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Stephen Hood

born 1977-05-15 (Age 49)
Stephen Hood

Office history

County Trustee — Knox, TN
2026
D primary
2026-05-05

Stephen Hood is a Democratic candidate running for Knox County Trustee in Tennessee [7]. He resides in West Hills and was born and raised in Appalachia, identifying himself as the son of a Vietnam War veteran [10]. Hood has over 30 years of public service experience at the federal, state, and county levels [10].

Hood is competing against incumbent Republican Justin Biggs, as well as Republicans Nick McBride and Barry Hawkins, in the May 5, 2026 primary election [7][8][12]. He is the sole Democratic candidate in this race [9]. The Knox County Trustee is responsible for collecting residential, commercial, and personal property taxes, accounting for and disbursing county funds, and investing money to earn interest [7].

Hood’s campaign focuses on restoring public trust in the office, citing problematic behavior by previous holders of the position as his motivation for running [8]. He describes managing taxpayer dollars as a "sacred duty" and emphasizes a strong respect for rules and regulations [8]. His platform centers on fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability [10]. Specifically, Hood has stated he would review recent probes of the office and carry out auditors' recommendations [12].

Financially, Hood’s campaign reported taking in $5,900 and spending $1,556 during a reporting period ending in early 2026, leaving him with approximately $4,445 on hand [9]. He relies on grassroots supporter funds rather than large donations [10].

Sources

Public filings

Candidates and officeholders are required by law to file campaign finance reports and statements of economic interest. The sites below don't support direct links to an individual record — search by last name on each.

Tennessee — campaign finance (search)

Tennessee — statement of interest

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