According to sources from the Coast, Rep. Gene Taylor accused Republican challenger Joe Tegerdine’s campaign of tampering with the Congressman’s website at the dedication of the new University of Southern Mississippi Trent Lott National Center for Excellence in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship on Friday.

They states that when Tegerdine approached Taylor to shake his hand, the Blue Dog Democrat and 20-year incumbent immediately dismissed any pleasantries to accuse Tegerdine’s campaign of tampering with his website. Taylor threatened it was a federal offense and that there is an investigation underway to determine the source of the cyber-attack.

Tegerdine openly denied the allegations to Taylor and seemed taken aback by the Congressman’s choice of venue and words. Sources said that Tegerdine informed Taylor that if it was discovered that anyone related to his campaign had participated in such actions they would be immediately asked to disassociate themselves from future campaign efforts.

In a statement made after the incident, Tegerdine is reported to have said, “I am really disappointed by Congressman Taylor’s behavior. I think we expect a higher level of professionalism and decorum from our elected officials. It confirms again to me why I am in this race, we deserve better.”

We will keep a close eye on this story and track it to see if any new details emerge.

I was told by an eyewitness that at a public meeting this week Gene Taylor had an emotional tirade then stormed out of the event.    Accusations of conspiracy flew from the Blue Dog, mostly indistinguishable, as he slammed through the doors and into the parking lot.   Taylor is unstable as he comes to realize the frailty of his Congressional seat.  Furthermore Taylor’s staff member accidently spilled the beans to a close friend leaking confidences.  This could mean his camp is falling apart.   

In an unrelated bungling incident Southern Mississippi dignitaries were invited to a recent collaborative community assembly.  Every VIP responded to the invitation.  Only a couple declined, all others attended, or sent representation except for the 4^th District incumbent.   I happened to see the host’s invitation list and inquired why Gene Taylor’s (the only one) name was circled and had a question mark beside it. 

I was then informed Taylor was the only distinguished guest who failed to respond to multiple communications and failed to send representation shunning the annual community collaboration. 

I conclude that Gene Taylor has lost touch with his constituents as well as his staff, and is teetering on a major nervous breakdown.   Sorry Gene, I call it as I see it.