With current Washington County, Tennessee, Mayor George Jaynes set to retire at the end of his term, two men are now vying for the county's top spot. Jonesborough businessman Dan Eldridge officially threw his name into the hat Tuesday for the Republican nomination. Dozens of people packed the Eldridge family farm to show their support Tuesday.
In his day job, along with a cattle operation, Eldridge also focuses on commercial and residential real estate development. According to Eldridge, attracting and retaining good jobs and running an efficient government are among his top goals. He says he has the business experience needed to steer the county in the right direction.
“I have made the tough decisions,” Eldridge said. “I've had to lay awake at night and experience the concern about what to do and how to go about it…I will ensure accountability and transparency throughout county government and this is no time for politics. I am not a politician. I don't believe that politics is the answer."
Eldridge will face former Johnson City Mayor and State Senator Don Arnold in the Republican Primary on May 4, 2010. Both men are hoping to replace George Jaynes, who has served as mayor for the last 23 years.
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