TN politician comments on Corker’s exit announcement

Press release/twitter comments from Tennessee politicians on Sen. Bob Corker’s announcement that he will not seek reelection:

Gov. Bill Haslam: “Senator Corker has served his city, our state and our country selflessly and with excellence. He ha made a positive difference in the lives of every Tennessean, and every American. Bob has been a close friend for over 40 years. His leadership and wisdom in the Senate will be missed, but I have complete faith in his judgment and respect his decision. I look forward to seeing what he does next. Today, I simply offer the thanks of a grateful state to Bob and his wife Elizabeth and wish them every blessing in the years ahead.”

Sen. Lamar Alexander: “Even when he’s been investigating smugglers’ tunnels near the Gaza strip, talking to foreign leaders, or giving advice to President Trump, Bob has never let his feet leave the ground in Tennessee. He says what he thinks, does what he believes is best for Tennesseans, and has helped lead his colleagues on complicated issues involving the federal debt and national security. His absence will leave a big hole in the United States Senate, but I know he’s carefully weighed his decision, and I’m looking forward to seeing what he tackles next.”

Tennessee Democratic Chair Mary Mancini: “It’s clear that Senator Corker didn’t have the courage to go through an election cycle defending his support for the disastrous Republican healthcare plans that would have raised premiums, instituted an age tax, and thrown hundreds of thousands of Tennesseans off of their insurance. Tennesseans deserve voices that fight for them, not billionaires or political parties.”

U.S. Rep. Diane Black: “Senator Corker has been an effective voice for Tennesseans in the Senate. He is a devoted public servant and I wish he and his wife, Elizabeth, well in the future.”

U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn: “Bob Corker is a good man, and a great public servant who has served his state and nation with honor and distinction.”

Lt. Gov. Randy McNally: Bob Corker has provided sterling service to our state. You always know where he stands and you always know he is doing the best for Tennessee. I enjoyed working with him during his tenure as Commissioner of Finance and Administration. His service as a United States Senator and as Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee has been exemplary. I congratulate him on an excellent Senate career and I look forward to his future endeavors.

U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen: “I was disappointed to learn that Senator Bob Corker will not be seeking re-election in 2018. Senator Corker has been easy to work with, and we have developed an excellent relationship since beginning our careers in Congress in 2006. Bob is highly respected for his knowledge of the issues, especially foreign policy. He has exhibited moments of independence reminiscent of past great Tennessee Senators. I have enjoyed his friendship and collegiality since serving together in Tennessee State government, and I will miss serving with him in Congress.”

Andy Ogles, announced Republican U.S. Senate candidate:

“I appreciate Senator Corker’s service and the decision to end his 12 year tenure in Washington D.C.”

“We need new faces in Washington who share President Trump’s mission to drain the swamp. Grassroots activists across Tennessee have had my ear for years telling me how Tennessee needs someone who will stand up for Tennesseans and hold true to their promises. People across the country feel the same way – What we are doing in D.C. is not working for the majority of Americans and electing the same batch of folks over and over who haven’t produced any results won’t change a thing.”

“It’s going to be a tough year for incumbents as we are seeing in Alabama; term limits will be enforced through the election cycle. I welcome the new faces and pray we can join together to drain the swamp, making America work for Americans again.”

U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper: “I congratulate Sen. Corker for two terms in the Senate. Despite our differences, we have a solid working relationship and I admire his expertise on foreign affairs. I wish him the best in his future endeavors, and I thank him for his service to Tennessee.”