Tennessee: Democrat may enter race for Wamp's seat

Democrat Brad Parish of Kingston, Tenn., announced Sunday that he was forming an exploratory committee to run for the congressional seat now held by U.S. Rep. Zach Wamp, R-Tenn.

"Energy is the power that will drive the future," Mr. Parish said in a statement. "I don't see a candidate running that has the qualifications that I have to move us into the energy future. That is why I am considering this historic run: for our jobs, for our families and for our national security."

Mr. Parish would be the only Democrat officially in the race following the exits of former Tennessee Commerce and Insurance Commissioner Paula Flowers and Chattanooga systems analyst Brent Benedict. The 40-year-old is vice president of CPS Inc.

At least six Republicans - former Tennessee Republican Party Chairwoman Robin Smith, Bradley County Sheriff Tim Gobble, attorney Chuck Fleischmann, businessman Art Rhodes, businessman Tommy Crangle and attorney Van Irion - are running for the seat. Two independents - Greg Goodwin and Mark DeVol - have also announced.

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