Don Daugherty is withdrawing from the race for Tennessee Democratic Party Executive Committee District 7. He is endorsing Bill Owen. Statement after the break...

Statement from Don Daugherty:

"The State Executive Committee is enormously important to the party. Many folks do not know or appreciate the scope of the committee's duties or its role in the life of the Democratic Party. I believe this next election cycle - 2014-2016 - is going to be a turning point for Tennessee Democrats across the state.

I think our next Presidential nominee is going to have a real opportunity to carry Tennessee and that campaign is going to be have a trickle down effect on other offices across the state. My experience in electoral politics would provide me with a unique perspective to participate in governing the Democratic Party at the state level.

However, I am now involved in two other important races that I anticipate taking the bulk of my time and effort - my brother, Leon, is a candidate for State Executive Committee for the 6th District, and Gordon Ball, with whom I have worked for 20 years, is running for U.S. Senate.

So, I met with Bill Owen, who I have known for over 30 years, and after discussing the race at length, I have decided to endorse Bill for this race. Not only does Bill deserve another term, but his leadership, not to mention his many connections to Hillary Clinton, will serve the best interests of the party for the next 4 years."