State primary election

One state Senate senate seat and five state House of Representatives seats are still up for grabs in Hamilton County this year.

The primary election was on Aug. 1, when voters chose either a Republican or Democratic ballot and selected the candidate they wanted to represent their party in the general election. The winners from each party will compete in a general election on Nov. 5.

You can find complete election results through the Hamilton County Election Commission.

Chattamatters sent the same three questions to every candidate, but some candidates did not submit a response.

Scroll down to learn more about each candidate who appeared on the Aug. 1 primary ballot. Primary winners are marked with a yellow check mark.

TN State Senate, District 10

  • Drafts and votes on laws affecting the entire state of Tennessee in the 33-member lower chamber of the state General Assembly. Senators also vote whether to confirm state supreme court justices appointed by the governor. The head of the state Senate, elected by fellow lawmakers, serves as lieutenant governor. Four-year term.

Republican candidates

Todd Gardenhire

Did not respond to questionnaire

Edward (Ed) LeCompte

Did not respond to questionnaire

Democratic candidate

Missy Crutchfield

  • It’s time for us to begin building bridges. It’s time for us to find common ground and to pursue things with common sense as we rise above the party politics, the extremism, and the division of the past. It’s time for us to start listening to the people and working for them and with them as servant leaders. It’s the beginning of a new day and it’s time for new leadership that has the vision, energy, and dedication to serve the people. This is why I am running for Tennessee State Senate District 10 to represent Hamilton, Marion, Sequatchie, and Bledsoe counties.

  • As I have been saying since I have launched my campaign for Tennessee State Senate District 10, I know that the extremism that we see in politics today is not reflective of who I am, and I have spoken with so many others who feel that same way. Politicians have forgotten they serve first and foremost as public servants. Our leaders are out of touch. We need to get back to the roots of what a real leader is and that means being a public servant, listening to the people, and creating policies that better their lives. We are currently on a ‘listening tour’ this summer and hearing more from the people of District 10 about local issues, sharing ideas, and finding ways on how I can better serve as their State Senator.

  • We are the ones who are visiting with constituents across the district and counties to hear more from them about local issues and sharing ideas. We are the ones that have been showing up at public events, present in your towns and communities, showing that we care. We have been there for you and we will continue to be there for you. We are the ones who are leading a “listening tour” across Tennessee State Senate District 10 to learn more from elected officials, community stakeholders, and constituents about how they want to be represented at the State Level and how I can better serve as their State Senator. Once I am elected, we will be continuing and expanding this “listening tour” initiative along with town hall meetings that regularly engage constituents in community and district-wide conversations about local issues and solutions. My office door in Nashville will always be open for further conversations on how constituents want to be represented at the State Level. I will be proactive and responsive in communicating with constituents and representing them as their public servant.

Tennessee House of Representatives, District 26

  • Tennessee House members draft and vote on state laws in the 99-member lower chamber of the state government. House members also vote whether to confirm state supreme court justices appointed by the governor. Two-year term.

Republican candidate

Greg Martin

  • I believe I am the best candidate to Represent District 26 in the State House for three reasons:

    1. I am a life-long District 26 resident with family ties to the founding of Hamilton County in 1819. I graduated from Hixson High School in 1981 and was inducted into the Hixson High Hall of Fame in 2018. My community involvement includes serving as President of the Hixson Kiwanis Club, Chairman of the Board of Director for Adult and Teen Challenge of the Midsouth, on the board of the Hixson Council of the Chamber of Commerce, and advisory board of the Friends of Hixson.

    2. In the past, I’ve served on two public school boards, including Hamilton County’s. Also, I served for 6 years as a Hamilton County Commissioner. For these reasons, I understand how public education and local government work together with the state of Tennessee to deliver community services.

    3. I am in touch with the values of our community. I know our people want safe streets and schools, economic opportunities for them to realize their version of the American dream, and their government to be limited in size and scope. I will always fight for the individual to live free, safe, and prosperous in our state.

  • My top priority will be to listen and engage with the 75,000 residents of our district. I make it a priority to answer every email, return every phone call, and sit down with any individual who may want to offer an idea for legislation. The best legislation doesn’t come from lobbyists or special interest groups. It comes from “we the people” that elect our leaders.

    As for policies, my priorities will be public safety, parental choice in education, and economic policies that ensure Tennesseans are prosperous. 

  • Participation in government starts with voting and voter integrity. I work diligently with others to ensure that our elections are secure and limited to citizens of our state. Tennessee is the easiest state to vote in and the hardest to cheat in.

    When citizens engage with their representatives, it enhances their chance for government participation.  Last year, I met with District 26 constituents from Planned Parenthood at 11am and Tennessee Right to Life constituents at 12pm. I don’t think you can meet with a more diverse group of constituents on the same day! All are welcome to bring me their ideas and suggestions.

    I sent several surveys to constituents in the district to gain their feedback on upcoming issues. Constituents can contact me atrep.greg.martin@capitol.tn.govif they would like to be included in future surveys and to receive a weekly video update when the General Assembly is in session.

Democratic candidate

Allison Gorman

  • I’m the best choice for my constituents because I will serve my constituents—not corporate lobbyists, or the wealthy and well connected, or a religious ideology. Polling consistently shows that most Tennesseans, regardless of party affiliation, don’t support the positions our current state legislative majority (which includes my opponent) has taken in recent years regarding reproductive rights, Medicaid expansion, firearms regulation, and public education funding. Most Tennesseans dislike culture wars, want government out of our personal lives, and don’t want to be forced to subsidize giant corporations through huge tax breaks. I will be their advocate.

  • Tennessee’s government is failing its people in so many areas—we’re ranked near the bottom by almost every measure related to poverty and poor health—that it’s hard to identify a single priority. Broadly speaking, if we can give more Tennesseans a real opportunity to be healthy and well educated, we can reduce huge downstream problems like poverty and crime. I’ll work with anyone on either side of the aisle to achieve those goals. More specifically, and with the same long-term result in mind, I’ll work to improve access to mental health care and addiction treatment in Tennessee. 

  • Between 2020 and 2022, Tennessee had the lowest average voter turnout in the country. Feeling like your vote doesn’t count has become a self-fulfilling prophecy here. That downward spiral can be reversed only through transparent government, honest and respectful communication between constituents and representatives, and voter education. I can’t singlehandedly change the culture of the State House, which from what I’ve seen is neither transparent nor respectful of the people, but I will model that change in District 26. 

Tennessee House of Representatives, District 27

  • Tennessee House members draft and vote on state laws in the 99-member lower chamber of the state government. House members also vote whether to confirm state supreme court justices appointed by the governor. Two-year term.

Republican candidates

Patsy Hazlewood

Did not respond to questionnaire

Michele Reneau

Did not respond to questionnaire

Democratic candidate

Kathy Lennon

  • I will use my knowledge, experience, and compassion to find and create solutions that benefit our communities. I will work hard for all my neighbors to ensure that every hardworking family in Tennessee has the tools they need to live a good life. Republicans continue to block federal resources from entering our state to make families healthier so I will fight to make healthcare accessible and affordable for all Tennesseans. Every Tennessean should have the right to make private healthcare decisions, especially regarding reproductive health, without interference from the government. I will always support and fight for additional funding for education so that our students and teachers have the resources they need in every classroom. I will prioritize public safety, affordable housing and economic opportunities for all Tennesseans. I will support legislation for a safe and well-regulated medical cannabis program for the state of Tennessee as we are 1 of 12 states without a viable medical cannabis program. Let's face it: our neighbors deserve better, and that's why I'm running for TN House Seat 27.

  • Healthcare: We must protect and promote the health and well-being of our citizens. Every Tennessean should have the right to make private healthcare decisions, especially regarding reproductive health, without interference from the government.Every Tennessean deserves access to the full spectrum of reproductive care.  Every family should be able to go to a Dr when needed. I will always fight for all Tennesseans to have the freedom to maintain privacy in their healthcare decisions.

  • I will support initiatives such as early voting, same-day voter registration, and automatic voter registration to make it easier for constituents to participate in our democracy. I will create and develop a District 27 committee, where people from all walks of life—regardless of race, income, or cultural background—come together not to identify problems, but opportunities to improve the lives of their neighbors. 

Tennessee House of Representatives, District 28

  • Tennessee House members draft and vote on state laws in the 99-member lower chamber of the state government. House members also vote whether to confirm state supreme court justices appointed by the governor. Two-year term.

Democratic candidates

Demetrus Coonrod

  • What makes me the best choice for my constituents this year is my unwavering commitment to progressive values, my deep-rooted connection to our community, and my proven track record of advocating for policies that uplift every resident. I bring a vision of inclusivity, equity, and justice, ensuring every voice is heard and our government works for all of us, not just the privileged few.  I am dedicated to ensuring comprehensive healthcare access for all, recognizing that health is a fundamental right, not a privilege. My vision includes not only improving our healthcare system but also pushing for substantial criminal justice reform. I believe in a justice system that is fair, equitable, and focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment. My experience and leadership in various community initiatives have equipped me with the skills and insights necessary to address the pressing issues we face, from affordable housing and education to economic opportunity and social justice. 

  • Once elected, my top priorities for the coming term will be focused on driving progressive change in comprehensive healthcare, criminal justice reform, economic justice, and education. I will advocate for policies ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare, including mental health services and affordable medications, recognizing healthcare as a fundamental right. Criminal justice reform will focus on ending mass incarceration, particularly for non-violent offenses, and enhancing reentry programs. Lastly, I am committed to transforming our education system to ensure every child receives a high-quality education, including fully funding TISA and expanding access to higher education and vocational training.

  • To make it easier for my constituents to participate in government, I will implement a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes accessibility, transparency, and active engagement. First, I will develop a user-friendly digital platform, including a comprehensive website and mobile app, to provide real-time updates, interactive features, and direct communication channels. Regular town halls and listening sessions will be held in various neighborhoods and at different times to ensure everyone can attend and voice their concerns. Additionally, I will champion open data initiatives to make government information easily accessible, fostering transparency and trust. Civic education workshops will empower constituents with the knowledge they need to effectively engage in the political process, while streamlined feedback channels will ensure their voices are heard and addressed promptly. By taking these steps, I will create an inclusive and responsive government that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our community.

Yusuf A. Hakeem

Did not respond to questionnaire

No Republican candidates

There is no Republican running in the Tennessee House, District 28 primary race.

Tennessee House of Representatives, District 29

  • Tennessee House members draft and vote on state laws in the 99-member lower chamber of the state government. House members also vote whether to confirm state supreme court justices appointed by the governor. Two-year term.

Republican candidate

Greg Vital

  • Proven track record of building a business and community involvement for the past 35 years in Hamilton County.

    - Creating jobs, making payroll and serving seniors as founder of Morning Pointe Senior Living.

    - Principled, fiscal conservative and compassionate entrepreneur involved in philanthropy and community projects and nonprofits for over 25 years.

    - Serving on numerous boards including the Tennessee Aquarium, The Land Trust for Tennessee, Collegedale Tomorrow Foundation, creating The Commons Park.

  • - As Tennessee continues to grow in population, focus on wise investment of Tennessee state revenues with investment in roads, infrastructure, broadband and education.

    - Continued commitment to land and farm protection across Tennessee.

    - Proper funding and resources for K through12 focusing on reading and early-childhood education, continued investment in vocational education and business readiness.

    - Focus on violent crime prevention and sentence reform.

  • - Since being elected, I have hosted dozens of individuals and groups in my Nashville office and focused on a full array of constituency services.

    - I will continue to be available for meetings, associations and events to communicate opinions and issues to state government.

    - Maintain full-time office in Nashville and the district.

Democratic candidate

Ryan Scofield

  • I am running to return this seat to constituent-focused representation. Citizens of District 29 are concerned about access to health care, making sure their kids have a great education, and putting groceries on the table. All that Nashville is giving this district is partisan hackery. I want to be a problem solver that sits down at the table with Democrats and Republicans to make their lives better. 

  • Medicaid expansion is my top priority. As a Social Security disability legal assistant, I talk with many Tennesseeans who fall between qualifying for Medicaid and afford a basic plan. People are sick and they are dying because they cannot afford medical treatment. This has to stop. These folks do not want handouts. They want a helping hand. 

  • I would have regularly scheduled open houses at my Chattanooga-area office for constituents to come in and vent and discuss what issues they see as most pressing. As someone whose goal is to be constituent-focused, I want to people to tell me what is most important to them. I want people to tell me what I could be doing differently. I am running to be District 29’s voice. Their input is what will drive me from day 1. 

Tennessee House of Representatives, District 30

  • Tennessee House members draft and vote on state laws in the 99-member lower chamber of the state government. House members also vote whether to confirm state supreme court justices appointed by the governor. Two-year term.

Republican candidate

Esther Helton-Haynes

Did not respond to questionnaire

Democratic candidate

Heather McClendon

  • I believe I am the best choice for my neighbors in District 30 because of my commitment to be a true representative of what matters to constituents.  Over the last few years, I have heard my neighbors express their worries about various issues, including the increasing stakes for our students that are connected with a single test at the end of the year, (third grade retention), the need for improved funding for public education, and the importance of allowing medical professionals to guide patients on their reproductive rights. There have also been urgent appeals to address the safety of our children from violence.  I have watched my neighbors voice their concerns, and I have watched my legislators ignore those concerns.  To represent one's district in our state house, we must be willing to actually represent what is important to the citizens of that district.

  • My top priority will be to work diligently on restoring rights that have been removed from Tennessee residents by working to restore and protect our access to reproductive rights and care; promote the passing of common sense gun laws needed to protect our children and families; remove book bans, as I fully believe education in all forms is beneficial to a society; and remove the law governing how a teacher and administrator must make educational decisions for their students' promotion in school. 

  • What a great question! We could utilize current technology and media to reach our constituents and provide more open access for them to share their concerns and opinions.  As a state representative, I think it will be critical for me to make myself available to my constituents by scheduling regular events such as Zoom calls/meetings, town halls in person, and other opportunities to really talk to my neighbors about what matters to them.  This is especially critical when there is a lot of concern or confusion within the community about an issue being discussed in the legislature.  For example, last year, when our government was voting on ensuring protections and access to medical care for children who become pregnant through assault, we needed our leaders to be holding these meetings to talk to us about our concerns. We need more transparency in our government.

The general election for the state offices listed here will take place on Nov. 5 — national Election Day — between the primary winners of each party. Then you’ll get to vote again for the actual office holder!

Fun fact: Citizens will also cast their votes for president and U.S. congressional representatives on Nov. 5.

So … when are the winners determined?

See more candidates and election results