Murfreesboro Democrat Bart Gordon’s retirement from Congress has one political analyst wondering how the mid-state will fare without its most senior member.
With 25 years under his belt, Gordon was the longest-serving member of Tennessee’s delegation. He holds the perks that come with seniority: chairing a full committee and steering millions in federal grants to his district.
John Vile is the Dean of the Honors College at Middle Tennessee State University. MTSU and Tennessee Technological University are both in Gordon’s district. Vile says his help will be missed.
“I think among many of us, whether we’re necessarily Republican or Democrat, I think there is some concern that his leaving might leave the district a little high and dry.”
Gordon said this year is his last in Congress because he wants to spend more time with his family.
On a map, the sixth congressional district looks like the number seven. The top line encompasses the state border from Robertson County to the Cumberland Plateau before heading southwest.
Since his announcement, candidates have been lining up to replace him. So far, there are six GOP contenders and no democrats. Candidates have until April to file their intent to run.
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