Thieneman focused on debate as campaign gears up

Chris Thieneman (R-Louisville)

Louisville businessman Chris Thieneman today reiterated his focus on Monday's KET debate as the jumping-off point for his campaign to win the Republican nomination in the 3rd Congressional District.

Thieneman's comments come after the news that all four Republican candidates - including frontrunner Anne Northup - will be present at the April 28 candidate forum organized by state public television network KET.

"I encourage everyone to tune into the debate and give it their full attention," Thieneman told PolitickerKY.com today. "It should be a very spirited debate. That's how I anticipate it. I look forward to [Northup's] answers to some of the issues I am ready and prepared to talk about."

Thieneman only recently re-started his campaign after initially dropping out in early February, claiming he was pressured by allies of Northup and U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell. Upon quitting the race, Thieneman said he would leave the GOP and endorse 3rd District incumbent John Yarmuth (D-Louisville).

He later termed this move a "mistake."

When asked if this incident would be discussed in his campaign, Thieneman again referred to Monday's debate, which he praised as an equal forum.

"Everything is going to be addressed, whether it is during the debate or after the debate," said Thieneman. "I want to make sure we have everyone's full attention instead of the media taking maybe bits and pieces of an interview. I want to thank KET because without public attention the little guys would never have a chance. This is the best way to get everyone's views without having to spend a ton of money."

For his campaign, Thieneman is now working with consultant David Toborowsky.

Toborowsky previously ran the 2002 and 2006 campaigns of state Senator and Republican Majority Caucus leader Dan Seum (R-Fairdale).

Toborowsky said the campaign had "commitments" for $100,000 in donations. He indicated these funds would be used in the short period left before the May 20 to advertise for Thieneman's candidacy.

While "establishment" support for Thieneman's candidacy may be lacking, Toborowsky says many are expressing their support for the campaign.

"People come up to him and say 'I'm supporting you and I'm voting for you,'" said Toborowsky. "These are not establishment people. They are non-politicians."