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by The Rufus
Senator Jeff Kessler announced that he was running for Governor in the Spring of 2009. For a relatively unknown statewide candidate, it was probably viewed as a necessary move. While serving admirably as the Chairman of the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee and successfully taking on some tremendously difficult policy issues, Kessler did not have a statewide name. Unfortunately for the Marshall County Democrat, even after announcing his campaign most people in the State would not know Jeff Kessler if he was sitting beside them in church. Kessler was well down the list of viable Democrats considering a run for Governor with little apparent means to make up the name recognition gap. This tumultuous season in WV politics has changed all that.
Kessler's move against Tomblin and the old guard in the West Virginia Senate has been said to be for all kinds reasons. One insider told me that Kessler truly made the move because of his commitment to principals. Senator Chafin said it was a power grab (probably because Chafin is the one losing power). Regardless of one's opinion on this, Kessler is now a real player in the race for Governor- whenever that may be. Kessler's chances will only improve as he takes the helm in the Senate and plays an integral role in navigating the State through this unprecedented political storm.
So where is Kessler in the political power rankings? Depends on who is running and when the election is held. If there is a special election with a convention then Perdue is probably the favorite, with Thompson perhaps being second. If a traditional primary is held then Tennant, Tomblin, and Kessler are likely going to be at the top of the list.
Beyond the name recognition, two factors have really pushed his chances into the realm of realistic. By taking on the old guard in the Senate, Kessler has certainly made some powerful enemies. At the same time, however, he will pick up some powerful allies. Those allies are both constituent based but also includes power brokers in the State. The constituency that Kessler may pick up are citizens fed up with the status quo approach of the West Virginia Senate over the years. The southern power base in the Senate has been driven by coal politics and lacks any progressive vision on how to improve the State.
Of the power brokers, Kessler has had Senator McCabe by his side since midway through the first Democratic caucus debate on these matters. McCabe, who has indicated interest in running for governor as well, could boost Kessler's campaign tremendously by throwing Kessler his support. IF that happens then watch out because Senator Kessler may have pulled off one of the most impressive political power moves in West Virginia history. |
