Haslam Plans to Help Friends in Primary Races

Governor Bill Haslam tells reporters he plans to help his “friends” during the primary, which will be held August 2nd.

Governor Bill Haslam plans to spend part of the summer campaigning for Republicans in the General Assembly. The governor says he’ll help his “friends” during the primary season as well as the general election.

To Haslam, it’s not about retribution toward GOP lawmakers who tried to block parts of his agenda. He says he wants to return the favor to Republican colleagues who’ve aided his administration.

“I don’t know that I had anybody that left the friends list, but I think anybody…it’s just natural. You’re going to work harder for people who helped you more.”

Many Republicans are facing primary challenges. Haslam hasn’t named those who will get his attention. But one lawmaker now facing criticism for siding with the governor is Rep. Debra Maggart of Hendersonville. She helped block controversial gun legislation from coming to a vote. Now her opponent has gained support from the Tennessee Firearms Association and Tea Party groups.

While governors often shy away from picking sides in primary battles, former Governor Phil Bredesen also got involved from time to time. In 2010 he helped longtime State Senator Doug Henry win a Democratic primary.