“Congressman Bart Gordon has served his district admirably for 25 years. He is a true statesman who votes his convictions and for the best interests of his district. Congressman Gordon had an important impact on working families in Tennessee by helping pass laws that improved lives and allowed children better access to higher education. His decision to begin a new chapter in his life and spend more time with his family is one I respect.

“We have many good Democratic leaders in the district who would serve that area well in Congress. Bart has won that district handily in the past and received nearly 75 percent of the vote last time around. Gov. Bredesen, for example, won the district with 67 percent of the vote in 2006. Voters in the district have a middle of the road mindset and vote for leaders who understand that philosophy. That is why voters continually sent Congressman Gordon back to Washington to represent their interests. I am confident the congressional seat will remain in Democratic hands for years to come.”