Jim Hackworth has formally announced his election bid for the 33rd Legislative District in the Tennessee General Assembly.
"No issue weighs heavier on people right now than the economy. Tennesseans are angry and fearful. They're worried the American Dream is disappearing for their families. They've seen friends, neighbors and family members lose jobs through no fault of their own and small businesses shut down because there is no one left to buy their goods and services," Hackworth said. "People are waiting desperately to hear common sense solutions from the politicians running our state and our country. Our current State Representative promised us a bright and shiny future two years ago. Unfortunately, all we have received thus far is a total eclipse."
"It's no secret what needs to be done. We need an economy that creates jobs for all Tennesseans. We need leaders who will fight for the middle class and everyone who is trying hard to work their way into the middle class. It's time to get back to basics. We must work together to create opportunities for all Tennesseans by attracting and maintaining good jobs and strengthening our schools," Hackworth said.
"The past 18 months have been a story of missed opportunity. Our leaders have passed laws that protect special interests and spent too much time on distractions that hurt our families. We should be focused on creating new jobs and improving our schools. I'm ready to get back to what's important: growing our economy by partnering with small business, supporting our families and keeping Tennessee a low-tax state by holding the big special interests accountable," Hackworth said.
Hackworth states that he has a strong record on fiscal responsibility, supporting schools and bringing new job opportunities to Anderson County.
"I listen to all citizens, and I work hard to represent the values of our families," Hackworth said. "I have been a champion for balanced budgets, investing in our children and bringing new jobs to Anderson County and East Tennessee."
Hackworth emphasized his proven track record of working across party lines to get real results for Anderson County.
"Tennesseans have seen enough partisan bickering, they want leadership who will work with both parties to make progress on what matters - getting people back to work and making sure our children get a high-quality education so they can compete for the jobs of the future," Hackworth said. "I'll consider a good idea from anyone because good ideas are just that, good ideas and they don't come with a party label."
Jim and his wife, Brenda, have two sons, one grandson, and two granddaughters. Jim presently serves on both the CORRE and the Emory Valley Business Advisory Board of Directors. He is a past president of the Claxton Optimist Club and the Anderson County Habitat for Humanity. Jim and Brenda are members of the First United Methodist Church in Oak Ridge.
Hackworth is the son of James Marshall and Peggy Saunders Hackworth of Clinton. He lived in Oak Ridge, Clinton and Dutch Valley prior to graduating from Clinton High School in 1969. He received an associate's degree in supervision and management from Roane State Community College and received bachelor's and master's degrees in applied organizational management from Tusculum College.
