Pence to join "The Conservative Rally" in eastern N Carolina

SMITHFIELD, N.C. (AP) - Republican candidate for vice president Mike Pence is a late addition to the speakers' list for a big biennial rally featuring North Carolina's top elected GOP leaders.

Thousands usually attend "The Conservative Rally" featuring barbecue, music and political one-liners and calls to action. This year's edition begins late Friday afternoon at a tobacco warehouse in Smithfield.

Scheduled speakers with Pence are Gov. Pat McCrory, Lt. Gov. Dan Forest and U.S. Sen. Richard Burr, all of whom face tough elections against Democratic challengers. Sen. Thom Tillis, members of Congress and Republican candidates for other offices are expected there, too.

Pence already was in North Carolina earlier this week, holding rallies in Salisbury and Greensboro.