9th District Candidates Cohen, Herenton Hit Campaign Trail

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - All day Saturday, the candidates running for the 9th Congressional district stomped across the city trying to earn votes. Congressman Steve Cohen and former Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton are both trying to gain momentum for what's expected to be a tough fight.

Inside New Hope Baptist Church in Whitehaven, politicians gathered for a little Saturday meet and greet. But as many were waiting, former Memphis mayor petitioning for Congress Dr. Willie Herenton walked in, saying "We're taking this campaign to the citizens of the 9th Congressional district."

Herenton was on the street searching for votes, talking specifically to the crowd about how his run for congress will affect the future of the city and the 9th Congressional district.

Herenton stated, "We're going to return this 9th Congressional district to true representation for the citizens of this great community."

Across town, incumbent Congressman Steve Cohen spoke to a group of supporters inside Piccadilly's Restaurant. Cohen said he wanted to stay focused on the issues, confident about his campaign and his place in congress.

"There's great support here, great support everywhere. We go from Boxtown to Bartlett, from Smokey City to Hickory Hill and Collierville, and we get the same of this everywhere, 'keep doing what you're doing, we appreciate the job you're doing, we've got your back.'"

Cohen said this race is not about race, but about who's right for the job and who's right for the district.

"I'm out there 24/7, 365 days a year and have been for 34 years," Cohen said.

Herenton's caravan stopped all across town, saying this race will come down to a simple vote. That vote can only be found by gaining momentum, reaching out to those who call this political battle a fight for congress.

"You will see intensity in this campaign, you will see a grass roots effort like you've never seen before," Herenton stated.