WMC-TV: News, Weather, Traffic, Radar, and Sports for Memphis, TN; WMCTV.com | Candidates for Stanley's seat quickly emerge

Candidates for Stanley's seat quickly emerge

By Lori Brown - bio | email | Twitter | Facebook

GERMANTOWN, TN (WMC-TV) - Seconds after Paul Stanley announced his resignation, another Germantown republican said he wants Stanley's spot in the senate. State Senator Brian Kelsey is the first to officially announce his candidacy.

"I've got a strong record of fighting crime and government waste hope to have the opportunity to serve the entire district," Kelsey said.

Kelsey, a Memphis Attorney, is serving his third term in the Tennessee House of Representatives.

"I hope to work hard and go door to door, see what's on people's minds."

Memphis Flyer Political Analyst Jackson Baker predicted Kelsey would enter the race.

"There are about three people you can count on who are going to be interested in that seat," Baker said. "One is Brian Kelsey. The very brash and out spoken state representative"

The other two potential candidates include Shelby County School Board President David Pickler, and State Representative Steve McManus of Cordova.

"If all three happen to run I think it would be a good close contest, I don't think any one has an advantage," Baker said.

But Kelsey and his opponents could have a difficult road ahead, convincing Stanley's consitutents that they can trust another politician. Baker says the Stanley sex scandal is similar to a black eye on the republican party.

"For the time being not a good advertisement for the party," he said.

Kelsey says he's ready to help heal the party.

"I do respect that decision Paul made," Kelsey said. "I'm looking forward to moving beyond it."

According to state law, a special election will be held this fall for the senate seat. Governor Bredesen will choose the date.

Copyright 2009 WMC-TV. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.