Republican candidate for NC superintendent denies calling for violence
CARY, N.C. (WNCN) — Michele Morrow, the Republican candidate for North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction, defended recent comments after she was accused of calling for violence.
In a September email to supporters, Morrow wrote, "This is the American Revolution 2.0! We either willingly fight now or we will be forced to fight on Nov. 6. This is war, ladies and gentlemen."
Questioned about her choice of words, Morrow admitted Thursday she may have exaggerated, but accused the media and Democratic opponent Mo Green of twisting her words. She called the scrutiny over her comments a distraction from the issues in North Carolina's schools.
"It is ridiculous to imply I am calling for an armed revolution," she said. "What I'm saying is the fight's going to continue. That was just kind of hyperbolic or whatever it might be. I'm sorry if the words offend people. I am more offended by our children being at risk and the adults doing nothing to stop it."
Morrow maintained she was referring to her fight for change in North Carolina's schools. She said students are being told what to think and not being prepared for real life. Morrow also criticized what she called "activism classrooms", which she said are driving teachers and parents out of public schools.
"What we have seen for the four years is an attack on our freedoms, an attack on our parents' ability to be involved in the school system," she said. "Do I talk about a culture war? I sure do. Am I fighting for our children? Absolutely, I am. Will I continue to fix this school system, win or lose? Yes. And harder than ever. Education is in dire need of an infusion of hope, purpose, and practical solutions. That's what I bring to the table."
In response to Morrow's comments, Green referenced reports of Morrow calling for the executions of Democrats , including former president Barack Obama, President Joe Biden, and Gov. Roy Cooper.
"Advocating for violence is not new for Michele Morrow," Green said.
Morrow said if Green is elected, more people will leave the public school system and the wait lists for private and charter schools will grow.
