Hamilton County Democratic Party Chairman Stuart James said William Cotton should resign from the County Commission since he has been found guilty of federal bribery charges.
Mr. James said, "Since the news of the Tennessee Waltz broke, as chairman of the Hamilton County Democratic Party I have maintained the Constitution governs those charged under the Waltz. The Constitution tells us that those charged with a crime are innocent until proven guilty. The prosecution must prove guilt; all people charged have a constitutional right to a trial by jury.
"After serious deliberations, a jury has found William Cotton guilty. Mr. Cotton maintained his innocence throughout the trial exercising his constitutional right to have a jury find his guilt or innocence. After deliberating carefully, the jury found Mr. Cotton guilty of violating the law and the public trust.
"Mr. Cotton must now resign in order to preserve faith in government, and to serve the public good. His resignation will be recognition that he places the public good above his personal interests. His fiduciary responsibility tells us it is time for him to resign his post as County Commissioner and to resign his leadership positions in the Democratic Party.
"The Tennessee Waltz has tarnished public confidence in our system of government. However, the system of justice has shown that it is capable of punishing those who breach the public trust holding them accountable for their acts.
"In light of his conviction, I am calling for bipartisan support of further ethics reform that applies directly to our elected leaders, reform with consequences.
"Mr. Cotton is guilty. Mr. Cotton now faces the consequences of his acts. It is time for our elected leaders, in light of this conviction, to make a promise to the voters of our community; a simple promise that says 'we are here to help you - not help ourselves.'"