Democrat McWherter Looks to Unseat Lamar!
From The Knoxville News Sentinel
Democrat Mike McWherter, a West Tennessee businessman and son of former Gov. Ned McWherter, announced Monday that he is establishing an “exploratory” campaign for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Republican Lamar Alexander.
“I’ve been honored to hear encouragement from Tennesseans in all parts of the state — East, Middle and West — who say they’re ready for a positive change in Washington,” said McWherter, 51, in a statement.
“I want to continue the dialogue on how we change the direction in our country for the future of our kids and grandkids. Forming an exploratory committee is a key step in my own decision-making process,” he said.
McWherter declined to further discuss his plans on Monday, but said he would do so today in Nashville.
Former state Democratic Chairman Bob Tuke and Kevin Doherty, a Nashville insurance lawyer, have also indicated they were interested in running for the Democratic Senate nomination. Both also indicated they would step aside if McWherter chose to run.
“If he’s going to do it, I’m going to help him,” said Tuke on Monday. “I think he is a fine candidate and a fine guy. I think Tennessee needs a senator who will represent Tennesseans.”
Tuke said he expects a Democratic challenger will need about $10 million to run an effective race against Alexander, a former governor who has announced he will seek a second term in the Senate next year. By establishing an “exploratory campaign,” McWherter can begin to raise money.
Tom Ingram, Alexander’s chief of staff and former campaign manager, said recently McWherter would be a respectable candidate, but expressed optimism that Alexander’s popularity will translate into re-election.
Tuke said he will help McWherter raise funds and is optimistic that the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee will also actively support a McWherter candidacy.
