Democrats Call for Opportunity, Justice for All Tennesseans

Lawmakers issue challenge ahead of State of the State

Democrats in the Tennessee General Assembly have outlined policy priorities ahead of tonight's State of the State Address. Democratic lawmakers used a Friday speech to challenge Gov. Lee ahead of the Republican governor's remarks that will outline his agenda.

State Sen. London Lamar of Memphis, who chairs the Senate's Democratic Caucus, said, "Tennessee Democrats envision a way forward where hard work, opportunity, and justice are a reality for every family — not just the wealthy few. We want a state where working families, small business owners, and family farmers have a level playing field with giant corporations and every family gets the tools and freedom they need to build a good life."

In outlining the party's legislative goals, Lamar said of Democrats:

"We’re bringing solutions to increase housing affordability, expand paid family leave, shrink child care deserts and invest in train lines.

And we want working families to get a tax cut they can actually feel by ending Tennessee’s grocery tax forever."

Sen. London Lamar of MemphisPhoto bySenate Democratic Caucus