Eastern or Western barbecue? Dunkin or Krispy Kreme doughnuts? Coke or Pepsi? Some may think these are unusual questions to ask of political candidates. However, for NCAE members who attended a candidate meet-and-greet last week, it was a way of getting to know them better.
Three candidates – Rep. Wesley Harris, running for State Treasurer; Gabe Esperaza, also running for State Treasurer; and Katie Eddings, a Lee County teacher running for State Superintendent; and Aron Johnson representing Rachel Hunt who is running for governor – came to talk to members about their platforms as well as share information about themselves as individuals. The speed dating (get-to-know-you) style setup gave each candidate an opportunity to rotate from table to table in order to chat with the more than 20 members who participated.
During his conversation at one table, Rep. Wesley Harris (represents District 105/Mecklenburg Co.) mentioned he is a huge history nerd and that his mother was an educator. Member Amanda Thompson Rice who was sitting next to him asked, “If you were Batman, who would be your Robin?”, to which he answered without hesitation “Rep. Brandon Lofton,” (District 104/Mecklenburg Co.) who is a colleague and close friend.
Gabe Esperaza shared about the charter school he founded in the Bronx, NY and its focus on the arts. When asked what an NCAE endorsement would mean to him he responded it would be a validation of his service as a mentor to young people, which has been his life’s work.
During her conversations, Katie Eddings proudly talked about her two adopted daughters, 10 and 16, her time in the military and her love of teaching.
After extending a thank-you to the candidates for their participation and parting good-byes, the group had a chance to evaluate and share very candid thoughts on those seeking NCAE’s endorsement. They debated everything from candidates’ comments on rural/urban economic divide, to how nervous some were while others were down to earth, to the audacity of making fun of South Carolina’s mustard-base barbecue. Everyone agreed the meet-and-greet was a big hit, fun and provided a different perspective on the candidates in attendance.
Look for the next statewide candidate/member meet-and-greet in early December.
