Norris elected to key position

By Greg Little, Covington Leader
December 15, 2006

Sen. Mark Norris of Collierville has been voted into a key leadership position in Nashville.

Norris was elected chairman of the Senate Republican Caucus by a 10-5 vote Monday. Two senators were not present.

Norris represents Tipton, Lauderdale and Dyer counties as well as a portion of Shelby County.

“I think you are seeing a new direction,” said Norris, noting the House of Representative elected entirely new Republican leadership this week.

Norris defeated Sen. Randy McNally, R-Oak Ridge, who had served in that position.

The new position means that Norris will have new responsibilities, including weekly meetings with Gov. Phil Bredesen. Also in those meetings are other state leaders, including the speakers of the House and Senate.

“I want to help articulate our agenda and move forward in the state,” said Norris.

Norris said he decided to throw his hat in the ring after being encouraged by some of his colleagues. The senator said he wants to be more assertive when it comes to the agenda of the Republicans.

Norris said it means “being more communicative within the caucus” and making sure the “legislative initiatives” of the Republicans are “recognized and promoted.”

The new position also means he will be a member of the Finance Committee, a position Norris said is crucial.

It’s a committee in which every bill that has “any fiscal impact” must come before and be considered by members.

The new position does mean Norris will have to give up being chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee.

But he feels the new position will be beneficial.

Norris said he will be traveling more around the state to help promote the agenda of the Republican Caucus.

“It’s a higher visibility position and I think it will be beneficial not only for our district but statewide,” said Norris.

Another key issue Norris will have to deal with in the short term is trying to get Sen. Ron Ramsey, R-Bristol, elected as speaker of the Senate, which is also the position of lieutenant governor.

Even though the Republicans won a majority in the Senate two years ago, Sen. John Wilder, a Somerville Democrat, was once again elected as speaker.

A key figure in the Jan. 9 speaker’s election will be Sen. Mike Williams, R-Maynardville, who abstained when the roll was called on Monday during Ramsey’s nomination for speaker.

Norris pointed out that two years ago, Williams did not vote for Ramsey and that was crucial in Wilder retaining the speakership, a position he has held since 1971.

“He has not indicated how he will vote this time,” said Norris of Williams. “I have to give him the benefit of the doubt and hope he has seen the light and will do the right thing.”

On Wednesday, Norris said he had not had a chance to sit down and talk with Williams.

“I look forward to the opportunity to do so,” said Norris.