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home >> history and culture >> nc's governors >> michael francis easley
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Governors of North Carolina
As a district attorney, Easley earned a reputation as a fearless prosecutor, gaining convictions against drug dealers and corrupt public officials. His political stock rose and, in 1990, he sought the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate but was defeated in that bid by Harvey Gantt. In 1992 voters elected Easley to the first of two terms as attorney general. He maintained a public image as a consumer advocate, targeting fraudulent telemarketers and unscrupulous lenders. Negotiating with other attorneys general, he helped craft a settlement with the tobacco industry. In 2000 Easley defeated Dennis A. Wicker for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination and Richard Vinroot in the fall. In his campaign Easley kept the focus on education and health care. At his inauguration, he emphasized "one State, one people, one family." In the weeks that followed, he instituted cuts and freezes to cope with a state budget shortfall. His education initiatives included "More at Four," a program serving at-risk four year olds. During his first term, Easley became the first governor in state history to issue a veto. Easley sought a second term, defeating Republican Patrick Ballantine in November 2004. At his second inauguration, he spoke of a course whereby knowledge, talent, and skill would allow North Carolinians to compete in a changing economy. In August 2005 Easley signed legislation to create the state lottery, with proceeds allocated for education. After leaving office he took a foundation position to work on education issues. |
The first governor inaugurated in the twenty-first century and the first born after World War II, Michael F. Easley (1950- ) advocated early childhood initiatives, reduced class size, and increased teacher pay, proposing a state lottery to fund his education goals. The "Baby Boomer Governor" was born in Rocky Mount and attended Belmont Abbey College and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before completing his law degree at North Carolina Central University.