State Rep. Kent Williams retained his seat in the Tennessee Legislature Thursday by soundly defeating former Rep. Jerome Cochran.

    Williams won with more than 65 percent of the vote -- just short of a two-thirds majority, with a total of 7,364 votes being cast by Carter Countians. One vote was cast for a write-in candidate.

    Williams, who won in all but two precincts (Happy Valley and Central), said he was excited about the victory.

    "Working here in the county and being out and about, you get a feel for things," said Williams, adding that he had predicted he would take about 65 percent of the votes.

    Williams received a total of 4,804 votes while Cochran received 2,559 votes.

    Williams said his opponent ran a very negative campaign, which he felt had turned off voters.

    "I think people are tired of negative campaigns. Let's tell people what we're going to do or what we did do, and let's go from there. Let's don't try to put down the other person. Everybody knows Jerome is a good guy, and he has good moral values. The people voted me in and they feel that I have been very effective, so they voted me back in by what I consider a pretty big margin."

    Williams attributed the victory to the hard-working volunteers in his campaign.

    "We have a tremendous group of people. We didn't put them together; they came to us and wanted to be a part of our campaign," he said. "They believe in what I'm trying to do for Carter County. I think the citizens of Carter County have sent a message to both parties that we want representation for the people. We want to see a change in the way politics is dealt with, not only in federal and state government but local government."

    Cochran said he had high hopes for a victory, but was gracious in accepting the results and said he had no regrets.

    "I want to congratulate Rep. Williams and his family and supporters," said Cochran. "They ran a great campaign and they need to be commended for the fantastic job they did. My best to them on their victory. I thought we did everything we could have done, and you always hope for the best, but life goes on. I've got a wonderful family that I can spend a lot more time with. I appreciate the people of Carter County for the opportunity they've given me over the last several years. It's been an honor to serve them. I love this county and wish nothing but the best for the future."