Rep. Joe Pitts won’t seek reelection in 2018

News release from House Democratic Caucus

NASHVILLE — Clarksville Rep. Joe Pitts has announced that he will retire from the State Legislature after the end of the 110^th General Assembly in 2018.  In a letter to his supporters, (see attached), Pitts said, “It’s time for me to step aside and allow another citizen legislator to experience the excitement of helping their constituents…some of the finest people anywhere.”

In his letter, the 12-year veteran Democrat gave two reasons why he is making his announcement early:  “first I want to give the voters of House District 67 plenty of time to examine the candidates who seek this office.  We have to move beyond single-minded ideology, blind party loyalty, and personalities and really examine the fruit of the candidates’ lives. The remainder of 2017 and the 2018 campaign year will allow voters, including me, to ask the hard questions and look at past performance of people in our community.  Will they fairly represent me?  Will they answer my call or email and help us with a problem?  Can they set aside politics and do what is right for all of district 67 or will they only serve a narrow interest group?  And what have they done in the past to serve our community or have they just helped themselves?  You can bet that I will speak out against those who serve only themselves.

And second, I want those who think about seeking this office to have time to truly evaluate and examine the time commitment it takes.  The office is very demanding but highly rewarding.  It will take countless hours to serve and if they hold another job, their employer, like mine at Planters Bank, will have to be very patient and accommodating of the calls, meetings, emails and time away.”

Democratic Caucus Chair Mike Stewart said, “The manner in which he is leaving exemplifies the selflessness and thoughtfulness that Joe Pitts brought to the Legislature.  Even in retirement, he is thinking about what would be best for his constituents and the district he serves.  That sums up the kind of lawmaker and person that Joe Pitts is.”

House Democratic Leader Craig Fitzhugh added, “Joe Pitts has been an outstanding legislator.  His determination, tenacity and professionalism stand as examples for all who seek a seat in the General Assembly.  His passion in representing his hometown of Clarksville has never wavered.  He is a model husband, father, grandfather and representative.  I will miss his counsel and humor in our caucus, of which he has been a valuable member.  I wish my friend all the best.”