Backing Zach
This is old news, but the CosmoCon is a busy little blogger. She simply must add her two cents to the echo chamber on Rep. Wamp’s gubernatorial bid.The CosmoCon is mighty fond of the Congressman. She is has a tremendous amount of respect for his views. In the 12 years or so that he has represented her, she’s only been upset with two of his votes. The most recent one being the bailout. Since the great state of Tennessee is the only state in the Union that got more red in 2008, this is likely to be sore spot for the Wamp campaign.
Rep. Wamp used to live near the CosmoCon’s parents. In fact, she frequently worked out next to him at the local YMCA. Despite running at a fast clip, he never got frustrated when people interrupted him to shake his hands or ask how he was doing. He’s a very down to earth guy and a great friend to the community.
Then there’s the competition…
Apparently, Mayor Bill Haslam has also decided to throw his hat in the ring. Aside from being heir to a great oil fortune, Haslam’s only claim to fame is that he’s the least corrupt Republican mayor in Knoxville. The best thing about Haslam running is that he is not Ragsdale.
According to internets rumors, state Senator Andy Berke is also considering a run. To this the CosmoCon laughs loudly. What on earth has Berke done that actually makes him think he could run for governor? Sure, he’s qualified in age, as a resident of Tennessee and maintains the ability to self-finance a campaign ( which is quickly becoming a pre-req in TN politics. Can we say Corker?). However, how does serving not even one-half term in a state senate office qualify you to run for governor? What executive (or legislative) experience do you have?
While Berke is certainly an affable guy, he’s a political lightweight. The people of Chattanooga have given him as pass because he’s a member of the city elite. He has virtually no record. Berke hasn’t even served long enough to face a tough political fight. No one even knows how he would react to pressure or tough calls. Has he even authored any legislation?
Both Haslam and Berke lack the voter ID that Wamp holds. Those massive billboards featuring Wamps face around his district? He wasn’t just wasting money. That was a calculated effort to widen his appeal.
Have you also noticed how Wamp’s made more and more prominent media appearances? Again, someone was thinking ahead. While Haslam and Berke have the money, they’re running from either local or state political offices. Both of those are hard seats to launch a campaign from. As a conservative leader and a member of the now-legendary class of 1994, Wamp holds a clear advantage over other Republican in the race. Furthermore, he’s played the game and been a good TN Republican. By this point, he should have the blessing of the state party.
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