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WILMINGTON—North Carolina Republicans were in Wilmington this weekend for the 2011 State Republican Convention.

Those attending included, U.S. and State representatives, County delegates, potential candidates for various offices, and non-affiliated Republican voters. More than 1,600 people packed the Wilmington Convention Center on Saturday for the annual convention.

"In an off-year election, to have this many people at a convention not only talking about the race this year but talking about what we have to do next year is exciting," said Rep. Thom Tillis, Speaker of the House.
 
When speaking of the 2012 elections, many brought up Pat McCrory's name. The former Mayor of Charlotte, a 2008 Republican Gubernatorial candidate, and a likely candidate in 2012.
 
"If Mayor McCrory decides to run, I tell you right now, that I look forward to supporting him. I think he is a tremendous individual," said Ilario Pantano, a 7th District Congressional Candidate.
 
McCrory said support like this is encouraging him to run. McCrory said while he is pleased with the work being done by the General Assembly, he is disappointed with the decisions made by Governor Bev Perdue.

"I do hope to run for Governor because I am convinced that we need new leadership out of the Executive branch," said McCrory. "We have to make this more of a job friendly state and we have to understand that we can't live off the credit card."
 
McCrory said he does not know if or when he will formally announce his candidacy but he is humbled by the fact that as of now he would be running unopposed.
 
"We've had a more job creation friendly, business oriented session this year than we've had in decades, I think if we stay on point and we remain disciplined then we win next year easily," said Tillis.
 
Many of the Republicans said they are expecting North Carolina to be one of the most competitive states in 2012 elections, especially because the Democratic National Convention is being held in Charlotte.