Jennifer K. Peck

Jennifer K. Peck is a Republican candidate running for an unexpired term on the Circuit Court Judge Division 2 seat in Hamilton County, Tennessee, with the election scheduled for May 5, 2026 [6]. She currently holds this position, having been appointed by Governor Bill Lee on May 9, 2025, to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Michael Dumitru [4]. Peck was sworn in shortly after her appointment and began hearing cases immediately, including docket calls and orders of protection [1].

A lifelong resident of Chattanooga, Peck grew up on Signal Mountain and graduated from The Baylor School [10]. She earned her undergraduate degree from Auburn University in 1999 and her Juris Doctor from Regent University in 2007 [2]. Before entering public service, she built a law practice focused on domestic relations, litigation, and mediation [12]. In 2019, Peck joined Governor Bill Lee’s administration at the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. She served in key leadership roles, including Deputy Commissioner, Chief of Staff, and Chief Operating Officer [10]. In this capacity, she oversaw departmental operations and critical statewide functions, such as the Fire Prevention/State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, and the Tennessee Emergency Communications Board [12]. During her tenure in the governor's office, she also earned a Master of Business Administration from Tennessee Technological University [10].

Peck announced her candidacy for the Republican nomination on December 8, 2025 [12]. She has received endorsements from her colleagues on the 11th Judicial District Circuit Court: Judges J.B. Bennett, Alex McVeagh, and Kyle Hedrick [12]. Peck states that her goal has always been to become a judge, a desire she renewed after law school [1]. She resides in Hixson with her husband, TJ, and frequently visits their son and daughter-in-law in Germantown [10]. Her campaign website is www.electjudgepeck.com [9].

Sources

• [1] Judge Peck Takes the Bench in Hamilton County, Realizing a Lifelong Goal | Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts
• [2] Jennifer Peck | Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts
• [4] Governor Lee Announces 11th Judicial District Appointment | Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts
• [6] sample ballot
• [7] Candidate Lists | Tennessee Secretary of State
• [8] 2026 Election United States Senate - Tennessee - FEC.gov
• [9] Elect Judge Peck
• [10] Meet Judge Peck
• [12] Judge Jennifer Peck Announces Candidacy For Division II Circuit Court Judge - Chattanoogan.com