McMillan Leaves Governor’s Race

The list of major Democratic contenders for the governor’s office is down to one.

Former State House Majority Leader Kim McMillan is dropping out of the Governor’s race. McMillan had struggled to raise funds for her gubernatorial run and had not yet filed the paperwork to formally enter the race; that deadline is Thursday at noon.

In an email to supporters, McMillan said she’s decided to run for Mayor of Clarksville instead. Current mayor Johnny Piper announced this week that he is not seeking reelection.

Three other Democrats have already stopped their gubernatorial campaigns. McMillan’s departure leaves only businessman Mike McWherter in the running for the party’s nomination.

Three candidates remain in the Republican Primary: Lieutenant Governor Ron Ramsey, Congressman Zach Wamp, and Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam.