• FAST FACTS
  • Candidates recognize importance of the Whitehaven Vote
  • Three have headquarters in the area
  • Debate Monday focused on a range of issues

tom.powell@wreg.com
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(MEMPHIS September 14, 2009 10:19 PM) -- A Mayoral Candidates Forum was held in Whitehaven Monday at the Middle Baptist Church. Whitehaven has been touted by some as a bellwether in Memphis elections. Voter turnout is often high in the area.

Three current candidates running in the special election to replace Willie Herenton have set up headquarters in Whitehaven.

Memphis City Councilman Harold Collins, who represents Whitehaven, subscribes to the theory; so goes Whitehaven, so goes the mayor's race. "Whitehaven usually has as high as 90% and we expect this special election to be no different," he says referring to voter turnout.

Topics discussed at the forum included; how to reduce crime, how to clean up the city, and whether consolidation is a good idea for Memphis.

Prince Mongo, who has been a fixture at the debates and forums so far, was not present at Monday's forum. Pro-Wrestler and Candidate Jerry Lawler, who hosts WWE's Raw on Monday nights, was also absent.