Jim Hunt: A Biography

by Gary Pearce

As one of Jim Hunts closest political advisors, Gary Pearce was in a unique position to observe the career of North Carolinas longest-serving governor. In this authorized biography, Pearce draws from his own observations and experience as well as over 30 interviews with Governor Hunt and more than 50 interviews with friends, family, staffers, political allies, and opponents

Genres: Politics, Biography

316 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2010

About the author

After writing for the Raleigh News & Observer about Governor Hunts 1972 race for lieutenant governor and his four years in that office, Gary Pearce went to work for Hunt during his first race for governor. He has worked as Hunts press secretary, chief speechwriter, and political and policy adviser. He helped direct Hunts campaign against Jesse Helms in 1984 and became his chief political adviser through the 1992 and 1996 elections and Hunts third and fourth terms as governor. He lives in Raleigh, NC."

Reviews

[Dana Jennings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pearce, with his insider perspective, focuses on Hunt's various campaigns and terms in office. As the "Education Governor" Hunt transformed North Carolina over his four terms as Governor. The author offers a very readable accounting of the many projects that the energetic politician undertook to shape the lives of North Carolinians for the better. I believe any North Carolinian would benefit by reading this biography.

[Andrew Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice, quick read. For my purposes, the bio was a helpful insight into NC policy/politics during my youth, before love of home-state history kicked in more heavily. This is a quick read because it is a combination of bio and memoir from Gary Pearce's perspective as a media aid to Hunt.

[Chuck McGrady · Rating 4 out of 5]

While Gary Pearce is no objective observer of Jim Hunt and his administrations, he does a good job at chronicling Hunt's public policy initiatives. With the passage of time, I agree with him that Hunt's hands-on style looks better and better as new administrations have come and gone.

[Mrlunch · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting story about North Carolina's best and longest serving Governor. The chapters dealing with the failed Senate run against Jesse Helms in 1984 were fascinating.