Coble Undecided on Seeking Re-Election Next Year

As of Thursday, December 29, 2011

News reporters wondering about Congressman Howard Coble’s future plans came away from a news conference Wednesday with no easy answers.

The 80-year-old Republican said he has not made up his mind whether to seek a 15th term in Congress. Coble said he wants to study the new configuration of the 6th District before making a decision.

“It’s the old Howard back,” said one Coble supporter after the news conference, his first public appearance since his hospitalization two weeks earlier.

Coble met with print and broadcast reporters at his Greensboro district office Wednesday.

Kathy McClellan, manager of the 6th District office, said Coble is resting at his home in Greensboro and expects to be back in Washington, D.C., when the U.S. House of Representatives reconvenes on Jan. 17.

“Mr. Coble says he’s feeling good,” McClellan said.

The Wednesday news conference was called to give the veteran congressman an opportunity to provide a personal update on the status of his health, McClellan said.

“There were a lot of questions, and he wanted to clear up those questions,” she said.

McClellan said Coble had suffered from a severe head cold that lingered for about a month, then the ailment developed into an upper respiratory illness.

By the time he sought medical assistance in Washington, his sodium level had dropped dangerously low, and he was admitted to George Washington University Hospital on Dec. 13.

He was transported on Dec. 21 to The Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro, where he underwent physical therapy. Coble was discharged and returned home Tuesday.

Despite speculation that Coble might decide to retire at the end of his 14th term, the congressman left that question very much open at the Wednesday gathering.

Redistricting maps adopted by the N.C. General Assembly have been approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, but several groups have taken the issue to court. The lawsuit must be resolved before the new districts can take effect with the 2012 general election.

Although most of the counties added into the new 6th District are regarded as Republican-leaning, the new district is not as compact as the present one and is spread out over a more diverse area.

The new 6th District includes all of Surry, Stokes, Rockingham, Caswell and Person counties, most of Guilford and Alamance counties, and portions of Orange, Durham and Granville counties. The present 6th District encompasses all of Randolph and Moore counties, most of Guilford County, and portions of Rowan, Davidson and Alamance counties.

If the district maps adopted by the GOP-controlled legislature make it through the latest judicial hurdle, Moore County will become part of District 2, now represented by Republican Congresswoman Renee Ellmers, who is serving her first term.

Contact Florence Gilkeson at florence@thepilot.com.

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SH59 1 year, 4 months ago

There really needs to be some way to assess the capability of our legislatures before they run again. I've met Mr. Coble and wondered how he was able to do his job.

Arestorer 1 year, 4 months ago

SH59 48 minutes ago; Im still confused as to how he was elected during the last cycle.....And people talk about paying attention to the canidate, and not just voting straight tickets...I wish Mr. Coble the best, but sometimes one has to face the facts that, You've reached the end of your ability to contribute to the game...Please Retire and enjoy the rest of your time with family...

TODA;; I know you'll be here soon....You made a statement,in an earlier post, about ignoring the geriatric group of politicians.(or something to that effect),,Would'nt that eliminate you from the race??? LOL :)

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

"Arestorer 18 minutes ago"

I did say that in so many words. At the young age of 63, I have 17 more years to go. I am in good health by way of a treadmill and weights. But here is a tidbit of information for you: Should I be elected to the State Senate, I will not serve more than two terms. Another difference between the geriatric crowd in Washington, I continue my education ~ even now. Next year I hope to enter grad school. I attended Sandhills Community College in 1979 and have subsequently earned two associates degrees. I have been a student at UNC Pembroke for several years now taking classes that will promote intellectual growth while keeping my brain stimulated. My next quest is to earn my Masters in Public Administration.

I find that the lack of education in our society has impacted inspirational and intellectual growth. Too much federal government oversight. As I so eloquently pointed out, much to the moderators' surprise at the Occupy Broad Street gathering, the schools are way too top heavy with administration. Way too top heavy. There is no wonder that there is no money for teachers who take the brunt of government regulations, tons of paperwork, and having to educate latch key kids. Only God knows how they do what they do on a daily basis.

Now with respect to Congressman Coble. I've met with him and Lindsey Morris from his Greensboro office. I said 8 years ago that he needed to be at home in a rocking chair. He is senile, incoherent at times and on the verge of Alzheimer's disease.

I was chastised for my remarks on another blog for taking cheap shots during his hospital stay. I think at the end of the day, he will have more hospital stays, and will succumb to the Byrd - Thurman assisted voting syndrome.

Arestorer 1 year, 4 months ago

Toda; If elected, Would you remember where you come from,and make as much noise in Raleigh, as you do in the Pilot?? If so, you could possible have a chance. Good luck with that. I hope you had a great Christmas, and have a blessed New Year..

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

Arestorer => I don't go along to get along. And, yes, I will voice my opinions as I do now. The people have no voice any longer in government. Just look what happened here in Poorer County, the people were saddled for decades to come with 52.3 million dollar debt. That decision was made by 3 elected official who were entrusted to listen to the views of the people. 68,000 + or - were not given an opportunity to vote. That is not what this county was founded on according to the Constitution.

Politicians become deaf when their egos are stroked. Suffice it to say, we have some of the biggest egos in the state.....

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

"Arestorer 2 hours, 32 minutes ago

Toda; If elected, Would you remember where you come from?"

Absolutely ~ a country boy raised in Vass. And proud to say that my family was salt of the earth folks who understood a hard days work had it's rewards.

A handshake was better than a ream of paper outlining legal superlatives. When children could play after dark and every door was open without a parent wondering if their child was kidnapped. When you visited a friend, there was always food to share. If I needed to turn a garden, Uncle Dan Kelly who lived across the road from us always had Black Jack available to me.

That's what Moore County used to be...where everyone knew you and your family. I wouldn't take anything for those lifelong experiences. Friends were always there to help in times of need. Unlike today, most people don't know their neighbors or anything about them. Only that they have a nicer house or drive a nice car. And kids now days, wouldn't attempt to hitch hike to Southern Pines to see a film. My cousins and I would work in tobacco and hitch hike to the Sunrise on the weekends. Love that life....

Arestorer 1 year, 4 months ago

Toda; I loved those days too..I also love these days, as tough as they are..I now have a loving wife, kids, and grandkids..Family is the real reward in this life...

MichaelFlorence 1 year, 4 months ago

As a registered voter I would strongly urge Mr. Coble not to run for re-election. I have met Howard numerous times, and I really like him BUT the time has come for him to step down. I know that Moore County is moving into a different district and Mr. Coble will no longer represent me, but it is way past time for him to retire. I wish him a long and healthly retirement.

RmeMP 1 year, 4 months ago

My goodness, can TOADa and restored please get a room already?! TOADa please don't waste the time and money running, you won't have a chance - just like you didn't last time.

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

RmeMP 3 hours, 41 minutes ago

As a soothsayer, you should play the lottery more often. My money and my time ~ so what's your problem?

Last time has what to do with running on the ballot for State Senator as opposed to a write-in for County Commissioner two weeks before the deadline? I understand General, you've been smitten and you still can't spell.

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

Arestorer 5 hours, 13 minutes ago,

I have to agree with you...I've been married to the same lady for the past 45 years. Still my sweetheart. My grands are the light of my life. We try to make it to Burlington at least twice a month to have our grand fix as my wife calls it.

What is sad in this day and age, are the children who come from broken homes, drugs in the home, and irresponsible parents. I saw way to much of that when I was Program Director of the Moore County Child Support Office for seven years. Many think that teachers are surrogates for parents and should embellish that role while teaching. I have a special place in my heart for teachers; if only the public really knew what they have to put up with, and not necessarily in a classroom.

clodfelter37 1 year, 4 months ago

I hope Mr Coble runs again and again. I have met with him and have found him to be very informed and very helpful. I really hope we stay in his district. It would be nice if Mr Toda runs and wins, then he would have less time blogging in The Pilot

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

clodfelter37 5 minutes ago ~ surely you jest! When's the last time you saw Congressman Coble? Age is not being kind to him ... you must remember Strom Thurman (SC) and Robert Byrd (VA)? Byrd would be wheeled into the Senate chamber and one of his aides would have to help him push the button to vote.

Obviously you don't like my comments. That's fine with me ... don't read them. FYI Mr. Clodfelter, there are many more than you can imagine who have like minded thoughts that don't blog on this site. And what you and the General don't have in your memory bags, are the number of support groups who will make every effort to see that I am elected. Thanks for your vote of confidence.

RmeMP 1 year, 4 months ago

You're right TOADa, it is your money and your time; however, surely you know that there is a TON of ammo for your opponent to use against you purely based on the diatribe that you have posted over and over on these threads. You should really watch what you write when even CONSIDERING running for public office. Surely you are smarter than that aren't you? You have already shot yourself in the foot... To use one of your tired phrases, " you're simply an old dog that won't hunt".

Have a happy and safe new year TOADa :)

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

"RmeMP 10 hours, 43 minutes ago"

Wow the nicest comment you've made about me since coming to the Pilot boards. What you call diatribes I call facts. You have yet to produce any supporting comments about anything I've written here or elsewhere. Anyone can come here or elsewhere and post condescending remarks that have nothing to do with content.

And since you are unfamiliar with Southern Dialect, the phraseology is, "that dog won't hunt". I speak my mind and I am very familiar with political jargon and spin. I'll not use either! I tell it like it is since I'm not a paid politician. Should I not get but two votes, I will have made an attempt to bring honesty without baggage to the office.

So Jerry Tillman should be your choice for State Senate. He's served since 1985 and is well groomed on polite protocol and which PAC's have the most money available to buy votes.

justmyopinion 1 year, 4 months ago

Facts?? Is that what you call your posts? Facts? Bring honesty to office?? So you don't think the half truths you rant about are bringing "honest abe appeal" with you to office??? That entire paragrph should be nominated for BS of the year. Thank you for helping me end the year laughing.

Stf (staph) Infection Viper- You post something that ignorant and question someone else's judgement and objectivity? Still laughing.

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

justmyopinion 42 minutes ago => I suspect you're referring to my thread?

What have you posted to dispel any comment I've made thus far? All you can the General can do is make snide remarks without any information other than your inadequacies. You spout off about anyone and everyone who can complete a sentence or communicate a thought.

Prove me wrong ~ or go back in hiding like the immature kid you are....

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

justmyopinion 49 minutes ago => Perhaps we need to sit down and have a cup of coffee and iron our our differences. I'll even buy! Or do you want to remain anonymous so you can dish our condescending remarks like a school yard bully? 944-1855 anytime

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

RmeMP => Same offer General...944-1855.

ljc102376 1 year, 4 months ago

As a youthful intelligent woman I have to disagree with your comments towards Toda. He is not a bitter old man by any means but rather an intelligent man who has lived here long enough to know the truth. Moore County seems to have a problem with the truth. This isn't Candy Land so stop pretending that it is. Toda simply states the truth and backs it with the facts. Those who disagree with him choose to sling mud and insult him making your attempt to argue very futile. Facts =credibility, name calling = bs! STF- 'low income' being used as an insult, really? 'grow a pair'? Do you realize how this makes you sound? It takes away any chance of you sounding even remotely credible.

hopeful 1 year, 4 months ago

@ Stf_Sgt_Viper..." based on your other rather shallow, poorly structured, grammatically improper post, you have yet to contribute anything worthwhile or intelligent. You have no crediblity with us, you're just a tired, bitter underacheiver blaming others for your poor decisions in life and low income. learn to take responsibility and grow a pair"

" if you bothered to actually pay attention, read and comprehend Toda isnt being attacked or insulted, not by me at least; he's being defended and backed up."

I am sorry, at what point were you defending him?

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

Thanks all for your kind comments regarding my intent on bringing to light the subliminal political issues here in Poorer County. As well as the state level, where partisan politics are the rule as opposed to independent thinkers.

I have never ever considered being a political advocate for the people, until self-interests in House Bills were introduced, and the Puppy Mill Bill was voted down by Representative Boles and Senator Harris Blake. As the law stands now, it was tabled in the finance committee. I have written several times on revenue streams that would offset any costs to implement structured breeding regulations.

I am not a politician. I am a learned individual who reads and understands information based on logic along with supporting documentation. I'm sure by the end of the filing period, others will step forward to satisfy those who "go along, to get along". I am not one of those people.

DaveyNC 1 year, 4 months ago

Part of my vision of Hades is being ruled by the comments section of The Pilot. Can you imagine a county board with Toda and Moonchild on it? I imagine it would involve a lot of shouting, based on their liberal use of the caps key here.

ljc102376 1 year, 4 months ago

STF, do you bother to read what you post? Or did you party a little too much last night ? How can I possibly respond to someone who post things like the following:

"Im confused how a dinosaur like this has even been elected in the last 20 years?!?!?!?! This person isnt even legal to operate a motor vehicle... one expects him to use sound judgement and objectivity? Must be some sort of backwoods NC thing."

"Strongbased on your other rather shallow, poorly structured, grammatically improper post, you have yet to contribute anything worthwhile or intelligent. You have no crediblity with us, you're just a tired, bitter underacheiver blaming others for your poor decisions in life and low income. learn to take responsibility and grow a pair. Happy new year to you anyway, I know it must blow to sit home alone on such a party event night.

By the way Stf, I can promise you it isn't a water pistol that I am holding onto. Again, you have zero credibility here. Hope you partied hard last night like the mature adult you are!

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

DaveyNC 2 hours, 19 minutes ago . Can you imagine a county board with Toda and Moonchild on it? Sorry you are miss informed, but my plan is to run for State Senate ~ the seat being vacated by Harris Blake...

" I imagine it would involve a lot of shouting, based on their liberal use of the caps key here."...well more uniformed and miss understanding. I don't use "caps", I don't shout. I have used bold fonts and italics. If you've ever attended County Board meetings, Larry Caddell shows his true self by shouting to make his points....A sight to see.

DaveyNC 1 year, 4 months ago

OK, let me restate my comment: Can you imagine a county board with Toda, Moonchild and Viper on it? (Toda, I don't really care what you are running for, this is just an example). I imagine there would be long rants, followed by glares at anyone who dared speak against them. And strokes. Lots of strokes.

ljc102376 1 year, 4 months ago

Viper, you are such a foolish man! First of I do get attention from the opposite sex but I don't need it to boost my ego unlike someone else. Not to mention I am married with two beautiful kids. You are a hypocrite to the tenth power. You insult and try to belittle people and turn around and accuse them of the same thing. A real man would never disrespect a woman but obviously I am dealing with a man child. You haven't a clue as to who I am or who I am married to. However if you would like to continue to insult me please do not do it behind your little computer hiding like a coward. Pick up the phone and call 910-528-6608. I would love to talk about your social life. It might be a little loud though because we have a house full of Panther fans watching the game. Yes, lonely and bitter and unattractive! Spot on genius!

ljc102376 1 year, 4 months ago

someone of my stature certainly doesnt explain himself to someone like you... seriously, get a grip on reality and stop your narcissistic delusional paranoia of your overinflated sense of self worth.

and yes, water pistol best describes a child with toys... but perhaps balloon is more appropriate: full of hot air.

BTW... you keep mentioning "partying"... which is you're frame of reference as you are either just being condescending (which is hardly obtainable since you cant be many levels beneath someone you condescend) and just purely immature insults as you dont seem to have any content or intelligence to contribute... stop being presumptuous, it makes you look young, naive, inexperienced... then again, I dont think you have really been out in the real world.

just another angry, bitter person most likely flipping out because she didnt have the option of partying with friends, let alone being able to get a date... not so fun to be stuck in a small farmer hick town, alone at home, huh? I wouldnt know, I have an extraordinary social life and get more than my share of attention from the opposite sex :-)

And I am the narcissist? Maybe you should look the definition of narcissim. I imagine you will see a photo of yourself. You are just sad and pathetic. I refuse to waste anymore time on someone with zero class. You will forever be living the single life.

Toda 1 year, 4 months ago

DaveyNC 4 hours, 15 minutes ago => 9-4-4-1-8-5-5 same area code. I'll buy the coffee. Somehow you are have gotten off track. Making up condescending remarks as you go along? Have you ever heard me speak in public? If not, you may be impressed!

Thatcher 1 year, 4 months ago

Sgt. Viper-- You're not a very nice guy, are you? Have you ever considered what you actually post?

deidretg 1 year, 4 months ago

@Stf_Sgt_Viper -- OK, "Biff", time to "man up" and take your medicine.

The following tirades and abusive comments have been posted by you here on The Pilot Blog in recent months;//////"Then again, the South has a history of have the US Government having to physically force them to do things and kicking their butts... we should just take all those state's rights away from them and rule them directly from DC"///////"Common sense" is subjective... as in most people in the US would say "Southerners lack common sense"..."////////"Take me for example... I enjoy back handing gutless, mannerless, cultureless southerners when their loud, obnoxious behavior annoys me... its not like you people will fight back, that would mean you have courage, dignity, self respect... LOL... you're southern, you're too weak for such."///////"Well, eventually NC will be dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st century..."//////"Learn your place bubba and learn some social skills or you might end up facing a guy like me one day."//////"I am smarter than you, stronger than you, better looking than you and most likely earning more than you. And that is for a reason. Weak people dont accomplish in life... the strong prevail and survive..."/////"Uh.. Im a New Yorker, trust me when I say... NC is about 20 years behind"////// "/////"Dont you get it? Stop obsessing me... guys like me have always pushed you around, picked on you, humiliated nerds like you all your life."/////"Don’t be so jealous old fat man... just because I’m younger, better looking, more accomplished, smarter, better educated, live better and get women that wouldn’t even give you the time of day...."/////"Hate to tell ya, but you simply wouldn’t make it very long in the single scene... and definitely not in mine... I only date strong, independent, intelligent, fit, gorgeous, dynamic women who have their absolute choice in men.... I don’t like submissive portly, lazy housewives, no thank you, however, I’ve had my share of married women come on to me... hey! they have good taste, they like tall handsome, fit, intelligent guys that are fun and a bit of bad boys.... "/////"First and foremost... ITS NO ONE'S BUSINESS!... Being against gay marriage is like being anti-American or against civil liberties."/////"They certainly are drama queens and flamboyant... and something about their very feminine voices are like fingernails on a chalkboard to masculine, alpha males.(Stf Sgt Viper)"

OK, Biff, we get it, now. You are a tall, fit, masculine, alpha male from New York who likes to talk about drama queens and 'The South". My guess is that you also like to cook for "friends". When you get a spare moment in your otherwise busy life, how about getting a copy of "Back To The Future" (1985) and watching it. Please pay attention to the last five minutes. From all that you have said here on the blog, I can clearly see that your best days are behind you. Have you ever buffed a car for money, Biff?

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Coble Undecided on Seeking Re-Election Next Year

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