The Hiller Instinct: Hiller Instinct: Tom Reilly

Tom Reilly has always been the front runner in the Governor's race, but in front by less and less. His primary poll numbers this month are lower than last month's, which were lower than last year's.

Andy Hiller
"Is this as low as you go?"

Tom Reilly
"I think we're fine. We're right we're we want to be."

The last place Reilly wanted to be was right after he picked a running mate who lasted just one day...when news of Marie St. Fleur's unpaid bills forced her to quit. Now, weeks later, Reilly won't let voters forget her...

Tom Reilly
"Anyone want to run for Lt. Gov. with me? Ok? It's still open, folks... "

Andy Hiller
"Why do you even joke about her. Do you think it's funny?"

Tom Reilly
"Actually, no, no I don't."

Then the interview turned personal:

Andy Hiller
"Are you a wimp?"

Tom Reilly
"I don't think so."

Andy Hiller
"Why not?"

Tom Reilly
"I know how to fight."

Andy Hiller
"Is there anything you hate?"

Tom Reilly
"I hate people that don't get the job done...that you can't count on."

Andy Hiller
"If you were a car, what kind of car would you be?"

Tom Reilly
"Pretty much the car I drive, a Camry, a 1999, dependable, solid and a pretty good bargain for the money."

Andy Hiller
"When's the last time you were drunk?"

Tom Reilly
"A long time ago."

Andy Hiller
"Ever been high?"

Tom Reilly
"Not on drugs."

Andy Hiller
"When you look in the mirror, do you think you're looking at the next governor?"

Tom Reilly
"Yes."

Campaigning, like politics, isn't Reilly's strong suit. His shyness makes him seem weak; he can be easy-to-miss and hard-to-hear. His campaign has already revealed more about him that he'd like, so he's vulnerable because he should be. But nobody's beating him yet...and they've certainly had the chance. I think we've already seen Reilly at his worst: if I'm right, this is his race to lose ...if I'm wrong, he will lose it.

(Copyright (c) 2006 Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)