Sher delivers on state legislative races

Just when I had about given up hope that anyone in the press realized we have state legislative races coming up, Andy Sher of the Chattanooga Times Free Press delivers a goldmine of comprehensive coverage. I shouldn't be surprised.

Quoting leaders in both major parties and noting the independents who are running, Sher touches on the possible effects of the presidential election on state races. He also notes some unusual energy in the primaries as well.

Even before the fall contests between Democrats and Republicans, however, there are a number of contested party primaries where Democrats and Republicans are going after their own. For example, in the House District 31 race, which includes Hamilton County, Rep. Jim Cobb, R-Spring City, faces a challenge from former Rep. Jim Vincent, R-Soddy-Daisy, who is attempting a political comeback. “That does seem to be a trend this year, more so than I can remember in the past,” Mr. Cromer said. [Ed Cromer of the Tennessee Journal]

The piece also includes a good discussion of the races that both parties are targeting. The conclusion is that this is a critical year for legislative races. With the two major parties so evenly balanced, the outcome is unpredictable at this point. That is even more reason for Tennessee media to give these races the attention they deserve.