Wishful Thinking?

Commercial Appeal Washington bureau reporter, James W. Brosnan, has some interesting points in this commentary.

He notes that Lamar! Alexander only polled 40% of Shelby County's votes in the primary. Love to see how the rest divided up. For a former governor and, as Brosnan notes, a favorite of the business community, it was a poor showing. He notes as well the very poor showing of Democratic votes in Clement's primary, indicating it shows real softness for Alexander to exploit.

Brosnan, who talks to no Republicans in the column, does find space for Harold Ford, Jr., our US Representative, and at some length.

Rep. Harold Ford Jr. (D-Tenn.), who will co-chair the Democrats'
coordinated campaign in the state, said Shelby County is fertile ground
for both candidates, and that neither Alexander nor Clement is as well
known as he needs to be.

Former Governor Alexander? Really?

"Both candidates will have to come to Memphis," Ford said. "Alexander
was beaten and Clement is probably less well known."

"Beaten?" What does this mean? Nationally? How does that apply inside Tennessee?

He said A C Wharton's successful race for county mayor is a model
because it coupled a positive vision with a massive get-out-the-vote
effort.

Ahhhh...interesting. Don't recall the CA talking about any "massive get-out-the-vote effort." Do you? More of their avoid-talking-about-Democrats activity, it would seem.

"Before you can get out the vote you have to have a reason for people
to vote," Ford said.

He argues that Clement will have the better message to reach beyond
his base, and that Bredesen will overshadow his Republican opponent,
Rep. Van Hilleary (R-Tenn.).

Given that Alexander's base is the whole damn state, I'd say he's got the first part right anyway.

Until next time, that is all.
Your Working Boy