Beavers enlists ex-foe of Rochelle – Warren to manage senator's campaign

A former Bob Rochelle political opponent will assist incumbent state Sen. Mae Beavers in her campaign to retain her District 17 seat previously held by Rochelle.
Beavers appointed Phillip Warren as her campaign finance chair Thursday. Rochelle defeated Warren in the 1998 State Senate race, in what Warren said was "the most expensive race in state history at the time."
As campaign finance chair, Warren will be responsible for raising funds for Beavers' campaign.
"Phillip has actually run a Senate race, and he knows the importance of fundraising," Beavers said. "I thought he was a good choice."
The former Wilson County Republican Party Chairman has raised funds for President George Bush, Sen. Lamar Alexander and Sen. Bill Frist.
"I've been involved in politics for 20 years," said Warren, who is a Realtor in Lebanon . "Part of that is raising money."
He said fundraising is going well, and the campaign hasn't had to host an event yet. Though, some fundraising events are planned for the near future as the campaign prepares for the post-primary race.
"If you've got a good message fundraising is easy," Warren said. "When you've got an opponent like Rochelle, it's easier."
Rochelle has to defeat democratic opponent Aubrey Givens in the Aug. 3 primary before he can face Beavers in the November election.
"Right now the focus is on the primary and seeing who are opponent is," Warren said. "We're looking forward to November."
Staff writer Nick Fowler can be reached at 444-3952 ext. 15 and by e-mail at nick.fowler@lebanondemocrat.com.