Glenn Scruggs
Democrat Glenn Scruggs had a big lead over state Senator Todd Gardenhire in early returns on Tuesday. But then the incumbent was bailed out by GOP stronghold Bradley County.
The challenger won Hamilton County 36,863 to 30,736.
However, Bradley County voted overwhelmingly for Senator Gardenhire, who finished ahead by a margin of 45,003 votes to 39,613.
Bradley County gave the incumbent 14,267 to just 2,750 for the Scruggs campaign.
Mr. Scruggs, of East Brainerd, is an assistant chief in the Chattanooga Police Department making his first political run.
Mr. Gardenhire, of Lookout Valley, had a career as an investment counselor.
Todd Gardenhire