The Hendersonville Times-News has the story. I’ve known Ed Krause from around town for years. He’ll make this race interesting. Aside from his work as an attorney, he also writes novels with a local flavor. The more, the merrier!:
A second Republican wants a shot at Rep. Heath Shuler, D-Waynesville, next year, and up to a dozen could enter the race in the coming weeks, making for a crowded field.
Asheville attorney Ed Krause, 62, has thrown his hat in the ring, saying residents of Western North Carolina are looking for someone who will take the country in a different direction.
“I personally like Heath Shuler, but we need a congressman who can stand up to (House Speaker) Nancy Pelosi and (President) Barack Obama,” he said.
Krause was reared in New Jersey and moved to Western North Carolina more than 30 years ago after graduating from law school. He runs a small law firm in Asheville and lives in McDowell County.
“I have been around a long time,” Krause said. “I don’t know if people want to go with an old horse. … I’m a country lawyer. I’m a small-town country lawyer. I have helped a lot of people.”
Krause said he is looking forward to a competitive Republican primary. He thinks he has something to offer the voters of the 11th Congressional District and plans to actively campaign.
Besides Krause, Hendersonville Mayor Greg Newman has formally launched a campaign. Potential candidates include Western Carolina University Professor Daniel Ostergaard, former state Rep. Charles Thomas, Asheville City Councilman Carl Mumpower and Highlands attorney John Armor.
“Bring it on,” Krause said. “I know Greg (Newman). He is a good person, and a good lawyer. I bring different things to the table.”