{"campaigns":[{"candidatename":"Steve Cohen","chatgptsummary":"Congressman Steve Cohen has served the 9th District of Tennessee since 2006, demonstrating a strong commitment to public service. His legislative career, which includes 24 years in the Tennessee State Senate, is marked by his advocacy for civil rights, gender equality, education, and health care. Cohen has a track record of standing up against special interests and has been instrumental in passing significant legislation, such as the creation of the Tennessee State Lottery, which has funded education initiatives across the state. In Congress, he has distinguished himself as a champion of civil rights and justice, leading efforts to pass resolutions apologizing for the enslavement and racial segregation of African Americans and introducing bills to address police brutality. Cohen has also worked closely with Presidents Obama and Biden on policy debates and has secured significant federal funding for local projects in his district. His dedication to his constituents and his experience in both state and national politics make him a suitable candidate for the role of US Representative, District 9.","notes":"","party":"Democratic","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n\nSteve Cohen, a member of the Democratic Party, currently serves as the U.S. Representative for Tennessee's 9th Congressional District [1]. He assumed office on January 3, 2007, and his current term is scheduled to end on January 3, 2027 [1]. The district encompasses parts of Shelby and Tipton counties in southwest Tennessee, with Memphis as its largest population center [15].\n\nCohen has declared his candidacy for re-election to the U.S. House in the 2026 cycle [1]. He is set to run in the Democratic primary scheduled for August 6, 2026 [1]. The general election for Tennessee's nine congressional seats will be held on November 3, 2026 [19].\n\nRecent developments involve Cohen's opposition to a newly proposed congressional map released by Tennessee Republicans on May 6, 2026 [19]. This proposal aims to divide Shelby County into three districts, which would alter the composition of the 9th District [21]. Cohen has stated that he plans to file a lawsuit against the redistricting plan, arguing it targets the state's lone majority-Black district [21]. He previously expressed concern over similar legislative efforts, describing them as a \"wholesale destruction of democratic representation\" [8].\n\n## Background and education\n\nStephen Ira Cohen was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on May 24, 1949 [17]. He is a fourth-generation Memphian who has dedicated his life to public service in Memphis and Shelby County [9]. As a child, Cohen contracted polio at the age of five, spending months in the hospital and many more years on crutches, an experience he states forged resilience and determination [20].\n\nCohen earned a bachelor's degree from Vanderbilt University in 1971 and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Memphis School of Law [1]. He filed to run for office on the same day he first registered to vote, shortly after his 21st birthday [12].\n\n## Career\n\nBefore entering elected office, Cohen worked as a private-practice attorney in Memphis [10]. He also served as a legal advisor for the Memphis Police Department [10]. In 1976 and 1977, he was elected to the Tennessee State constitutional convention, where he was elected Vice President at age 28 [20].\n\nCohen earned a bachelor's degree from Vanderbilt University in 1971 and a J.D. from the University of Memphis School of Law [1][17]. He is a fourth-generation Memphian [9][12].\n\n## Office history\n\nSteve Cohen was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006, succeeding Harold Ford Jr., and assumed office on January 3, 2007 [1][17]. He represents Tennessee's 9th Congressional District, a seat located in the southwest corner of the state that includes parts of Shelby and Tipton counties and is centered on Memphis [2][15]. Cohen has been re-elected to this position in subsequent cycles, including victories in 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2022 [5][7][3][6]. In the 2024 general election, he secured another term after winning the Democratic primary on August 1, 2024, with his current term ending on January 3, 2027 [1][4].\n\nPrior to his congressional service, Cohen served in the Tennessee Senate from the 30th district for 24 years, holding office from January 11, 1983, until December 1, 2006 [17][18]. He was preceded in that state senate seat by Jim White and succeeded by Shea Flinn [17][18]. Before his election to the state senate, Cohen served as a Shelby County Commissioner and as a Memphis Police Legal Advisor [10]. He also served as Vice President of the Tennessee State constitutional convention during his tenure from 1976 to 1977 [20].\n\nCohen has not lost any general elections for federal office since assuming his House seat in 2007. In the 2014 Democratic primary, he defeated Ricky Wilkins and Isaac Richmond before defeating Charlotte Bergmann in the general election [7]. In 2016, he defeated Wayne Alberson and Paul Cook in the general election after winning the primary against Larry Crim and Justin Ford [5]. He won the 2018 general election against Republican Charlotte Bergmann and Independent Leo AwGoWhat with 80.0% of the vote [3]. In 2022, he won re-election as the district was rated \"Solid Democratic\" by multiple political analysis groups [6].\n\n## Legislative record and accomplishments\n\nSteve Cohen has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since January 3, 2007, representing Tennessee\u2019s 9th Congressional District [1]. Prior to his congressional tenure, he served as a Tennessee State Senator from the 30th district for 24 years, holding office from 1983 to 2006 [17]. Cohen was appointed to the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission, during the 112th Congress [10].\n\nIn the House, Cohen serves on the House Judiciary Committee, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and the House Committee on Oversight and Reform [10]. He holds the position of Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice [14].\n\nCohen has focused legislative efforts on preserving voting rights in Tennessee\u2019s 9th District. Following the passage of a new congressional map that split Shelby County, Cohen filed a lawsuit seeking to delay the legislation until the 2028 elections [16]. He has publicly criticized the Tennessee General Assembly for what he described as the \"wholesale destruction of democratic representation\" and a racially suspect gerrymander [8].\n\nOn infrastructure and disaster relief, Cohen secured $3.1 million through the annual appropriations process for the restoration of the Historic Clayborn Temple, which was damaged by fire [8]. He has also urged state officials to submit requests for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance for Shelby County following severe weather events, including a winter storm in January 2026 and subsequent damage assessments exceeding $6.6 million [11].\n\n## Documented disputes and controversies\n\nCohen has publicly characterized the redistricting of Tennessee\u2019s 9th Congressional District as a partisan effort to disenfranchise Black voters, stating that the General Assembly engaged in the \"wholesale destruction of democratic representation\" [8][9][13]. Following the passage of new congressional maps by Republican leaders and their signing into law by Governor Bill Lee, Cohen filed a lawsuit seeking to delay the legislation's implementation until the 2028 elections [16]. He argued that the proposed map would separate Shelby County into three districts, thereby eliminating the state\u2019s only majority-Black district [21].\n\nIn response to the redistricting changes, Cohen deployed resources to protect voting rights in his district, including securing $3.15 million through the annual appropriations process for the restoration of the Historic Clayborn Temple, a site central to the 1968 sanitation workers' strike [8][16]. He also praised the U.S. Department of Justice\u2019s decision to deploy election monitors to Shelby County for the November 8, 2016 general election, asserting that the right to vote is \"absolutely central to our democracy\" and that no American should be disenfranchised [14].\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n\nSteve Cohen is a fourth-generation Memphian who worked as a private-practice attorney in Memphis prior to his election to Congress [10]. He earned a bachelor's degree from Vanderbilt University in 1971 and a J.D. from the University of Memphis School of Law [1]. Before serving in the U.S. House, Cohen held various public office roles, including serving as a Memphis Police Legal Advisor, a Shelby County Commissioner, and a Tennessee State Senator for 24 years [10]. He also served as Vice President of the Tennessee State constitutional convention at age 28 [20].\n\nSpecific details regarding Cohen's personal business interests, ownership stakes in private companies, or the specific sources of his family wealth are not provided in the available source materials. The provided texts focus on his legislative career, political service history, and public policy advocacy rather than his personal financial disclosures or commercial holdings [1][10].\n\n## Family\n\nSteve Cohen is a fourth-generation Memphian [9]. He self-describes his life story as one of resilience and determination, noting that he contracted polio at age five, which required months in the hospital and extensive time on crutches [20]. Cohen states that this hardship forged his character and shaped his career as a legislator who overcomes obstacles through persistence [12].\n\nThe provided sources do not contain information regarding his spouse, children, or other family members in politics.\n\n## Sources\n[1] [Steve Cohen (Tennessee) - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Steve_Cohen_(Tennessee))\n[2] [Tennessee's 9th Congressional District - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Tennessee's_9th_Congressional_District)\n[3] [Tennessee's 9th Congressional District election, 2018 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Tennessee's_9th_Congressional_District_election,_2018)\n[4] [Tennessee's 9th Congressional District election, 2024 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Tennessee's_9th_Congressional_District_election,_2024)\n[5] [Tennessee's 9th Congressional District election, 2016 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Tennessee's_9th_Congressional_District_election,_2016)\n[6] [Tennessee's 9th Congressional District election, 2022 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Tennessee's_9th_Congressional_District_election,_2022)\n[7] [Tennessee's 9th Congressional District elections, 2014 - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Tennessee's_9th_Congressional_District_elections,_2014)\n[8] [Congressman Steve Cohen | Representing the 9th District of Tennessee](https://cohen.house.gov/)\n[9] [Shelby County | Congressman Steve Cohen - House.gov](https://cohen.house.gov/issues/shelby-county)\n[10] [Representative Steve Cohen, Tennessee - CSCE](https://www.csce.gov/commissioner-or-staff-bios/representative-steve-cohen-tennessee/)\n[11] [Congressman Cohen Urges Governor Lee to Submit Additional FEMA Major Disaster Declaration Request for Shelby County | Congressman Steve Cohen](https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-urges-governor-lee-submit-additional-fema-major)\n[12] [Biography - Congressman Steve Cohen - House.gov](https://cohen.house.gov/about/biography)\n[13] [Tennessee | Congressman Steve Cohen - House.gov](https://cohen.house.gov/issues/tennessee)\n[14] [Cohen Praises DOJ for Sending Election Monitors to Shelby County | Congressman Steve Cohen](https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cohen-praises-doj-sending-election-monitors-shelby-county)\n[15] [9th District | Congressman Steve Cohen - House.gov](https://cohen.house.gov/issues/9th-district)\n[16] [Fighting to Preserve Memphis' and Tennessee's Black Vote | Congressman Steve Cohen](https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/enewsletters/fighting-preserve-memphis-and-tennessees-black-vote)\n[17] [Steve Cohen (politician) - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Cohen_(politician))\n[18] [Steve Cohen - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia](https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Cohen)\n[19] [2026 United States House of Representatives elections in Tennessee - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_United_States_House_of_Representatives_elections_in_Tennessee)\n[20] [Cohen for Congress - Cohen for Congress](https://cohenforcongress.com/)\n[21] [Tennessee congressman Steve Cohen plans to file lawsuit against redistricting map | News | fox13memphis.com](https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/tennessee-congressman-steve-cohen-plans-to-file-lawsuit-against-redistricting-proposal/article_c671c6ea-17a2-4611-8c4f-da68cf63d53c.html)","firstname":"Steve","lastname":"Cohen","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"OJPkeAo7E4"},"token":"steve_cohen"},{"candidatename":"Corey Strong","chatgptsummary":"Corey Strong, a naval officer, attorney, and education leader from Memphis, is a suitable candidate for US Representative, District 9. With 20 years of military service, including active duty and deployments to various global locations, Strong has demonstrated leadership and dedication. His experience in education, spanning early childhood literacy to workforce training, shows his commitment to community development. As a former member of the TN State Democratic Executive Committee and Chairman of the Shelby County Democratic Party, he has political experience and a track record of success. His academic qualifications, including a B.S., MBA, J.D., and M.A. in Education Leadership, further support his suitability for the role. Strong's active involvement in his local community, including mentoring local businesses and supporting victims of human trafficking, indicates his dedication to serving his constituents.","notes":"","party":"Democratic","person":{"biography":"Corey Strong is an attorney, education leader, naval officer, and civic change agent from Memphis. He is a proven advocate, professional, and leader that is qualified to put Memphis and the 9th district back on the map. Corey, a Captain(sel) in the Navy, has spent 20 years of his life serving his country and mentoring and growing young leaders worldwide. He served on active duty for 8 years and has deployed to the Persian Gulf, the Pacific Rim, South America, with two tours in Afghanistan. He left active duty in 2011 and continues to serve in the Naval Reserves, currently as the Deputy Chief of Staff of NR CNE/CNA N3 in Atlanta supporting Naval Forces Europe and Sixth Fleet headquartered in Naples, Italy.\n\nAfter returning from a year in Afghanistan in 2016, Corey focused his career service on the field of education where he has held leadership roles for Memphis Shelby County Schools, Freedom Preparatory Academy, Progeny Place, and most recently at First 8 Memphis as the Director of Programs and Partnership. His roles have spanned the entire spectrum of education including literacy in early childhood, school finance and improvement, facilities and technology transformation, and workforce training.\n\nHe is a former member of the TN State Democratic Executive Committee and Chairman of the Shelby County Democratic Party. As Chairman, he restored function and authority to the County Party and Democrats experienced their most successful local election in history by winning all 10 county wide elections and increasing their seats on\n\nCounty Commission from 7 to 8. While proudly serving abroad in the Navy reserves for the past 13 years, Corey remains active in his local community. He is member of Cumming Street Baptist Church, helped mentor local businesses with the United Way, and serves as the Treasurer on the board of Restore Corps- an organization dedicated to supporting victims of human trafficking.\n\nCorey holds a B.S. from the United States Naval Academy, an MBA from San Diego State University, a J.D. from the University of Memphis, and a M.A. in Education Leadership from the Broad Center, now at the Yale School of Management.\n\n[Campaign Website](https://corey4congress.com/)\n\n[X.com](https://twitter.com/the901strong)\n","firstname":"Corey","lastname":"Strong","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"D4gNoo7VNT"},"token":"corey_strong"},{"candidatename":"Kasandra L Smith","chatgptsummary":"Kasandra L Smith, a seasoned law enforcement officer with the Memphis Police Department, is running for the position of US Representative, District 9. With a strong background in community service, crime prevention, and advocacy against domestic and sexual violence, Smith brings a wealth of experience to the role. Her career has seen her work in various units within the police department, earning her extensive knowledge of community issues. Smith's platform, H.E.L.P (Hope, Education, Life and Livelihood, Peace, and Protection), focuses on crime reduction, education, and infrastructure development. She has been recognized with numerous awards for her contributions to the community and law enforcement. Smith's dedication to public service, combined with her commitment to addressing key issues, makes her a suitable candidate for the role of US Representative, District 9.","notes":"","party":"Democratic","person":{"biography":"Kasandra Smith, born in West Memphis, Arkansas, is the second of five children. Through her parents\u2019 love and support with emphasis on family, helping others, work ethics, and education, she was imparted strong morals and methods to achieve goals. She was taught to remain loyal and dedicated through all tasks. She is now the mother of two adult children of her own and a grandmother of three.\n\nIn 2000, Kasandra moved to Memphis, Tennessee and began her career with the Memphis Police Department as a Police Service Technician (PST). In 2001, Kasandra became a law enforcement officer with the Memphis Police Department, where she dedicated her life to change, protect, serve, empower, and save lives. While on the job, she earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and a Master of Business Administration through Bethel University.\n\nThrough her work at the Memphis Police Department, Kasandra has had the opportunity to work in units across the board including Uniform Patrol Division, Organized Crime Unit, the Vice Unit, the Criminal Apprehension Team, the Drug Unit, Officer in School, Crisis Intervention Team, Special Victims Unit (Sex Crimes), Community Outreach Program Unit. Promoted to sergeant in 2021 and was assigned to Homicide Bureau. 2024, Kasandra Smith promoted to the rank of Second Lieutenant assigned to Airways Station, and currently assigned to CSI (Crime Scene Investigation) Because of this, Kasandra has extensive knowledge and experience of the many issues that need to be addressed in our community.\n\nDue to life changing experiences, Kasandra is a motivated advocate against domestic and sexual violence. In order to bring awareness and advocacy to this issue, she has created and assisted in several public events including the Annual Shine the Light on Domestic Violence rally, the Memphis Support Project Unbreakable, and the Annual Race Against Sexual Violence 5K. In 2012, she became a member of the speaker bureau with RAINN (Rape Abuse Incest National Network) where she shared her story. In an effort to reduce domestic, and sexual violence in Shelby County, she became the 2013 Vice President and 2015 President of the Memphis/Shelby County Domestic and Sexual Violence Council.\n\nThrough her position on this council, she has continued to advocate and work for the people of Shelby County, assisting in creating such events as Treasure of the Heart, a Mother\u2019s Day event. She continued to serve by attending the Senator Tommy Burks Victim Assistance Academy at University of Tennessee, Chattanooga where she completed a week-long training in June 2017. Kasandra is a member of the Shelby County Democratic Women and the former chair over the Legislative Committee for Tennessee Federation of Democratic Women.\n\nKasandra Smith worked in the Community Outreach Program Unit (COP) in which she implemented a Youth Crime Watch program in Douglas High School in Memphis, Tennessee. She assists with organizing the annual Youth Crime Watch Conference in which over nine hundred students from within the Shelby County School district attended in October 2017. Kasandra Smith and Clayton Turner created Memphis Girls Rock where over 1,300 girls from Shelby County Schools and Charter Schools attended the conference. Moreover, she is a motivational speaker for K-12 students concerning various topics, such as bullying, conflict resolution, respecting authority, self-respect, financial literacy, sexual violence, dream killer, hiding behind the mask and domestic violence. Most importantly, she remains committed to enforcing laws while servicing, protecting, and engaging with communities to save lives and bridge the gap between communities and law enforcement officers.\nKasandra created a wooden fence panel called parents graffiti where she took a quote from each parent who lost their child to gun violence and placed it on the fence. Kasandra created a parent challenge video for parents called \u201cYou Don\u2019t Know Me, You Don\u2019t Know My Pain.\u201d This video explains how parents do not spend time with their children and do not know them.\n\nKasandra has been awarded many achievements throughout her career. These include:\n\u2022 2008: Dr. Gilliland Award for demonstrating a passion to help mental health consumers.\n\u2022 2013: Officer of the Month Award from NAIFA (National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors) in recognition of significant leadership and outstanding contributions to the citizens of Memphis.\n\u2022 2014: S.I.S Award (Suffering in Silent) from the nonprofit Walking Into A New Life, Inc.\n\u2022 2016: Investigator of the Year Investigative Services, Special Victim Unit\n\u2022 2017: Officer of the Month award for Crime Prevention Unit, Community Outreach Program Unit.\n\u2022 2017: Officer of the Year Crime Prevention Unit, Community Outreach Program Unit.\n\u2022 2017: Officer of the Year award from the Frayser Exchange Club Foundation for providing outstanding services to the Frayser community.\n\u2022 2022 Investigator of the month Investigative Services, Homicide Bureau.\n\nKasandra\u2019s three priority areas of concern are crime, education, and infrastructure. Crime is a prevalent issue creating fear and suffering as well as barriers to socioeconomic growth. There is a vital need to enact crime reducing strategies that not only strengthen people and communities but also promote resiliency. Education plays a critical role in the success of society and is a conduit to help reduce poverty, improve health, and reduce crime. Lastly, there is a need to create effective ways to reconcile infrastructure development, as it has a direct impact on individual\u2019s well-being, livelihoods, and ability to thrive in society. Kasandra profoundly recognizes that with improvements of these factors, Shelby County 9th District will be able to move towards a future everyone can look forward to.\nKasandra\u2019s platform is H.E.L.P.\nThis stands for:\nHope\nEducation\nLife and Livelihood\nPeace, and Protection \nHELP IS ON THE WAY\n\n[Campaign Site](kasandrasmithforcongress.com)\n\n[X.com](https://twitter.com/ksmithofmemphis)","firstname":"Kasandra","lastname":"Smith","middlename":"L","suffix":null,"token":"4qGstMBKqi"},"token":"kasandra_l_smith"},{"candidatename":"Charlotte Bergmann ","chatgptsummary":"Charlotte Bergmann's educational background, professional experience, and extensive political involvement make her a notable candidate for U.S. Representative, Tennessee District 9. However, voters should consider the details of her employment history and the credibility of her business endeavors when evaluating her suitability for the position.","notes":"","party":"Republican","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n\nCharlotte Bergmann is a Republican candidate running for election to the U.S. House to represent Tennessee's 9th Congressional District in the 2026 cycle [1]. She declared her candidacy for the Republican primary scheduled for August 6, 2026 [1]. As of May 2026, the outcome of this upcoming election is unknown [1].\n\nBergmann\u2019s campaign has emphasized traditional campaigning methods following Labor Day, focusing on issues such as crime and economic concerns in the district [9]. Her platform highlights a \"Law and Order\" stance, arguing that Washington must support local law enforcement with resources and policy reforms to restore safety [7]. She states that the current representative has neglected veterans and contributed to skyrocketing crime rates, including murders and carjackings [3]. Bergmann self-describes as a native Memphian who was the first in her family to receive a higher level college education [6].\n\nFinancial data from the Federal Election Commission indicates that Bergmann\u2019s campaign raised $11,734.59 in total receipts, with $9,234.59 coming from individual contributions and $2,500 from other committees [2]. Her campaign website lists a maximum individual contribution limit of $3,500 per election cycle [3]. Bergmann serves as a State Executive Committeewoman for the Tennessee Republican Party (TNGOP) District 33 and is a board member of the Sober House Homeless Mission [4].\n\n## Background and education\n\nCharlotte Bergmann is a native of Memphis, Tennessee, where she was raised in a Christian household as one of ten children [6]. Her father was a Baptist minister who instilled religious values in his upbringing [12]. She self-describes as a Christian and has been affiliated with Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, serving as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister [4].\n\nBergmann was the first member of her family to receive a higher level college education [6]. She earned an associate degree from State Technical Institute at Memphis in 1986, where she served as president of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society during the 1985\u201386 academic year [6]. She subsequently graduated from Christian Brothers University with a Bachelor of Science in Technology in 1992 and earned a Master of Business Administration (CMBA) from the same institution in 1996 [4].\n\n## Career\n\nCharlotte Bergmann is a native of Memphis, Tennessee, who was raised in a Christian household as one of ten children.[6] She became the first member of her family to pursue higher education, graduating from State Technical Institute at Memphis with an associate degree in 1986, where she served as president of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society during the 1985\u201386 academic year.[6] She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Technology from Christian Brothers University in 1992 and completed additional education there in 1996, including a Master of Business Administration.[1][6]\n\nProfessionally, Bergmann has worked as a marketing professional.[13] Her career experience includes roles in business, though specific details of her employment history are not fully detailed in available sources.[1] She is also associated with the Sober House Homeless Mission as a board member.[4]\n\n## Office history\n\nCharlotte Bergmann has served as a State Executive Committeewoman for District 33 of the Tennessee Republican Party (TNGOP) [4][5]. She also serves on the board of the Sober House Homeless Mission and holds roles as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church [4][5].\n\nBergmann ran for the U.S. House to represent Tennessee's 9th Congressional District in three separate general elections, all against incumbent Democrat Steve Cohen. In the 2010 election, she was defeated by Cohen [10]. She ran again in the 2022 general election and lost to Cohen [4]. In the 2024 general election, she was once more defeated by Cohen [5].\n\nBergmann is currently a candidate for the U.S. House to represent Tennessee's 9th Congressional District in the upcoming 2026 Republican primary, which is scheduled for August 6, 2026 [1].\n\n## Legislative record and accomplishments\n\nCharlotte Bergmann has not held elected legislative office, and therefore has no prior legislative record, sponsored bills, or committee assignments to cite [4][5]. Her political experience is limited to party service as a State Executive Committeewoman for District 33 of the Tennessee Republican Party (TNGOP) [4][5].\n\nIn her campaigns for Tennessee's 9th Congressional District, Bergmann has self-described as a \"Conservative\" and a \"Tea Party-style Republican\" [4][5][13]. Her stated policy positions emphasize \"Law and Order,\" arguing that Washington must support local law enforcement with resources and technology to combat violent crime in Memphis [7]. She states that she supports federal partnerships to strengthen public safety initiatives and protect victims [7].\n\nEconomically, Bergmann has focused her platform on issues affecting families and entrepreneurs, citing inflation, rising housing costs, and regulatory burdens as key challenges [7]. She has criticized the incumbent representative for neglecting veterans in Shelby County and allowing crime and poverty to rise [3]. During her 2010 campaign, she was backed by the Tea Party movement [10]. In subsequent cycles, including 2022 and 2024, she continued to seek the Republican nomination for the district [4][5].\n\n## Documented disputes and controversies\n\nIn the 2010 general election for Tennessee\u2019s 9th Congressional District, incumbent Democrat Steve Cohen defeated Bergmann, who was backed by the Tea Party movement [10]. Bergmann later sought to unseat Cohen in subsequent cycles, including a 2020 campaign where she stated her goal was to win the seat from the Democratic representative [12].\n\nDuring her 2026 campaign for the Republican nomination in Tennessee\u2019s 9th District, Bergmann\u2019s platform focused on criticizing the incumbent\u2019s record regarding public safety and veteran affairs. Her campaign materials asserted that murders, carjackings, rapes, homelessness, and poverty had \"skyrocketed\" during the incumbent's seventeen-year tenure, accusing him of neglecting the district's veterans and exhibiting \"corruption and disdain\" for residents [3]. Bergmann also characterized her political approach as a \"Tea Party-style\" conservative effort to challenge Cohen [13].\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n\nCharlotte Bergmann\u2019s professional background is rooted in marketing and technology. She has worked as a business marketing professional [1][13]. Her father was a Baptist minister, and she was the first member of her family to receive a higher-level college education [6][8][11].\n\nSpecific details regarding her current business interests, ownership stakes, or sources of personal wealth are not provided in available public records. Campaign finance data for her 2026 bid shows total receipts of $11,734.59, consisting entirely of individual contributions and other committee donations, with no candidate contributions reported [2]. Bergmann states that she is running to address economic concerns such as inflation and regulatory burdens on entrepreneurs in the district [7].\n\n## Family\n\nBergmann is a native Memphian who grew up in a Christian household as one of ten children [6]. Her father was a Baptist minister [8]. She self-describes as the first member of her family to attain a college education [12].\n\nThe provided sources do not contain information regarding Bergmann's spouse, children, or other family members in politics.\n\n## Sources\n[1] [Charlotte Bergmann - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Charlotte_Bergmann)\n[2] [BERGMANN, CHARLOTTE - Candidate overview - FEC.gov](https://www.fec.gov/data/candidate/H0TN09061/)\n[3] [Charlotte Bergmann for US Congress](https://electbergmann.com/)\n[4] [Voter Guide Profile for TN U.S. Rep., Dist. 9 candidate - Charlotte Bergmann](https://ivoterguide.com/candidate/4418/race/1114/election/979)\n[5] [Voter Guide Profile for TN U.S. Rep., Dist. 9 candidate - Charlotte Bergmann](https://ivoterguide.com/candidate/4418/race/1114/election/1242)\n[6] [Charlotte Bergmann for US Congress](https://electbergmann.com/about.html)\n[7] [Charlotte Bergmann for US Congress](https://bergmannforcongress.com/issues.html)\n[8] [Charlotte Bergmann for US Congress](https://www.bergmannforcongress.com/about.html)\n[9] [Republican Charlotte Bergmann announces campaign for Tennessee's 9th Congressional District](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/republican-charlotte-bergmann-announces-campaign-for-tennessees-9th-congressional-district/522-01a63319-f8be-44d1-9399-853af055d767)\n[10] [Cohen defeats Bergmann in Tennessee's 9th District](https://www.actionnews5.com/story/13433853/cohen-defeats-bergmann-in-tennessees-9th-district/)\n[11] [Charlotte Bergmann for US Congress](https://charlottebergmann.com/about.html)\n[12] [Republican Charlotte Bergmann Wants U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen's Job - Tennessee Star](https://tennesseestar.com/news/republican-charlotte-bergmann-wants-u-s-rep-steve-cohens-job/cbutler/2020/09/14/)\n[13] [PolitiFact | Charlotte Bergmann](https://www.politifact.com/personalities/charlotte-bergmann/)","firstname":"Charlotte","lastname":"Bergmann","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"Z9vkhGU1Ti"},"token":"charlotte_bergmann"},{"candidatename":"M Latroy A-Williams","chatgptsummary":"M Latroy A-Williams is a businessman, author, and publisher with International Communication & Associate's. However, his suitability for the role of US Representative, District 9, is questionable due to past legal issues. He has been involved in a case of election deception and has faced allegations of fraudulent campaign practices. These issues could potentially undermine his credibility and effectiveness in representing the district's constituents, advocating for district-specific issues, and participating in legislative processes.","notes":"","party":"Democratic","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n\n- Democratic candidate for **Shelby County Trustee** in the May 5, 2026 primary. ([Shelby County Election Commission Final Candidate List](https://electionsshelbytn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Final-Candidate-List-May-5-2026-Election.pdf), [Memphis Public Libraries 2026 voter guide](https://www.memphislibrary.org/informed-voter/meet-the-candidates-2025-05-05/))\n- Also filed for the 2026 Democratic primary for **U.S. House TN-9** (challenging incumbent Steve Cohen). ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/M._LaTroy_Williams))\n- Campaign site: [mlatroya-williams.com](https://mlatroya-williams.com/). Candidate profile: [justmymemphis.com/mlatroyawilliams](https://justmymemphis.com/mlatroyawilliams).\n\nFilings and press have used \"Marion Latroy A-Williams,\" \"M. LaTroy Williams,\" \"M. LaTroy Alexandria-Williams,\" and \"Marion Latroy Alexandria-Williams Jr.\" \u2014 all refer to the same person. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Marion_Latroy_Alexandria-Williams_Jr.))\n\n## Office history\n\nLong record of campaigns (all unsuccessful):\n\n- **2008**: Independent for Shelby County Trustee. ([Memphis Flyer](https://www.memphisflyer.com/the-mystery-man-of-the-trustees-race))\n- **2015**: Memphis Mayor. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/M._LaTroy_Williams))\n- **2016, 2018, 2024, 2026**: Democratic primary, U.S. House TN-9 (challenging Steve Cohen). ([Memphis Flyer](https://www.memphisflyer.com/candidate-m-latroy-williams-case-came-alive-again-briefly/))\n- **2020**: Democratic primary, Tennessee State Senate District 30 \u2014 lost to Sara Kyle.\n- **2022**: Democratic primary, Tennessee State Senate District 33 \u2014 lost to London Lamar. ([Memphis Flyer](https://www.memphisflyer.com/election-2022-kind-of-blue/))\n- **2023**: General election for Memphis City Council Super District 8, Position 2 \u2014 lost to Janika White.\n\n## Career\n\n- Self-described businessman, newspaper publisher, and community advocate.\n- Library of Congress records list \"M. Latroy A. Williams\" as editor of the **Mid-South Express**, a Memphis weekly newspaper, circa 1981. ([Library of Congress catalog](https://www.loc.gov/item/sn98069864/))\n- Describes himself on LinkedIn as *\"Businessman / Author & Newspaper/Magazine Publishers at International Communication & Associate's.\"* ([LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-latroy-alexandria-williams-98b264166/))\n\n## Documented disputes and controversies\n\n- \"Trickle-up\" economic theory. Proposes Mud Island as an international trade hub (claiming ~80,000 jobs) and President Island as a green-jobs hub. Education reform; criminal-justice reform; property-tax relief for seniors and veterans. ([campaign site](https://mlatroya-williams.com/the-promise/))\n- **2008**: Campaign fliers carried fake endorsements and a misspelled version of former official Minerva Johnican's name; a now-defunct company of his, First Supreme Trust Company Inc., owed ~$67,000 in back taxes to the Trustee's office he was seeking to lead. ([Memphis Flyer](https://www.memphisflyer.com/the-mystery-man-of-the-trustees-race))\n- **2010**: The Shelby County Democratic Party sought a legal injunction against him over sample-ballot activities. ([Memphis Flyer](https://www.memphisflyer.com/wtf-latroy-you-got-some-more-splainin-to-do/))\n- **2014**: Signage suggested President Obama had endorsed congressional candidate Ricky Wilkins; Rep. Steve Cohen called it deceptive. Also the subject of **FEC Matter Under Review 6861**. ([FEC MUR 6861 (PDF)](https://www.fec.gov/files/legal/murs/6861/18044437027.pdf))\n- **2018**: The TN Democratic Party declared him ineligible for the TN-9 primary; Chancellor Walter Evans ruled in his favor twice; suit *Williams v. Goins et al.* was eventually withdrawn. ([Memphis Flyer](https://www.memphisflyer.com/candidate-m-latroy-williams-case-came-alive-again-briefly/))\n- **2019**: Commercial Appeal reported on bogus-ballot and election-deception allegations. ([Commercial Appeal](https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/news/2019/11/15/memphis-bogus-ballot-and-election-deception-case/4168788002/))\n- Operates an entity he calls \"The National Democratic Party U.S.A.\" \u2014 not affiliated with the DNC, the Tennessee Democratic Party, or the Shelby County Democratic Party.\n\n## Family\n\nShelby County's 2026 candidate filings list **Marinda A-Williams** (Democratic primary for County School Board District 6) at the same filing address, 3693 Hermitage Drive. She appears on Ballotpedia under \"Marinda Alexandria-Williams.\" Relationship not stated in public coverage \u2014 inferred from shared address and hyphenated surname.\n\n*Merged on 2026-04-18 from two duplicate person records (HRXole8Q95 and 15nTBbipZX). Several biographical claims on the candidate's own site (civil-rights march at age 15, Carter-era committee appearance, Mud Island job projection) are self-reported and not independently corroborated. Memphis Flyer characterized him in past reporting as \"but a perennial candidate.\"*\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n\nNo statement of interest filing found as of 2026-04-25. Search the [Tennessee Ethics Commission Statement of Interest Search](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/search.htm).\n","firstname":"Marion","lastname":"Williams","middlename":"LaTroy","suffix":null,"token":"15nTBbipZX"},"token":"m_latroy_a_williams"}],"choices":null,"description":"A US Representative represents the district's constituents in the House of Representatives, participating in legislative processes, and voting on federal laws. This role includes addressing local concerns, advocating for district-specific issues, and ensuring that the voices of the district's residents are heard in Congress. The representative also works on crafting and supporting legislation that aligns with the needs and interests of their District and the broader national agenda. US Representatives are paid $174,000/year. https://www.house.gov/legislative-activity","district":"09","districtgroup":"us_house","districtgroupname":"US House","districtname":"Congressional District 9","job_type":"us_representative","o.office":"us_representative_district_9","office":"us_representative_district_9","officedescription":"A United States Representative represents a single congressional district in the lower chamber of Congress, serving a two-year term. Representatives write and pass federal law, originate revenue bills, fund and oversee the executive branch, and serve constituents in dealings with federal agencies.","officequalities":"- Legislative craft at the federal level: reading, drafting, and amending federal statute, and knowing the law being changed.\n- Understanding of the district's economic and everyday concerns, and constituent-service capacity for casework with federal agencies.\n- Persuasion and coalition-building across party and factional lines to form working majorities.\n- Integrity: acting for constituents and the public good rather than personal gain, independent of undue influence.\n- Oversight judgment: the House funds and oversees the executive branch and the military.","officeterm":2,"officetitle":"US Representative, District 9","partisan":1,"pgr":"primary","quantity":1,"referendum":"","source":null,"title":"US Representative, District 9"}