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Meet 12 of the Rural Candidates Running for Office This Year
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Run for Something endorses Derek Hawn for Tennessee House District 41
---For Immediate Release----
Contacts:
Derek Hawn
RFS: Communications Staff at press@runforsomething.net
Run for Something endorses Derek Hawn for Tennessee House District 41
Changing The Face of Local Politics in Tennessee
April 25, 2024- Derek Hawn is proud to receive the endorsement of Run for Something (RFS), the groundbreaking organization that recruits and supports strong voices in the next generation of progressive leadership.
“As someone from a small town in rural Tennessee, I know firsthand how important it is to have leaders who understand the real issues facing working families in our communities. I'm grateful for Run for Something's support in helping get more young progressives like myself elected to fight for the values we believe in - good jobs, quality education, and affordable healthcare for all. Together we can push back against the extreme agenda being pushed in our state and ensure every Tennessean has a fair shot at success.” ~Derek Hawn
"Republican extremists are running for office and pushing their far-right agendas up and down the ballot in 2024, so we’re excited to endorse so many candidates that have stepped up to stop them," RFS co-founder and co-executive director Amanda Litman said. “Progressives can’t just focus on battleground states if we want to have an impact, which is why we’re supporting candidates running for everything from school board in Nebraska to state house in Massachusetts.”
"Run for Something’s latest endorsement class will be instrumental in building a robust Democratic foundation for the future, and the excitement they’ll bring to the campaign trail will boost local turnout and help other candidates up and down the ballot win this November," RFS co-founder and co-executive director Ross Morales Rocketto said.
Of our April class of 70 candidates:
- ●47% identify as people of color
- ●29% identify as LGBTQIA
- ●51% identify as women and non-binary people
- ●Our class of candidates represent 32 states
As we continue to build the progressive bench from the bottom-up, we are excited to support and amplify more talented, young progressives already making a difference at the state and local level.
The endorsement process includes an extensive internal review with background check, staff interview and insight from local state experts.
Amanda Litman and Ross Morales Rocketto launched RFS on Jan. 20, 2017 with a simple premise: help young diverse progressives to run for down-ballot races in order to build a bench for the future. RFS aims to lower the barriers to entry for these candidates by helping them with organization building, a robust community, and access to the trainings needed to be successful. So far, over 130,000 young people from across the country have signed up to run and gained access to RFS resources.
Run for Something recruits and supports talented, passionate young people who advocate for progressive values now and for the next 30 years, with the ultimate goal of building a progressive bench.
Derek Hawn seeks election for TN House of Representatives
Derek Hawn has informed Overton County News of his intent to seek election for Tennessee House of Representatives in District 41. Following is his statement:
“I am Derek Hawn and I am announcing my candidacy for the Tennessee House of Representatives in District 41. As a lifelong resident of Wartburg and a career Critical Care Paramedic, I am deeply connected to the values and needs of our rural communities. My campaign is focused on addressing the unique challenges we face and ensuring that all our voices are heard.
“In my years of service in EMS and Fire, I’ve witnessed firsthand the issues our communities deal with daily. This experience has prepared me to respond quickly and effectively to the needs of our people and our district. I’m dedicated to helping our economy grow and protecting our way of life. And, I’m prepared to be OUR voice, working for ALL of us.
“My Campaign Priorities include:
•“Healthcare: Understanding the critical healthcare needs in rural areas, I am dedicated to ensuring everyone has access to necessary medical services and advocating for improved healthcare infrastructure.
•“Economy: Recognizing the vital role of small businesses and agriculture, I will support initiatives that drive economic growth and assist our local business owners and farmers.
•“Education: As a firm believer in the power of public education, I am committed to securing the resources our public schools need to offer quality education to our children.
•“Environment: I am devoted to preserving Tennessee’s natural beauty, ensuring our land and water are protected for future generations.
•“Housing: I will address the issue of affordable housing, working towards and advocating for solutions that allow families to find safe and affordable homes.
•“Agriculture: Understanding the challenges faced by our agricultural sector, I will take steps to support and enhance our agricultural infrastructure, ensuring our farmers have the support they need to succeed.
“I’m running for State Representative because I believe in the power of community-driven change. Our district deserves a representative who understands the rural way of life, who is willing to listen to the people, and who is prepared to be our voice in Nashville. With the urgency and dedication of a paramedic, I’m ready to tackle our challenges head-on.
“My campaign is built on a foundation of service, dedication, and a commitment to the people of District 41. As we move forward, I invite you to join me in working towards a thriving future for our district.
“District 41 encompasses several counties and communities, highlighting the diverse and rural character of this part of Tennessee. The district includes Morgan and Overton Counties along with parts of Fentress County, Oliver Springs in Roane County, and the Norris and Andersonville communities in Anderson County.
“For more information about my campaign and how you can get involved, please visit www.votederekhawn.com.”
TNHSD Endorsement Alert!
RELEASE: Tennessee High Schools Democrats (TNHSD) endorses Derek Hawn for State House of Representatives (TN District 41)
Endorsement Alert!
RELEASE: Democrats Serve PAC endorses Derek Hawn for State House of Representatives (TN District 41)
Highlighting his public service background, the national organization plans to actively support Derek Hawn in his 2024 election.
Morgan County News Article
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Endorsement Alert
Derek Hawn, a candidate for the Tennessee House District 41, has received an endorsement from ChangeTN, a political action committee (PAC) established in 2020 with the mission of supporting progressive candidates across Tennessee. This endorsement is a significant milestone in Derek's campaign, reflecting his alignment with the organization's progressive values and his potential to bring about meaningful change in Tennessee.
Derek has over 18 years of experience in EMS and Fire services, dedicating his career to protecting the community and ensuring public safety. He is deeply rooted in the district's cultural and economic fabric, with involvement in the Tennessee Cattleman's Association and the Morgan County Genealogical and Historical Society. His commitment to teaching life-saving skills and enhancing collective resilience is evident in his volunteer work at local fire departments.
ChangeTN's endorsement process involves not only backing candidates but also investing in their campaigns through various forms of advertising. The organization treats every candidate as the potential next seat holder for their race, reflecting their commitment to long-term change. This endorsement could potentially boost Derek's campaign, providing him with additional resources and support to connect with voters and advocate for his platform.
As a candidate endorsed by ChangeTN, Derek is part of a broader movement to shift Tennessee towards progress and inclusivity. This endorsement is a testament to his potential to bring about positive change in Tennessee. The primary for the Tennessee House of Representatives District 41 will occur on August 1, 2024, and the general election will take place on November 5, 2024
