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McCrory opens MetLife in Ballantyne, talks about Cannon

CHARLOTTE — Gov. Pat McCrory opened MetLife in Ballantyne on Thursday without Patrick Cannon by his side.

On Wednesday McCrory expressed anger and disappointment over the charges Cannon now faces. As he opened MetLife Thursday, McCrory was asked several questions about his long-time friend taking bribes.

"There is a personal wound that will take a lot of time to recover in regards to that personal relationship," McCrory said.

While the city MetLife chose to be home for its U.S. retail operations is under political scandal, company executives say nothing has changed for them.

"I have no reason to change. We have had so many people help us in state, local government. I expect that will continue," said MetLife Vice President Eric Steigerwalt.

Questions swirl about the future of Charlotte's businesses, and if Cannon's corruption charges could cost the region jobs and investments.

Charlotte City Council members are waiting to see if additional charges will be filed in Cannon's case. However, as the investigation continues McCrory says Charlotte will move on.

"There is no one person bigger than this city, that's for sure," McCrory said.

City Council members will meet Monday to begin talking about the process of choosing a new mayor.