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Romney makes Nashville trip in Fred Thompson’s shadow |
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By Sam Youngman
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Posted: 06/01/07 03:02 PM [ET] |
Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney is slated to address Tennessee Republicans Saturday night, but another potential White House contender will probably be the buzz of the party.
Although former Sen. Fred Thompson (R) has not said officially that he is entering the race, Tennessee Republicans are gearing up for the political return of a state hero.
That said, it is Romney, not Thompson, who is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the state GOP’s annual Statesmen’s Dinner.
Party Chairman Bob Davis told The Hill that all those present will be “very respectful” of the former governor and that they are happy to show him some “Southern hospitality.”
“[But] there’s no question that in Tennessee, Fred Thompson is the favorite son,” said Davis, who used to work for Thompson.
Romney’s trip to Music City comes shortly after Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) defected from his camp in anticipation of a Thompson run.
Davis said that while the former senator is sure to be on the minds of many attendees, state Republicans have to remember they are all running toward the same end.
“We’ve got to remember one thing, we’re all on the same team,” he said.
Romney’s campaign said in an e-mail response that the ex-governor is a fan of Thompson and is looking forward to the event.
“Gov. Romney was invited to speak to Tennessee Republicans and is grateful for the opportunity,” Romney spokesman Kevin Madden said. “He’s looking forward to sharing his ideas and platform with those in attendance. He also has a great deal of respect for former Sen. Thompson and welcomes him to the race if he decides to run.”
The state’s two GOP senators, Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker, as well as Republican Reps. David Davis, John Duncan Jr. and Zach Wamp, are also on the program.
Blackburn is leaving for Europe Sunday morning and will not be in attendance, her spokesman said.
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