With early voting starting today, I wanted to express my opinion about the election for Tennessee Legislature.  On the ballot in my district, we have two seats on the ballot.  Both seats are currently held by very capable members of the Tennessee General Assembly.  Senator Todd Gardenhire and Representative Esther Helton both deserve to retain their seats.

Todd Gardenhire is being challenged by a very fine gentleman.  I have known his challenger for many years and know him to be genuine.  However, when it comes to effectiveness in the Tennessee State Senate, there is no way that anyone could be more deserving to keep their seat.  No matter what the area, Todd has shown that he will work hard for his district.  Whether it be helping get a football stadium for a school on the south side of Chattanooga or helping secure funds for road projects in East Ridge or helping with Veterans facilities in Bradley County, Todd has been tireless.  During the time that I served in Nashville with Todd, he was always very supportive of my efforts to assist with Public Safety issues, as well as any other issue that was important to my district.  He has been a champion to our area. I can think of no valid reason to replace Todd at this time.  On the other hand, I could offer example after example of why he should be retained in office.

Esther Helton has proven herself as a strong conservative voice for house district 30.  She has earned top ratings from conservative organizations all over the state.  Any previous question about her conservative stance has long since been proven wrong.  She is well respected in Nashville and across the state.  Having her serve in the Legislature has proven to be immensely profitable for the City of East Ridge.  Being in Nashville, while knowing the needs of our community is immeasurable.  She is an asset to say the least.

Senate district 10 and House district 30 is very fortunate to have these outstanding representatives.  Both are members of the majority party in both houses of the Legislature.  To replace them with a member not in the majority party would be detrimental to our area.  Those high school fields just might not get built.  Those jobs just might not come to our area.  Those new roads just might not get built.  Let’s keep our area moving forward and keep Todd and Esther.

_ Vince Dean, Former State House Representative District 30