Dr. Jason Martin, candidate for governor, visits Carter County

Published 8:13 am Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Thursday was a memorable day for the citizens of Carter County. In an effort to get more attention for rural counties, Dr. Jason Martin spent his day looking into the needs and opportunities of our county. Since becoming a candidate for governor Martin has visited Elizabethton and Carter County three times.

On his most recent visit he took the opportunity to explore the eco-tourist opportunities in the area. He met with a group of leaders to see the plans for an outdoor water recreation spot in downtown Elizabethton called Surf Betsy.

Shortly after the outdoor presentation, he participated in a round table with leaders of the outdoor tourism community, including foundation leaders and marina operators. Each of the people on the panel had an opportunity to share with Martin and a group of approximately 50 interested parties how they see their particular community working with the government in improving job opportunities in the area.

“The future of Tennessee lies in its rural areas. Nashville might build a stadium with a $1.5 billion roof, but I feel that the state would do much better investing money in our rural counties,” Martin said.

He had lunch at a local restaurant where he took time to speak with interested patrons. He then visited with the top officials of the Elizabethton College of Applied Technology where he learned about some of the government/company activities. While there he was able to see how the technology schools are helping to keep young people in the area.

On all his trips to Carter County, Martin has stressed the importance of better health care for rural communities, stronger public education, and job enhancement. He is concerned about a huge “rainy day fund” that is just sitting there, while for many Tennesseans it is raining very hard and they are needing help.