Congressman Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) released the following statement after winning the Tennessee Republican primary:

He defeated Shannon Kelley and will face Democrat Eric Stewart, a state senator, in the general election.

“I’m humbled that Tennesseans have given me the opportunity to be the Republican nominee in the race for Tennessee’s Fourth Congressional District. I look forward to continuing to run on my record of reducing wasteful government spending, eliminating job-killing regulations and repealing President Obama’s government takeover of our healthcare system.

"Over the last two years, we have made significant inroads in changing the bureaucratic culture in Washington. But our work is far from over. This nation still faces significant obstacles that will require tough decisions and bold leadership. 

"If elected again, I will continue to confront these issues head-on with the same independent, conservative approach that has allowed me to be an effective advocate for my constituents this Congress.”

Seantor Stewart was quick to challenge the incumbent to three debates in August.
 
“Now that the primaries are over, it’s time for the incumbent to defend his record of voting to destroy Medicare, raise the Social Security retirement age to 70 and increase taxes on working families to pay for his favors to big business and big oil,” Senator Stewart said.  “There is a monumental lack of leadership and common sense in Washington and it has put our seniors, farmers, small business owners and working families in a bad spot.  It’s time we sent leaders to Washington who will focus on jobs and the economy.  Scott DesJarlais has proven he’s not one of those leaders.

“I challenge DesJarlais to meet me in three debates in August while Congress is in recess. I’m ready to talk to voters about how we can work together to protect working families and strengthen our economy.  If Congressman DesJarlais is proud of his record then hopefully he won’t be scared to defend it.”
 
Senator Stewart said he "will be traveling across this district, listening to voters and talking about how we can bring more good jobs back home and empower working families to help rebuild our economy.
 
“It’s important for the voters to have a relationship with their Congressman so they know they can call on him when they need help.  You do that face to face, not over the TV or with a piece of taxpayer funded mail.”