The State Senate race to fill former Sen. Ward Crutchfield's seat has been precipitated by extraordinary circumstances. It is appropriate for voters to consider this situation not only as an opportunity to advance beyond the sad history of what happened, but also as a chance to send the most qualified person to Nashville to work for this District and for Tennessee.
In recent years, Chattanooga has developed an enviable reputation for pressing successful businessmen into public service; and the city and state are better off for it. Andy Berke is the most recent example of this dedicated work ethic. He is a successful small businessman, an articulate advocate and one of the most intelligent business advisors I have ever known.
Andy's willingness to offer his abilities to the public sector at the height of his professional career speaks volumes about his selfless commitment to serve and to lead.
This special election is more about electing the best person than it is about loyalty to a particular political party. I will be voting for Andy Berke.
Michael Mallen
Chattanooga
michaelmallen@aol.com
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Your analysis is interesting. I thought Andy Berke was yet another attorney (last thing we need in our next politician) who has made his way by working for his daddy. If you call that being a successful business man with a great work ethic, I don't think I'm going to rely on your opinion when casting my vote.
His "selfless commitment" is really a desire to obtain a position of power and influence to increase revenue at his family's law firm (same as all the lawyers who run for such offices).
I have to say that I don't know much about any of the other candidates, and I don't know who I'm voting for. But, I'm not voting for any more lawyers.
Jerry Yates
jerryyatesemail@yahoo.com
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To be straight-forward about it - There are just too many lawyers in government. That is why it is so messed up.
What we need are people with common sense and ethics.
R. Glenn
Ooltewah