Patsy Hazlewood, Republican candidate for the Tennessee House District 27 seat, has received the support of one of her earlier opponents, Charles White, Sr. Mr. White announced Friday that he will be pulling out of the District 27 primary race.
"I am suspending my campaign today and supporting Patsy Hazlewood," said Mr. White. "Our neighbors in District 27 deserve effective leadership and representation they can trust to solve problems and secure needed results. Patsy and I both desire to see excellence in our education system, as well as an increase in jobs and economic development in our region.
Neither of us are fueled by any agenda or motive other than the prosperity of District 27."
The open seat was held previously by Rep. Richard Floyd, R-Chattanooga, who announced earlier this year that he would not be seeking re-election. He endorsed Tommy Crangle, who will now go head-to-head against Ms. Hazlewood.
"I am very honored to have Charlie's support," said Ms. Hazlewood. "He is a successful small businessman, a military veteran, and a coach who has invested a great deal into our children. I agree with Charlie that District 27 has tremendous growth opportunities and needs. Our efforts must be constructive and productive on behalf of the voters."
"In Nashville, it will be my job to promote legislation that best represents the needs and hopes of our district," said Ms. Hazlewood. "It's equally important that I work with our local governments to ensure our local needs and local goals are honored by our state and not overstepped."
Ms. Hazlewood served most recently as the 10-county director of Economic and Community Development in the Haslam Administration. During her tenure, Tennessee was recognized in 2013 as State of the Year by Business Facilities Magazine for diversified economic growth, as the #2 state in the nation for economic development by Site Selection Magazine, and #3 state in America for business in 2014 by the Chief Executive Group.
The Republican primary election for District 27 State Representative is Thursday, Aug. 7, and early voting runs July 18 through Aug. 2.