NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) – A well-known songwriter is likely to enter the race to replace Congressman Marsha Blackburn.
Lee Thomas Miller is considering entering the race for Tennessee’s Seventh Congressional District, which Blackburn is leaving next year to run for U.S. Senate. He has not officially announced his campaign.
“Today we’re closer than we were yesterday. But we’ll have an announcement soon,” Miller told WKRN News 2.
Miller, of Brentwood, has had a long and successful career writing hits for big names like Brad Paisley, Trace Adkins, Jamey Johnson, and many more.
He’s written or co-written seven number one country hits, with 10 peaking in the top 10, and has been nominated for three Grammy Awards.
Miller also serves as president of Nashville Songwriters Association International. He has traveled to Washington, DC many times to advocate for musicians and songwriters in the digital age.
If he is successful in his bid for United States Congress, Miller hopes to fight government overreach and support small business.
“Not just music, but in the world of small business,” said Miller. “This would apply to any entrepreneur, or anyone that risks everything to go out in business, hang a shingle and try to succeed, which is the American dream.”
Recently Miller received endorsements from heavyweights in the music business.
A long list of musicians, songwriters and artists signed a letter to Miller, urging him to run for Congress.
Artists like Kix Brooks, Brad Paisley, and Jamey Johnson are on the list.
“Humbling is the only word I can come up with,” said Miller. “I would love to have the opportunity to live up to their belief in who I am.”
Miller would run as a Republican.
The primary election is in August of 2018, with the general set for November.