Rivals Take Haslam to Task at Governor’s Debate

A televised debate for governor at Belmont University Monday night saw Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam take repeated attacks from rivals, particularly over his personal finances. The millionaire Haslam is part-owner of the Pilot truck-stop company.

As part of the debate candidates had the opportunity to ask each other questions. Congressman Zach Wamp and Haslam kicked off the round trading tough jabs. Wamp lit into Haslam trying to use his wealth against him.

“There’s so much propaganda with all of your money about creating a persona – a person that is not the real Bill Haslam. That is absolutely the truth. So I’m going to stand on the truth Bill because it’s time to stand on the truth. And you’re not the guy that all your money says you are and I’m sorry but I’m going to have to tell it like it is, folks. I love you.”

Wamp took another swing at Haslam when Democrat Mike McWherter used his turn to ask Wamp for further attacks on Haslam’s business. A moderator let Haslam respond, and he argued he’d disclosed more than enough information, saying his stake in Pilot was no secret.

Ron Ramsey finished up the round suggesting Haslam was soft on gun-rights. Haslam assured Ramsey and the audience he would protect those rights.

WEB EXTRA:

Each candidate was asked how he would handle an application to build a mosque in his neighborhood. Several said that’s an issue for local zoning officials to decide; you can hear their responses below.

Audio courtesy WSMV- Channel 4.