Memphis, TN – Nikki Tinker announced her candicacy for Tennessee's 9th Congressional seat today. In front of a crowd of local supporters, Tinker stated that she is in this race for the next generation of leaders and is excited about representing the people of Memphis.

"Change is in the air all over the country, you see it in Presidential politics and I'm going to make it happen right here in Memphis.  It's time for change, time for fresh faces and ideas right here in our community."

"It seems as though many of our politicians have forgotten what public service means. They hang around for years and years asking for our vote, but doing precious little to influence real change. Memphis it is time to raise our expectations!!"

Tinker has attracted widespread support from Memphis residents. Her entry into the race has long been anticipated by many current supporters.

Joining Tinker at today's kick-off was a group of Memphis families who support her as the best choice for the people of Tennessee's 9th Congressional District. Thirteen year old Harrison Williams  introduced Tinker.  The Campaign Co-chairs include the Honorable Rep. Lois     DeBerry Speaker Pro Tempore and the Honorable Reverend Samuel Billy Kyles. Other supporters of the Tinker campaign Representative Barbara Cooper, Representative G.A. Hardaway, Representative Ulysses Jones Jr, Dr. Derrick Joyce.  

Nikki Tinker, a talented lawyer, rose early and fast in her career, representing both plaintiffs and defendants.  She is currently the General Counsel and Vice President of Labor Relations for Northwest Airlink/Pinnacle Airlines, Inc.  A community advocate with a strong commitment to the political process, Tinker got her start in politics as a youngster, accompanying her mother to the voting booth and holding signs as a campaign volunteer.  Those lessons in understanding and motivating voters paid off for U.S. Rep. Harold Ford, Jr., as Tinker helped him rack up decisive re-election victories as his campaign manager for many years.

Tinker is a public servant. Her commitment to the community earned her the coveted distinctions of being named a "2008 Women of Excellence" by the Tri-State Defender.

Please visit the campaign website for additional information at: www.TinkerforCongress.com

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