Nearly 600 Wilson County Republicans showed up in force to the Made in Tennessee building at the Fairgrounds Friday night to kick off the political season with a bang! Although Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty had to appear by video, as they were in Washington over the weekend fighting for passage of the Save America Act, candidates for Congress and Governor spoke and made their best pitches to the primary voters.
Former State Senator Mae Beavers, the Iron Lady of Tennessee, was honored with the Freedom Award presented by Wilson County GOP Chair Brad Lytle for her decades of service, while her husband Jerry was recognized with a proclamation for his dedicated service to the Party and State as well. Mae was a critical leader in the fight against a state income tax 25 years ago.
State GOP Chair Scott Golden kicked off the speeches with a call to action and a reminder that after the local primaries in May, and August state office primaries, it is essential to come together and back the nominees. We can’t be complacent and take our “red state” status for granted, he said.
Congressman Andy Ogles lit up the crowd with his reiteration of his stance regarding blocking immigration from those espousing radical Islam, and to deport those who are here illegally.
He pointed out that despite Muslims in France and England making up less than 10-15% of the population, they account for about 50% of the sex crimes and rapes. In Italy, where the Muslim population is about 4-5%, they account for 60% of sex crimes!
In the 6th District race to succeed Congressman John Rose, Rep. Johnny Garrett, Jon Henry and former Congressman Van Hillary made their cases for votes in the August primary. All three dilegently worked the crowed throughout the evening.
Congressman John Rose emphasized that the next Governor should have the experience and skill set to move Tennessee forward. “ I may not be the most qualified person in the world to fill that role,” he noted, “but I’m definitely the best qualified person in this race.” Rep. Monty Fritts also spoke and focused on his legislative efforts to promote Christian values in Tennessee.
Local candidates and elected officials were in abundance as well, including County Mayor Hutto, city mayors of Lebanon and Mt. Juliet, Sheriff Robert Bryan, DA Jason Lawson, Senator Mark Pody, Representatives Susan Lynn and Clark Boyd, among others. Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris, a senior advisor to the Rose campaign, was also in attendance.
Steve Gill is editor and publisher of TriStar Daily, and has had more than his fair share of political party chicken dinners over the last several decades.
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