Gubernational candidates send message instead of appearing at Wilmington forum

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — With so many issues surrounding education on the ballot this November, school administrators from across the state were eager to learn more about the candidates for governor and state superintendent at the NC Association of School Administrators Candidate Forum in Wilmington.  

“I appreciate the opportunity to get to know the candidates and their stance, and the expertise and experience they bring to the table as we become informed about who we’re going to vote for in November,” Middle School Principal Ginger Stinson said. 

However, only Democratic Superintendent Candidate Maurice “Mo” Green attended the forum.   

Democratic Gubernatorial Candidate Josh Stein and Republican Candidate Mark Robinson submitted video messages instead.  

“As public school administrators, you exemplify our state’s promise,” Stein said in his video message. 

“It’s because of you that our schools are succeeding on a daily basis,” Robinson said in his video message. 

Attendees and media were told that all four candidates would be at the forum, but NCASA Executive Director Kathrine Joyce said the association knew they would not be able to attend. 

“We did hear from both candidates for governor early,” Joyce said. “They could not be here in person, and they asked if they could submit a video message for our audiences specifically, and we were very pleased that they could do that.”  

Joyce also noted that Republican State Superintendent Candidate Michele Morrow made clear she would not be able to attend due to a prior commitment.