Knox County voters went to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, to shape the next generation of state leadership and decide three proposed amendments to the Tennessee Constitution. While the county’s results diverged from the statewide outcome in the governor’s race, local voters overwhelmingly supported all three constitutional measures and narrowly approved a City Charter amendment.
Governor’s race: Local preference for Democrat Jerri Green
Republican Marsha Blackburn captured the statewide governorship with 957,136 votes (45.52%) and will succeed term‑limited Gov. Bill Lee in January 2027, becoming Tennessee’s first woman governor. In Knox County, however, Democrat Jerri Green led with 76,116 votes (48.48%) to Blackburn’s 66,600 (42.42%). Independent David Hatley received 11,298 votes (7.20%). All 102 precincts in the county were reported by the Knox County Election Commission at 5:23 a.m. on Nov. 4, though the results remain unofficial until certification.
Congressional contests: Close races in the district
Incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Bill Hagerty retained his seat, defeating Democrat Marquita Bradshaw in Knox County with 78,503 votes (50.24%) to Bradshaw’s 75,557 (48.35%). The district‑wide race saw Republican Jimmy Matlock win 41,483 votes against Democrat David Miller’s 26,347, according to unofficial district returns.
In the 2nd Congressional District, Republican incumbent Tim Burchett narrowly held his seat, earning 78,125 votes (49.91%) to Democrat Michaela Barnett’s 76,885 (49.12%). Independent candidates Bruce Fine and Adam Heimerman together captured less than 1 % of the vote.
Tennessee State Senate: Republican hold
Republican incumbent Richard Briggs secured re‑election with 33,498 votes (52.72%) against Democrat Bryan Langan’s 30,044 (47.28%). The figures reflect Knox County totals, not the full district.
Constitutional amendments: Voter approval across the state
Three statewide amendments received clear majorities. The amendment expanding criminal charges that allow a judge to deny bail before trial earned 1,330,845 “Yes” votes (67.14%). The amendment prohibiting a state property tax garnered 1,334,067 “Yes” votes (66.74%). The most popular measure, expanding rights and protections for crime victims, received 1,526,306 “Yes” votes (76.06%). All three met the constitutional requirement of a majority of “Yes” votes and a total exceeding half of the votes cast in the governor’s race.
Knoxville City Charter amendment: A razor‑thin margin
Knoxville voters considered a charter amendment that would allow a candidate who wins a majority in a primary to be elected without a runoff. The unofficial tally showed 24,312 votes (50.63%) in favor and 23,708 votes (49.37%) against, a margin of just 604 votes. Only residents within the city limits participated in this measure.
What the results mean for the community
The split in the governor’s race underscores Knox County’s independent streak, favoring a Democratic candidate even as the state as a whole chose a Republican governor. Close congressional races reflect a competitive political environment that encourages robust voter engagement. The strong approval of the constitutional amendments demonstrates broad support for public safety, fiscal restraint, and victim rights—values that align with the community’s commitment to law, order, and responsible governance.
All figures are based on unofficial returns reported by the Knox County Election Commission and the Tennessee Secretary of State. Final certification will follow in the coming weeks.
Original reporting: Knox TN Today — read the source article.
