CLAYTON, N.C. -- Political life has come full circle for Johnston County businessman Fred Smith. Smith, a Republican, entered the public square by winning election to the Johnston County Board of Commissioners in 2000. In 2002, he was elected to the State Senate, handily defeating longtime Democrat State Senator Allen Wellons. In 2008, Smith sought the Republican nomination for Governor, ultimately coming up short against Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory despite winning nearly two-thirds of North Carolina's counties. Yesterday, voters chose to return him to the Johnston County Board of Commissioners.
In a statement, Smith said: "I am grateful that the voters of Johnston County have entrusted me with a seat on the Board of Commissioners. As a Commissioner, I pledge to focus on ensuring that Johnston County focuses on core priorities, updates our comprehensive plan to guide future growth, keeps taxes as low as possible, and continues to be a great place to live, work, and raise a family. I'm ready to get to work."
On a side note, Wellons also re-entered public life this year, seeking to return to the State Senate. He was defeated yesterday by Nash County Republican Lisa Stone Barnes.