Kim McMillan (D-Tennessee) has been running for governor of Tennessee since 2008.  But on the last day of March, 2010, she announced she is no longer in that race and is running for mayor Clarkesville (TN) instead. There were at one time seven Democrats vying for the nomination, but had been narrowed down to two.

In a letter to her supporters posted on her website, McMillan writes “I’ve often been told that “timing is everything.” Well, I’m not sure timing is everything, but I do know it’s important. I also know that timing rarely consults our calendar – in fact, it often seems to disrupt our careful plans.”

“From the time of this writing, the 24 hours just behind and the 24 hours immediately ahead have become pivotal. Yesterday at 3 p.m., Clarksville Mayor Johnny Piper announced that he will not seek re-election. Tomorrow at noon is the filing deadline for Governor.  I ‘m going to answer the call of my friends; I’m going to run for Mayor of Clarksville,” said McMillan.

Whether it was money, time constraints or just too much of a long shot, the withdrawal of Ms. McMillan leaves five men vying for the Tennessee governor’s mansion.  One Democratic candidate, Mike McWherter the son of former Governor Ned McWherter, will face off among the winner of a Republican four-way primary on August 5, 2010.