Richard Rankin is running against Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey, but he says his campaign isn't about getting Mr. Ramsey's job.
It's about polishing his political resume, he says.
In a Thursday meeting with the Times Free Press editorial board, Mr. Rankin said he doesn't think he has a chance of beating Mr. Ramsey in this year's GOP primary. He said he's running because he feels the mayor is out of touch with younger voters.
Mr. Rankin thinks Mr. Ramsey could do a better job of getting involved with the county school board.
He also believes he can lure jobs to the area, saying his father worked for the steel industry and he still has connections.
Last week in a meeting with the Times Free Press editorial board, Mr. Ramsey said he's running on his record of economic development. He also said he wants to develop an educated, trainable work force.
In another issue that's come up in the commission elections, Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield has proposed putting Sheriff Jim Hammond in charge of the city police force.
Mr. Rankin said letting the sheriff take over the city police department would be a "wise decision."
Mr. Ramsey said he favors consolidating city and county services that make sense.
Mr. Rankin has raised no money, but hopes having his name on the ballot will make him competitive in a future election. He said he might run for office in the next Chattanooga city elections.
Mr. Ramsey's other Republican primary opponent is Basil Marceaux Sr.
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