MICHELLE WILLARD, Post Staff Writer
Posted: Monday, December 14, 2009 11:23 am

Jim Tracy

State Sen. Jim Tracy (R-Shelbyville) will officially announce his candidacy for the 6th Congressional District later today.

Tracy said he will file papers this week and a press release is forth coming relating to his decision to run for the seat currently held by Rep. Bart Gordon (D-Murfreesboro).

“It is an honor and a privilege to serve the people of the 16th District,” he said about serving in the Tennessee legislature since 2004. “I’m going to serve in congress on same principles.”

Gordon announced his retirement this morning from the seat he has held for 25 years. Gordon, the dean of the state’s congressional delegation, also chairs the House Science and Technology Committee.

“He’s had 25 years serving this district and I wish him well in retirement,” Tracy said.