Democratic Caucus Chairman Randy Rinks (D-Savannah) announced today that he would not seek reelection to the Tennessee House of the Representatives.

"It has been an honor to serve the people of Tennessee during these critical times in our state's history," said Rinks. "I am forever grateful to the citizens of District 71 for giving me the opportunity to serve and be a part of such an amazing body of government."

Rinks was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1990.

Lately, Rinks has been toying with the idea of running for Secretary of State. That position is elected by the Tennessee General Assembly in a vote by the combined members of the State House and State Senate. It is also a position that a majority of the members of the State Senate, led by Senator Rosalind Kurita, think should be voted on in a popular statewide vote.

Currently the position is held by former State Senator Riley Darnell of Clarksville. Darnell may or may not seek re-election to the post.

While Rinks has not confirmed that he will run for that spot, the decision not to seek re-election in the state house can be seen as a precursor to running for that office.

One name that has been mentioned as a possible candidate for the seat held by Rinks is long time Democratic political activist Joe Barker.

Tennessee is scheduled to hold its state primary on Thursday, August 7th.