Bennett Raises Over $100,000 In Judge Race; Dean Far Ahead Of Incumbent Tidwell In Campaign Cash

  • Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Attorney J.B. Bennett said he has raised over $100,000 in a two-month period in his quest for Circuit Court Judge, Division 1.

The campaign finance reports were due last Friday. Attorney Bennett is among those filing his with the state.

Other contenders for the post include Catherine Cate White and Stuart James.

Attorney Bennett said he had gifts from more than 235 supporters and ended the fundraising period with a balance of over $109,000, as of Jan. 15.

The report covers the fundraising window from early November through Jan. 15.

Tom Decosimo of the Bennett campaign commented, "J.B. understands the importance of working hard, honoring the trust of the Hamilton County voters, and continuing a legacy of public service. In barely over two months, the campaign's hard work paid off. This early financial support is tremendous and sets the pace for J.B.'s grassroots campaign ahead."

Attorney Bennett said, "I am deeply humbled and so very appreciative of all the support for my campaign. I am honored with the trust and support of so many who know my heart is to serve our community."

Rep. Vince Dean, who is running as a Republican for Criminal Court clerk, was able to convert his state funds for the current race to unseat longtime incumbent Gwen Tidwell, a Democrat. He reported $68,710 on hand. Ms. Tidwell has $17,291.

In a heated contest for County Commission District 7, realtor Sabrena Turner reported bringing in $22,874, while former School Board member Phil Smartt had $20,675. Perry Perkins reported $10,920 in contributions.

Ms. Turner has heavy realtor support, including $2,500 from the Tennessee Realtors PAC and $1,000 each from Gina Sakich and Linda Brock.

Mr. Smartt had $1,500 contributions from Bob McKamey, John J. Hamm,  Ron Adams, Elsworth McKee, Phil Smartt III of Helena, Ark., and Heather Smartt of Helena, Ark. He was given $1,000 by Harry Ray and Jay Bell.

Gifts to the Perkins campaign included $1,000 from Barbara Perkins and Bob McKamey, $600 from Jimmy Vineyard, $500 from Steve Hutcheson and Jim Sheets, $300 from Connie and Billy McCoy, and $200 from Tim Reynolds, J.B. Underwood, Elizabeth Parson, Barbara and Gaylon Reedy and Mike Evatt.

Former District 8 County Commissioner Curtis Adams gained $4,900, including $1,000 each from Corky Coker, Jon Kinsey, Joe Decosimo and Frank Fowler.

District 3 County Commissioner Marty Haynes, who is unopposed thus far, reported $1,777 in contributions. He got $1,000 from the Committee to Re-Elect Gerald McCormick, $500 from Friends of Roger Tuder and $250 from Rob Philyaw.

Randy Fairbanks, who is trying to unseat County Commission Chairman Fred Skillern in District 1, had backing from prominent businessman Henry Luken, who hosted a reception for him. He received $1,500 each from Mr. Luken, Kelly Luken, Doug Clark of Ringgold and Jeanne Wardack and $1,000 from Ben Spangler and Greg Henderson.

District 9 County Commissioner Chester Bankston had a $1,000 gift from Jack McKee.

County Commissioner Jim Fields from District 3, who is unopposed thus far, has $15,934.

Commissioner Joe Graham of District 6, who is being challenged by former Commissioner John Brooks, listed $1,001 on hand.

Commissioner Larry Henry, who is running for Circuit Court clerk, said he has $7,589 on hand and he raised $13,722 in the recent period.

Register of Deeds Pam Hurst said she has $397 for the campaign.

General Sessions Court Judge Christie Mahn Sell reported $29,801 on hand.

Sheriff Jim Hammond, who thus far is opposed by Chris Harvey, has $44,538 for his campaign.

Tim Carroll, who considered running for sheriff, reported that he spent $7,618.

Longtime County Clerk Bill Knowles has $13,427.

The report for County Mayor Jim Coppinger said he has $52,360 on hand, including $36,900 raised this period.

 

 

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