Political move?

A Tennessee Republican often accused in the past of being a moderate, establishment politician, has suddenly taken a sharp turn to the Right.

Congressman Zach Wamp who represents the Chatanooga/southeast Tennessee area, told CNN that American States should consider seccession, if things don't improve.

Rep. Zach Wamp, one of three candidates seeking the GOP gubernatorial nomination in Tennessee, told Hotline OnCall that [Texas Gov. Rick] Perry had the right idea. Wamp argued that mandates forced on the states by the Obama administration's health care bill have put secession on the table.

"I hope that the American people will go to the ballot box in 2010 and 2012 so that states are not forced to consider separation from this government," Wamp told Hotline OnCall Friday.

Wamp has been under fire from Tennessee conservatives for having voted for the TARP bailout.

Libertarian Republican contributor and Tennessee conservative activist JB Williams commented:

This was a calculated campaign statement from the start. Wamp is not known in Tennessee for a stiff conservative spine. He is moderate and is easily swayed across the aisle. The notion of Wamp ever seriously considering a move as serious as secession is laughable on its face. People familiar with Wamp's political career would never take that statement seriously to begin with. His recent recant of that statement is much more in line with the always politically correct Zach Wamp.

Wamp is currently one of two top Republican contenders for Tennessee Governor.