GOP gubernatorial hopeful Bill Lee taps Chris Devaney of Lookout Mountain as campaign manager
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Showing posts with label Chris Devaney. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chris Devaney. Show all posts
Thursday, August 03, 2017
Saturday, April 04, 2015
Carol Swain seeks positon of Chairman of the TNGOP
Shortly after Chris Devaney announced he was resigning as Chairman of the Tennessee Republican Party, I reported that Carol Swain, professor at Vanderbilt University and political pundit and activist, had expressed interest in the position. She is now actively seeking the position along with about half a dozen other contenders. Below is her letter of solicitation of support send to members of the State Executive Committee who will chose Chris Devaney's replacement this week. Also attached is her press release. The only change I have made is to remove her telephone number. I have done this for all the candidates, however, I am sure if you wish to speak to Dr. Swain that you may contact her at her email address and she will return your call. Rod
Carol M. Swain
P.O. Box 1385
Brentwood, TN 37024
(615) xxx-xxxx
March 30, 2015
Dear Republican Leader:
As a tenured Vanderbilt professor with a strong grasp of politics and knowledge of how political power is manifested, I believe I am the right person to take the reins of the Tennessee GOP at this pivotal time. I have strong political connections within Tennessee, as well as nationwide, and I believe there are qualities unique to my background, skills and values that make me particularly well-suited for this role. Most importantly, I am an excellent communicator with more than a decade of significant media experience as a savvy, conservative commentator. Additionally, I am intimately familiar with what it takes to be a consensus builder. It requires impeccable listening skills as well as the knack to recognize when it is time to speak and when not to speak, and when it is time to push and when it is time to take the foot off the gas.
My focus as interim party chairman through 2016 would be on expanding the influence of the Tennessee Republican Party across the nation, not just within our borders. Part of my strategy in doing so would be to continue growing the party by reaching out and bringing in conservative Democrats dissatisfied with the pointedly liberal direction their party has taken under President Obama, and there is plenty of trickle-down of that. Many inside the Democratic Party are seeing their own hopes and dreams of a strong America coming off the rails. There is much potential there for Republicans to connect with disenfranchised Democrats by offering a welcoming hand of reassurance and sincere inclusiveness. In this regard, I am confident I can also help the state GOP broaden its reach into the more urban areas of the state, bolstering our ties with those particular demographics.
One of the challenges facing us as we strive to accomplish all this is making sure the Tennessee GOP is fully funded. I have ample entrepreneurial experience and connections to be able to bring in more-than-sufficient funds as needed to hold the existing seats and expand into new territory. I see this role as part salesperson: I can prospect, I can pitch, and I can close.
In this role as party chairman, I would provide experience, soundness of principles, and a passion for politics and good government. Additionally, I pledge transparency, a promise of more inclusive internal processes when working with the State Executive Committee, and an affinity and comfort level with all brands of media. In essence, I bring a fresh set of perspectives gleaned from being a conservative Christian minority woman who has overcome poverty and achieved the American Dream. One of my first priorities as GOP chairperson would be to work on healing the breach between conservative Republicans affiliated with Tea Party groups and more moderate/traditional Republicans. I have good friends and strong connections in both groups. I have spoken at several Tea Party events and have become acquainted with many of the men and women who have invested themselves in politics as a new vocation. What strikes me most about conservative Republicans is our unifying commitment to God, country, and nation. I count myself among those committed to following the tenets of the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law that it establishes.
I’m one of those people I referred to earlier, who became disillusioned with the Democratic Party, ultimately attracted to the GOP by its adherence to Judeo-Christian values, the sanctity of human life, individual liberty, free market capitalism, traditional marriage, and constitutional government. I can honestly tell others that the Republican Party is the best hope for our nation in order to remain true to its roots. I believe it is essential to elect Republicans who will honor the tenets of the party platform when it comes to social and political issues. In our effort to expand our base, it is essential that we remain true to core values. I also believe that there must be some accountability to ensure that elected leaders remain responsive to the people and the party values.
I bring to this chairperson role more than 25 years of experience studying and teaching courses on politics and campaigns. I am currently a tenured Vanderbilt University professor of political science and law. Before that I was a professor at Princeton University. I have authored six books and numerous published articles. My most recent book is Be the People: A Call to Reclaim America’s Faith and Promise. My first book, Black Faces, Black Interests: The Representation of Blacks in Congress, won three national prizes and was cited several times by the U.S. Supreme Court. I am the host and creator of “Be the People” and I offer weekly commentary on Bott Radio. In 2007 and 2008, President George W. Bush appointed me to the National Endowment for the Humanities Board and to the Tennessee Advisory Committee to the U.S. Civil Rights Commission. I am a member of the Operation Andrew Board, and I have served on the boards of Teen Challenge, Roanoke College, and Christian Women in the Media.
I have been a frequent guest on “Hannity’s: Great American Panel” on Fox News and appeared regularly on CNN’s “Lou Dobbs Tonight.”I have also appeared on BBC Radio, NPR, CNN’s AC360 (with Anderson Cooper), “Fox News Live,”“Fox and Friends,” PBS’s News Hour, C-SPAN’s “Washington Journal,”“The Laura Ingraham Show,” and ABC’s “Headline News.”Over the next week or so, I will be calling each of you individually and meeting with as many people as possible.
Please feel free to call or e-mail me with your questions and suggestions. I can be reached at 615 xxx-xxxx and by e-mail at carolmswain@gmail.com. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this letter.
For more about my background, please see my website at either www.carolmswain.net or www.bethepeopletv.com.
* Websites:http://carolmswain.net/ and http://www.bethepeopletv.com
* Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/carolmswain
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profcarolmswain
* YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/bethepeopletv
Sincerely Yours,
Carol M. Swain
Swain Seeks Chairmanship of Tennessee GOP
NASHVILLE – Dr. Carol Swain, prominent Vanderbilt University law and political science professor renowned for her conservative political commentary on state and national media, has announced her candidacy for the chairmanship of the Tennessee Republican Party. In seeking to fill the post, Dr. Swain would replace current state GOP Party chairman Chris Devaney, who earlier in March announced he would resign effective April 11 to accept a leadership position with a Chattanooga faith-based nonprofit.
It is expected that the TNGOP State Executive Committee (SEC) will review candidates and select aninterim state party chairperson in time for that person to take office on April 12 and serve out the remainder of Devaney’s term, which ends in 2016.
Dr. Swain, 61, an outspoken Christian conservative who became a Republican nearly 7 years ago after becoming disillusioned with the Democratic Party, believes she can continue and build on Devaney’s successful tenure, which included a record-setting number of Republicans statewide elected to public office, at all levels.
“Chris played a key role in guiding the Tennessee GOP to new heights through such vehicles as the Red to the Roots program, and I would be excited and honored to use my communications skills, fund-rising savvy, and political and community connections to add to what he has accomplished,” Dr. Swain said. “With the 2016 election cycle now here, the new chairperson will have to hit the ground running, and I am prepared to do that.
“My focus as interim chairman through 2016 would be to expand the influence of the Tennessee Republican Party across the nation. This would include reaching out to conservative Democrats discontent with the excessively liberal direction their party has taken under President Obama. Toward that end, I can also help the state GOP bolster its reach into the more urban areas of Tennessee.”
Dr. Swain, the author of six books and a former Princeton University professor, is the creator and host of “Be The People,” offering weekly political commentary on Bott Radio. She has also been a frequent guest on Fox News and CNN, as well as on BBC, PBS and C-Span. In 2007 and 2008, President George W. Bush appointed Dr. Swain to the National Endowment for the Humanities Board and to the Tennessee Advisory Committee to the U.S. Civil Rights Commission.
To learn more about Dr. Swain’s background, visit her website at carolmswain.net or bethepeopletv.com. Contact her at 615-xxx-xxxx or carolmswain@gmail.com.
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Monday, March 23, 2015
Devaney: It’s Time to Embark on a New Journey
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| Chris Devaney |
Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney today announced to the members of the State Executive Committee that he will be resigning his seat effective April 11th. That is the same date as the next meeting of the TNGOP SEC.
On a phone call with the SEC, Devaney announced he has accepted a position to lead CNP—the Children’s Nutrition Program of Haiti, a faith-based nonprofit headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee where Devaney and his family call home.
“We have had quite a ride. I have been honored and humbled to be a part of this remarkable history, but it is time for my family and me to embark on a new journey. Saturday, April 11, will be my final day as chairman of the Tennessee Republican Party,” announced Devaney.
At the conclusion of his tenure, Chairman Devaney will be remembered as one of the longest-serving chairmen in TNGOP history and the one who guided the Party to new heights.
Since 2009, when Devaney began serving as chairman, the TNGOP has become synonymous with success in the Volunteer State:
- In 2010, the Party gained a working majority in both chambers of the General Assembly.
- In 2010, the Party helped turn our Congressional delegation to a 7-2 Republican majority.
- And, in 2010, the Party elected a Republican governor.
- In 2012, both the State Senate and State House attained supermajority status.
And just this past year, in our Red to the Roots program, we elected county and judicial candidates across the state, in some districts that haven’t had Republican representation since Reconstruction. In all, nearly 750 Republican candidates were elected at the statewide, federal, legislative, judicial, and county levels in the 2014 election cycle—a record for the Tennessee Republican Party.
“As a Christian and an American, I believe it is our duty, if we are fortunate enough, to help those who can’t help themselves, regardless of borders,” Devaney remarked about his next step. “Earlier this year, I traveled to the country of Haiti on a mission trip. It is a country where I have been on other similar visits. Haiti is a country that is a short plane ride from Tennessee. Yet, it is the most impoverished nation in the western Hemisphere.”
He continued, “That trip had a major impact on me and I feel it is time to get personally involved to help the children and families of Haiti. The CNP has a mission that I firmly believe in. As such, I have agreed to become the organization’s Executive Director. While it is in Chattanooga, its work is based out of Haiti. CNP’s mission applies, in my view, conservative principles to achieve its goals. It is not providing handouts, but is working to educate mothers and improve the health and development of Haitian children, particularly those suffering from malnutrition. I am excited about this new challenge and ready for the next chapter of my life.”
For more information about CNP, please visit cnphaiti.org.
In keeping with the procedure when Devaney was first elected in 2009 in a special election, he called a special meeting of the SEC to immediately follow the TNGOP’s regular session on April 11th. The special meeting of the SEC will be conducted by TNGOP Vice Chairman Betty Cannon.
Reacting to the news, Governor Bill Haslam stated, "During his time as Party Chair, Chris has helped lead Republicans to historic victories. He has been a driving force behind the history making streak the Party is on and Tennessee is a better state because of it.”
U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander remarked, “The Tennessee Republican Party has become one of the country's most successful, and Chris Devaney deserves great credit for this. His leadership has encouraged diversity of opinion and welcomed new voters. As a result, our party is larger, more successful, and more conservative.”
"Chris has done an outstanding job of leading our party and building it so that it is strong for the future," said U.S. Senator Bob Corker. "Chris's tenure as chairman has been marked by tremendous success, and now, as he and Heather begin this new chapter of public service, I could not be more excited for them and their family."
Devaney concluded his announcement by saying, “The Republican Party of Tennessee has a long proud tradition. I am confident that tradition will continue.”
Background
Chris Devaney has been elected Chairman four separate times: 2009 (to fulfill an unexpired term), 2010, 2012, and 2014.
Devaney, originally from Texas, graduated from the University of Oklahoma began his career in journalism working for NBC Radio News in Washington. His interest in politics led him to a job in the U.S. Senate Republican Conference. Eventually, he would work for three U.S. Senators: Phil Gramm of Texas, and Fred Thompson and Bob Corker of Tennessee. He and his wife Heather live in Chattanooga with their four children and are members of the Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church.
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Tennessee GOP Chairman Chris Devaney resigning
GOP
Executive Director Brent Leatherwood confirmed Devaney is stepping down
effective April 11. Leatherwood didn't immediately cite a reason for
Devaney's departure, but said a statement is coming soon. (link)
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Thursday, January 08, 2015
Obama should listen to Tennessee Republicans
by Chris Devaney, Charman TNGOP - Tennesseans know football. So when President Barack Obama recently acknowledged to reporters he was beginning the fourth quarter of his presidency, it caught our attention. While many of us would prefer him to take a knee, that's an unrealistic expectation for a president seeking to cement a legacy.
So let me humbly offer this advice to the president: If a memorable legacy is what you want, listen to Tennessee's leaders.
Why? Because something special is happening here. Americans increasingly view Tennessee as a state of opportunity. Our economy is becoming more diverse and individuals from all over the nation are choosing to relocate here. To paraphrase our state's Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty, 2015 is set to witness the strongest pipeline of economic development projects Tennessee has ever seen. That means more jobs and more opportunity for achievement. If only our nation could show these signs of strength like Tennessee.
With the right leadership, it could.
While here, the president will have the opportunity to meet with some of our Republican officials. If he would listen to them and take some cues from their respective leadership skill sets, our nation would be the better for it.
For example, he should try to emulate Sen. Lamar Alexander's wisdom with regard to health and education issues. Alexander tried to warn the president in 2010 about the negative effects of imposing a one-size-fits-all model to health care. Obama failed to listen, and he should not make the same mistake again. Now, Alexander has a plan to reduce the regulations facing schools and students that will make college more affordable. The president should support it.
Similarly, he should take guidance from Sen. Bob Corker, the new chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Under Obama's watch, the world is adrift. Hardly a day goes by without a new crisis erupting. China and Russia have grown emboldened as the White House disengages. Even allies now question our commitment to being the responsible actor in the world. Corker believes America should not shrink from its responsibilities. Most importantly, he knows we cannot afford to equivocate on tough international matters. Corker has extended a hand to work with the White House. Obama should not ignore it.
The president should also take note of the revolution of ideas taking place in the state. He would do well to follow in the footsteps of our own governor. In his tenure, Bill Haslam has garnered a reputation for turning bold ideas into responsible solutions that have transformed Tennessee into an innovation engine. Haslam's steady hand and thoughtful leadership are attributes our nation could use right now.
In all likelihood, during this visit, Obama will recognize the success of Tennessee Promise — a program that dramatically increases accessibility to college for high school seniors. In fact, it should surprise no one if the president proposes a federal version of it. But to do so in any meaningful way, he would have to get America's financial situation to look more like Tennessee's prudent fiscal state.
You see, you can formulate unique policies — without spending and tax increases — only when a balanced budget is the norm, debt is low and you're atop the rankings for economic development. Washington hasn't had this type of fiscal discipline under Obama, and it would be a good place to start.
The fourth-quarter clock is ticking. If Obama is serious about creating a productive legacy, the conservative ideas to adopt and the gifted individuals to learn from are right here. For America's future, we'll be watching to see if he fumbles this opportunity.
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Saturday, December 06, 2014
Devaney defeats Joe Carr to remain TN GOP leader
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| Chris Devaney |
Carr who had challenged Senator Lamar Alexander for the party's Senate nomination lost to Alexander in the August primary election and then failed to endorse Alexander following the primary. Carr campaigned for the Chair position saying he would bridge a growing divide in the Party and bring the party back together. Failing to endorse an incumbent Republican seeking reelection, it is hard to see how that contributes to bringing the Party back together. Carr was supported by what many consider the more extreme of the tea party faction. Carr was nominated by Robert Duvall. Duvall is chairman of the Davidson County Republican Party and a member of the State Executive Committee. Duvall is also a metro councilman.
Other offices elected were elected by acclamation and are as follows:
- Betty Cannon, of Nashville, as Vice Chair
- Frank Colvett, Treasurer
- Beth Scott Clayton Amos as Vice Treasurer
- Christi Cross as Secretary.
- Ken Gross, Rules and bylaws
- Beth Campbell, of Nashville, Candidate recruitment and Campaigns
- Kurt Holbert, Finance
- Hobart Rice, Issues
The State Executive Committee is composed of a male and female from each of the States 33 senatorial districts and they are elected in the party primary to serve a four year term.
Chris Devaney who has chaired the Party since 2009 began his career as a journalist for NBC Radio News in Washington, D.C. and later worked in media relations for the Republican Conference of the United States Senate. He then worked as a senior staff member for Phil Gramm, Senator from Texas from 1985 to 2002. In 1994, he moved to Tennessee to work on Fred Thompson's campaign for the U.S. Senate. He later became Executive Director of the Tennessee Republican Party. He worked on Bob Corker's 2006 senatorial campaign, and became his State Director shortly after his election. He has served as Chairman of the Tennessee Republican Party since 2009, and was re-elected in 2010 and in 2012.
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Friday, December 05, 2014
Govenor Dunn endorces reelection of Chris Devaney for TN GOP Chair
Governor Winfield Dunn has endorsed the reelection of Chiarman Chris Devaney in an email letter to members of the Republican State Executive Committee. Chris Devaney is being challenged by Joe Carr. Joe Carr ran in the Republican primary against Senator Lamar Alexander seeking the Party's nomination for the Senate and then after the primary he never did endorse Alexander. In addition to Devaney and Carr, Karen Bennett is seeking the post of chair. The election will be tomorrow.
Below is the email from Governor Dunn to members of the State Executive Committee.
From: Winfield Dunn
Subject: A Note from Governor Winfield Dunn
Date: December 4, 2014 at 10:51:16 AM CST
To:
Reply-To: Winfield Dunn
Dear Republican State Executive Committee Members:
Now that the dust has settled and the political atmosphere in our state and across the country is fairly clear, I am even prouder than ever before to be a Republican!
The results of November 4th nationally restore my hope that we can bring common sense and logic back to the governing process as they were used originally to frame our nation.
Here at home, I find myself prouder than ever to have been a part of your early efforts to lead our state Republican Party. Having been associated with the Party for so long now, I feel I have been a part of setting Tennessee on a better course.
I must say that Chairman Devaney’s vision, courage, and devotion to the TNGOP have been unparalleled contributions.
I am extremely pleased that he has chosen to seek another term as our Chairman. The degree of progress we have made across the board in state government is phenomenal and he is due a huge amount of the credit for our success.
His strong leadership, and the leadership of the SEC, will surely help us continue to serve the people with honesty and common sense. Count on me to be with Chairman Devaney. I trust you will, as well.
Regards,
Winfield
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Tuesday, September 16, 2014
TNGOP Chairman: Gordon Ball Will Be One More Vote for Barack Obama's Agenda
State
Republican Party launches new web ad and new site, ObamaBallAgenda.com,
to expose Gordon Ball's support for Barack Obama's liberal agenda
NASHVILLE, Tenn.—President Barack Obama has his sights set on Tennessee this fall.
While Tennessee has increasingly become a Republican stronghold,
Washington Democrats believe they have an opening to gain a foothold in
the Volunteer State with the November 4th election. In the last few
months, news reports have surfaced that reveal a secretive liberal
agenda targeting Tennessee. Whether it is with a former OFA staffer running for Congress or the funding of a liberal strategist for a pro-abortion campaign against Amendment One, it’s clear Democrats believe Tennessee can be turned into a battleground.
And, at the top of the ticket, will be a man who would be one more vote for Barack Obama's harmful agenda -- Gordon Ball.
Mr. Ball, a liberal personal injury lawyer from Knoxville, will only
serve to empower Obama and strengthen Washington’s stranglehold on our
economy.
"Ball's thin record and slick plan to fool voters should be alarming to Tennesseans,” said Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney. “Like
many Democrats in Tennessee—and every personal injury lawyer I’ve come
across—Ball will try to cloak himself with conservative rhetoric in
order to win. But the reality is: He'll be one more vote for Barack
Obama’s agenda. His commitment to ObamaCare and the fact he would help
President Obama impose more job-destroying taxes and regulations, all
while eroding our Second Amendment rights and the rights of the unborn,
proves he wouldn’t be a bluedog—he’d be Obama’s lapdog in the Senate.”
To counter the efforts of the Tennessee Democratic Party and Gordon
Ball’s own self-financed public image campaign, the Tennessee Republican
Party today announces the creation of a new website designed to be a
strategic resource center for voters and journalists alike. The site, ObamaBallAgenda.com, will reveal the truth about Gordon Ball’s record and explore his support for the liberal Obama agenda.
Additionally, the TNGOP released a :30 web advertisement that can be seen by clicking here, that highlights Gordon Ball's campaign to be one more reliable vote for Barack Obama's reckless agenda in Washington.
Devaney added, “Tennessee has
been at the forefront in the conservative movement. We’ve had--and
continue to have--outstanding leaders who look for solutions and reflect
the values of our citizens. This fall, we have the chance to return one
of those leaders, Senator Lamar Alexander, back to the Senate to defend
us from President Obama. The last thing voters should do is be tricked
by Gordon Ball’s campaign--an effort that promises to be as slick and
contrived as the candidate himself.”
Background
The liberal agenda in Tennessee will take several forms this fall, including:
• Senate candidate Gordon Ball's support for Obamacare, raising taxes, unions, pushing for gun restrictions and threatening the rights of the unborn all in his own words.
• VIDEO: TNGOP Web Ad.
• The Tennessee Democratic Party is spending a significant amount of money to bring in a consultant to fight against Amendment One, a pro-life constitutional amendment on the ballot this fall, and advise Democratic candidates.
• In the Fourth Congressional District, Democrats are backing a candidate who has "worn the Obama stripes as...regional field organizer for Organizing for Action" and has nearly $100,000 cash on hand.
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Thursday, September 04, 2014
Mark Winslow, member of the Republican Party SEC, is still working for Democrat Judge-elect Melissa Blackburn.
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| Mark Winslow, the member of the Republican Party State Executive Committee who works to defeat Republicans and elect Democrats. |
Winslow's candidacy to run again for a seat on the State Executive Committee was challenged on the basis that he was campaigning for a Democrat. Unfortunately, Chris Devaney, Chairman of the Party and a person up until that point that I had always respected, failed to rule Winslow as ineligible to run for that seat. Winslow ran and was reelected.
Serving on the Republican Executive Committee gives one access to Republican strategy and data and puts one in the position to vote on how much, if any, funds will be given to Republican candidates. I do not see how anyone cannot see that having a member of the Republican SEC campaigning to elect a Democrat and defeat a Republican, is not a conflict of interest.
I do not see how Mark Winslow in good conscience could work to defeat a Republican and elect a Democrat and still serve on the SEC. A person of character would have resigned his position with his employer or would have resigned his position on the Republican State Executive Committee. One cannot serve two masters.
I had heard a few weeks ago that Winslow was working for Judge-elect Melissa Blackburn, but wanted to wait until it was confirmed to bring it up. Below is a news paper story that confirms he is still working for Blackburn.
Two fired from Davidson Mental Health Court
by Brian Haas, The Tennessean, September 3, 2014- Newly elected General Sessions Judge Melissa Blackburn is quickly making her mark as the head of Davidson County’s Mental Health Court.
Two weeks ago, she forced all five court employees to resign and reapply for their jobs. On Tuesday, she told two of them they would not be re-hired. .....
Blackburn’s transition into office included an Aug. 14 email sent to all Mental Health Court employees forcing them to resign by the following day, with a resignation date of Sept. 1. (link)
“All employees, if you wish, shall be eligible to reapply for positions with the court as part of Judge-Elect Blackburn’s evaluation of performance, efficiency and staff cohesion,” read the note, penned by Mark Winslow of SmithWaterhouse Strategies, a political consulting firm. (link)I am so disgusted by this whole episode that I am at a loss for words. One thing I am not going to do; I am not going to give any money to the Tennessee Republican Party as long as Winslow is serving on the State Executive Committee. I will not be attending the Statesman's Dinner or responding to party solicitations for contribution. I think only real Republicans should be sitting on the Executive Committee, not phoney Republicans who are working to defeat Republicans and elect Democrats. I don't know, but I would suspect that there is a way the Executive Committee could refuse to seat a member or remove one. They should. If this is the kind of Republican Party we have, that can allow a political mercenary-for-hire to have a seat on the Executive Committee, then I want no part of that Party.
I guess there is no point in beating a dead horse, but one more piece of evidence that Mark Wislow is a Democrat in Republican clothing, he picked up a qualifying petition for Gary Blackburn to run for the male seat for District 21 of the Democrat Party. Why would a State Executive Committee member of the Republican Party pick up the qualifying petition for someone seeking a seat on the Executive Committee of the other party? See the below record.
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Monday, May 05, 2014
First Tuesday guest will be TN Republican State Party Chairman Chris Devaney
From Tim Skow host of First Tuesday:
Mark your calendars... secure seating for you and those you know who care about politics, Nashville, Tennessee and many facets of our future.
Many of you have heard that Nashville will be the focus of virtually all political activity in TN in 2014.... An OPEN and very competitive St. Senate seat, 4 St. House seats that are in play, a critical Metro office and 5 Judge races where Republicans will be on the ballot in August .... Nashville Republicans have NEVER had a sooooo much to do for sooooo many Nashville Republican candidates !
These races all have much to say about 2015 Metro races and if LIBs get their dream of turning Nashville into "The San Francisco of the South"
[ LIBs actually have such a plan ...some of you have heard about it ! ]
On TUESDAY, May 13th, our guest will be TN Republican State Party Chairman Chris Devaney...... You can expect to hear what the State Party is doing to focus their time, efforts, resources and more on Nashville in 2014... and what they can... [and CANNOT ] do in 2015. Given the nature and importance of this event... it will be closed only to those who are 1ST TUESDAY Members, friends and those known to be on our side. This will be a meeting of impact and meaning. Plan accordingly and expect a full and wide ranging discussion. The next 15 months are critical to Nashville's future !
We are meeting on the 2nd Tuesday this month for multiple good reasons. Many of you know we avoid meeting on any Election Day so some of our friends can work the polls. By meeting on May 13th, we also fall inside the time frame requested for announcing our MEGA-meeting on June 3rd. And you can expect to also hear who is making plans to visit 1ST TUESDAY in July and August... you can bet on this... THE JOINT WILL BE JUMPING !!!!
The room will sell out for each of the following 3 events... Those attending on May 13th will be able to secure seating for each.. or all .. that day.. So plan accordingly !!!
As usual, doors at WALLER Law [511 Union Street, 27th floor] will open at 11AM for Coffee and Social Time. We expect several of the 2014 candidates to join us at 11AM, so please do so as well if your schedule allows.
Lunch will be available at 11:30 and our program will start at Noon. Cost is $20 for 2014 Members and $25 for Guests.
Visit the 1STUESDAY website at www.1sttuesdaynashville.com and click on Shopping Cart ... to seating for you and your guests !!
Our Q&A session will run till 1:00PM, but plan to stay and chat with candidates and those from the State Party who be there if your schedule allows.
As mentioned... those Members attending will be allowed to secure seating for upcoming meetings while there before the room sells out in the few days that will follow !
In closing ... a few quick reminders and notices... Vote on Tuesday, May 6th. Join us for lunch on May 13th. May 29th will be the Latinos For Tennessee event at Dr. Mark Green's home, May 30th is the Statesmen's Dinner and June 3rd will be a MEGA-event day at 1ST TUESDAY !
look forward to seeing you on TUESDAY, MAY 13th for what will be a most meaningful, exciting and important meeting..
See you soon !
Tim Skow Host of 1ST TUESDAY
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TNGOP Chairman Devaney Releases Statement on Stacey Campfield’s “Ignorant and Repugnant” Remarks
NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney released the following statement after reading a blog post from Stacey Campfield:
"While Stacey Campfield routinely makes remarks that are over the top, today's comments are ignorant and repugnant. No political or policy disagreement should ever be compared to the suffering endured by an entire generation of people. Those comments have no place in our public discourse. He should offer an apology to members of the Jewish faith immediately."
Here is the Campfield offensive remark: "Democrats
bragging about the number of mandatory sign ups for Obamacare is like
Germans bragging about the number of mandatory sign ups for "train
rides" for Jews in the 40s." (link)
My Comment: I agree with Devaney. Campfield's comment was in very poor taste. He should issue an apology.
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Monday, April 14, 2014
Correction: Mark Winslow survives challenge. Will remain on ballot as TNGOP Executive Committee candidate
This is a corrected version of this report. Previously, I had stated that the Democrat candidate being supported by Mark Winslow did not have a Republican opponent in that race. In fact, she does. Rod
In addition to Matt Collins who failed to survive a challenge to his candidacy to run for a seat on the Tennessee Republican Party's executive committee, there were 20 other Republicans who were challenged, most of them for seats on the Executive Committee but some for other positions. Among those challenged were Mark Winslow and Karen Bennett. Both Winslow and Bennett are current members of the Executive Committee representing district 19.
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| Tony Roberts |
The challenges to Winslow and Bennett were brought by Tony Roberts and Melissa Gay. Tony Roberts is the Second Vice Chair of the Davidson County Republican Party. He is also one of founders of Conservative Groups of Middle Tennessee, an organization designed to bring together right-of-center activist, Republicans, and Libertarians for mutual cooperation and networking. Tony also is chair of GOP Minority Coalition of Tennessee, which does outreach to minority groups and immigrants.
I caught up with Tony at an event last week and asked him about his challenge of the candidacy of Winslow and Bennett. He told me that the party bylaws say a member of the Executive Committee cannot endorse a Democrat and he says if they do, he does not think they should be allowed to hold a seat on the Executive Committee.
I think it inappropriate for a member of the Executive Committee to be endorsing a Democrat in a Democrat primary even if there is no Republican running for that seat. To vote for the candidate they endorse, one would have to vote in the Democrat primary. You do not build the Republican Party if Republicans vote in the Democrat Primary. In this case it is even worse however, because there is a Republican candidate for that seat. Marian Fordyce is running as a Republican and will be on the ballot unopposed on May 6, and will then face the Democrat who wins the Democrat primary in August.
It is my understanding the Mellisa Blackburn is the wife of one the attorneys who represented Mark Winslow in his legal action against Chuck Fleishman and the State Republican Party. Also, if what I have been told his correct, Mark Winslow is not simply supporting someone who happens to be a Democrat out of friendship, but has a paid position in her campaign. This is an outrage and should not be tolerated.
TNGOP Chairman Chris Devaney's explanation of why Winslow and Bennett were not removed is that he ran out of time to do so. While admitting they violated party bylaws, he said he was not comfortable making the decision himself, which the rules says is his responsibility. Rather than making that decision alone he wanted the input of the Executive Committee and he says there was not time to convene the committee. This is lame. By not removing them, he made the decision not to remove them. The decision was his and there is no evading that he made a decision. If the Chairman should not have that authority to remove or not remove a person from the ballot, then the procedure needs to be changed. Until it is changed, by not removing someone who is challenged, the Chairman is making a decision to keep them on the ballot.
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| Mark Winslow |
Each district must have a male and female member on the Executive Committee of the Party. Karen Bennett is the female representing the same district as Mark Winslow. Karen Bennett is also a member of the Metro Council.
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| Karen Bennett |
I cannot find a statement as to the result of the 21 challenges. One could compare the list of those who were challenged to those who are on the ballot but even it a name was on the first list and not the second list, one would not know if the person was ousted or voluntarily withdrew. Other than Matt Collins, I do not know who was removed.
Here is the Tennessean's coverage of the issue: As GOP dominates, ballot challenges get weird.
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Monday, February 24, 2014
TNGOP Announces New Engagement Director, Regional Political Directors for 2014
Statewide Staff Represents the Earliest Field Operations in TNGOP History, Unprecedented Commitment to Engaging Minority Voters
NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Following
the 2012 election, the Republican National Committee conducted a
top-to-bottom review of the Party’s infrastructure and political
activities across the nation. It quickly became apparent too little was
done in terms of outreach to communities beyond the traditional GOP
base.
With more Republicans running for office in 2014 than ever before, Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney
today officially unveiled the TNGOP’s statewide Engagement Director, as
well as the new team of Regional Political Directors responsible for
organizing and implementing the 2014 Republican victory plan.
Victor Evans,
a former teacher and Rhodes College graduate with a Masters from
Christian Brothers University in Memphis, joins the TNGOP as its
Engagement Director. His responsibilities include enlisting support from
the African-American, Latino, and other minority communities across
Tennessee. Evans will also direct the TNGOP’s Global Engagement Team,
which has already been actively working in Nashville to grow minority
support.
Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus applauded the move and stated, "Victor
Evans brings valuable skills and experiences to the Republican Party.
He will play a critical role in strengthening our ties to all Tennessee
voters. His hire will ensure our positive vision for the country and
our message of 'opportunity for all' reaches across the state."
Devaney remarked, “Victor
understands we have a lot of ground to make up in communities across
Tennessee—and he’s helping to lead the effort. We will compete for every
voter across the Volunteer State. Whether it is educational
opportunities for all students or fighting for adults who need a job
now, we’re the Party of opportunity. Victor will be instrumental in
communicating that message for all in 2014.”
Evans, who is fluent in Spanish, has already been working on behalf of the TNGOP for several months now. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” he said. “Whether
it is in Frasier in Shelby County or East Nashville in Davidson, people
are feeling empowered by the Republican Party’s message. This isn’t a
one-time proposition. This is about laying the groundwork for years to
come.”
In
addition to Evans, the TNGOP has brought aboard an experienced and
talented team to carry the Party’s message throughout the state.
Kim Perry, an experienced political operative based in Memphis, will engage voters in Shelby County. Jordan Maynor,
a political operative with expertise in sales and business-to-business
service, will focus on Davidson County and other targeted areas of
Middle Tennessee. A former TNGOP intern, Thomas Stephenson, returns to the Tennessee Republican Party to engage the Party’s rural and suburban targets. And Zack Huff,
a former campaign field staffer for U.S. Representative Diane Black,
will manage the Party’s victory efforts in East Tennessee.
“This is a strong team we have put together for our field operations across Tennessee,” commented Devaney. “They
represent the earliest statewide field staff we have ever put in place
and they’ve already played instrumental roles in candidate recruitment,
county party training, and data-building. The bottom line is we’re
pressing the advantage over our counterparts to ensure that Republicans
are elected at the local level and that we keep the Governor’s seat,
U.S. Senate seat, and Legislature in Republican control this November.”
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Friday, December 20, 2013
TNGOP Chairman Chris Devaney Releases Statement Ahead of President Obama’s Press Conference
NASHVILLE, Tenn.—As President Barack Obama prepares to take a two-week Christmas vacation, the White House today scheduled a final press availability for the President before he departs.
The President leaves Washington with a number of matters unsettled. Just yesterday, the White House announced it will circumvent its own health care law once again by granting “hardship exemptions” from ObamaCare’s individual mandate. Earlier in the week, the administration was given a 300-page set of recommendations to overhaul the NSA’s spying program, and the dodgy application of American foreign policy under Obama has lessened our credibility across the globe.
Ahead of the news conference, Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney commented:
With his record of failure in 2013, I understand why President Obama wants to get out of town as quickly as possible. Over five million Americans received an insurance cancellation notice for Christmas this year thanks to ObamaCare and now the President is trying to win back support by strong-arming insurance companies and circumventing the law itself. He continues to preside over a sluggish recovery and his inconsistent foreign policy stances have caused our allies to question our leadership.
Thankfully, in 2014 Americans have a chance to give President Obama the lame duck presidency he deserves by electing Republicans to the US Senate, enlarging our House majority, and electing dedicated conservative Republicans all across Tennessee who will push an agenda of economic growth and individual opportunity--in stark contrast to Obama's big government track record.
In light of the press conference, it’s worth reviewing President Obama’s whoppers:
Revisiting Obama’s 2013 Whoppers
“President Obama Ended Up With Three Of The Most Misleading Claims Of The Year.” (Glenn Kessler, “The Biggest Pinocchios Of 2013,” The Washington Post’s The Fact Checker, 12/16/13)
Obama’s Broken “Keep Your Plan” Promise
Obama’s Promise That Americans Could Keep Their Plan “Backfired On Him” Once “Millions Of Americans Started Receiving Cancellation Notices.” “This memorable promise by President Obama backfired on him when the Affordable Care Act went into effect and millions of Americans started receiving cancellation notices. As we explained, part of the reason for so many cancellations is because of an unusually early (March 23, 2o10) cut-off date for grandfathering plans—and also because of tight regulations written by the administration.” (Glenn Kessler, “The Biggest Pinocchios Of 2013,” The Washington Post’s The Fact Checker, 12/16/13)See a helpful list of all the 2013 whoppers by clicking here.
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Thursday, November 07, 2013
TNGOP settles Mark Winslow's lawsuit. Chris Devaney comments.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.--Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney released the following statement regarding a lawsuit that was filed against the Party:
“The
Tennessee Republican Party has reached an agreement with Mark Winslow
to resolve the issues raised in his lawsuit against the Party. Upon my
election as Chairman in 2009 I decided to hire a staff of my own
choosing. Because Mark had an employment agreement through the end of
the year we negotiated a severance agreement that included a
confidentiality clause. Documents from his confidential personnel file
later became public and were used in political advertising. Mark
contends that these documents were misused and neither I nor the Party
would have or did authorize their release. Mark has been a loyal
Republican and a valued member of the State Executive Committee. I am
pleased we have reached an amicable resolution of this unfortunate
matter and look forward to Mark’s continuing good work for the Party and
our principles. I encourage all of my fellow Republicans to join me in
putting this episode behind us.”
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Friday, November 01, 2013
TNGOP Chair Chris Devaney on Secretary Sebelius' Memphis Visit
NASHVILLE, Tenn.-
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius is taking a page
from President Obama's book and traveling the country to peddle bad
policy instead of trying to fix the problems which have plagued Obama
Care and the Healthcare.gov website since its launch on October 1st. Two
days after telling Tennessee Congressman Marsha Blackburn to "hold me
accountable for the debacle," and "I'm committed to earning your
confidence back by fixing the site," during a Congressional hearing,
Sebelius will be at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library in Memphis
today to talk about the Affordable Care Act.
"Unless she is there
to check out a book about website development, then we can expect more
excuses and misinformation from this administration," said Tennessee
Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney. "In Washington we have
President Obama trying to defend his deceitful insurance sales pitch of
'if you like it you can keep it,' while Sebelius and HHS try to explain
the debacle that is healthcare.gov."
"The whole thing looks like a
snake oil medicine show being orchestrated from the White House.
Unfortunately for President Obama and Secretary Sebelius the bad policy
the administration is trying to peddle continues to develop more
symptoms of its impending failure than a cure for what ails it,"
concluded Devaney.
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Friday, August 16, 2013
Devaney Elected to Influential RNC Committee
Tennessee Republican Party Chairman wins unanimous vote to join national GOP’s Budget Committee
The Budget Committee is composed of eleven members of the Republican National Committee, three of whom are appointed by the chairman of the Republican National Committee, and each of the four regions shall elect two members, one man and one woman. Devaney fills a seat that recently became vacant.
RNC Chairman Reince Priebus congratulated Devaney on his election and stated, “Chris Devaney has done a tremendous job leading the Tennessee Republican Party to electoral success and his sound financial stewardship has played a major role in that. I’m proud he is joining our strong team on the Budget Committee.”
The TNGOP has consistently enjoyed fundraising and financial success. The Party consistently outraises its political counterparts and all of its targeted races across the state are fully funded.
Devaney remarked, “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work with my colleagues on the Budget Committee to ensure our funds continue being utilized in the best way possible to ensure maximum Republican success across the country. Chairman Priebus has put us in a great financial position to be successful in 2014 and beyond. It’s an honor to join this team.”
Earlier this year, Tennessee Republican national committeewoman Peggy Lambert was elected the Southern Region Vice Chair. Tennessee national committeeman John Ryder was appointed to the position of RNC General Counsel.
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Tuesday, July 30, 2013
TNGOP Statement on President Obama's Visit
NASHVILLE, Tenn.--Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney released the following statement regarding President Obama's visit to Chattanooga today:
"Today's visit by President Obama is a great opportunity for him to see
the successes of Republican principles in action. While America's slow
recovery continues, Tennessee is outpacing much of the country with
stronger GDP growth and stronger personal income growth. Job creators
have taken notice of what is happening in Tennessee and have continued
to rank Tennessee as one of the best states to do business in. We hope
that the President is able to take Tennessee's current blueprint for
success back to Washington because this is what America should look
like."
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Friday, April 19, 2013
Legislative Session Comes to Another Successful Conclusion Under Republican Leadership
NASHVILLE, Tenn.—The General Assembly today adjourned the first session of the 108th General Assembly. The conclusion of the session comes in a mere 33 legislative days—the earliest adjournment since 1990.
A number of Tennessee’s top priorities are on their way to becoming law thanks to the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Ron Ramsey (R—Blountville) and Speaker of the House Beth Harwell (R—Nashville). They include:
- Cutting taxes for all Tennesseans with reductions to the grocery tax, death tax, and Hall tax.
- Adding $100 million to the state’s rainy day fund for future emergencies.
- Placing a permanent ban on the state income tax before voters.
- Reforming the state’s antiquated worker’s compensation laws to provide certainty for businesses while protecting the rights of workers.
- Rejection of federal takeover of Tennessee’s health care system.
- New laws addressing gang violence, prescription drug abuse, repeat domestic violence offenders, and synthetic drugs
- Reducing government by placing a limit on the number of bills each Member of the House can file.
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Saturday, January 05, 2013
More on Mark Winslow sues State GOP
 |
| Mark Winslow |
This conflict stems from the 2010 primary campaign between Robin Smith and Chuck Fleishman. Winslow was working for Robin Smith in that campaign. Prior to that campaign, Smith was State Party Chair and Winslow was her Chief of Staff. According to sources, shortly before Smith left office as Chair of the Party, she gave Winslow a contract, which is unusual. When Devaney took over as Chair of the Party, naturally he wanted to select his own chief of staff, so to terminated Winslow and awarded him severance pay of $12,504.
During the Fleishman-Smith campaign, someone released Winslow's payroll records to Saltsman and the Fleishman campaign ran an add critical of Smith's management of the Republican Party. She had left the party with a substantial debt. The salary and bonuses paid Winslow, who by then was working on Smith's campaign, was used as an example of her poor management of the party. I don't know how much Winslow was making and do not know how much is reasonable for that position so I don't know if he was paid lavishly or not. As far as leaving the party in debt, after a campaign it is not unusual for a State or local party to be broke or in debt, so again, I don't know if that was valid criticism or not.
The Fleishman-Smith campaign was hotly contested. There were twenty-one candidates vying for the seat left vacant by Zack Wamp who had chosen not to seek reelection so he could pursue a race for governor. In this crowed field, the two leading candidates were Fleishman and Smith. Fleischmann put $544,000 of his own money into the campaign. Former Arkansas Governor and Fox TV host Mike Huckabee endorsed Fleichman; the Club for Growth endorsed Smith. While the Fleishman campaign accused Smith of mismanagement of the Party, the Smith campaign ran ads calling Fleischmann a “slip-and-fall” attorney who had gotten rich by suing a local rifle club, Walmart and a church. Fleishman won the race by getting 30% of the vote to Smith's 28% , beating Smith by 1,300 votes out of 80,000 votes cast. After the primary, Smith refused to endorse Fleishman.
Winslow is suing, claiming he has been unable to get work as a political consultant due the damage the Fleishman campaign did to his reputation and charging that payroll records should not have been made public. Winslow is currently serving on the State Executive Committee of the State Party. In essence, he is suing himself. The party is already spending money on attorney's to represent itself in this matter. When the State Executive Committee meets in February, I would bet Winslow will get an icy reception.
Just to spread more light on who's who in this mess, Chip Saltsman is also a former chairman of the Tennessee Republican Party and in 2008 was national manager of Mike Huckabee's presidential campaign.
For other reports on this issue see here and here. If anyone has insight as to what is going on or an opinion, please leave a comment. If you have a copy of the law suit, I would like to see it. If you would be so kind as to email it to me, I would appreciate it.
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