State Senator Jim Tracy (R-Shelbyville) who serves Rutherford, Bedford, and Moore Counties has earned key endorsements from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and the National Rifle Association (NRA) in his bid for re-election to District 14 in the Tennessee Senate. The NRA also gave Tracy an A rating for being a continuous advocate for the right to keep and bear Arms.

The announcement came as the Second Amendment rights group evaluated candidates for the Tennessee General Assembly statewide and made their recommendations for election.

"I am pleased to have the support of the members of the National Rifle Association," said Sen. Tracy. "I fully support defending our Second Amendment rights and appreciate their confidence in my past voting record. I will continue to fight for the rights and individual liberties of the citizens of this state."

The National Federation of Independent Business, which is Tennessee's leading small business association, endorsed Tracy along with candidates in 28 state legislative primary races.

"NFIB stands with candidates who support small businesses and who are dedicated to protecting free enterprise," said Jim Brown, state director of NFIB/Tennessee, noting 13 of the 28 endorsed primary candidates are NFIB members. "These candidates have a proven track record of defending small businesses and promoting a positive environment for small business."

"Small businesses are crucial to the success of Tennessee's economy, and it's critically important we do everything we can to help them succeed," Sen. Tracy added. "That includes removing the barriers that keep them from investing more and adding the jobs we need across our state."

State primaries are scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 4, with early voting beginning July 15 and ending July 30.