Other than Clark Howard…
May 11th, 2007 by Scott Henry in NewsAs we see who’s already thinking about running for Atlanta mayor in 2009, it’s also interesting to note who’s not running. One name that has often come up in discussions is that of at-large Councilman Lamar Willis, who has spent lavishly on billboards to boost his citywide name recognition. Willis has told colleagues that he’s shifted his sights to the council president’s job, which will be left open as Lisa Borders goes for the mayor’s office.
Another short-lister has been former state Sen. Sam Zamarripa. But Sam Zam recently told CL that his current job overseeing a large private equity fund leaves him little time to pursue politics. As of now, he says, he doesn’t see himself jumping into the mayor’s race.
There are also a couple more names that should be added to the field of potential candidates. One is state Sen. Vincent Fort, D-Atlanta, who has positioned himself as a defender of the poor and downtrodden with such legislation as his anti-payday lending bill.
Another rumored possibility is parking-deck magnate Michael Robison, president of Lanier Parking Systems. While Robison has been too behind-the-scenes to have wide name recognition, he’s well-respected in the business community, which is expected to rally behind a chosen candidate in ‘09. On the other hand, there’s a good chance that the Chamber of Commerce candidate could be Lisa Borders, who works for and has the backing of influential über-developer Tom Cousins.
If celebrated WSB tightwad Howard does decide to throw his hat into the ring, however, many prognostications will need to be thrown out the window.
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