We Asked 2026 Knox County Mayor & Sheriff Primary Election Candidates Questions and Here's Their Answers. Read What They Have to Say.
- Jared Hagemann
- Apr 13
- 23 min read
Primary elections for Knox County are heating up, with early voting starting Wednesday, April 15th and running through April 30th. Election Day is May 5th.
In Knox County, for some offices, the primary is essentially the general election, in particular the Knox County Sheriff position, where no Democratic challenger is on any ballot. Also, the County Mayor position only has a single Democratic challenger.
Tennessee is a somewhat unique state in that party primaries are open to any voter, regardless of their affiliation.
In general, turnout for local elections is extremely low, both in primaries and general, so literally your vote will make a difference in things that directly impact you everyday.
We sent a variety of questions to Knox County Mayor & Sheriff candidates, and below you'll see the answers from those that actually sent answers (though all said they would send answers.......)
If we receive additional answers, we will update here!
First up, County Mayor!
The Candidates (in ballot order)
Republican
Democratic
County Mayor Questions
What do you view as the role of the Knox County government?
"The role of Knox County government, or local government in general, is to deliver essential services efficiently and responsibly including public safety, roads, schools, and public health while planning for growth and being a good steward of taxpayer dollars."
"Knox County government is a public service company that the citizens own and focuses on delivering five core services every day, including; education, safety, infrastructure, health, and economic development. If these services are provided properly, Knox County government provides the framework and environment for people to work, thrive and pursue opportunities."
What do you view as the role of the Knox County Mayor?
"The Knox County Mayor is the chief executive of a large complex organization responsible for thousands of employees, setting policy, managing budgets and ensuring that essential public services are delivered efficiently every day, so experience matters."
"The Knox County Mayor is the Chief Executive Officer for the government and provides valuable leadership and vision for the community. In addition to being the CEO and managing dozens of departments and thousands of employees, the Mayor serves as the chief fiscal officer who proposes annual priorities and manages the over $1.2B operating budget."
Knox County is rapidly growing and changing, what ways would you, as County Mayor, face these new challenges?
"Knox County is a place people want to live, work, and raise a family. That’s a testament to our schools, our safety, our natural beauty, and our strong sense of community. In that sense, growth reflects success.
But growth without planning can strain roads, schools, public safety, and infrastructure. It can also change the character of communities in ways residents didn’t ask for. I first stepped into this work as a citizen advocate, when growth in my community began to outpace our roads, schools, and services. Like many families, I saw the impact firsthand from traffic congestion to my son’s overcrowded classroom, and I worked alongside neighbors and local leaders to push for better planning and more responsible development.
As your countywide commissioner, I’ve made responsible growth a priority.
I led the efforts to update 25-year-old growth and land use plans so we’re not reacting to development, we’re guiding it. I worked to ensure infrastructure improvements can be tied to rezoning approvals, so growth helps pay for the impact it creates. And I’ve consistently evaluated development proposals based on whether they fit the character and form of the surrounding community.
The next step is working with the taxpayers to redefine our decades old level of service. I want to get out into the communities and share our expenses, revenues, debt, identified needs, competing priorities, mandated services, and ask them what level of public services is expected and what is needed to meet those expectations.
Growth can be a good thing when it happens with purpose and not under pressure. It can bring opportunity, economic vitality, and a broader tax base. But only if we manage it thoughtfully, protect what makes Knox County special, and make sure existing residents aren’t left paying the price for poor planning.
As Mayor, I’ll continue to lead with the same focus: protecting our quality of life while preparing Knox County for the future."
"Yes, Knox County is growing and I believe that's a good thing. You either have a growing county / business or a dying one and I will always embrace the opportunity that comes with growth and prosperity. I plan on facing these challenges with prudent executive leadership experience. The Mayor has to lead through our significant growing pains, an fast-aging population, neglected infrastructure, and a looming debt crisis. I'm confident we can navigate through the tough challenges ahead while also embracing opportunities for a stronger local economy and high quality of life. As the third-largest county in the state, we can build Knox County into a world-class community everyone can be proud of."
What do you see as the most important ways you, as County Mayor, can benefit the community?
"Having advocated on behalf of communities countywide as both a citizen and an elected official in the local government arena, I bring a unique perspective and deep understanding of how the decisions made at the local level impact our families and our communities.
My focus is to always put people and community first. As your current countywide commissioner, I ask this question when making every decision; what is the community benefit and what is the impact on the taxpayer?
I truly believe that if we focus on improving the lives of those who already live here, work here, and go to school here, we are preparing for the future, strengthening our economy, and creating opportunity for all.
The biggest impact I can make is protecting our quality of life while preparing for the future through responsible planning, strong infrastructure, and efficient government."
"I believe the next Mayor will have the opportunity, with every decision made, to set the course for our community over the next 20-40 years. If Knox County votes for a public servant who isn't focused on the next political race, but rather fully dedicates themselves to Knox County, then great things can happen. After 38 years of professional work experience, 20 years of executive leadership experience, 8 years as a Commissioner and decades working within the private sector, nonprofit community, and now government, I can benefit all Knox County citizens by bringing an unmatched work ethic along with rational, thoughtful, leadership as the next Knox County Mayor."
Housing prices and rent have continued to rise faster than many incomes, leading to housing difficulties for many residents, how would you work to aid those struggling?
"Housing affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing Knox County families, and as Mayor, my focus will be on increasing housing opportunities in a way that is responsible, sustainable, and aligned with our infrastructure.
The recently adopted Comprehensive Land Use and Transportation Plan guides land use policies and development regulations that support a range of housing types in the right places, where roads, schools, and services can support that growth. The plan also helps streamline development processes and provides predictability, so housing can be built more efficiently.
We must also work to better align growth with infrastructure, because when development outpaces roads and services, it drives up costs for everyone.
And finally, we have to protect the quality of life that makes Knox County special, because that’s part of long-term affordability and stability."
"It's true, housing prices have risen quickly mostly because we're still 10,000 units of housing behind where our marketplace demands lie. People want to move to Knoxville and Knox County, but we have to have limited housing stock to support it at this time. Knox County needs more housing, and different types of housing in all price points to level out the pricing over time."
Do you think education budgets and educator salaries should be increased?
"Strong schools are essential and play a critical role in Knox County’s long-term success. I have always supported responsible investment in education and competitive pay for educators while ensuring funding is sustainable and tied to outcomes.
As Mayor, I will work closely with and be a strong partner to Knox County Schools to make sure our schools have the support and resources needed to focus on student outcomes and academic achievement."
"Absolutely! I am in awe of great educators who dedicate themselves to the children and families of Knox County. We should always find ways for educators to be invested in and demand a level of investment that propels our school system into excellence for all."
Over the years, many retirement benefits for educators, county employees, and sheriff deputies have been decreased or eliminated, do you believe these benefits should be increased?
"We have a responsibility to honor the commitments we’ve made to our educators, county employees, and law enforcement and to remain competitive in attracting and retaining a strong workforce. At the same time, we have to be fiscally responsible and realistic about long-term sustainability.
As Mayor, I would start by reviewing our current benefits and compensation structure to ensure we are competitive with similar communities and meeting the needs of our workforce. Where there are gaps that impact recruitment or retention, we should look for targeted, responsible improvements."
"I do believe we should fairly compensate Knox County employees and deputies to provide ample benefits that help with recruiting, retainment and retirements. I've served as Vice Chair of the Retirement Board for nearly 8 years and can attest that our retirement system is well funded, properly managed and has opportunity for tremendous growth and support of our employees in the decades to come. While some retirement / benefit programs have evolved over the years based on the will of the voters or market changes, the data and financial performance of our benefits don't support the assumption you make in the question."
Many roads in Knox County are in serious disrepair, would you take steps to address these problems?
"Roads have been a top priority during my time as a commissioner, and they will continue to be as Mayor because transportation impacts everything from public safety to economic growth.
The reality is, we’ve fallen behind due to rising costs, deferred maintenance, and growth outpacing our infrastructure. As Mayor, I will focus on a disciplined, long-term approach to fix that. Knox County uses a layered approach to funding roads using Federal, State and Local grants and tax dollars. I would strengthen our participation in the Transportation Planning Organization to capture competitive Transportation Improvement Program dollars to address identified road improvement projects. I would use natural growth on road related revenues like sales tax, wheel tax, and gas tax to gradually increase our paving investment, so we stop falling behind and start catching up on maintenance. I would work to redefine our decades old Level of Service to determine taxpayer expectations and establish metrics for progress. And finally, we must ensure that growth contributes to infrastructure, so existing taxpayers aren’t carrying the full burden. This is why I passed a resolution codifying public-private agreements to ensure that development contributes fairly to infrastructure when projects create new demands outside of the county’s planned improvements.
This is about getting back to the basics, taking care of what we have and building a plan that keeps us moving forward."
"Knox County's infrastructure has been neglected for far too long, which is why I've made it my top priority if afforded the opportunity to serve as your next Knox County Mayor. I would first start in our neighborhoods, many of which haven't ever been repaved since they were built decades ago. Then I would move to the major arteries that Knox County owns and install more turn lanes, roundabouts and other traffic mitigation tools. Then I would agressively work with the State of TN to obtain block grants and route transfers to improve state routes faster and cheaper than the state can address them. And finally, I would work with our state and federal partners to advocate for a new regional bypass route and multi-level express lanes in key congestion corridors."
Throughout Knox County, there are many roads without sidewalks or even safe shoulders for pedestrians, would you support building more pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure?
"As the co-founder of Knox Community Planning Alliance and Hardin Valley Planning Advocates, I am a longtime advocate of development planning that includes and promotes walkability and connectivity where appropriate. We should always look for opportunities to expand safe, connected pedestrian infrastructure, especially in high-growth and high-traffic areas. I was implemental in bringing this discussion to the table during the creation of the county’s Comprehensive Land Use and Transportation Plan, as well as the modernization and elevation of our development practices."
"Abolutely. I've worked hard to improve pedestrian safety as a Commissioner and consider this a vital part of infrastructure improvements. As and example, I championed the Northshore Pedestrian Safety Project bringing new greenways, bridge boardwalks and safer road crossings along this busy roadway corridor. The last phase of this project will begin this summer and provide safe pedestrian passage and connect over 25,000 residents to their parks and shopping areas."
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office has been in a 287(g) partnership with federal immigration officials for several years, but those activities have increased over the past year. Do you view the use of Knox County taxpayer funds and resources in this partnership as in the interest of Knox County residents?
"Public safety is a primary role of county government. Regarding the 287(g) agreement between the federal government and the sheriff’s office, the role of the mayor is limited to ensuring public safety, efficient use of resources, and alignment with the law. Through strong communication and collaborative efforts, I would do this. It is my hope that the next Sheriff will consider transitioning to a task force model to keep these efforts local."
"I believe we are a nation of laws, those laws apply to everyone, and the laws should be enforced. The Knox County Sheriff has the sole discretion to participate in the 287(g) program, and I have been supportive of it in our jails. If someone is charged with a crime and booked into Knox County's detension center, I'm confortable with their immigration status being checked and coordination with federal immigration officials."
On that, the 287(g) partnership has been met with controversy, if you support the partnership, how do you respond to critics?
"We should always listen to concerns of our citizens and make decisions based on what best serves the safety and well-being of Knox County residents that is why I would support the consideration of a task force model to keep these efforts local through federal training of local officers who know our communities best."
"I, and my family are decendents of immigrants and I believe in lawful immigration. I welcome anyone who immigrates legally to our country and believe their citizenship is as valued as mine."
As County Mayor, how would you approach city/county government cooperation?
"City residents are also county residents, so communication and collaboration where appropriate is essential to the overall provision of essential services to our citizens. The city and county currently share several services like public schools, public health, libraries, emergency communications, election commission, property assessment, planning, and some parks and recreation. My focus will be on regular communication with the city to look for ways to improve the efficient delivery of these shared services including operational function and procurement processes."
"To be a successful Mayor, you must have productive and clear cooperation on all levels. Every citizen lives in the county part of Knox County, the city part of Knox County, or the Town of Farragut part of Knox County. As such, all three mayors and legislative bodies have to work together and be intentional about cooperation. Additionally, before I take office, I would visit the 8 surrounding counties and establish strong relationships with each County Mayor and their respective legislative bodies to form a stronger regional bond."
Affordable healthcare is out of reach for many Knox County residents, do you feel there’s a role for the Knox County Health Department to aid those in need, and, if so, what plans do you have as County Mayor?
"The Health Department does an incredible job focusing on access, prevention, and partnerships that work to improve community health outcomes in a cost-effective way. I would continue to support and expand these efforts to ensure that resources are matching community level needs."
"I do think the Knox County Health Dept. can be a resource for many in search of healthcare services. However, health insurance is a large and complex system and I believe Knox County can best support residents who do not have insurance through an employer or public marketplace by supporting and strengthening partnerships with nonprofit providers such as River Valley Health, Dr. Kim / UT Medical Clinic, and Interfaith Health Clinic."
The nationwide economy is facing major problems, particularly with employment, as County Mayor, how will you address these challenges?
"Local government supports the economy by creating the right environment that supports and attracts businesses of all sizes and all opportunities. For more than 15 years, I have advocated that strong infrastructure is directly related to a strong economy. Citizens and businesses all want the same thing; a reliable transportation network, strong schools, safe communities, great recreational offerings, and a low cost of living for working families. By focusing our efforts on improving the overall quality of life and place for those who already live here, work here, or go to school here, we are preparing for the future, strengthening our economy, and creating opportunities for all."
"The Knox County Mayor cannot address the national economy and employment challenges, but rather can and should focus on our own fiscal ecosystem. Right now Knox County's unemployment rate is the lowest its ever been (2.4%) with our Chamber of Commerce reporting there are 3 jobs for every 1 person in Knox County seeking employment. Knox County's employment challenges come from not having enough people to fill the opportunities. With a $32B local GDP and a fast-growing population, wages will rise to meet the demand and anyone wishing to work hard and find job opportunities here in Knox County will be welcome."
Lastly, what is it about your experience that makes you believe voters should choose you as the next Knox County Mayor?
"I bring real-world experience, a proven record of action, and a commitment to putting communities first. Professionally, I have had the great opportunity to work as a healthcare executive, an HR Director for a global company, and owned a small business. Civically, I have organized, led, and served 14 boards and committees, 6 community and business groups and I currently serve as the Vice Chair of Commission. As the only candidate who has actively participated in the local government process as both a community advocate and an elected official, I bring a unique perspective and deep understanding of how the decisions made at the local level impact our communities. My knowledge and experience as an active, engaged and effective business professional, community advocate and countywide commissioner have prepared me to lead us through our challenges and seek opportunities. Knox County deserves a steady, measured leader who understands the issues and knows the job…I do."
"When people go to cast their ballot, I want them to think of their own company or their family business. If you had to choose a President / CEO to run your company, who would you choose? I believe to be a successful business leader, you have to have owned a company with employees, risked capital, been responsible for payroll, and lead through difficult challenges. I've started 6 businesses here in Knox County, bring 20 years of executive leadership experience to the job, have managed large teams, multi-millon dollar budgets, and worked hard to lead successful businesses through difficult times. I hope people will take a moment to visit LarsenJay.com and review my professional resume, read about my background, and consider the tangible and practical accomplishments I've delivered as a Commissioner. Knoxville and Knox County has been my home for over 30 years and I have deep roots in making this community a better place, through business, charitable service and government leadership. I'm prepared and ready to serve on day-one, and I'd be honored to continue serving you as your next Knox County Mayor."
Next up, County Sheriff!
The Candidates (in ballot order)
Republican
County Sheriff Questions
1) What do you view the role of law enforcement is?
"The role of law enforcement is to protect life, uphold the law, and preserve order; fairly, firmly, and without bias. It is about serving the public with integrity, enforcing the law consistently, and standing as a visible deterrent to crime while building trust through honest, professional conduct."
"To protect life and property, enforce the law, and serve the community with professionalism and integrity."
2) What do you view the role of the Knox County Sheriff is?
"The Sheriff is the county’s chief law enforcement officer, responsible for leading with integrity, setting the standard, and ensuring the safety of every citizen. This is a sacred trust and a huge responsibility. I believe it is my job to support deputies and staff, to manage the jail responsibly, and to make decisions that reflect accountability, transparency, and a commitment to always and without exception, doing what is right."
"To lead the department, ensure public safety, manage operations responsibly, and support the deputies and staff who serve this county every day."
3) Do you believe law enforcement has an obligation to protect the public?
"Yes. Protecting the public is a fundamental responsibility of law enforcement. That duty must be carried out with courage, consistency, and a commitment to uphold the law while respecting the rights of every individual. It is a balance of grit to do the job effectively and grace to help the public on what is often one of the worst days of their lives."
"Yes. That is the core responsibility of law enforcement."
4) If elected Knox County Sheriff, what ways, if any, would your approach to the role differ from your fellow candidates?
"My approach will be rooted in strong leadership, clear communication, and unwavering support for the office’s men and women. I will lead with transparency, hold people accountable at every level, and make decisions based on principle, not politics."
"My approach is grounded in experience. I’ve already led this department, and I understand how to manage people, resources, and public safety from day one."
5) How do you view the role of public oversight and accountability for the Knox County Sheriff’s Office?
"Public oversight and accountability are essential. My campaign has been built from the very beginning on what I call ‘departmental transparency’. The Sheriff’s Office must operate in the open, be responsive to the community, and hold itself to the highest ethical standards. Trust is earned through transparency, open communication, and clear, consistent accountability."
"Accountability is essential. The public deserves transparency, clear communication, and leadership that takes responsibility."
6) The Knox County Sheriff’s Office has been under an 287(g) agreement with ICE for several years, and this coordination has grown over the past year. Do you believe the Sheriff’s Office budget should cover the added expense of deputy personal & resources, including overtime, and the added expense for the County Jail?
"If we are going to enforce the law, we must be willing to fund it responsibly. That includes ensuring deputies have the resources and the training that they need without compromising other critical operations. Fiscal responsibility and public safety must go hand in hand."
"Before asking taxpayers for additional funding, I believe it is critical to take a hard look at how our current resources are being used. The Knox County Sheriff’s Office operates with a significant budget, and we have a responsibility to ensure those funds are being allocated efficiently and focused on public safety.
If we participate in 287(g), whether through the jail model or a task force approach, it must be structured in a way that is cost-conscious, efficient, and accountable. That includes carefully managing staffing, overtime, and operational costs so the program does not take away from other critical public safety needs.
My approach would be to evaluate and reallocate existing resources first, making sure we are using what we have in the most effective way possible. If, after that review, additional funding is necessary, then we would work with the County Commission to clearly justify those needs.
At the end of the day, any program we implement must meet three standards: It must improve public safety, it must be managed responsibly, and it must respect the taxpayers of Knox County."
7) On that, the 287(g) agreement has been controversial both locally and nationwide, how do you respond to criticism about the Sheriff’s Office relationship with ICE and other immigration authorities?
"The law is the law. Illegal aliens are responsible for being here legally, and when they are not, it will be our duty as sworn officers to uphold our constitutional laws. Cooperation with federal authorities is about enforcing existing laws, not creating new ones. We can do that while treating people with dignity and ensuring our focus remains on public safety and lawful due process."
"It should be done professionally, lawfully, and with clear local control. Public safety and public trust must both be protected."
8) Do you think the Knox County Sheriff’s Office budget should be increased, kept the same, or decreased?
"It is my belief that the budget should be based on need, not politics or favors. If increases are necessary to ensure public safety and properly support our deputies and employees, they should be made responsibly. Every dollar must be accounted for and used wisely. Fiscal responsibility is not a talking point to me; it will be my responsibility to ensure that every dollar is used wisely, with oversight, and efficiency."
"It should be evaluated. The focus should be on efficiency and proper allocation before increasing funding."
9) As Sheriff, would you implement any policies or reforms to increase efficiency?
"Yes. I will evaluate operations, eliminate waste, and implement practical reforms that improve efficiency without sacrificing effectiveness. Good stewardship of resources is a responsibility, not an option."
"Yes. I would focus on staffing, supervision, and resource allocation to improve response times and overall performance."
10) Over the years, retirement benefits for deputies have decreased and, in some cases, eliminated. Do you believe deputies should receive increased retirement benefits?
"Yes. Deputies put their lives on the line and deserve to be taken care of when their service ends. Strong benefits are also essential to recruitment, retention, and honoring their commitment. Ensuring that our retired employees are remembered for their service and well-cared for is very important to me as a law enforcement officer and being married to a wife who is as well."
"We should review and strengthen benefits where possible to support retention and recognize long-term service."
11) As Sheriff, how will you work to ensure hiring for deputies results in high quality candidates?
"As the previous chief over the Knox County Regional Training Facility, I am very passionate about this and have seen it firsthand. I will ensure high-quality candidates by setting the highest standards, conducting thorough vetting, and prioritizing character, integrity, and work ethic. We need people who are called to serve; not just looking for a job or enamored by a power they think that wearing a badge gives them. In police work we can never sacrifice quality for quantity."
"Strong hiring standards, thorough background checks, and proper training are key to building a strong department."
12) How do you view deputies taking off-the-clock jobs utilizing their official uniforms, whether its’ security for a business or navigating traffic for church services or anything else?
"Off-duty work is a way for officers to earn extra income for their families and is appropriate if it is properly regulated, does not create conflicts of interest, and maintains the office’s professionalism. These men and women, whether on their regular shift or performing off-duty work, are donning a badge and vehicle that clearly say Knox County Sheriff’s Office and will be expected to represent the office in a way that is becoming of an office we are proud of. Clear policies, high expectations, and general oversight are key."
"They can be appropriate if properly managed, structured, and approved to ensure professionalism and accountability."
13) With rising fuel costs, do you think the addition of modern, high range electric patrol vehicles have a role in the future of the Knox County Sheriffs Office?
"They may have a role, but only if they can clearly demonstrate reliability, cost-effectiveness, and practicality for law enforcement use. In my opinion, any transition must be driven by performance and fiscal responsibility, not catchy trends or cultural fads."
"We should evaluate them carefully. Any decision must be practical, cost-effective, and reliable for public safety operations."
14) Over the past year, “FLOCK” cameras have been installed throughout the county, do you worry about private companies like this compiling information about people, how would you as sheriff utilize the information from these cameras, and how would you work to prevent abuse of that information?
"Public safety tools must be used responsibly. I support their use when they help solve and prevent crime, but strict safeguards must be in place to protect citizens’ privacy and prevent misuse. Accountability and clear policy are non-negotiable."
"Technology like FLOCK cameras can be a valuable tool in law enforcement when used correctly. They can help locate stolen vehicles, identify suspects in serious crimes, and provide leads in investigations that might otherwise go unsolved.
That said, they must be used carefully and responsibly. My approach would be to ensure there are clear policies in place that define how the data is accessed, who has access to it, and how long it is retained. Access should be limited to legitimate law enforcement purposes only, with strict oversight to prevent misuse.
There must also be accountability measures, including audit trails and supervisory review, so every search or use of the system is documented and justified. If someone misuses the system, there must be consequences.
I also believe in being transparent with the public about how these tools are used. People should understand what the technology does, how it is applied, and what safeguards are in place to protect their privacy.
These tools should be used to solve crimes and improve public safety — not to monitor people unnecessarily or infringe on individual rights.
It’s about finding the right balance: using technology to protect the community while also protecting the freedoms of the people we serve."
15) As Sheriff, how will you work to prevent misuse of Sheriff’s Office funds and resources, and also how will you ensure accountability for actions taken by those who would, were it to happen under your watch?
"Through strict internal controls, regular audits, and a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct. These will be addressed immediately and decisively. Anyone who violates the public trust will be held accountable, fairly, firmly, and with absolutely no exceptions. I will also establish a culture of accountability in which leadership leads by example."
"Strong oversight, clear policies, and leadership that enforces accountability at every level."
16) We live in very divided times, as Sheriff how will you work to preserve constitutional rights of folks to freedom of speech and expression?
"By ensuring every deputy understands and respects the Constitution. We can enforce the law and protect public safety while fully upholding the rights of free speech and expression"
"The Sheriff’s Office must uphold and protect constitutional rights at all times. That is non-negotiable."
17) Last September, the US Supreme Court ruled that federal officers can employ profiling, including racial, to instigate stops. Do you believe deputies should be able to use profiling to detain or stop folks if there is no evidence of a crime?
"No. Stops and detentions must always be based on reasonable suspicion or probable cause. We enforce the law based on behavior and evidence, not assumptions or prejudices."
"No. Law enforcement actions should be based on lawful cause and evidence, not assumptions."
18) Lastly, can you make your case to the voters of Knox County why you are the best candidate for Knox County Sheriff?
"I am running because I believe in doing things the right way, every time, without compromise. As a born-again Christian first and a conservative Republican second, I will lead with integrity and, before God and Knox County residents, commit to doing things the right way.
I will support the men and women of this office by putting their safety, well-being, and success at the top, and serve the people of this county with honesty and transparency. This is not about power to me; it’s about principle.
I will stand firm on enforcing the law, including working with our partners on immigration enforcement to keep our communities safe and free of illegal aliens. I will address issues like homeless encampments with both accountability and compassion, focusing on public safety while seeking real solutions. I will prioritize school safety so every child can learn, and educator can do their job in a secure environment, and I will ensure our deputies are visible in the community, patrolling neighborhoods, building relationships, and truly knowing the people they serve and giving the people a chance to engage with them.
Safer communities start with strong leadership, supported deputies, and real engagement with the public. That is the standard I will bring as Sheriff, and I will not ever waver from it."
"I believe experience matters when it comes to public safety. I’ve spent my entire career in the Knox County Sheriff’s Office. I worked my way through the ranks, served in patrol, investigations, and leadership, and had the honor of serving two full terms as your Sheriff. I understand this job from every level, and I know the responsibility that comes with it.
During my time as Sheriff, we focused on real results — solving violent crimes, supporting our deputies and correction officers, improving transparency, and addressing long-term challenges like jail overcrowding. I’ve made difficult decisions, led through challenging situations, and stood accountable to the people of this county.
I also bring the perspective of education and preparation, with a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Tennessee, which I’ve applied throughout my career.
This is not a position where you can afford a learning curve. The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for protecting families, managing complex operations, and leading a large department every single day. It requires steady, proven leadership.
I care deeply about Knox County. This is my home. The people here matter to me, and so does the safety of our communities. I’m not asking you to take a chance. I’m asking you to look at the record, the experience, and the leadership — and trust someone who has already done this job and is ready to do it again."
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