Phil Bredesen adds to Holleman's mounting political opposition

Two days ago, it was Mayor Karl Dean.

Now, former Tennessee governor and Nashville mayor Phil Bredesen — as had been expected — is featured on a campaign mail-piece for attorney Sarah Lodge Tally, the well-connected election challenger of District 24 Metro Councilman Jason Holleman.

Bredesen’s appearance simply reinforces what was clear from the list of names who signed Tally’s qualifying petition several weeks ago: Holleman must stave off much of Nashville’s Democratic Party establishment — and Dean — to win a second term serving his West Nashville, Sylvan-Park-area constituents. 

“As a mayor and governor, I worked hard to move Nashville forward,” Bredesen says in the campaign ad. “Sarah Lodge Tally is part of the new generation of leaders who will build on our success and build a better place to live, work and raise a family. Please join me in supporting Sarah for Metro Council.”

Similar to the Dean mailer [1], the Bredesen piece says Tally can help make sure Metro schools are fully funded; expand parks and greenways; increase police protection; and foster growth and development along Charlotte Avenue. 

Contacted by The City Paper, Holleman expressed hope voters will compare Tally’s record with his. 

“I am hopeful that the voters of the 24th District will make their decision based on qualifications and our records of involvement in our district,” he said. 

On Friday morning, Holleman released a YouTube video [2] that alludes to the army of high-profile Nashvillians backing Tally, while touting his own support.

“You’ve heard a lot about who’s backing my opponent in this election,” Holleman says in the video. “So, I want to take just a second to talk about who’s supporting me.”

Holleman’s video highlights his friends, neighbors and family. In it, Holleman says he and his wife have knocked on more than 3,000 doors, and with the help of volunteers, have called thousands of voters.

Early voting runs through July 30. Election Day is Aug. 4.