Today, Robin Hayes and Sen. Elizabeth Dole make a last-ditch campaign stop in Scotland County, which has the highest unemployment rate in the state. They will also visit Richmond County, which was only one of only two counties to see an increase in the unemployment rate in September.

The primary reason for the high unemployment: unfair federal trade agreements that send our textile jobs overseas

The culprits: Politicians like Hayes and Dole, who voted for the Central American Free Trade Agreement, which continues to cost our state jobs

"Washington politicians still don't get it. I hope Hayes and Dole can look the people of Scotland and Richmond Counties in the eyes and explain why they sold out the hard-working people of our state, who continue to suffer because of the unfair trade agreements that they supported.," said North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Jerry Meek. "It's time for a new direction and it's time to lay off Robin Hayes."

"Scotland County recorded the highest rate - 9.2 percent." The statewide unemployment rate was 4.7% in September. [North Carolina Employment Security Commission, 9/22/2006]

"Nearly 400 people will lose their jobs when a WestPoint Stevens facility closes in 60 days in Scotland County. The plant -- a weaving facility -- is located in Wagram. It employs 370 people who make towels...Previously, in May 2005, more than 200 workers were laid off at the Wagram plant." [WRAL, 7/10/2006] There are rumors of more job losses to follow soon.