'We have had enough'

Second ex-campaign worker says Fischer should quit

By: Larry Clark | Hickory Daily Record
Published: March 13, 2010

MORGANTON

A former campaign worker says Democrat Anne Fischer should withdraw from the 10th Congressional District race.

Brandon Greeson, Fischer's former communications director, was incensed when he saw Fischer's published comments about her ex-campaign manager Will Bigger.

Bigger announced his resignation on March 3. Greeson quit the campaign soon afterward, citing personal and professional conflicts.

Greeson did not criticize Fischer, but wished her success. Bigger had called Fischer "unfit to serve."

Fischer rebutted Bigger's remarks in Thursday's Record.

"Truth be told ... I had to cut Mr. Bigger loose from the campaign because of inappropriate behavior and diminished capacity which was deleterious to may campaign efforts," Fischer said.

The rebuttal prompted Greeson to speak out.

In a letter to Fischer, shared with the Record, Greeson said, "When I resigned from your campaign a week ago today, I vowed to avoid making any comments related to your campaign or your ability to serve the people of this district.

"The Hickory Daily Record ran an article where you have 'picked the scab off of the wound' surrounding Will's resignation ... I am appalled that you would say that you 'let him go' or allude to the fact that you had 'fired him.' You know this is simply not true."

Greeson recalled a fundraising event in Caldwell County in which Bigger, who lives in South Carolina, offered to attend to ensure the event went smoothly.

"Your response to him was that he could not come because you had no place for him to stay — your home was too cold and you had too many cats living with you. You told Will, our friend, that the only solution you had was for him to come and stay in a homeless shelter in Burke County," Greeson said.

Greeson said Fischer's behavior is "what lead me to make my escape from your campaign."

He said Fischer gossips about leaders in the Democratic Party. He said her personal issues are divisive and the party considers her an embarrassment.

"Will Bigger was not malicious toward you and provided you with very wise and reliable campaign advice," Greeson wrote.

Greeson said Bigger is a "loyal supporter of Democratic ideals."

"Your public escapades not only make yourself look like a fool, but they damage the reputation of the Democratic Party, and quite frankly, we have had enough," Greeson wrote.

"The best help you can be to the Democratic Party, right now, is to withdrawal your name from this race."

Greeson did point out Fischer's strengths. He said she should "focus on what you do well in the community. Advocate for our environment, for animals and for women and children."

But he was adamant about his assertion she should drop out of the congressional race

"Stop putting us through this public embarrassment," Greeson said.

Fischer is one of two Democratic candidates running for the 10th Congressional District seat.

Three Republicans are challenging incumbent U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry.