12 congressional candidates campaign in West Tennessee

JACKSON, Tenn. — More than half of the candidates representing West Tennessee campaigned Tuesday in Jackson during a forum.

Twelve congressional candidates lined the front of the room during a forum hosted by the Jackson Exchange Club.

“It was an important event for the club,” said Gabe Mudd with the Exchange Club. “There are so many candidates running for this 8th congressional district, and [we] thought it was important for their voices to be heard in a forum format.”

The goal of the event is to hopefully educate club members on how the candidates stand on issues here in West Tennessee.

“Frankly, I didn’t know much about these people,” said Jackson Exchange Club member Charles Bells. “We haven’t seen much in news or anywhere about it, so I enjoyed it. In fact, I think it narrowed it down to a couple of people.”

Candidates were given equal time to introduce themselves and answer three questions from the club.

“At the moment I’m undecided, so it was very informative,” said another attendee, Ed Jackson III. “I loved hearing from them guys today, gentleman and ladies, and I think it’s great, you know, when the guys from Memphis come to Jackson.”

Those in attendance agree they want a candidate that represents the people of West Tennessee in congress.

“Well definitely, I want someone who will represent me and Jacksonians and West Tennesseans,” Jackson said.

“I always vote. I never fail to vote, and really would like to vote for somebody who is going to do a good job for me and everybody else,” Bell said.

Early voting is already underway. Election Day is Aug. 4.