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January 26, 2005
Who Will Be the Next US Senator from Tennessee?
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) is not seeking re-election after his second term. The going story is that he will likely throw his proverbial hat into the ring for the 2008 GOP presidential nomination.
Open Senate seat season is declared! The state's Democrats have their frontrunner already identified: Congressman Harold Ford, Jr. of Memphis. Perhaps the thought is that his "blue dog" credentials will help him play statewide. Another name that has garnered significant energy in Democratic circles is that of Clarksville State Senator Rosalind Kurita (D-22). Finally, there is at least a "wishful thought" that Congressman Lincoln Davis (D-4th, another Blue Dog) will join in the fun.
The Republicans might have a more interesting primary. Two names being touted are familiar from past campaigns: Ed Bryant and Van Hilleary. Bryant lost to Lamar Alexander in the 2002 Senate primary. Hilleary won his 2002 primary, for the Governor's race, but of course lost the race to Democrat and former Nashville Mayor Phil Bredesen. Speaking of mayors, Bob Corker (Chattanooga) has created quite a buzz for himself with regard to this Senate seat. Former GOP state chair and current state House member Beth Harwell is another potential contender in this race.
Update: possibly scratch Van Hilleary's name from the GOP set, but leave Ed Bryant's in, according to Tennessee GOP Political Director Randy Stamps, who also confirmed Mayor Corker's and Representative Harwell's declarations.
In addition to the two parties that always put up candidates, I will be covering the parties whose funding levels and degrees of organization only allow them to recruit candidates for selected races. Be sure to check back here for thorough coverage of these candidates as well. The intent here is to have a non-partisan site (not just a bi-partisan one).
Bob Corker for Senate , Elections | By joe lance | 03:47 PM
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Joe over at the civic forum is covering the prospects for Frist's seat. Where have all the yellow dogs gone? [Read More]
Tracked on January 26, 2005 07:14 PM