Sources near the Zach Wamp organization indicate that a recent poll was conducted by The Tarrance Group. The poll surveyed individuals within the First, Second and Third Congressional districts. Potential candidate Bill Frist was not listed in the poll. Congressman Wamp polled a positive 48%. Out of that 48% Wamp 24% of respondents indicated that they would definitely support Wamp. Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam polled a positive 20%.

It would appear from early indications that Wamp is the strongest candidate for Governor from and within East Tennessee. Those of us that have experience with statewide election rodeos for multiple cycles know that winning statewide is about who carries the most votes across the plateau. Obviously Haslam has an ability to raise money at the three or four Haslam kitchen tables and with the mega donors of the University of Tennessee, that his father can influence. But can Haslam overcome the effect of a popular, conservative Congressman that out polls the Knoxville Mayor in his own district.