Earlier this week, Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton revealed new details about an infamous meeting between him and Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton. He also cast doubt on the relationship between the two mayors, long believed to be amicable.
But now at least one local pundit believes Herenton's blunt comments could actually help Wharton in his upcoming bid for Memphis mayor.
In a video-recorded interview with the Memphis Flyer, Herenton talked about the infamous dinner between Herenton and Wharton at Le Chardonnay restaurant in 2007, when Wharton was being drafted to run for city mayor.
The meal sparked speculation that a political deal was hatched: Herenton would resign before the end of his fifth term and endorse Wharton as his replacement.
Wharton later denied striking a deal or even discussing a possible resignation, telling The Commercial Appeal in March 2008 - after Herenton resigned the first time - that the discussion focused more on policy initiatives than succession.
If anything, the meeting seemingly solidified the two mayors' good working relationship. And it's become fodder for mayoral hopefuls, including former councilwoman Carol Chumney, who is making sure people are aware of the mayors' close association.
Yet in his talk with the Flyer, Herenton cast doubt on the friendship and provided a much different account of the evening than Wharton. He also denied striking any deals, saying he resented Wharton for considering a run against him in 2007. According to Herenton, Wharton called his style "divisive."
"A C and I did not make a deal," Herenton says. "People who know me know I'm not a dealmaker. ... We were both honest and candid with each other about some issues surrounding his flirtation with running for city mayor."
Rhodes political science professor Marcus Pohlmann said Herenton's comments may actually help Wharton, whose biggest weakness going into a special election is his connection to Herenton.
"So whether Herenton intentionally distanced himself for the benefit of Wharton, only Herenton can tell," Polhmann said. "In this case, he had to be aware of the fact that this is one of the only Achilles heels that Wharton has."
As candidates jockey to fill Herenton's office, Pohlmann said Wharton still appears to be the clear front-runner.
"Wharton, by most estimates, is going to be a shoo-in," he said.
That is, of course, if Herenton actually resigns.
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