Rep. Charles Sargent won’t seek reelection

(NASHVILLE) — State Representative Charles Sargent (R-Franklin) today announced that he will not seek re-election to the Tennessee House of Representatives in 2018.

Instead, Sargent has chosen to focus on his health. The Chairman of the House Finance, Ways, & Means Committee has dealt with skin cancer in prior years and was recently diagnosed with a related condition that requires additional treatment.

 Sargent’s announcement concludes a 21 year tenure in the Tennessee General Assembly. He was first elected to represent House District 61 in 1996.

During his time in the House chamber, Sargent strongly advocated for improvements to the state’s education system, particularly as they relate to the Basic Education Program — the formula through which state education dollars are generated and distributed to Tennessee schools.

Chairman Sargent has also been instrumental in Columbia State Community College’s campus expansion in the City of Franklin. Additionally, Sargent secured $3.2 million in funding for a new visitor’s center at the historic Carter House during the 2017 legislative session.

“It has truly been an honor to serve the hardworking men, women, and families of our community for more than two decades,” said Chairman Sargent. “I am grateful that they have placed their trust in me to address their needs and concerns as a member of the Tennessee General Assembly, and I remain passionate about our work ahead in 2018. Once the upcoming legislative session concludes, I look forward to focusing all of my time and energy on the people who matter most to me, my wife Nancy, our children and grandchildren.”

 Members of House leadership — including Republican Caucus Chairman Ryan Williams (R-Cookeville) — thanked Chairman Sargent for his service to Tennessee.

“As Caucus Chairman, I know that Charles Sargent has been a fierce advocate for our students and our educators during his time on Capitol Hill,” said Chairman Williams. “His knowledge and expertise related to the budgetary process is invaluable to me and to our entire caucus. I am grateful to him for his service to his constituents and to our state, and I know he will be greatly missed by his colleagues in the House chamber after next year.”

Charles Sargent serves as Chairman of the House Finance, Ways & Means Committee. He is also a member of the House Finance, Ways & Means and House Finance Ways & Means Study Subcommittees, as well as the House Calendar & Rules, House Insurance & Banking, House Rules, and Joint Fiscal Review Committees. Sargent lives in Franklin and represents House District 61, which includes parts of Williamson County. He can be reached by calling (615) 741-6808 or by email at: Rep.Charles.Sargent@capitol.tn.gov