Patsy Brumfield on Travis Childers

Childers: Year one

Voting to re-authorize the State Children's Health Program, U.S. Rep. Travis Childers says, has been the highlight of his first 12 months in office.

"I was pleased to support SCHIP. What kind of a nation are we if we won't support our children who have less fortunate parents?" asked Childers.

Childers strongly rejects predictions by some national pundits that he'll become a Republican to avoid that party's crosshairs when he seeks re-election in 2010 in the previously GOP district.

"Absolutely not," he said.

"I'm a Southern Democrat - I vote what's best for Mississippi," which may not fit neatly into a party cookie-cutter, he noted.

Tupelo's state Sen. Alan Nunnelee is one Republican name circulating as a possible opponent. Nunnelee has said he's considering a race for Congress as well as future options in state government.

Childers is optimistic health care reform is on the way: "This is the year to make it happen. I don't think it will be a radical approach. And we must have both parties at the table."