By By Terry R. Cassreino / assistant managing editor
Aug. 6, 2003
Rep. Eric Robinson of Quitman won a fourth straight term in the state House of Representatives on Tuesday, defeating sole opponent John S. Slay in the Republican Party primary.
Even though Robinson expected a strong vote, he said he was still overwhelmed by the final tally in the District 84 race. House District 84 includes part of Clarke, Jasper, Lauderdale and Newton counties.
With all 29 precincts reporting, Robinson had 3,350 votes, or 68 percent, while Slay had 1,556, or 32 percent. Robinson won because no Democrats, independents or third-party candidates are running.
Slay, 33, said he planned to contact Robinson as soon as the results were official. Slay said he probably should have tried to air television ads and buy more newspaper ads during his campaign.
Robinson said he believes the key to his race was hard work. He said he plans to make economic development his top issue when the Legislature meets in regular session in January.
Robinson said his seniority in the House will play a major role next year. He has served in the Legislature since January 1993.
Lawmakers with seniority often win choice committee posts, including chairmanships. Robinson already sits on the House Insurance, Judiciary B, Management and Local and Private committees.