State Rep. Joe Carr announced Tuesday that his Exploratory Committee for Congress raised over $200,000 in his effort to become Tennessee’s next Congressman from the 4th District. The Rutherford County native said he was "humbled by the outpouring of support."
“This certainly sends a great signal that Tennesseans are interested in a Joe Carr for Congress candidacy,” he said. “I can’t tell you how appreciative I am of friends and neighbors who believe in me, and I don’t take their trust in me lightly.”
In six weeks the committee led by Republican businessman and fundraiser Lee Beaman raised a total of $205,479.
“These strong numbers prove that people are devoted to Joe Carr, just as Joe Carr is committed to the conservative movement,” said Mr. Beaman.
“I have a good idea what it takes to get your message out to the people; hard work, smart planning and enough gas in the tank to make a campaign of this magnitude successful,” Rep. Carr remarked. “We’re a step closer to making a final decision on whether to jump in, but I can tell you one thing, all indications point to that direction.”
Rep. Carr, a 1981 graduate of Middle Tennessee State University with 60 hours of graduate work, is a consultant assisting industrial companies in the reduction of their electrical energy costs. In addition, he and his wife Ginny own Cedar Snag Farms in Lascassas.
He was elected to the Tennessee General Assembly in 2008 and currently serves as chairman of the government subcommittee. He is a member of the National Federation of Independent Business, Tennessee Right to Life, Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, Middle Tennessee State University Blue Raider Athletic Association, and Greenhouse Ministries. He is also an accomplished private pilot and member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association.
Rep. Carr has been married for 30 years and they have three children, Erin, Maddie and Joe, Jr. In addition he is a grandfather. He has lived in Rutherford County since he was a young boy and his family roots go back five generations in Rutherford County. Joe, Ginny and Joe Jr. are members of the Believers Chapel in Murfreesboro.