The Shelbyville Times Gazette reports that Rep. Curt Cobb (D-Shelbyville) was appointed today as Bedford County Clerk and Master by 17th Judicial District Chancellor J.B. Cox. 

Cobb submitted his letter of resignation from the General Assembly yesterday. He will succeed Pat Finney, who retired after a 38-year career in the Bedford County legal community. Finney served 12 years as Clerk and Master.

Cobb has served as state representative for the 62nd District representing Bedford and parts of Lincoln and Rutherford Counties since 2002.

"I had to make some decisions," Cobb told the Gazette. "But I think I made the best one for my family. I still get to serve the people of Bedford County."

A special election will be held as Cobb's resignation precedes the next election by more than 12 months. Had it been less, the Bedford County Commission would have appointed a successor.

Cobb is considered one of the more conservative Democratic representatives currently serving. Without an incumbent, this district will almost certainly become a battleground. With the 50-49 split currently in the chamber, significant resources will be expended towards the capture of the seat.