News & Observer Endorses Grier Martin

The Raleigh News & Observer today endorsed Grier Martin, noting that the district “has been well-represented by this Army veteran of the war in Afghanistan and articulate student of major issues. Martin will be particularly valuable in working on the budget this year, and his work with constituents and their needs is known to be tireless. He has truly earned their support.”

The endorsement is available here.  For other endorsements of Grier Martin, click here.

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NC Voters for Clean Elections Gives Grier Martin Perfect Score on Political Reform

The non-partisan North Carolina Voters for Clean Elections (NCVCE) coalition has released its 2010 legislative scorecard giving Grier Martin a perfect 100% score for his support of reform to our political system. The coalition also rated lawmakers on their lifetime support for reform. Martin was one of only 23% percent of legislators to receive a perfect 100% lifetime rating.

“Our political system lies at the heart of our democracy,” said Martin.  “I am honored to be recognized for my efforts to bring badly-needed reform to our system.”

For the full scorecard click here (.pdf).

For more on Grier’s efforts to reform our system click here.

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Grier Endorsed by The Independent

Grier has been endorsed by The Independent weekly newspaper.  In in its endorsement, The Independent noted Martin’s “legislative prowess” in contrast with his opponent: “Henion has boasted of his business experience yet has omitted a few details, such as the one-year overdue tax bill he paid the day before he filed to run and the $7,000 he owes to BB&T for a failed business venture in 1999.”

The Independent also praised Martin’s “numerous awards, such as being named 2007 Legislator of the Year by the state chapter of the Disabled American Veterans and given the “Defender of the Environment” distinction from the Conservation Council of N.C. this year and the “Sunshine Award” from Democracy N.C. in 2009.”

For other endorsements of Grier Martin click here

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Grier Speaks to Small Business Garage Owners

Rep. Martin spoke tonight to a meeting of the Wake/Johnson/Franklin/Granville/Wilson unit of the Independent Garage Owners of North Carolina (IGO).  The IGO is a trade organization serving  small businesses in the automotive repair, service and collision industry.  Grier spoke about the importance of IGO members getting involved in what goes on at the General Assembly.

He cited an example of a time a garage owner came to him with a needed change to legislation.  Rep. Martin was able to get the legislation changed quickly as a result of the useful input from the garage owner. Without the garage owner making the effort, the change might not have happened.

Rep. Martin also noted the important role IGO member small businesses play in our state’s economy.  They provide jobs that cannot be outsourced to other states or countries and have continued to provide these jobs even in tough economic times.

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Grier Endorsed by Police

Grier Martin has received the endorsement of the NC Sheriff Police Alliance, a group representing the law enforcement personnel of our state.  In their endorsement letter to Grier, the SPA noted “Your dedication, honesty and hard work on behalf of the citizens of Wake County have set the example for other leaders in Wake County to follow. Your commitment to excellence within law enforcement will continue to benefit the citizens of Wake County throughout your next term.”

Grier is also endorsed by the North Carolina Police Benevolent Association (PBA).  The PBA is a non-profit group dedicated to serving the men and women serving as law enforcement officers.  PBA President James R. Byrd stated that the PBA asks its “members, their friends and families, and all citizens who respect the strong and efficient enforcement of our laws to cast their ballots in the upcoming election in your favor.”

“As the son-in-law of a retired police officer, I am honored to have the support of the men and women who daily put their lives on the line to keep us safe,” said Grier.

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Candidate Forum at Raleigh Charter School

Grier participated in a candidate forum Friday at Raleigh Charter High School.  The forum was a part of the school’s civics, economics, and US history curriculum and also included campaign staff and members of the media.  Grier spoke about his candidacy and answered questions from the students on issues such as education, transportation, and budgets.

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Grier Recognized by Chamber of Commerce for Jobs Legislation

Grier Martin was recognized today at a meeting of the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce Board of Advisors for his efforts in passing a law giving tax relief to companies that produce interactive digital media.  Also recognized were Sen. Richard Stevens (R-Wake) and Rep. Chris Heagarty (D-Wake).

The Triangle is the third largest center for interactive digital media production in the country and has the potential to add many more jobs thanks to the new legislation.  The legislation provides additional help to companies that partner with our state’s universities to produce interactive digital media.

“This legislation leverages all the Triangle’s strengths in technology, education, and entrepreneurship and will help create and keep high paying jobs here,” said Martin. “I’m proud to have been part of the bipartisan team that helped push it through.”

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Teachers Endorse Grier Martin

The North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) endorsed Grier Martin in his race for the NC House.  NCAE’s members include teachers throughout the state.  Sheri Strickland, a teacher and President of NCAE said, “our members understand now more than ever how important it is to elect courageous leaders who will stand up for students, educators, and their communities.”

“Education is crucial to our state’s ability to compete for jobs in the global economy in the future,” said Grier.  “It is an honor to have the support of the teachers who do so much to provide this future for our children and our state.”

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Constitution Day at Durant Rd. Middle School

Grier Martin participated in the 5th Annual Constitution Day Assembly at Durant Road Middle School today.  The Assembly celebrates the freedoms given to Americans in our Constitution.  Durant Road students honored the Constitution with music and dance performances, presentations by students, and a keynote speech by Mayor Meeker.

Grier was honored to be the keynote speaker last year and enjoyed participating in the Assembly this year.  Thank you Durant Road Dolphins!

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Martin Military Bills Signed Into Law

Three of Rep. Grier Martin’s bills benefiting North Carolina’s military community became law today. In a ceremony at the National Guard Armory in Morrisville the Governor signed HB76, HB412, and HB614.Martin bills signed into law

HB76 helps ensure that servicemembers wishes for the disposition of their remains will be followed in North Carolina. HB412 modernizes the military justice laws that apply to the North Carolina National Guard. HB614 further improves the ability of deployed servicemembers to vote in elections. Rep. Martin previously passed legislation that significantly made it easier for those who defend democracy to participate in it.

For more on the ceremony and the legislation:
The North Carolina National Guard’s website

News 14 video coverage

WNCT’s video coverage

News and Observer editorial

Info on previous military voting legislation

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