“Congressman John Tanner is a statesman who represents his district well. His service to his district, his state and his country is above reproach. Although his leadership in Congress will be missed here in Tennessee when he retires next year, I respect John’s decision to devote more time to his family.

“But we have other outstanding Democrats who could represent the Eighth Congressional District well. I’m confident a Democrat will continue representing that district for many more years to come.”