Now he's taking another chance to prove his political mettle by getting into the Democratic primary for governor after incumbent Beverly Perdue decided not to seek re-election. 

He said he couldn't sit on the sidelines while he believes the GOP-led Legislature is doing grave damage to public education.

 

The 70-year-old Etheridge is counting on help from allies going back to his days as a Harnett County commissioner, state legislator and state school superintendent as the May primary approaches.

 

Etheridge's congressional voting record is already being challenged by primary opponents. He says doggedness wins the respect of voters even when they disagree with you.