Candidate profiles

Morris "Smokey" Graves
Candidate for Mayor of Cannelton

Smokey Graves’ first attempt in the political arena was just short of four years ago, when he decided to run for mayor on the Democrat ticket in Cannelton. Although he fell short by a mere 42 votes, his party managed to change the complexion of the politics in
the City of Cannelton after twenty-five years of Republican domination. This well thought out plan could only be accomplished by the selection of a strong Democrat ticket, in which the drive will continue as he is preparing for his second attempt for the same office seat in 2007.

Smokey’s first introduction to politics came from a lifelong Democrat, his father-in-law, Walter “Boob” Amos. He assisted Boob and several other county Democrats as they vied for county seats in their election as early as 1970. Smokey has been married to Martha (Amos) Graves for 37 years. They are the parents of two children, Myra and Milo Graves and the proud grandparents of three grandchildren. Smokey and his wife reside at 533 Knight Street in Cannelton.

Smokey has been retired from the United States Army for twelve years, after serving his country for twenty-four years. During his time, he served as an Infantryman and a Training and Education NCO. He also worked as a Senior Administrative Supervisor for a Division Level Reenlistment Office. Although, the majority of his time in the Army was as a Senior Career Counselor he found time to serve as well in the Recruiting arena for the Army, Army Reserve and the Army National Guard. For the many years of serving his country he has received several awards and decorations.

Since retiring Smokey began working as a service and parts manager for an automobile dealership only to leave the position to train Military personnel throughout the nation as Senior Vice President for Target Marketing, USA. At the same time he has continued to renew his political relationships within the County. Fortunately, his work today gives him the opportunity to continue to support the Democrat party from the City to the National level. Smokey also continues to be an active participant in the Community by being a member of the American Legion Post 142, the Loyal Order of the Moose, the Cannelton Booster Club and an avid member of the Cannelton Democrat Committee. He retains his membership with the Masonic Lodge in Tennessee, Charter member of the Lions Club of Oak Grove Kentucky and is proud to say a member of the 101st Airborne Division Association.