The election for Hamilton County Republican Party chairman has always been a shoo in. But not this time.

Outgoing Chairman Bobby Wood said for the first time in his memory there was a contest election for chairman at the party convention at the Convention Center on Saturday morning.

Mr. Wood said the longstanding policy was for the outgoing chairman to stay out of it and for other former chairmen to get together and choose a new leader.

He said that meeting happened about a month ago - with a group that included Wayne Cropp, Robin Smith, David Bales, Valerie Copeland Rutledge, Debbie Smith, Harold Coker and Grady Rhohen choosing Brett Hale, an Army colonel who recently served time in Iraq. Col. Hale was party treasurer at the time he was called to duty.

Ms. Smith, who is the state party vice chairman, made a nominating speech for Col. Hale.

But then Christian Lanier, a Chattanooga attorney and former candidate for District 31 state representative, nominated Party Vice-Chairman Connie Weathers for chairman, followed by numerous seconds from other delegates. John Weathers, husband of Mrs. Weathers, addressed the convention about her long experience and qualifications.

There was then a debate over whether there should be a secret ballot or an open count. Mr. Wood said he favored a secret ballot because he thought the open vote "might divide the party." A vote was taken and it was decided to have the secret ballot.

The vote came back in favor of Mrs. Weathers, who will have a two-year term.

Col. Hale was then nominated for vice chairman. There was again a race as Matthew Bryant also was nominated.

Col. Hale came out victorious this time.

The rest of the slate went unscathed - Matthew Bryant for treasurer, Tracie Cronise for secretary and Bill Raines for vice treasurer.

Afterwards, Congressman Zach Wamp gave a unity speech.

Mr. Wood said Mrs. Weathers likely won because the party members knew her better than Col. Hale.

He said, "She's been so active. Everybody knew her."

Mrs. Weathers ran the Bush campaign here during his presidential race and she has been heading up the Lincoln Day dinners.

County Commissioner Curtis Adams said she "works real hard. She made 900 phone calls in my election."

Mr. Wood said some members also may have felt that the vice chairman should move up and not be "overlooked." But he said a number of times the vice chairman has not automatically gotten the top spot.

Mr. Wood said some 200 delegates took part in the convention.