It’s always been impressive to watch Republicans fall in line – no matter what maneuverings might be going on behind the scenes, the unified front presented to the public is enviable. Democratic politicians, on the other hand, with their thinking for themselves and differences of opinion and not keeping a cork in it sometimes come across as disorganized and chaotic.
But today, with the election of Republican Speaker of House Kent Williams – nominated and seconded by Democrats – we see that the threats that often keep Republicans in line don’t work with everyone.
Since the elections we’ve watched as newly minted Tennessee Republican Senate and House Majority leaders have closed ranks and boasted of their unbreakable coalition. A coalition built on threats and hubris.
Some are warning liberals and progressives to be careful of celebrating the election of Speaker Williams. After all, he was nominated and put in power by the same “corrupt” Democrats who had no use for us and our progressive causes. Others say, well, he’s still a Republican, after all.
But what has happened in the Tennessee House today is historic and may mean a break with the politics of the past, similar to what’s happening on the national stage. What Tennesseans have in their new Speaker is a moderate Republican who, rather than fall in lock step, broke with his party and worked with Democrats to secure his leadership. And as such, he most likely won’t fall in lock step with House Democrats either.
Rep. Kent Williams may be the key to moving some progressive public policy forward while keeping the most divisive culture war legislation at bay.
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