Democrat Brad Parish, of Kingston, Tenn., announced Sunday that he is forming an exploratory committee to run for the 3rd District 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 Mr. Parish 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.
Fleischmann raises $520,000
Third congressional District candidate Chuck Fleischmann has raised about $520,000 so far in his race for Tennessee’s 3rd Congressional District, according to a release from his campaign.
“Even though I started this race with virtually no name recognition and without ever having held political office, I’ve worked nonstop these past few months to meet and talk with the people of the 3rd District, and they are responding positively to my message of less government and lower taxes,” Mr. Fleischmann said.
The release states that Mr. Fleischmann has about $450,000 on-hand in the campaign.
Henry announces re-election bid
Hamilton County Commissioner Larry Henry said in a news release Monday that he’s running for re-election in commission District 7.
“Hamilton County is on the brink of an economic transformation,” he said. “We are making significant strides in overcoming the greatest nationwide economic downturn since the Great Depression.”
Mr. Henry said many Hamilton County residents are still struggling to pay their bills, however.
“For this reason, Hamilton County needs experienced leaders to keep the tax burden as low as possible while continuing to lead Hamilton County toward the promise of economic prosperity.” he said.