Special election dates set for state Sen. Jim Tracy's seat

Gov. Bill Haslam has signed a writ of election setting the primary and general special election dates to fill the district 14 state senate seat recently vacated by Jim Tracy.

The primary for district 14 will be held Jan. 25 and the general election will be held on March 13, according to the document signed Sunday.

Tracy, who was appointed as state director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Development office by President Donald Trump, resigned on Nov. 6, triggering the special election.

Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett tweeted Sunday that he accepted the writ, and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally also shared the news, saying "The election to fill the big shoes of @jimtracy has been set."

Tracy, a longtime state Senator from Shelbyville, was appointed to the new post on Nov. 3.

More: President Trump appoints state Sen. Jim Tracy to U.S. Department of Agriculture office

In a news release, Tracy called it an honor to serve the constituents in his district.

“I’m proud of my record over the past 13 years and I’m thankful for the many friendships I’ve made along the way,” said Tracy, who thanked former Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally.

"This is a great opportunity to serve my nation and my state doing something I am truly passionate about. I look forward to working with Secretary (Sonny) Perdue to make a difference in rural Tennessee."

Tracy's departure from the legislature was expedited because the appointment does not require congressional approval.

Candidates for the special election include former state Rep. Joe Carr and Mufreesboro businessman Shane Reeves.

State Sen. Mark Norris is awaiting congressional approval after Trump nominated him to become a federal judge.

Reporter Jordan Buie can be reached at 615-726-5970 or by email at jbuie@tennessean.com. Follow him on Twitter @jordanbuie.