Davis, Bowling headed for showdown
In a sequel to their 4th District showdown in 2002, Democrat Lincoln Davis and Republican Janice Bowling will square off again across the 24-county district, this time with Davis enjoying the advantage of being the incumbent.
Both candidates easily won nominations during their party primaries Thursday and are now focusing on the days leading up to Nov. 2, with the prize being the U.S. congressional seat for the 4th District. Both candidates, proclaiming their conservative beliefs, are optimistic of their chances.
“This is a whole different ballpark,” Davis said of the upcoming re-match against Bowling. “The last time, there was an expensive primary with some hard feelings, but this year there is no such situation because I’m enjoying pretty much 100 percent support of the party base.”
Davis said he felt he had to battle to get name recognition in 2002, something he feels is not a problem this year.
“People know who I am,” Davis said. “They know I keep my promises. I’ve come back every week except for two, one of which I was visiting our troops in Iraq and the other I was at D-day observances. They also know I’m available. We have offices in McMinnville and folks know if they need me, I’ll be there.”
While Davis believes his status as incumbent is a great advantage, Bowling says she believes it is a disadvantage.
“Instead of running on his record, he’ll be running away from his record,” Bowling said. “This is a very winnable race for a true conservative.”
Bowling said she believes the fact this race will be held in conjunction with the presidential race will be in her favor, noting the higher turnout will likely lead to an informed electorate.
Bowling questioned Davis’ alleged use of a private investigator, saying her opponent is already resorting to mudslinging.
“He must be nervous because he’s already got a private eye in Tullahoma, snooping and trying to distort my record of service,” Bowling said. “He just barely squeaked by the first time.”
In response, Davis pointed out he carried 18 of the 24 counties in the district in 2002 and has outdone Bowling on fundraising by a reported 6-to-1 margin thus far.