Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., announced on Tuesday that he will not run for reelection in 2018. On the heels of this development, here’s a list of Tennesseans who may or may not have what it takes to secure his coveted seat in the upper chamber. Please stop reading this article if you an aversion to bad jokes.
- Charlie Daniels – He’s an outspoken conservative with an NRA membership, a big fan base, and little fear of speaking his mind.
- Clay Travis – In the age of entertainment industry politicians, Travis, one of CNN’s most memorable guests in recent months, could plausibly parlay his newfound notoriety into a Senate run — and he knows it. It’s been less than a day since Corker’s announcement, and the radio host has already made t-shirts emblazoned with his logo for a potential bid as an independent.
- Dolly Parton – If anyone can heal America, it’s singer/songwriter/philanthropist/legend/national hero Dolly Parton. Even if Slate thinks her restaurants are racist.
- Reese Witherspoon – Witherspoon, who spent much of her childhood in the state, loves Tennessee so much she named her son after it. Seriously, her son’s first name is Tennessee.
- Taylor Swift – Some people like her.
- Peyton Manning – A potential Manning candidacy isn’t such a joke. The retired quarterback is involved in Republican politics and was almost immediately floated as a potential replacement to Corker in the hours after his announcement.
- Samuel L. Jackson – The popular actor who grew up in Chattanooga has been known to get political. Whether or not Jackson runs will likely depend on how much he’s had it with the snakes in the Senate.
My money is on Clay Travis.
Emily Jashinsky is a commentary writer for the Washington Examiner.
