James Mackler exits Senate race, clearing side for ex-governor

FILE - In this Jan. 29, 2013, file photo, former Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen speaks on a panel about reducing the federal debt at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tenn. Democrat James Mackler says he's dropping out of the U.S. Senate race in Tennessee to replace Sen. Bob Corker, a move that appears to clear the path to the Democratic nomination for Bredesen. (AP Photo/Erik Schelzig, File)
FILE - In this Jan. 29, 2013, file photo, former Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen speaks on a panel about reducing the federal debt at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tenn. Democrat James Mackler says he's dropping out of the U.S. Senate race in Tennessee to replace Sen. Bob Corker, a move that appears to clear the path to the Democratic nomination for Bredesen. (AP Photo/Erik Schelzig, File)

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Democrat James Mackler says he's dropping out of the U.S. Senate race in Tennessee to replace Sen. Bob Corker, a move that appears to clear the path to the Democratic nomination for former Gov. Phil Bredesen.

Mackler said in a news release he's "stepping back" from the race, but will stay active with a political action committee named Believe in Service. The Nashville attorney and Iraq War veteran says the committee will support federal candidates who will protect and expand national service programs.

In a statement, Bredesen said he admires Mackler's commitment to service to the nation and complimented his political action committee idea.

Corker, a Republican, is retiring from the Senate.

Major Republicans in the race to succeed him are U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn and former U.S. Rep. Stephen Fincher.

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