I have known Weston since he was six years old, and Coty since she was four. I've known Zach when he had hair.
I was involved in Zach's first Congressional campaign and then worked for Zach's Congressional campaign office for 17 years, then onto the Governor campaign for two years and even in his official Congressional office.
That being said, I have had the opportunity that most people have not had...to see the Wamp family up close and personal, in good times and bad times.
I've spent many times around political leaders as well as other influential citizens from both sides of the aisle.
Former Congressman J.C. Watts, from Oklahoma once said, "Character is what you do when nobody is looking." (I believe he borrowed that from someone, yet, so true).
I've watched Weston grow up, mature, be a successful businessman and an awesome dad himself. If there were ever any time Weston would have spoken in a racist or bigoted manner, I believe I would have known. You don't spend 20 years of your life, a lot of that time 24 hours a day, being around someone and not know them, and I mean really get to know them.
These latest last minute efforts to try and show Weston in a negative way are some of the reasons I left politics after Zach lost the August 2010 Primary for governor. There will always be naysayers and others who always wake up on the wrong side of the bed, hellbent on destroying that what is good and decent. Weston's detractors fall into that category. It must be terrible to put pen to paper and write things you know are not true and then attempt to have others believe it and even follow-up with their own negative words.
While Weston was growing up, never did I even imagine he would be so ostricized for his beliefs that ultimately save his fellow citizens from the hastily spending of hard-earned tax dollars. Sure, a new stadium is wanted, a new stadium site on the Southside with new construction for retail, housing and other amenities would be awesome for Hamilton County's tax base...but let's not ram this down the throats of hard-working Hamilton Countians and Chattanoogans.
Mayor Coppinger is to be commended for getting this ball rolling, but let's take our time, get more input before we rush in and find out later we should have waited. The Wheland Foundry site isn't going anywhere and Mayor Coppinger will still get that feather in his cap for his diligent foresight. The new stadium will come to fruition, but let's not rush into it.
I've already voted for Weston and I would like to encourage others, from both sides, to vote for Weston Wamp as Hamilton County Mayor.
Rick Tucker
Hixson
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I’m pleased to support Weston Wamp for mayor.
Cindy Baker