This is a critical moment for Knox County.
Roads and infrastructure are not keeping up with growth, and traffic is worse than ever. Rising rents and record-high housing costs are pricing residents out of neighborhoods. And federal funding cuts are threatening our public schools, local nonprofits, and basic services for those most in need.
Yet, our local representatives on County Commission have lost track of these priorities. Instead, they’re increasingly bending towards political extremism and divisive national issues day-after-day.
I’m running to get local government back to the basics, fix what’s broken, and build a Knox County we can all be proud of — because we deserve leaders fighting to make life better for all of us.
Opportunity should be within reach for everyone, not just a few. My platform is one that reflects my core belief that everyone deserves a shot to thrive, and my priorities will grow and deepen as I learn and listen from 3rd District neighbors.
Knox County is growing fast, but housing costs are rising even faster. The median home price now tops $430,000, while household income averages around $71,600 — leaving many working families priced out of the very communities they love.
I believe housing is more than shelter: it’s stability and the chance to build a future. I support cutting red tape to allow for more diverse housing options to help increase supply, reduce housing costs, and give more choices for seniors, working families, renters, and homebuyers alike. I will fight for smart growth so infrastructure — roads, schools, sidewalks, and parks — keeps pace with development.
Hundreds of neighbors face homelessness each night. The 2023 count recorded 925 people unhoused in Knox County, nearly half citing lack of affordable housing as the cause. I support a housing-first strategy to get our homeless neighbors off the street with wraparound services for mental health, recovery, and employment, working alongside nonprofits and faith-based groups.
My vision is clear: a Knox County where families can afford to live, grow, and stay — and where no one is left behind without a roof overhead.
Housing, Affordability, & Homelessness
Clean & Safe Neighborhoods
Every resident deserves to feel safe on their street and proud of their neighborhood. Yet litter, blight, and crime still impact too many communities. Knox County’s property crime rate remains above the state average, though recent reports show encouraging progress — including a 45% drop in non-fatal shootings in 2024.
I believe public safety and public pride go hand-in-hand. Clean, well-lit, tree-lined streets reduce crime and build community spirit. I support investing in lighting, sidewalks, youth programs that prevent crime before it starts, and ensuring first responders have the resources they need.
As a longtime advocate for beautification, I will continue supporting litter prevention and green infrastructure. Studies show that urban trees lower summer heat by more than a degree, reduce stress and pollution, and strengthen neighborhood pride.
My goal: a Knox County where every park is cared for, every street is clean, and every neighbor feels secure walking home.
Knox County’s economy is strong, but too many residents still struggle to find stable, well-paying jobs. Unemployment is low at 2.4%, yet wages often lag behind the cost of living. The average wage in our region is $27.68 per hour, but families still face rising housing and healthcare costs.
I believe economic development means investing in people, not just corporations. I support expanding vocational and technical training in schools, building apprenticeship partnerships with local industry leaders, and strengthening connections between education and employment.
Small businesses drive Knox County’s growth, accounting for nearly half our jobs and growing nearly 10% statewide since 2019. I support cutting red tape to unleash creativity and economic growth, improving access to resources, and creating mentorship networks to help entrepreneurs succeed.
My vision: a Knox County where every worker earns a fair wage, every business has the talent it needs, and opportunity is built for all — not just a few.
Stable Workforce & Economic Development
Strong, Fully-Funded Public Schools
Public education is the bedrock of our community — and our very democracy. With over 60,000 students and 9,000 staff, our schools anchor every community, but they need greater support. Teachers still face crowded classrooms and rising costs despite a new $700 million budget and long-overdue salary increases.
I support reducing class sizes, investing in early childhood education, and expanding dual-enrollment and career programs so every student graduates ready for success.
While I support parents’ freedom to choose their child’s education, I oppose school voucher programs that divert taxpayer money from local classrooms. I believe public dollars must stay in public schools. Tennessee’s new voucher law sends $7,295 per student to private schools — more than what most public schools receive per pupil — risking tens of millions in lost local funding by 2027.
My promise: protect public education, support teachers, and ensure every child across Knox County has access to a safe, high-quality public school.