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January 24, 2010
Zach Wamp opens campaign headquarters
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — An estimated 250 supporters and onlookers crowded into a downtown building to celebrate the opening of the first of three statewide offices by the Zach Wamp for Governor campaign. Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield and Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey shared the task of introducing Wamp. Each voiced support for the eight-term congressman and asked those in attendance to volunteer to help him win the election.
Wamp began his remarks with a somber nod to the families he has consoled during his tenure who have lost sons or daughters in military service. He said that he is humbled to be where he is, and views his role as a public servant. "I'm not in this for money or power," he said.
The campaign had wrapped up its tour of Tennessee's 95 counties on Friday in Haywood County. While the "Big Red" recreational vehicle sat idling outside, Wamp introduced its crew of drivers and other support personnel and presented them with gifts. He thanked local supporters, including Corky Coker.
Having said that he wasn't going to give his stump speech as "this is a different crowd," Wamp nevertheless emphasized his focus on third grade reading as a way to improve education; and he claimed a unique position in the race at understanding the excesses of federal government, leading to his support for state sovereignty as articulated in the Tenth Amendment. He closed with a rallying cry, saying that his campaign has the most momentum, and that there are possibly only two candidates who have a real chance at winning the election. To ensure it was understood who the other is, Wamp said that he will continue to travel the state and talk to voters between now and August, and isn't sure if the other candidates will stay out on the trail or "hide behind their money."
The campaign plans to open additional offices in Nashville and Memphis next month.
518 Georgia Avenue was the place to be seen on Saturday morning, especially for elected officials and those trying to become elected. Cleveland Mayor Tom Rowland led the Pledge of Allegiance. Collegedale Mayor John Turner, who's running for the Hamilton County Commission in District Nine, worked the crowd. State Representatives Gerald McCormick and Richard Floyd were also there, along with Hamilton County Commissioners Curtis Adams (who is not running for reelection) and Bill Hullander (who is running for Trustee), and Chattanooga City Councilman Manuel Rico.
At least two of those seeking to replace Wamp in the U.S. House of Representatives were on hand to honor the occasion. Tommy Crangle and Robin Smith handed out cards and attempted to build enthusiasm about the upcoming primary.
Political News , TN Gubernatorial Elections | By joe lance | 8:37 AM
Comments
Haslam may have a lot of money but at least he's not a proud ignoramus. Wamp lied in his first sentence when he said it wasn't about the power. He's a Republican Ray Blanton in the making.
Posted by: Elrod at January 24, 2010 9:36 PM
I think Zack will be the besf gov. I thought both him and haslam might be good me. But since Mr. Bill Haslam has brought a school in the middle of an election it is just down right sorry that is as low as you can get we already have guns, bullies, and gangs in the school now using a school to get votes that is just not right. Bruce Pearl has the right to vote and back who he wants to but to go this far is not diffrent than taking the Tennessee University through mud and a dirty campaign. Thank YOU
Posted by: Imogene at August 4, 2010 10:44 AM