Williamson County Commissioner Seeks Sargent's Seat

BRENTWOOD, TN — Brentwood-area Williamson County Commissioner Jeff Ford announced he'll seek the Republican nomination for the Tennessee House of Representatives seat which will be left open by the retirement of powerful State Rep. Charles Sargent.

Sargent (R-Franklin), chairman of the powerful House Finance, Ways and Means committee, announced Oct. 26 that he will not seek re-election in 2018, instead focusing on his health. Sargent has faced skin cancer in prior years and was recently diagnosed with a related condition that requires additional treatment, he said.

“With the retirement of Rep. Sargent, Williamson County needs representation by an experienced, conservative leader who has a track record of promoting and supporting business growth and excellence in education," Ford said, according to The Tennessean. "Here in Williamson County we are the economic engine that supports Tennessee," he said. "Our business community leads Tennessee in innovation and job creation. Our school systems are the best in the state. We consistently rank as one of the top places in the country to live and retire."

Ford, 59, joins fellow Republican Rebecca Burke in announcing interest in the race. Burke announced her intention before Sargent announced his pending retirement.

Photo via Williamson County Commission