Hall Out of 11th District Senate Race

The Times Free Press has the story (exerpt below), plus a statement from Jim Hall.

Jim Hall, former chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board, announced Monday that he has dropped out of the 11th state Senate District race, leaving Democrats without a candidate for the open seat. Mr. Hall, managing director of a transportation consulting company, cited work opportunities and personal obligations in his decision. He also said the race would have called for a huge time and fund-raising commitment.

The Chattanoogan also has coverage:

The decision leaves Rep. Bo Watson, a Republican, as the heir apparent to Sen. David Fowler, who is leaving the Senate. Wes Kliner planned to run as a Republican against Rep. Watson, but he also dropped out.