Why any Republican would challenge Marsha Blackburn in the primary is, at best, perplexing. She is one of the most consistently conservative congressman in the House and is part of the GOP House leadership. If you have an axe to grind against her, it cannot be an ideological one – it must be a personal one. And in a tough Republican year where money for congressional races is scarce, that axe must be simply irresistible.

Enter Tom Leatherwood, the Shelby County Register of Deeds, who has ensured that Marsha can spend less time raising money for other, competitive House races across the country and instead must watch her rear-guard here in Tennessee. He has yet to make a single compelling case to oust her, and cannot even muster the money of the West Tennessee wing of the Republican Party to his side. His own avowed campaign platform is no different than Blackburn’s voting record. From a conservative’s point of view, he has not made the case for even the existence of his candidacy.

So, why is he really running? Perhaps it is part personal, and maybe it is part delusional. What we do know is that he has taken an effective Republican fundraiser out of the game and has helped win a congressional seat or two for the Democrats.

Thanks, Tom.