Hamilton County Democratic Party host candidates for debate forum

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Hamilton County Democratic Party held their candidate forum this Saturday at the Chattanooga Public Library. The event featured not only local Hamilton County candidates, but also ones from across the state.

“I think it was an outstanding gathering of people sharing ideas and concepts to move our community forward. There’s so much good in this community, people willing to work with each other, and I think this was an example of it today that we can move forward together,” said Tennessee Representative of the 28th District, Yusuf Hakeem.

The Democratic Candidate Forum was able to bring a little friendly competition to the table with candidates that are running for Representative, Senate, and even circuit court. Which featured local politicians in Hamilton County and some making the trip from all over the state.

“I think it gave the candidates that can provide an opportunity to really share some thoughts around climate change, gun safety, abortion, rights, and education, so I think everybody left with just what they came for,” said U.S. Senate candidate, Civil Miller-Watkins.

While it was a debate, there were a lot of agreements on what issues should be addressed for not only the citizens of Tennessee, but for public schools as many teachers are underpaid.

“I have been very active over the last 20 years with the PTA, boosters, sports, and I care about these teachers. I know them, I care about them, and I want to support them the best that I am able to,” said District 1 School Board candidate, Tammy Barnes.

The Republican Party currently controls the House for Tennessee having 75 Representatives to the Democrats 24. But Representative Yusuf Hakeem believes the Democrats can make a big splash in the upcoming elections.

“I think people would need to at least look at them and afford them the opportunity to share their ideas because I think we all see the need for some change in a positive manner and I believe Democrats can provide that change,” said Representative Hakeem.

With elections just around the corner, Democrats of Hamilton County and across Tennessee are wanting to do whatever it takes to dethrone the Republicans.