Though greatly out-numbered by the GOP at this dinner, I enjoyed the program. I was particularly pleased to hear Tim Burchett announce that his priority for this session and his last 2 years will be doing something about Tennessee's mental health crisis. This is not - or should not be - a partisan issue. As Burchett correctly pointed out, the Sheby, Davidson, and Knox County jails are the three leading mental health "institutions" in Tennessee. Whether he can get somnething accomplished . . . .

Also, I noted several remarks by Bill Dunn, for instance, he said the biggest surprise at this point is that the Dems haven't fielded a credible candidate for Governor for 2101. Unfortunately, the poor performance in state legislative races, combined with the strong Dem showing in Congressional races has caused a few would-be Dem candidates to step back, e.g., Ford, Jr. and Davis, as well they should. Nobody wants to get hammered in a statewide race 60-40. But Kim McMillan is a strong candidate (except that her income tax views may not sit well with the moderate and conservative wings of the party) and there are at least two Democrats locally - a prominant attorney and Doug Horne(although Doug is yet another income tax advocate) who are gearing up. In the end, for the first time since 1978, we'll see two East Tennesseans (actually two Knoxvillians) in the general election.

Dunn also essentially labeled Speaker Wms as "incompetent" and hinted that as a result, there would be legislative gridlock.

As for Chip Forrester, well, if its broke - literally and figuratively - blow it up and start over. This is a great opportunity for grassroots Democrats to make a huge difference in the future of the Party and the state. If the money folks and the elected "party leadership" sit out the next few years, then Forrester and the Obama grassroots organization can charge ahead unimpeded, and if Tennessee Democrats can be motivated, we might be looking at a true revolution.

that you were "greatly outnumbered by the GOP" at last night's event, Don. Certainly the panel was heavily one-sided, but I know quite a few audience members whose personal leanings are far from sympathetic with the GOP. Glad you attended!

Hey, Don. Check your login ID. It should be working. Maybe you aren't logged in?

Dunn also essentially labeled Speaker Wms as "incompetent" and hinted that as a result, there would be legislative gridlock.

That's rich coming from Dunn, who just a few months ago said that state spending should be cut.

A real smart thing to do during a deep recession.

Nerdy as it may sound, I actually would like to see some clips.