I received the following Press Release from Ray Jenkins this morning. It is as follows.
Ray Jenkins introducing himself at the 1/23/2014 Center City Republican Club
Ray Jenkins announces the filing of a Treasurer appointment in his run for General Sessions Judge, Division II. Retired KCSO Sergeant and longtime friend James Neubert will serve in this important post. Jenkins, who comes from a family of prominent, lifelong Republicans, is taking the unusual step of filing as an Independent.
Jenkins is running to fill the position opened by the retirement of Judge Geoff Emery.
According to Jenkins, “I am filing as an Independent because the Tennessee Republican Party has instituted rules that, in my opinion, make it unethical to run for a judicial position as a Republican.”
The TN Republican Party State Executive Committee adopted a fee schedule to run as a Republican candidate, requiring judicial candidates to pay $500. State Supreme Court Rules of Ethics Rule 10, Canon 4, Rule 4.1(A)(4) states in relevant part “ … a judicial candidate shall not … pay an assessment to … a political organization … “.
Jenkins said “It is not the money. I have previously contributed money to both the state and local party – which is allowed. It is the mandatory nature that is the issue.”
Further, “While some in the Party have said they “probably” will change the rule in December, I will not raise money or campaign under false pretenses. If the TN GOP gets its act together and addresses this serious issue, I may re-file my paperwork.”
Jenkins further said “No one can question my Republican bona fides. I was Chairman of the Knox County GOP, my father was a GOP officer holder for 25 years, and my grandfather was chairman of both the Knox County GOP and the Tennessee GOP. The question now is whether the current leadership will do the right thing.”
Jenkins currently serves as a Magistrate in Knox County, a position he has held for over seven years. “Not only have I been a Magistrate for over seven years, but I have also been deeply involved with the development and implementation of the new Pre-Trial process as well as bail reform efforts.” states Jenkins. He has the experience the people of Knox County deserve.
Jenkins is a graduate of Tennessee Technological University and of the Nashville School of Law.
The Knox County Primary will be held in May 2022, and the General election will be held in August 2022.
Learn more about Ray Jenkins and his campaign by visiting here by phone at (865) 548-7456
Thank you for the coverage