Karl Knox Smithson is an Independent candidate running for Governor of Tennessee in the 2026 election [1]. He appears on the official list of candidates for the general election, which will be held on November 3, 2026, following a primary on August 6, 2026 [1]. Smithson is listed as an Independent candidate in the gubernatorial race alongside other major party and independent contenders [18].
Smithson has been identified in media coverage as a "homeless community activist" and a "frequent candidate" [12]. His political history includes a previous run for mayor in his local town in Tennessee [13]. He is the subject of the 2020 documentary film "My Friend Karl," directed by Colin Shuran, which chronicles his experiences with homelessness and advocacy [13]. The film explores themes of mental illness, compassion, and kindness through the perspective of a teenager who befriended Smithson [13].
Smithson's candidacy is part of a crowded field for the open governor's seat, as incumbent Republican Governor Bill Lee is term-limited [7]. While the Republican primary features prominent figures such as U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn and U.S. Representative John Rose, and the Democratic primary includes candidates like Carnita Atwater and Jerri Green, Smithson represents the independent slate [12]. The Tennessee Secretary of State finalized candidate lists for state and federal races following the March 10, 2026 filing deadline, confirming his status as a qualified candidate for the general election [19].
Sources
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