Wendell Jackson is an independent candidate running for Governor of Tennessee in the 2026 election [1]. He declared his candidacy for the general election scheduled for November 3, 2026 [1]. The primary election for this office took place on August 6, 2026 [3]. Jackson appears on the list of candidates for the general election alongside other independent contenders such as Misam Abidi and Dean Brewer [3]. Ballotpedia notes that the candidate list for this race may not be complete [1].
Jackson previously ran for Governor of Tennessee in the 2022 election. In that cycle, he was listed as an Independent candidate who withdrew or was disqualified from the general election ballot [5]. The 2022 general election was won by Republican Bill Lee, who received 64.9% of the vote [1].
Jackson maintains a campaign website at https://www.wendelljackson4tngov2026.com/ [18]. On his site, he describes his platform as focusing on "enhanced employment services, housing stability, and, healthcare for all" [18]. He characterizes the campaign as "nonpartisan, constitution advocating/upholding, no money" [18]. His stated key focus areas include job creation, workforce training programs, support for local businesses, and community engagement to address unemployment [18]. Jackson also outlines a framework he calls T.A.L.K., which stands for Transparency, Accountability, Love, and Kindness [18].
Sources
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.