- FAST FACTS:
- Most Candidates take the high road in responding to Herenton's Move
- They welcome him to the race to replace himself
- Candidates use opportunity to promote their own platforms
tom.powell@wreg.com
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(MEMPHIS August 13, 2009 8:55 PM) -- Former Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton picked up a petition to run in a special election to replace himself. So, did the candidates already campaigning sling mud over Herenton's latest move? Not really, and the few swings they did take were hit something more like a wiffle-bat than a Louisville Slugger.
Candidate Rev. Kenneth Whalum, Jr. says reacting would be premature anyway. "I don't jump of the bridge when somebody makes a move. All he did was pick up a petition. He might be picking up the petition for his mama to run."
Candidate and current City Councilwoman Wanda Halbert says she'd welcome Herenton to the race. "The more the merrier," she says.
Candidate Charles Carpenter, who quite possibly has the best insight into how Herenton might run a campaign if he did enter the special election, says the city is ready for new leadership. "We are an alternative to the politicians that this community has endured over the last number of years," he says. Carpenter managed Herenton's winning campaigns in the past.
Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton, who is running to replace Herenton tweeted early Thursday, "Tired of the drama? show the world who you support." He then invited voters to an upcoming rally.
Candidate and Professional Wrestler Jerry Lawler released a statement. "Once again we are being hounded and polluted by the same tired old political games," he writes. "This city needs a fresh start more than ever."
Former Councilwoman Carol Chumney, who is also running, promises she'll serve her entire term if elected. "Not only that, we're going to get so much done in this city," she says.
Mayor pro-tem and candidate Myron Lowery says Herenton's move is political. "Our citizens are smart and are not going to be fooled by publicity stunts and media stunts like this," he says.
There was a mayoral forum Thursday night at Trinity CME Church. Former Mayor Herenton was not there.
