State Sen. Lowe Finney (D-Jackson) told NashvillePost.com this morning something his colleague Roy Herron (D-Dresden) longed to hear: He intends to continue his service in the state senate and will not seek the Democratic nomination for Tennessee’s Eighth congressional district.

The Eighth congressional seat came open unexpectedly earlier this week when entrenched Democratic Congressman John Tanner announced his retirement. Herron, who had been a gubernatorial candidate in the Democratic primary, immediately switched over to run for Tanner's seat. 

“I applaud Congressman John Tanner for his service to our state and country. Whether fighting for individual freedoms, our military and veterans, small businesses, family farms, or better roads, Congressman Tanner fought tirelessly to improve the lives of West Tennesseans. He is my friend, and I wish him every success in his retirement," Finney stated.

Finney said that, after talking with area friends, supporters and family, that he would not enter the race to replace Tanner.

“The past 36 hours have been a whirlwind of excitement in West Tennessee politics, and Tiffany and I have been overwhelmed at the support we’ve received from friends and supporters to consider this run. But today, more than ever, West Tennessee needs focused leadership fighting for our values and our jobs, because while the times may be changing, the challenge remains the same.

Our region needs a state senator focused on creating West Tennessee jobs, delivering in-home care to seniors, raising the expectations bar for teachers and students, and easing the burdens for our farmers and small business owners.

That is the challenge I accepted three years ago, and that is the challenge on which I remain focused today.”

Finney declined to comment further on the congressional race and said that for now he is focused on serving his constituents to the best of his ability. His state Senate seat is up for re-election in 2010.