Rhinehart dedicated his life to serving Middle Tennessee
With the passing of state Rep. Shelby Rhinehart yesterday, Tennessee lost one of its most influential leaders.
Rhinehart’s impact on this area over his 36 years on Capitol Hill was immense as he constantly fought to get projects approved for his rural district.
One of the state’s former governors, Ned McWherter, called Rhinehart more than a public official, but rather a “legislative institution.” Current Gov. Don Sundquist said Rhinehart was a “giant among legislators.”
With over three decades of service, there’s no doubt Rhinehart was a tremendous leader. It takes a man with thick skin and the unyielding desire to make a difference to serve in politics so long.
This year’s budget battle is the perfect example of how situations can escalate and how taxpayer tempers can flare. Talk of a state income tax led to threats against some lawmakers – prompting some elected officials to arm themselves with guns.
It’s that sort of criticism which isn’t easy to take. Yet that’s exactly what Rhinehart did. He voted for what he believed was best for Warren County and this district, even if that was viewed as the wrong action by some.
Shelby Rhinehart will be missed. It’s also safe to say whoever takes his place won’t fill his shoes.