HIXSON JULY 8 - Third District Congressional Candidate Robin Smith announced today the appointment of Dori Thornton as Finance Director for her campaign.

Dori Thornton is a Chattanooga native and graduate of the University of Tennessee who, in addition to coordinating fundraising for several members of Congress and working on Senate campaigns, served in the administration of Former President George W. Bush. Thornton was named White House Deputy Social Secretary in 2007, one of the youngest people to ever hold that title. In 2006, Thornton worked in the successful campaign of Senator Bob Corker. She is currently a small business owner and fundraiser through her company, The Social Office.

"This is a wonderful opportunity to be a part of sending a great representative of the people of the Third District to Congress," Thornton said. "I have had the good fortune to work with many national leaders and see the same leadership traits in Robin Smith."

"I am thrilled to have Dori on our team," Smith commented. "Her expertise and passion for excellence are in keeping with the spirit I plan to bring to this campaign". Noting Thornton's familiarity with the Third District, Smith added, "Dori will be a tremendous asset to our effort."