Political Maneuvering in the South: Perdue, Cole, Oxendine, Sparks, Griffith, Parker & Others

The Kudzu Vine’s first 2010 episode opens with David, Tim, and Catherine reviewing a week of southern political developments. Central to the discussion is Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue’s appointment of State Rep. Jim Cole to replace Karen Handel as Secretary of State. Panelists view the move as cronyism, noting Cole’s loyalty to Perdue and speculating about his political future—whether he might run for Secretary of State, Congress, or even Lieutenant Governor, potentially challenging Casey Cagle, a figure with insider detractors but no clear public backlash. Cole’s background as a former baseball player and Culligan franchise owner prompts debate about his qualifications, while the group agrees his appointment is unlikely to affect 2010 election administration. The hosts then shift to election reform, particularly instant runoff voting, arguing it could save money, reduce political negativity, and simplify runoffs without dramatically changing results. Next, they turn to John Oxendine, whose erroneous football-related tweet—confusing bowl games by a year—elicits criticism. The panel suggests the mistake feeds perceptions that Oxendine’s campaign engages in inauthentic, pandering gestures, further irritating conservatives already uneasy with him. Finally, the conversation moves to Alabama politics. Parker Griffith’s party switch and Ron Sparks’ decision to remain in the governor’s race leave Democrats scrambling, especially after Susan Parker exits consideration for the now-open AL-5 seat. The hosts note potential Democratic contenders but emphasize Republican confidence and the likelihood of a contentious primary. In Alabama’s 7th District, James Perkins’ withdrawal narrows the field to candidates including Sheila Smoot, Earl Hilliard Jr., and Terri Sewell, reshaping that race as well.