Today, State Representative Jimmy Matlock of Loudon County has announced his candidacy for Speaker of the House. A Caucus contest that historically will take place in late November, early December.
Matlock runs a successful family business that has four locations, in Lenoir City, Athens, Maryville and Farragut (Knoxville) TN. He has a broader understanding of what the typical Tennesee resident faces and thinks than any other member of the legislature.
Unlike any other TN politically in tune blog has reported about Speaker Beth Harwell, I haven’t heard, seen anything they may have reported. I am not saying they are wrong, their style is not my style.
In this race, I have known Matlock longer and not always political, that is why my loyalty will be with Matlock. However, Madam Speaker has been kind to me, so I will talk about the positives of Matlock without tearing down any other candidates. I have yet to talk to Matlock since Tom Humphrey reported Matlock’s candidacy here today. I believe Matlock will support my position of posting the positives of him and not tearing down any other candidates.
August 9, 2016
Friends,
I’m writing this letter to make my goals and intentions for the upcoming months clear. Honesty, integrity, and transparency are values that I not only believe in, but expect of myself in all that I do. These values are what have compelled me toward the decision I am making today.
I’ve served alongside many of you for years and I’m proud to call many of you friends. After much thought, prayer, and consultation with family and friends I have decided to seek the office of Speaker of the House of Representatives. Today, I am humbly asking for your support.
We all came to Nashville with the hope that our service would make Tennessee a better place. Together, we bring a diverse set of backgrounds from across the state; each of us intent on representing our district well.
My primary goal is to help our caucus become what it was always meant to be; a caucus that stands for justice and truth, a caucus that has bold and creative ideas, a caucus that at its heart stands for the people of our great state. I am ready to guide us forward, unite our causes, and provide support to each of you.
Together, we can and will unite for a common goal to relentlessly make our beloved Tennessee even more free and prosperous.
Sincerely,
Jimmy Matlock
