NASHVILLE, TN – Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney issued the following statement on the retirement of Tennessee’s 8th District U.S. Representative John Tanner:

“We wish him well, but Congressman Tanner’s decision really is no surprise,” said Devaney. “He knew he is was facing an uphill climb in his reelection given the strong Republican challenge facing him and the concern about the radical direction Congressman Tanner’s Party is attempting to take the country. Any Democrat wanting to take his place, such as Roy Herron, will face these challenges as well.”