I don't want to spend alot of time on this...
As of late this afternoon I have been flooded with emails about Mayor Herenton's statements implying a future run for Congress in 2010. PAY IT NO ATTENTION. Have you not noticed that every time the Mayor gets in a bit of a sticky situation, he makes some outlandish or fantastic statement, which gets the media and everyone else buzzing with analysis and speculation, completely distracting everyone from what is right in front of them?... Namely his broken budget, the Bass Pro deal,The Fairgrounds,The Liberty Bell, Crime,......
Let's move on.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
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4 comments:
I agree, this is a distraction from something. We'll see what soon enough.
Herenton may be arrogant but not crazy. He is already under investigation for his business dealings. A run for Congress would require him to disclose his finances and business dealings and subject them to ever increasing scrutiny from our friends on capital hill. Don't think that Steve Cohen would let such an obvious campaign talking point go unchallenged.
I agree that this announcement is probably a diversion, but the real question is for what reason? I believe that the run for Congress was the most immediate and questionably winnable elected position available to him since he has no political base outside of Memphis. However, Herenton's political "style" does not lend itself well to legislating. In his years as superintendent of Memphis City Schools and Mayor he has never been known as a shrewd compromiser or communicator which is necessary in Congress.
If Herenton were to run for Congress and win he would have to vacate his position as mayor two years prior to the next election cycle. This would leave the Council Chairman as the cities mayor. I do not believe that A.C. Wharton, a long time tentative supporter of Herenton, in a precarious position since he is already campaigning for mayor. Also, It would give "control" of Memphis to a council member he is not particularly fond of. This is why I believe this is Herenton's political "escape goat"
Good post Brad. I compare Herenton going to Congress like E. H. Crump did as a New Deal Congressman in the 30's. He was totally out of his element and left after a short time there.
I'm not necessarily a big Cohen fan but he is a much better Rep than Herenton could be. It's a long time between now and the primary filing deadline next year and a lot of things will happen.
I am beginning to like you Brad .... good post.
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