You've probably heard the saying: politicians make strange bed-fellows.

Nashvillian Joe M. Rodgers is one of the best known names in national Republican circles.

From 1978 to 1980, he was Finance Chairman for the Republican National Committee.

In 1984, he headed the presidential Campaign finance committee for Ronald Reagan and George H.Bush.

Finally, a year later, President Reagan appointed Joe Rodgers as ambassador to France.

Rodgers is Republican through and through. Well, not for every election.

Ambassador Rodgers is joining three others in hosting a political reception Wednesday evening.

But for some people, this invitation strikes an unusual twist.

The others are wealthy businessman, Orrin Ingram, former Metro Councilman Chris Ferrell and restaurant owner Randy Rayburn

It's a political reception, not for a State Senate Republican candidate, but for true Democrat, long-time State Senator Douglas Henry.

Rodgers supporting a Democrat? It sounds unheard of, but it's true.

"That's sort of interesting," says Mark Brown, Communication Director of the Tennessee Democratic Party. "I hadn't heard of that, but I'm not surprised."

Henry's Republican opponent, Bob Krumm said he doesn't take Rodgers' Democrat support personally.

Krumm, a 40-year-old project manager with a Nashville based construction company, and a West Point graduate, said: “I think it indicates how well Senator Henry is connected to many of the old line Nashvillians."

Rodgers said, "Both are great candidates, but Doug Henry has done so much, I can't leave him."

No question Senator Henry has widespread support from Democrats, Republicans and Independents. After 36 years of serving Tennessee, he's made a world of friends.

But for a nationally known Republican, such as the former ambassador to jump political ship, says a lot for Doug Henry.

Incidentally, the cost for the reception is $360 a couple. That's $10 for each year Henry has served Tennessee.