TNGA Rep. Matthew Hill has found it’s not always easy being the boss

October 14th, 2013 8:49 am by Robert Houk
http://www.johnsoncitypress.com/article/111679/rep-hill-has-found-its-not-always-easy-being-the-boss

I’ve said it here before, but it bears repeating: It’s not easy being the boss. Lord knows state Rep. Matthew Hill, R-Jonesborough, can attest to that. The pressure can be unbearable. Riding the fence on a “wine in grocery stores” bill that you helped to scuttle in your own committee can take a lot out of you.

So how does Boss Hill relax? By stepping out with his political posse — state Reps. Timothy Hill, R-Blountville, and Micah Van Huss, R-Jonesborough. You rarely see the Boss without one or both of his buddies in tow.

That’s a good thing. The Three Amigos are going to need that support system if state elections get as heated as some predict they will next year. It looks as if Boss Hill and Van Huss will each face a primary challenge in August. And there’s a good chance Hill’s little brother, Timothy, will also be kept busy in the next GOP contest. Former Johnson City Commissioner Phil Carriger is mulling over a bid to unseat Boss Hill in the 7th House District. Carriger’s supporters say the retired banker is now gauging support and formulating a message for his campaign.

I’ve been told Johnson City Commissioner Clayton Stout is doing the same in regard to a possible bid for the 6th House District seat now held by freshman Van Huss. One central theme, however, may be prevalent in both races. Actually, it’s more of question that I have heard asked whenever Boss Hill’s name comes up: What has Hill done for his district?