Running Local & Winning Local

Anderson County Democratic Slate

November General Election

Early Voting

October 16 - October 31

Election Day

Tuesday, November 5

Disclaimer: The following statements explaining why each candidate is running were submitted directly by the candidates themselves. These statements reflect their personal views and motivations for seeking office.

Local

Candidates

Ashley and Tiffany

Ashley

Craven

Oak Ridge Board of Education

Why she’s running.

“My name is Ashley Craven and I'm running for the Oak Ridge Board of Education.

I'm a full time project manager who is active in the community by serving on the Traffic Safety Advisory Board, volunteering with the Anderson County Community Mediation Services, and serving at my local church.

As a step-mom to two elementary age kids, I've seen the challenges facing our children in the classroom. The testing anxiety. The challenges parents can face when requesting evaluations or trying to figure out what a 504 plan or IEP is. And as a mom to a two year old, I want to be proactive in growing our schools, our resources, our programs, and our success rates.

I'm running because I want to make sure our schools are safe, inclusive, and fully funded so that we can see every student reach their full potential. I am committed to continue fostering a strong working relationship with our City Council and our Director of Schools. I will uplift the voices and expertise of our teachers. I will look at our schools through a lens of pride at all of the accomplishments we have achieved, but also be aware that we can continue to improve and should always be looking for ways we can do so. I will support the growth of our school system as our student population grows. And I will continually assess what needs the schools can help meet for children - academic and beyond.

Schools simultaneously hold our legacy and our future through the children of Oak Ridge. Let's grow our schools, our reputation, and our whole community. Let's grow together. “

To find out more information about Ashley and her campaign, visit her website:

Tiffany

Malone

Oak Ridge Board of Education

Why she’s running.

"Hi neighbor, my name is Tiffany Malone. 

I'm running for Oak Ridge Schools Board of Education because I am YOU. 

I'm a Parent, Engineer, and Community Leader. 

As a member of the school board, I will commit to:

  1. Investing in Educational Resources

  2. Strengthen Community Engagement

  3. Support our Teachers & Staff

  4. Bridge the Gap Between Technology & Arts

I'm asking for your vote because a vote for me is a commitment to:
Our Children, Our Teachers, and Our Schools

Let's Make All Learning Opportunities Noteworthy Experiences.”

To find out more information about Tiffany and her campaign, visit her website:

State

Candidates

Anne and Derek

Anne

Backus

Tennessee House District 33

Why she’s running.

“I’m Anne Backus, and I am running for state representative because I believe we are not being listened to by our representatives in Nashville.

I am a mother, grandmother, retired Y-12 project manager, and an active volunteer in the community and my church. I believe that our government needs to refocus its priorities and truly serve the people. 

I am committed to the fight to defend and strengthen public education, ensure affordable healthcare for all, and make Anderson County safe for all who call it home.

As your state representative, I will bring the people back into the people’s house.”

To find out more information about Anne and her campaign, visit her website:

Derek

Hawn

Tennessee House District 41

Why he’s running.

“I'm Derek Hawn, and I am running for state representative in Tennessee's 41st House District because this district is my home. It's where I was born and raised, and it's where I've chosen to build my life. My community has shaped me into the person I am today, and I feel a deep sense of responsibility to give back and ensure it continues to be a great place to live for future generations.

This community means everything to me. It's where I've experienced my life's highs and lows, where I've built lasting relationships, and where I've learned important life lessons. It's a place that embodies the values I hold close: hard work, integrity, and community. It's a place that's given me so much, and I feel it's my duty to give back.

By running for office, I want to use my experience in public service to address the challenges we face and to bring about positive change. I want to ensure that our community continues to thrive and that our values are represented in the decisions that affect us.

I aim to bring a fresh perspective to the table, one that's rooted in our local culture and values. I want to fight for policies that reflect our community's needs and aspirations. I want to create an environment where everyone feels heard and where decisions are made transparently and inclusively.

I believe I have the skills, experience, and commitment to make a positive difference. I want to ensure that our community continues to be a place we're all proud to call home. I am committed to putting People over Politics, ensuring that our community's voice is at the forefront of every decision made.”

To find out more information about Derek and his campaign, visit her website:

Federal Candidates

  • United States House of Representatives District 3

    Jack Allen is a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, bringing a wealth of experience in business and community leadership. Raised in the Chattanooga area in a modest home, Allen worked three jobs to earn his Bachelor of Science in Business and Accounting from Berry College. He and his wife, Connie, moved to Athens, TN, where they raised their daughter, Betsy. Allen began his career as an accountant at Citizens National Bank, eventually becoming president and growing the bank’s assets from $25 million to over $600 million. After losing his wife to ovarian cancer, Allen became the first and only male lobbyist for the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance. His leadership roles in McMinn County include Chair of the Library Board, President of the Chamber of Commerce, President of the Optimist Club, and Chair of the Economic Development Authority. Allen's commitment to improving the community and country motivates his run for Congress.

  • United States Senate

    State Representative Gloria Johnson has dedicated her life to serving Tennesseans and advocating for justice. Growing up in a family that faced threats from the KKK due to her father's work as an FBI agent, Johnson learned early on the importance of standing up for what is right. A special education teacher for 27 years, she entered politics to defend public school students and teachers' rights. Elected to the Tennessee House in 2012, Johnson has consistently fought against extreme politicians and special interests. As a member of the "Tennessee Three," she demanded action on gun safety measures following a tragic school shooting. Johnson is running for U.S. Senate to challenge corrupt politicians like Marsha Blackburn and to shift power back to working and middle-class families.

For more information on the candidates, please visit their websites

  • Candidate; Vice-President of the United States

    Governor Tim Walz is the 41st Governor of Minnesota, serving since January 2019. A former high school teacher, coach, and 24-year veteran of the Army National Guard, Walz represented Minnesota's 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2007 to 2019. Known for his commitment to education, veterans, and economic growth, Walz has focused on expanding access to healthcare, improving public education, and addressing climate change during his tenure as governor. He is a pragmatic leader who emphasizes collaboration and community-driven solutions to address Minnesota's challenges.

  • Candidate; President of the United States

    Kamala D. Harris is the Vice President of the United States. She always fights for the people – from her barrier-breaking time as District Attorney of San Francisco and Attorney General of California, to proudly serving as a United States Senator and the Vice President.