NASHVILLE – The Democratic primary contest for governor narrowed to a one-man and one-woman race Friday as state Senate Minority Leader Jim Kyle, D-Memphis, announced he is dropping out.
He cited anticipated problems in general election fundraising and what he sees as a strong headwind against Democrats in the fall.
“It is clear to me that, while our campaign had the assets to be competitive in the primary, the legislative fundraising restrictions, this economy we’re in and my duties as Senate Democratic leader have severely hampered my ability to generate the resources that would have been very vital to our success in the general election,” Sen. Kyle told reporters.
His decision leaves former state House Majority Leader Kim McMillan, D-Clarksville, and Jackson, Tenn., businessman Mike McWherter, son of former Democratic Gov. Ned McWherter, the only candidates remaining in the Democratic contest.