In the race to replace Rep. Zach Wamp (R), who is leaving Congress to run for governor, the Republican nominee will be heavily favored to hold the conservative Chattanooga-based seat.

Fleischmann, a University of Tennessee graduate who hosted a radio program for eight years that was dedicated to helping listeners with their legal issues, launched an exploratory committee in April.

Bradley County Sheriff Tim Gobble has also said he’s running for the GOP nod, as has businessman Mark DeVol. Former state Republican Party Chairwoman Robin Smith recently stepped down from her position with the state party to explore a bid.

On the Democratic side, former state Commerce and Insurance Commissioner Paula Flowers and 2006 nominee Brent Benedict are seeking the nomination.