Did I call Pat McCrory irrelevant? My mistake. Whether deliberate or not, the governor’s latest hijinks have proven this fellow can muck just about anything up. From a purely political asset, he has evolved into a purely political liability.
In the GOP’s drive to consolidate control, McCrory provided key advantages. Even back in 2012, the NCGA had a harsh and unsavory reputation. The Republican gubernatorial candidate served as a reassuring foil. His softer image comforted voters and convinced even seasoned, liberal observers to expect at least some balance.
McCrory enjoyed good ratings as late as five months into administration. Then came the abortion bill, and the governor’s impact turned on its head. By breaking his promise, McCrory lost the trust of the voters. Shortly after signing the unpopular bill, he established himself, with an action that still defies belief, as a buffoon as well as a liar. By the time the sordid episode ended, the previously admired governor had made his party look even worse.
The dynamic remains in effect. McCrory’s constant gaffes have kept Republicans in the news, negatively. This latest blooper comes at a particularly inopportune time. Just as his party is trying to appear more people-friendly, the governor’s Duke-related mishap reminds everyone that, to Republicans, corporations come first. He’s dealt their strategy a surprise blow.
Despite (false) hopes of a reset, the governor continues to damage himself and his party. The evidence is it will continue. Like Charlotte’s business oligarchy, of which McCrory is so fond, bank on it.
Alexander Jones is an original contributor to PoliticsNC.
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