A Generation Ago

"A generation ago, what North Carolinian would imagine that a black man could carry the state in a presidential contest? I consider it one of the most dramatic events in my lifetime of watching politics in North Carolina," said O. Max Gardner III, the 63-year-old grandson of Governor O. Max Gardner, who was a strong supporter of the rights of women and minorities to vote more than 90 years ago.

"It is a turning point in the history of the state. My Grandfather worked very hard against the forces of prejudice during his administration to move this state away from a legacy of slavery and segregation. I am sure he is looking down on us and has a very big smile on his face right now. It has been a very long road and an extremely difficult struggle but the victory of Barack Obama reflects the growth and development of North Carolina," said Gardner.

Gardner made his comments today after Gary Bartlett, the state elections director, stated that Obama should be declared the unofficial winner.