Calling for action to create jobs, improve education and strengthen the economy, Carthage native Jamie Winkler has announced he is a candidate for the Democratic nomination for the State House of Representatives District 40 serving Dekalb, Macon and Smith counties.

“It’s time our representatives paid attention to what the people of our District need and that means it’s time we had stronger leadership and better representation in Nashville,” Winkler said in a press release announcing his candidacy. “I’ll take on the real problems facing our families and find solutions to create jobs, improve education and grow our economy, starting with improvements to the critical lifeline that serves our economy, our roads and bridges. The state budget is tightening and it must be managed without placing more burdens on already struggling working families.”

The District 40 seat is presently held by Terri Lynn Weaver.

“Issues critical to our families are not getting the attention or action they need,” Winkler said in the release. “Jobs are leaving our communities at a pace we’ve never seen before. Bankruptcies are rising dramatically, hurting lenders and ruining personal credit. Job losses are splitting families apart. Students and teachers, who are key to our future, need our utmost support. Bridges providing essential links between our communities are closed or on the verge of closing.

“These are problems we see and we struggle with every day but there’s no sign our leaders see these problems or understand the struggle. Solutions are ignored for pure politics or unrealistic ideals. The hard-working people of this District deserve better. I’m committed to the families and businesses who are the strength of our communities. We need a common sense approach to the complex problems we face. During this campaign, I look forward to talking with you and hearing more from you as we work together to make a difference and deal with these challenges.”

Winkler was born and raised in Smith County, where he and his wife, Amber, are raising their son, Jack. Winker worked on his family’s cattle and tobacco farm, graduated from Smith Count High School, the University of Tennessee and the University of Tennessee College of Law.

Winkler is an attorney with Bellar & Winkler in Carthage engaging in a general civil and business legal practice and represents various government entities. Winkler serves as Sunday school superintendent and teaches the adult Sunday school class at Mt. Tabor Missionary Baptist Church in Pleasant Shade, Tenn., where he has been a member for 22 years. He sits on the board of the Smith County Help Center and is a Rotary member.