Henry won't seek GOP nomination for governor

Associated Press, Tennessean.com
November 3, 2005

Jim Henry, a former Republican state lawmaker and gubernatorial candidate, said he will not run for governor next year, while the state GOP's top official said the party's lone declared candidate, former independent Carl "Two Feathers" Whitaker, can't win.

Henry, who lost to Van Hilleary in the 2002 GOP primary, said he has decided to focus attention in 2006 instead on his disabled son and an expansion of his business, Omni Vision Inc.

"It just isn't the right time," said Henry, a resident of Kingston.

Henry had previously said he intended to wait until January to decide on seeking the nomination to oppose incumbent Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen. Henry said he advanced the timetable to be fair to potential supporters and candidates.

Henry underwent cancer treatments almost two years ago. He said doctors have assured him the chances for recurrence are low, and his health was not a factor.

"I intend to be involved in campaigns next year and help Republican candidates," he said. "I will keep the options open for the future."

At least four Republican legislators have said they are considering gubernatorial campaigns: Rep. Beth Harwell of Nashville, Senate Majority Leader Ron Ramsey of Blountville, Sen. Jim Bryson of Franklin and Sen. Mark Norris of Collierville.

Henry said he was not backing any candidate, although he predicted Harwell would run and would be "a great governor."

Harwell, a former state GOP chairwoman, said she likely would make a decision after the holiday season.

Party primaries are set for Aug. 3, and the general election will be Nov. 7.