Rob Christensen, Staff Writer You would have to travel nearly 3,000 miles to find a state that has had a longer run of Democratic governors than North Carolina — all the way to Oregon and Washington.

After a 16-year run in charge, North Carolina Democrats are feeling almost cocky about their prospects for renewing their lease on the governor’s mansion. They have two high-profile, well-financed candidates and a favorable political environment for Democrats.

On Monday, the Democratic effort to renew their lease on the governor’s mansion will enter a more intense phase when Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue formally enters the campaign.

But some Democrats worry about the possibility of a bruising primary between Perdue and State Treasurer Richard Moore that will leave their nominee damaged when they face the Republicans in November 2008.

"It’s always a concern," said state Democratic Chairman Jerry Meek. "Both candidates very much want to be governor. Any time you have a divisive primary, it makes it more difficult in preparation for the general election." (more…)