Democratic Senate District 10 candidate Andrae McGary, at a press conference at Hamilton County Democratic headquarters, charged that his opponent, Todd Gardenhire, intended to “coast” until the November elections, "refusing a direct debate, and declining to clearly identify his goals and plans for serving the citizens of State Senate District 10. The implication is that Gardenhire feels he is 'entitled' to the seat without ever explaining to voters why."
Mr. McGary said he has been actively campaigning and actively seeking input from the public, and “holding elected office means you commit your life to it."
“What has my opponent done for this community?” he asked.
Mr. McGary denies that he supports a state income tax. He said, “I do not support such a tax, I have never made that statement, and furthermore, my opponent has been using calls from former Governor Don Sundquist to support his campaign—the person most famous for calling for a state income tax.”
He said, "More personal and more hurtful were deliberately started rumors from the other camp that my family is receiving financial assistance of some sort. Again, that is absolutely false."
Speaking of his wife of 12 years and five children, he said, “We have had some tough times. But we worked and saved. I am not ashamed to say I have bought suits in thrift stores."
“My children are the light of my life,” he continued. “I learn so much from them. And I am pro-life in the truest sense of the word.”