KNOXVILLE — Tennessee’s senior elected Republican, U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, said Friday night that when it comes to state House Speaker Kent Williams, who was booted out of the party earlier this year, GOP leaders should remember Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son, a wayward figure who ultimately was forgiven.

Though there were no major Tennessee races in Tuesday’s elections, U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., and attorney Chuck Fleischmann, a Republican candidate for Tennessee’s 3rd Congressional District, commented on the day’s significance.

U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander will attend a fundraiser organized by Tennessee House Speaker Kent Williams, who's on the outs with the state GOP.

Lt. Gov. Ramsey’s gubernatorial campaign says the candidate “handily” won a straw poll conducted Thursday night by the Tennessee Conservative Union.

NASHVILLE — State officials Thursday selected six venture capital firms, including one with Chattanooga ties, that will split $120 million in tax credits intended to spark investment in new Tennessee companies.

State officials today selected six venture capital firms, including one with Chattanooga ties, to split $120 million in tax credits.

NASHVILLE — When the state’s largest organization of conservatives hears from 2010 Republican gubernatorial hopefuls at its annual Reagan Day Dinner in Knoxville today, Knoxville mayor — and GOP candidate — Bill Haslam will not be there.

Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam, a 2010 Republican candidate for governor, will not be attending a major gathering of conservatives in Knoxville on Thursday, his campaign confirmed today, citing a previously scheduled fundraising event in Sumner County.

NASHVILLE — State Rep. Kevin Brooks, R-Cleveland, said he will seek re-election to the House District 24 seat he now holds.

Sen. Bo Watson, R-Hixson, said today he thinks an 8.1 percent increase in Tennessee legislators’ expense reimbursements that took effect Oct. 1 is “ludicrous.”