News 14 Carolina
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
www.news14charlotte.com

Kissell-Hayes war of words continues

By: Jennifer Moxley

HARRISBURG, N.C. -- Politicians are taking part in patriotic festivities this Independence Day, especially in North Carolina's Eighth District, where the 2008 race has already started to heat up.

In November, Republican Rep. Robin Hayes won a narrow race against Democratic newcomer Larry Kissell. But the race for the next election is well under way.

Hayes was one of thousands of people Wednesday to attend Harrisburg's Fourth of July celebration, which included a ceremony honoring America's military.

"We're here at home with our friends. It's a good chance for them to tell me anything that they need me to do," the congressman said. "Talking to veterans, talking to other citizens. I'm proud to be here."

And across the park, Kissell was doing the same.

"We're going to be all over today, helping people celebrate our nation's birthday," he said.

Both men plan to face off for a second time in November 2008. Kissell has already started fundraising efforts. The Democrats are eager to take Hayes' seat that they are running Independence Day radio ads attacking the Republican's support of troops.

"It's just some political stunt," Hayes responded. "Anything to take over, anything to win the seat but we represent the people and we're here because we're always here.

Hayes says quality of life issues for sailors and soldiers has improved greatly during his tenure in office, but Kissell says people are ready for a change

"The issues that were so important to our supporters are still there so we just wanted to keep that momentum going and move right into '08," the Democrat said.

Kissell was behind by less than 350 votes after machine recounts when he conceded defeat in the 2006 election.