McWherter touts his experience as a businessman

Mike McWherter, a Democratic gubernatorial candidate and the son of former Gov. Ned McWherter, said Friday his experience as a businessman is what sets him apart from the pack in the upcoming primary.

"I think I bring business skills in the race that no one else does," he told the audience at a luncheon meeting of the Southeast Tennessee Political Action Committee.

Mr. Mc-Wherter said he has owned a small business in Jackson, Tenn., for two decades.

Nashville businessman Ward Cammack, another Democratic gubernatorial candidate, said he has a business background as well, but emphasized his understanding of economic hardships and changes.

He pointed out that he is a graduate of Harvard Business School, which gave him "a pervasive knowledge of all businesses."

Chris Devaney, chairman of the Tennessee Republican Party, has said he believes the GOP has a leg up on the Democrats in next year's race, but they "are not taking anything for granted."

In remarks earlier this week, former state Rep. Kim McMillan, D-Clarksville, cited her own business experience, as well as her time as a lawmaker and an adviser in Gov. Phil Bredesen's Cabinet as qualifications.

State Sen. Jim Kyle, D-Memphis, cited the federal stimulus plan as an economy booster. A spokeswoman for his campaign said he "is the only one running for governor to do something -- create jobs in the state, move education forward."

State Sen. Roy Herron, D-Dresden, related his experiences seeing businesses close in his hometown and said he understood the human effects.

Mr. McWherter also said Friday he has a "unique knowledge" of state government given his father's experience as governor.

He said his father plans to buy a convertible so he can participate in parades for his son's campaign.

GOVERNOR CANDIDATES

Republicans:

* U.S. Rep. Zach Wamp, R-Tenn.

* Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam

* Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey, R-Blountville

* Shelby County District Attorney Bill Gibbons

Democrats:

* State Sen. Roy Herron, D-Dresden

* State Sen. Jim Kyle, D-Memphis

* Former state Rep. Kim McMillan, D-Clarksville

* Mike McWherter, son of former governor Ned McWherter

* Nashville businessman Ward Cammack