Three candidates who sought to replace Debbie Gaines on the Chattanooga City Council have joined forces in a show of support for J.T. McDaniel in the April 14 run-off.

Quenston Coleman, Thomas Mott and Jackie Thomas, received 37 percent of the votes cast in the March 3 election, said they are now in the McDaniel camp.

The longtime East Chattanooga businessman is opposed by Peter Murphy, an attorney who lives on Missionary Ridge.

The three said they "campaigned to attract major businesses, create good paying jobs, and to improve the quality of life in District 9."

They said J.T. McDaniel "emerged as the candidate with better connection to the grassroots issues because of his community-based business investments and support of neighborhood groups while on the planning commission."

They also said they believe "District 9 will be shut out of any community gains if this election is overlooked. A low voter turnout will hurt the area, while the rest of the city grows from new economic investment."

Mr. Mott said, “The sacrifices and gains made by those who went into the courts to insure our voting rights cannot be ignored.” He said the districts "were designed to give African Americans a voice in city government."

The group said they "have formed a common bond and a shared vision for growth and development in the district and across the city. We are working to improve neighborhoods, to fight crime in the streets and to seek jobs or training for residents. In addition, we seek to bring youthful voices from the street level to the decision-making table.

Ms. Thomas said, “We always say that our kids do poorly in school but there are few programs in the community to help them succeed. I believe that Mr. McDaniel will try to find ways to bridge the gap from the school to the workforce.”

Mr. Coleman said he believes that "protecting life and property are important to attract outside investment and new residents to the district. I am supporting Mr. McDaniel for an open line of communication between city hall and the people. Let the silent majority wait until after the election to whisper their dissatisfaction. I cannot wait and will not beg city officials for attention and services for District 9. J.T. McDaniel will be accountable to the voters.”

Early voting is available now through April 8.