Grand Divisions Episode 78 – Rep. Ron Gant looks to replace Cordell Hull with Winfield Dunn – Tennessean
These days, Cordell Hull is known in Tennessee political circles as the building that houses state lawmakers’ Nashville offices. But long before a building was named after him, Hull was among the most well-known Tennesseans.
While the Democrat served in Congress, he is perhaps most notably known for his role as the longest-serving U.S. Secretary of State, serving under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration.
He even earned a Nobel Peace Prize in 1945 for his role in creating the United Nations.
But today, there’s a movement afoot to replace Hull’s name at the offices found at 425 5th Ave North.
Rep. Ron Gant, R-Rossville, is hoping to remove Hull’s name and add former Gov. Winfield Dunn, a Republican to the building.
Dunn was a one term governor who served during the 1970s, he was the first Republican to hold the office in 52 years.
On this episode, Gant explains his motivation for his building renaming efforts. He also discusses other legislation he anticipates seeing during the upcoming legislative session and reflects on the passage of Gov. Bill Lee’s controversial school vouchers bill earlier this year.
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Reach Joel Ebert at jebert@tennessean.com or 615-772-1681 and on Twitter @joelebert29.
Published 6:00 AM EST Dec 17, 2019
