Tennessee State Sen. Joe Haynes, D-Nashville.NASHVILLE - A former top state Senate Democrat is joining the list of Democratic lawmakers who won't seek re-election following Republican redistricting.
Sen. Joe Haynes, D-Nashville, a nearly 28-year veteran who once services as Senate Democratic Caucus chairman, announced today he will not run.
Haynes' district became more Republican in the GOP-drawn redistricting map. Haynes maintained in his announcement that he could have won if he ran.
He denounced Republicans for their "secretive" process when redrawing new political boundaries for senators.
Haynes, 75, said he is in good health but noted the "sweet siren call of my family, a huge stack of unread books and a little-used fishing boat demand my attention now."
He said he will maintain his law practice and "continue my fight for 'The American Way.'"
Sen. Roy Herron, D-Dresden, recently announced he will not seek reelection. In the House, Rep. Harry Tindell, D-Knoxville, said he won't run either.
Republicans think they can pick up all three seats. Senate Republicans currently enjoy a 20-13 edge over Democrats.