VOTE411 Voter Guide

I am running for re-election because I believe government should be limited, efficient, and accountable to the taxpayers it serves. As the current Circuit Court Clerk, I have worked to modernize operations, improve customer service, and maintain strong fiscal discipline. I want to continue building on that progress, ensuring the office remains transparent, operates under budget, and responsibly manages taxpayer dollars while supporting the fair and orderly administration of justice.

I bring both private sector and public service experience to this role. Before being elected in 2014, I owned and operated a business for over 24 years, where I developed hands-on expertise in budgeting, management, and customer service. As Circuit Court Clerk, I have successfully led the office with integrity and efficiency, earning clean annual independent financial audits, the only Clerk in more than 30 years to do so. I have also guided the office through multiple complex system conversions and serve on the Court Clerks Legislative Board, working with state leaders to ensure compliance and practical policy solutions.

My top priority is to maintain a well-run, fiscally responsible office that delivers reliable service to the public. That includes continuing to operate within budget, maintaining clean audits, and carefully managing taxpayer funds. I will also focus on successfully implementing the state’s upcoming court system transition to ensure continuity, data security, and minimal disruption. Above all, I will continue running the Clerk’s Office like a disciplined, accountable business that serves the people of Rutherford County with professionalism and transparency.

As a U.S. Army veteran, I learned the values of hard work, respect, and accountability. Those values guided me to serve in the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and later in the District Attorney’s Office. As an employee, I saw firsthand not only the problems within the Clerk’s Office, but also the disrespect shown to the employees who work there. There have been, and still are, many dedicated, hardworking people in the Clerk’s Office who truly care about serving the public. They deserve leadership that respects them, supports them, and values their service. After prayer and reflection, I felt called to step forward — not as a politician, but as a servant. I’m running for Circuit Court Clerk to lead with respect and accountability.

I worked in the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office for five years and saw firsthand what it takes for the office to function effectively—and what happens when leadership falls short. I witnessed a lack of accountability, inconsistent presence, and an approach that placed personal priorities ahead of employees, the public, and the county we serve. That experience left a lasting impression on me and made it clear that our community deserves better. This office should exist to serve the people of Rutherford County and to support the hardworking employees who keep it running each day. Leadership should be present, respectful, and focused on the mission—not on self-interest.

If elected, I will bring accountability, leadership, and respect back to the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office. I will lead by example, be present every day, and ensure the office runs efficiently and professionally. I will work to reduce turnover by supporting employees while holding everyone to clear expectations. I will improve transparency, strengthen communication, and make sure the public is served with the respect and efficiency they deserve. Most importantly, I will restore trust in this office.