Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton confirmed today that he will attend a mayoral debate at 4 p.m. the afternoon before Thursday's special election to replace Willie Herenton.
Wharton has weathered criticism for missing candidate forums and debates. And up until late-afternoon Monday, his campaign was still debating whether or not to attend this week's final debate - which, as Wharton pointed out, will compete with Oprah in the 4 p.m. time slot.
But Wharton ultimately decided to show up, and he dismissed criticism that he's tried to duck his opponents by skipping previous events.
"When you don't have the issues going your way, you complain and try to make an issue out of appearances and things like that," Wharton said. "I'm not harping on the past, we're going forward."
Time to vote out the "good old boys" (read Wharton) and let's get some fresh blood in the Memphis government. Wharton is just like Willie: only he smiles when stabbing the citizens in the back.
I'm amazed at the polls that are taken in the city of Memphis. I don't think they reflect the true feelings of the citizens of Memphis. When I asked a few friends, co-workers and family members who they were voting for this election, I was more amazed that they were all saying the same thing - they are all voting for the only candidate that makes any sense in this election - Jerry Lawler. Wow! That's who got my vote! What I am finding, including myself, is that many Memphians are tired of politics as usual in this city and they are tired of the same old career politicians making the same old promises they can't and don't keep. Memphians want someone that truly cares about OUR hometown and the people that live in it. We shall see Thursday night just how well Mr. Lawler does. Honestly, I am hoping it will be a big surprise to us all. Memphis needs someone who CARES about this city and from everything I've heard from Jerry Lawler, it's obvious he can do the job and I think Memphians are truly putting their trust in Jerry this time.