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Buddy Burkhardt
Office history
Buddy Burkhardt is a Republican candidate running for Knox County Commission District 7 in the May 5, 2026 primary election [7]. He announced his candidacy in late 2025, describing himself as a lifelong servant and community advocate with deep roots in North Knox County [6]. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Burkhardt is retired from both the United States Navy Reserves and the Knox County Sheriffβs Office, where he previously worked in technical support [6], [10].
Burkhardt has a long history in local Republican politics. He served three terms as chair of the Knox County Republican Party, first elected in 2015 after succeeding Ruthie Kuhlman [10], [12]. During his tenure, he focused on updating the party's digital presence and fostering grassroots involvement through precinct leaders [10]. He was re-elected as chair in 2025 alongside vice chair Janis Crye, citing accomplishments such as fundraising for party events and supporting contested Republican candidates in previous elections [11]. Additionally, Burkhardt has served as president of the Powell Republican Club and held leadership roles within the Halls Republican Club [6].
In his campaign for County Commission District 7, Burkhardt emphasizes responsible development, infrastructure maintenance, school funding, and support for law enforcement [6]. He represents the interests of residents in Halls, Powell, and Heiskell [6]. His primary opponents in the Republican race include Barry Beeler, William Cooper, and Justin Mash [7].
Sources
- [1] Tennessee elections, 2026 - Ballotpedia
- [2] Tennessee gubernatorial election, 2026 - Ballotpedia
- [3] Tennessee's 2nd Congressional District election, 2026 - Ballotpedia
- [4] Candidate Lists | Tennessee Secretary of State
- [6] The Knoxville Focus for December 22, 2025 | The Knoxville Focus
- [7] Meet Knox County Commission candidates for District 3 and 7 - Knox TN Today
- [10] Screams from the Porch: Burkhardt picked to lead Knox GOP
- [11] Knox GOP to reorganize; incumbents seek new term - Knox TN Today
- [12] Knox Co. GOP picks Burkhardt to serve as chaiman | wbir.com
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 β search by last name on each.
Tennessee β campaign finance (search)
- State offices (Governor, US Senate, US Rep, TN Senate, TN House, State Executive Committee) β Tennessee Registry of Election Finance. Click Search for Candidates and PACs, enter last name “Burkhardt”, and submit.
- County and municipal offices (County Mayor, Commissioner, Sheriff, School Board, court clerks, municipal alderman, etc.) β most major TN counties use the EasyVote portal. Select the relevant county and search by candidate name (“Burkhardt”).
Tennessee β statement of interest
- Required for state and local officials and candidates β Tennessee Ethics Commission Conflict of Interest Search. Enter last name “Burkhardt”and, if needed, select the applicable position.