Leaving Legislature Nov. 1
posted August 29, 2005
 Rep. Chris Newton |
Rep. Newton, who announced Sunday he was leaving his House seat effective Nov. 1, is on the docket at Federal Court in Memphis on a change of plea.
Tracy Wherry, secretary to Judge Jon Phipps McCalla, said Newton earlier pleaded not guilty so it is expected he would be pleading guilty on Tuesday.
He would be the first lawmaker in the sting to do so.
He had faced trial later this year in Federal Court in Memphis for allegedly taking cash to work for certain legislation.
Rep. Newton, 34, said he stepped down after prayer and much consideration.
State Republican Party Chairman Bob Davis said, "Chris did the right thing, not only for himself, but for his state and his constituents. I would encourage the other indicted members of the legislature to follow suit. If they don’t resign, it is still up to Gov. Bredesen, as head of their party, to step in and ask them to; however, the governor’s silence on this issue has been deafening.
"Republicans are leading on ethics reform and the Democrat Party is lagging woefully behind. Tennesseans are recognizing daily that the Republican Party is where they can place their trust."
Rep. Gerald McCormick said, "Chris Newton made a difficult but good decision in announcing his pending resignation. He made some real contributions to the state in the past ten years and he will now be able to concentrate on facing the charges against him while being fair to his constituents and colleagues in the House of Representatives. I respect his decision and wish him well."
Meanwhile, Elizabeth Kalabus of
2141 Old Parksville Rd. NE, Cleveland, announced she is interested in the District 22 seat that includes Bradley, Meigs and Polk Counties.
She said, "I am pleased to announce my candidacy for State Representative for the 22nd District House of Representatives. I want to serve all the people of this district.
"I’ll work hard for improved education and responsible educational spending. Our children are our future. Let’s help them get a good foundation for life. I will work toward helping Tennessee teachers build a fair retirement system. We need to attract and keep good teachers.
"Attracting industry and securing a job force in the present, and the future, keeps the economy stable, and assures future economic growth. Building Tennessee in a responsible manner now will help meet the demand for jobs. We can increase industry in low impact ways to preserve the environment.
"I was born in the Northeast and traveled over the years from border to border due to my husband’s job. I have had the chance to experience a wide variety of cultural diversity. My husband was in the law enforcement field for over 30 years and I am familiar with the problems society is facing.
"I have been a business owner, I am a nurse, and I’m presently a student working toward a BS Degree in Paralegal and Pre Law Studies. I have four children, all grown, and understand the problems and concerns parents face.
"I grew up without many of the advantages available to young people today. I know the value of working hard and how hard it can be to get ahead when you’re working just to get by.
"As a nurse I understand the difficulties faced when you don’t have health care insurance, and what an enormous problem this area is facing trying to provide the care needed. We need a safety net in Tennessee to help those in need of health care now. From the day I take my oath of office, I will work diligently to find an answer to resolve this problem.
"I am a strong ally of the second amendment.
"I am against a state income tax.
"It's time for a change in the 22nd District."
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