Julia Hurley Hooters

Legislator Julia Hurley is giving props to Hooters for her success as a Tennessee politician.

Republican state Rep. Julia Hurley, 29, won her seat in November, beating a Democratic officeholder in a very progressive district.

Hurley says in the latest issue of Hooters magazine that it was while working as a Hooters girl that she built her networking and business skills and addresses attempts by her opponents to use her former job against her during campaigning.

“I have taken quite a bit of flack from the public at large during my run for State House in Tennessee for being a Hooters Girl,” Hurley said. “But I know that without that time in my life I would not be as strong-willed and eager to become successful.”

Hurley’s article is featured in the “Orange Pride Spotlight,” a part of the magazine that features Hooters success stories. Hurley’s House bid in 2010 was her first run for public office.