serving its people; and I am always open to considering broader opportunities to serve, including the possibility of Governor."

Before committing, the representative wants to talk it over with a lot of people, including his family and staff.

Whether he runs or not, McIntyre said the next governor of North Carolina needs to work both sides of the aisle to create bipartisan solutions.

"That's something I've done, I've long strived to work with folks on what the issues are, not where it's a particular party issue, but is it the right issue to help the people," explained McIntyre. "And that's what my commitment is, and that'll be my commitment as I consider governor and it's certainly my commitment as I serve congress."

McIntyre said he'll likely make a final decision next month.

McIntyre's potential run is also influencing a local politician. New Hanover County Commissioner Jonathan Barfield told WECT.com that if McIntyre runs for Governor, he will run for the Congressman's seat.

"There's so many issues that are pertinent to southeastern North Carolina," said Barfield. "We need to have a strong voice in Washington fighting for, to say the least, our coastal issues...dredging and beach renourishment in New Hanover and Brunswick counties. And I would definitely be a strong advocate for those things."

Barfield also believes that his political experience would be beneficial.

"When I look at the credentials I have, the way that I've served the county as an elected official, I know how to make tough votes," he said. "I've been on the hot seat and I don't have a problem being there."

In the meantime, Republican Ilario Pantano is already gearing up for whoever the Democratic candidate might be if McIntyre steps aside.

Pantano may have lost to McIntyre in the last election, but his camp has been fundraising and working to gain support since his loss so that he can run again on the Republican ticket.

Pantano says it doesn't matter who runs -- he thinks Republicans are poised to take control of the 7th District.

"The future of America is at stake in this election," said Pantano. "And we know whoever the candidate is, whether it's Mike McIntyre, seeking to a ninth term, seeking to be up there for 20 years, or a newcomer… whoever it is, they're going to have to defend a liberal agenda, which is not in keeping with the conservative values of the 7th District."