{"campaigns":[{"candidatename":"Britney Thornton","chatgptsummary":"As Shelby County\u2019s youngest commissioner, Britney Thornton brings community organizing experience and a background as a licensed social worker and educator. Her work founding JUICE Orange Mound demonstrates capacity for mobilizing residents and managing small-scale financial initiatives. A former law student, she possesses foundational legal exposure relevant to statutory interpretation. However, the biography lacks evidence of direct administrative experience with high-volume motor vehicle or business-tax operations.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nOn August 4, 2022, District 10 elected Britney Thornton to become the youngest County Commissioner in the history of Shelby County.  A native Memphian from Historic Orange Mound, Britney is a master social worker, licensed educator, and former law student.  From all of her years of service, she has found her passion as a community organizer.  A graduate of Baylor University and the University of Pennsylvania, Britney has called Memphis home for 33 years.  \n\nFounder of the non-profit JUICE Orange Mound, Britney continues to challenge systems of oppression by thinking of new and creative ways to address old issues.  Under her leadership, she mobilized Orange Mound residents and supporters to invest over $12,200 in spare change to fund community-based initiatives. Innovative, personable, and driven, Britney is elated to be elected as the County Commissioner for the best district-- District 10.   \n\nConstituents across District 10 can expect greatness from Commissioner Thornton.  Over the course of the next 4 years, Britney is committed to making strides in 3 key areas: Housing, Transit, and Economic Development.  Moreover, Britney has a passion for our neighborhoods and seeks to leverage her new position to organize the district.  Residents can expect to know which neighborhood they are connected to and plan to get more civically engaged.   \n\nWith much gratitude does Commissioner Thornton thank all of her supporters!  If you would like to stay connected to the happenings in District 10, visit www.britneythornton.com.\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Commission (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=THORNTON&id=85490&f=196681&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=THORNTON&id=85490&f=201615&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2025** \u2014 [County Commission (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=THORNTON&id=85490&f=187596&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2024** \u2014 [County Commission (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=THORNTON&id=85490&f=181696&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n\n*Source: [Tennessee Ethics Commission Statement of Interest Search](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/search.htm). Scraped 2026-04-25.*\n","firstname":"Britney","lastname":"Thornton","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"lzCh4ruiax"},"token":"britney_thornton"},{"candidatename":"James \"Jeff\" Fuller","chatgptsummary":"Fuller proposes modernizing online appointment systems and establishing a Southwest Super Center to address high-volume transaction management across satellite locations. His platform emphasizes customer service capacity through extended hours and dedicated accessibility seating for residents with disabilities. He advocates for financial controls by capturing non-resident tag decal revenue to reinvest in local infrastructure without raising taxes. Fuller positions himself as a small business owner and FedEx employee focused on operational efficiency and restoring integrity to the office.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nFuller\u2019s platform for the Shelby County Clerk office focuses on \"modern solutions\" and restoring integrity to the office. His stated mission is to build a government that prioritizes customer service over bureaucratic delays ([jfjfuller1.com](https://www.jfjfuller1.com/)). Key policy proposals include:\n\n*   **Enhanced Accessibility:** Implementing dedicated seating and service areas specifically designed for customers with disabilities and mobility needs ([jfjfuller1.com](https://www.jfjfuller1.com/)).\n*   **Financial Responsibility:** Capturing tag decal revenue from non-residents to reinvest in local Shelby County infrastructure without increasing the tax burden on residents ([jfjfuller1.com](https://www.jfjfuller1.com/)).\n*   **Operational Efficiency:** Introducing a modernized online system for prescheduled appointments to eliminate long wait times and establishing a new full-service hub, referred to as the \"Southwest Super Center,\" in Southwest Shelby County to reduce branch congestion ([jfjfuller1.com](https://www.jfjfuller1.com/)).\n*   **Extended Hours:** Offering flexible scheduling and extended service windows to accommodate working families ([jfjfuller1.com](https://www.jfjfuller1.com/)).\n\nThe campaign highlights support from local residents, including small business owner Sarah Jenkins and community advocate Marcus Thompson. These supporters cite Fuller\u2019s focus on efficiency for working families and his attention to the needs of seniors and people with disabilities as key reasons for their backing ([jfjfuller1.com](https://www.jfjfuller1.com/)).\n\n## Career\nJames \"Jeff\" Fuller Sr. is a small business owner and an employee of FedEx ([Daily Memphian](https://dailymemphian.com/article/60691/shelby-county-primary-ejections-tennessee-iran-air-strikes-votes)). He identifies as a candidate for Shelby County Clerk, positioning his campaign around the themes of modernization and efficiency in local government ([jfjfuller1.com](https://www.jfjfuller1.com/)).\n\n## Office history\nFuller was one of eight candidates removed from the May 5 Democratic primary ballot for Shelby County Clerk by the Tennessee Democratic Party after failing to meet filing requirements by the February 20 deadline. However, he successfully appealed this decision and returned to the ballot ([Daily Memphian](https://dailymemphian.com/article/60691/shelby-county-primary-ejections-tennessee-iran-air-strikes-votes)). His return placed him in the largest field of contenders for the position on that ballot ([Daily Memphian](https://dailymemphian.com/article/60691/shelby-county-primary-ejections-tennessee-iran-air-strikes-votes)).\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\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":"James","lastname":"Fuller","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"ZaZGathssY"},"token":"james_jeff_fuller"},{"candidatename":"Bennie Smith","chatgptsummary":"Smith currently serves as Motor Vehicle Registration Administrator for Shelby County Clerk\u2019s Office, directly managing its largest operational division. This role provides immediate experience administering vehicle registrations and license plates for the county\u2019s residents. His tenure as Secretary of the Shelby County Election Commission demonstrates administrative oversight in a high-volume public service environment. Corporate analytics roles at ABB and Thomas & Betts involved transforming over 100 million records and allocating $2 billion, indicating strong capacity for financial controls and process management.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- Motor Vehicle Registration Administrator for the Shelby County Clerk\u2019s Office, overseeing the county\u2019s largest operational division. ([benniesmith.com](https://benniesmith.com/about/))\n- Secretary of the Tennessee State Election Commission (appointed April 2022). ([benniesmith.com](https://benniesmith.com/about/))\n\n- Candidate in the Democratic primary. ([localmemphis.com](https://www.localmemphis.com/video/news/local/meet-the-candidates-bennie-smith-for-shelby-county-clerk-full-interview/522-cc2bd212-6b3d-47df-bfc7-c7bb74f8f11b))\n- Campaign site: [benniesmith.com](https://benniesmith.com/about/)\n\n## Background and education\n- Information not provided in sources.\n\n## Career\n- **Election Integrity:** Serves on the Technical Advisory Team for SMART Elections and has advised candidates across nearly every elected office in Shelby County. His research into voting system vulnerabilities was covered by Bloomberg Businessweek, PBS NewsHour, and USA Today, and presented to Congress and election officials nationwide. ([justmymemphis.com](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3678); [benniesmith.com](https://benniesmith.com/about/))\n- **Corporate Analytics:** Held senior analytics roles at ABB and Thomas & Betts, where he transformed over 100 million records into enterprise reporting models, allocated over $2 billion in sales, and identified over $20 million in excess inventory. ([benniesmith.com](https://benniesmith.com/about/))\n- **Other Roles:** Former Head of Data Analytics and Finance at Normac Media Group; corporate revenue analytics at Hilton Worldwide; software developer for First Tennessee Bank and International Paper; liaison between elected officials and IT for the City of Memphis. ([justmymemphis.com](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3678); [benniesmith.com](https://benniesmith.com/about/))\n\n - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennie-j-smith-4168757/)\n \n\n## Office history\n- Secretary of the Shelby County Election Commission (appointed April 2019). ([benniesmith.com](https://benniesmith.com/about/))\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [Member - State Election Commission (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=SMITH&id=97686&f=195511&v=1) \u2014 filed as a state official/candidate\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=SMITH&id=97686&f=199362&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2025** \u2014 [Member - State Election Commission (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=SMITH&id=97686&f=186100&v=1) \u2014 filed as a state official/candidate\n- **2024** \u2014 [Member - State Election Commission (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=SMITH&id=97686&f=181797&v=1) \u2014 filed as a state official/candidate\n\n*Source: [Tennessee Ethics Commission Statement of Interest Search](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/search.htm). Scraped 2026-04-25.*\n\n## Family\n- Information not provided in sources.\n\n\n\n---\n*Compiled from publicly available web sources on 2026-04-18.*\n","firstname":"Bennie","lastname":"Smith","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"tw7DgDb017"},"token":"bennie_smith"},{"candidatename":"Arriell Gipson-Martin","chatgptsummary":"Gipson-Martin served as a senior program manager and public health coordinator for Shelby County Government, providing direct experience in local administration and community engagement relevant to high-volume customer service operations. Her campaign emphasizes innovation in service delivery and integrity, aligning with goals for process management and financial controls. She previously sought this office in 2022, gaining familiarity with the role\u2019s scope. However, her biography lacks specific details regarding statutory knowledge of motor-vehicle or marriage laws, experience supervising multi-location staff, or background in managing complex fee remittance systems.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nArriell Gipson-Martin does not currently hold elected office. She works as Senior Program Manager for the District Connector pilot project at Shelby County Government [1][2]. She filed as a Democratic candidate for Shelby County Clerk in December 2025 [1] and lost the May 5, 2026 Democratic primary to LaSonya Hall in a multi-candidate field [3][4]. She subsequently filed as a Democratic candidate for Tennessee House of Representatives District 91, certified with sufficient signatures on March 10, 2026, challenging incumbent Democratic Rep. Torrey C. Harris in the August 6, 2026 primary [5].\n\n## Background and education\nGipson-Martin holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and has completed training through the Leaders of Color program, Organizing for Action, and the New Memphis Leadership Institute [1].\n\n## Career\nIn addition to her current role, Gipson-Martin has previously worked for Shelby County Government as a community engagement manager and a public health coordinator [1]. She co-founded the Hope & Healing Collaborative [1] and serves on the boards of Serenity Recovery Centers, the Leaders of Color Alumni Board, the Tennessee Rape Prevention and Education Community Advisory Board, and the Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence Inclusivity Committee [1]. She also holds Shelby County Democratic Party leadership roles: 1st Vice President of the Shelby County Young Democrats, an ex-officio Executive Committee member of the Shelby County Democratic Party, and Corresponding Secretary of Democratic Women of Shelby County [1].\n\n## Sources\n[1] [Arriell Gipson Martin kicks off campaign for Shelby County Clerk](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/arriell-gipson-martin-kicks-off-campaign-for-shelby-county-clerk/522-a2e89a59-40fe-4623-ae14-cf2c464a2e75) - accessed 2026-07-06\n[2] [Shelby County, TN Staff Directory - Arriell Gipson Martin](https://www.shelbycountytn.gov/directory.aspx?EID=1279) - accessed 2026-07-06\n[3] [LaSonya Hall wins Democratic nomination for Shelby County Clerk](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/primary-voters-decide-who-will-run-to-replace-shelby-county-clerk-wanda-halbert/522-dd220766-5472-4833-9c2f-6876dad83c81) - accessed 2026-07-06\n[4] [FINAL: Election results tallied across Shelby County](https://www.actionnews5.com/2026/05/06/final-election-results-tallied-across-shelby-county/) - Action News 5, 2026-05-06\n[5] [Candidates Certified for August 6, 2026 Primary and General Election](https://electionsshelbytn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Candidates-Certified-for-August-6-2026-Primary-and-General-Election-33026.pdf) - Shelby County Election Commission, accessed 2026-07-06","firstname":"Arriell","lastname":"Gipson-Martin","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"8PzpvAGqx8"},"token":"arriell_gipson_martin"},{"candidatename":"Michael R. Williams","chatgptsummary":"Not enough public information found to evaluate.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- None listed in sources.\n\n- Democratic candidate for Shelby County Clerk in 2026. ([localmemphis.com](https://www.localmemphis.com/video/news/local/meet-the-candidates-michael-williams-for-shelby-county-clerk-full-interview/522-dc76e571-96ff-4d39-86fc-1e5ec3b8cfba))\n - [Campaign site on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/mikeformemphis/)\n \n\n## Background and education\n- None listed in sources.\n\n## Office history\n- None listed in sources.\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=WILLIAMS&id=97385&f=197758&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n\n*Source: [Tennessee Ethics Commission Statement of Interest Search](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/search.htm). Scraped 2026-04-25.*\n\n## Family\n- None listed in sources.\n","firstname":"Michael","lastname":"Williams","middlename":"R.","suffix":null,"token":"U7MMjcAqud"},"token":"michael_r_williams"},{"candidatename":"William Stovall","chatgptsummary":"Stovall\u2019s fifteen-year tenure as a senior workers\u2019 compensation adjuster involved managing complex claims and supervising junior staff, mapping to office supervision and high-volume transaction management. His background in evaluating liability and facilitating settlements aligns with financial controls for collecting and remitting fees. He holds a Political Science degree and business administration coursework, providing theoretical grounding for statutory knowledge and organizational leadership. Campaign materials emphasize streamlining vehicle registration and business licensing processes to improve customer service efficiency.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nIn his 2026 campaign, Stovall emphasizes transparency, efficiency, and modernization of county services. He has stated that his goal is to streamline processes for vehicle registration, business licensing, and vital records, making them more accessible to residents and businesses ([William Stovall Campaign Site](https://stovallforclerk.com/)). He highlights his private sector experience in claims management as relevant to the administrative duties of the Clerk's office, arguing that his background will help reduce wait times and improve customer service for Shelby County citizens.\n\n## Background and education\nStovall holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Memphis. He has also completed additional coursework in business administration, focusing on management and organizational leadership ([William Stovall Campaign Site](https://stovallforclerk.com/)).\n\n## Career\nWilliam Stovall is a Democratic Party candidate seeking the office of Shelby County Clerk in Tennessee. He has established a professional background in the insurance industry, specifically within the field of workers' compensation. Per his campaign website, Stovall served as a senior adjuster for over 15 years, managing complex claims and overseeing teams of junior adjusters ([William Stovall Campaign Site](https://stovallforclerk.com/)). His professional experience includes roles at various insurance firms where he was responsible for evaluating liability and facilitating settlements.\n\n## Office history\nStovall first ran for Shelby County Clerk in the 2022 election cycle. In the Democratic primary held on May 3, 2022, he received 11.6% of the vote (5,434 votes), finishing second among the Democratic candidates behind incumbent Wanda Halbert, who won with 72.2% ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/William_Stovall)). The general election was subsequently won by Halbert.\n\nStovall is running again for Shelby County Clerk in the 2026 election. He is listed as a candidate in the Democratic primary scheduled for May 5, 2026 ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/William_Stovall)). The Greater Memphis Chamber has included Stovall in its \"Meet the Candidates\" video series for the Shelby County Clerk race, allowing voters to hear his background and priorities directly ([Greater Memphis Chamber](https://memphischamber.com/blog/general/meet-the-candidates-shelby-county-clerk/)).\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\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":"William","lastname":"Stovall","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"rUbiCDIa3f"},"token":"william_stovall"},{"candidatename":"Myra Charles","chatgptsummary":"Charles proposes modernizing operations via kiosks, mobile services, and extended hours to reduce wait times for tag renewals and other high-volume transactions. She pledges to improve customer service through streamlined processes and expanded translation resources for diverse populations, including seniors and Hispanic residents. Her platform emphasizes transparency by publishing regular updates on fees and fund utilization to ensure clear accountability. Charles aims to establish open feedback channels and measurable performance goals to guide decision-making.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n\nMyra Charles is a Democratic Party candidate running for Shelby County Clerk in Tennessee. She is seeking the office in the upcoming election cycle, with the primary scheduled for May 5, 2026, and the general election set for August 6, 2026 ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Myra_Charles)). Charles is one of several candidates vying for the position in a race where no incumbent is currently serving ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Myra_Charles)).  Campaign website [https://myracharles.com/](https://myracharles.com/)\n\n### Campaign Themes and Platform\n\nCharles has outlined a platform focused on operational efficiency, transparency, and community service through her campaign website. She describes public office as \"a responsibility to serve, not a position of power,\" emphasizing a commitment to listening to community voices and building relationships across neighborhoods (per Myra Charles' campaign website). Her stated goals include improving customer service by reducing wait times for residents seeking basic services, such as tag renewals, through improved staffing and streamlined processes (per Myra Charles' campaign website).\n\nA significant portion of her platform addresses the need to modernize the Clerk's Office. Charles proposes implementing more kiosks, mobile services, extended hours, and user-friendly technological upgrades to meet contemporary needs (per Myra Charles' campaign website). She also emphasizes expanding access for diverse populations, including seniors, veterans, working families, and the growing Hispanic/Latino community, by providing translation and interpretation services where needed (per Myra Charles' campaign website).\n\n### Accountability and Transparency\n\nCharles asserts that residents should not be left in the dark regarding government operations. Her platform pledges to ensure clear, accessible information about services, fees, and timelines, while publishing regular updates so taxpayers understand how their funds are utilized (per Myra Charles' campaign website). To strengthen accountability, she plans to establish open channels for feedback, set measurable performance goals, and report progress openly, stating that integrity, service, and results will guide every decision (per Myra Charles' campaign website).\n\n### Election Context\n\nMyra Charles is listed on the ballot for the Democratic primary for Shelby County Clerk. She competes against other candidates including James Fuller, Arriell Gipson-Martin, Bob Green, LaSonya Hall, Ed Holt Jr., Bennie Smith, William Stovall, George Summers, Britney Thornton, and Mike Williams ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Myra_Charles)). As of the available records, Charles has not completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey for the 2026 election cycle ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Myra_Charles)). Her campaign contact information is listed as mc@myracharles.com ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Myra_Charles)).\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":"Myra","lastname":"Charles","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"XoiOde00xf"},"token":"myra_charles"},{"candidatename":"LaSonya Hall","chatgptsummary":"Hall\u2019s twenty-five years as a senior executive administrator in city and county government demonstrate capacity for high-volume office supervision and process management. Her tenure directing the Health Department during the pandemic, including establishing a mass vaccination site, evidences operational scale handling. She proposes strategic planning to redesign workflows and expand digital services, addressing technology management needs. Advocating for automated innovation via vending machines aligns with modernizing motor-vehicle registration processes.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n\nLaSonya Hall is the Democratic nominee for Shelby County Clerk on the August 6, 2026 general-election ballot, having won the Democratic primary on May 5, 2026 [1][2]. Her campaign website is lasonyahall.com [2].\n\n## Career\n\nHall has been Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Shelby County Government since October 2018 [3]. The role is a senior administrative position under the County Mayor's office, with broad portfolio responsibilities across county operations.\n\nBeginning March 16, 2021, Hall additionally served as interim director of the Shelby County Health Department, taking over when Director Alisa Haushalter resigned during the COVID-19 vaccination rollout [4]. The interim assignment was in addition to her continuing Deputy CAO duties and ran until a permanent successor (Michelle Taylor) was named later that year. Her campaign account credits this period with the launch of the Whitehaven mass-vaccination site [2].\n\nBefore joining Shelby County Government, Hall briefly held the Partnerships Manager role at Shelby County Schools (July to October 2018) and was Director of Postsecondary Strategic Systems at Leadership Memphis (July 2016 to July 2018) [3].\n\nFrom 2003 to 2016 she had a thirteen-year career at the City of Memphis under multiple administrations. As Deputy Director of Parks and Neighborhoods (2010\u20132016), she had management responsibility for personnel and budgets across Public Relations, Community Affairs, Re-entry, the Memphis Music Commission, the Civilian Law Enforcement Review Board, Memphis Animal Services, Motor Vehicle Inspection, the Memphis Library and Information Center, and the Neighborhood Watch Program [3]. Before that, as Deputy Director and Policy Analyst (2003\u20132009), she managed the city's Executive Division operating budget of approximately $26 million, presented budgets to the City Council, and served as liaison between the CAO's office and council members on policy implementation [3].\n\nEarlier in her career Hall was Associate Director of Research at the University of Mississippi (2000\u20132003), where she administered the university's $44.1 million research portfolio including pre- and post-award contract management for sponsored research [3]. From 1994 to 1999 she was Environmental Justice Program Director at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIH-NIEHS) in Bethesda, Maryland, where she organized regional and federal workshops on health disparities, socioeconomic status, and environmental exposures [3].\n\n## Background and education\n\nHall holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of Mississippi (2003), a Master of Public Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (1994), and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Jackson State University (1992) [3].\n\n## Sources\n[1] [LaSonya Hall - JustMyMemphis interview](https://www.justmymemphis.com/view-post/3777)\n[2] [LaSonya Hall for County Clerk - campaign website](https://www.lasonyahall.com/)\n[3] [LaSonya Hall - LinkedIn profile](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lasonya-hall-4a0896b8/) (LinkedIn requires login; professional history above reflects the public profile as of May 2026.)\n[4] [Haushalter serves last day as director of Shelby Co. Health Dept. - Action News 5 (March 16, 2021)](https://www.actionnews5.com/2021/03/16/haushalter-serves-last-day-director-shelby-co-health-dept/)\n[5] [Statement of Interest, 2026 Shelby County Clerk filing - TN Ethics Commission](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=HALL&id=103877&f=198130&v=1)","firstname":"LaSonya","lastname":"Hall","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"PL9XtdzmXI"},"token":"lasonya_hall"},{"candidatename":"Tina Montgomery","chatgptsummary":"Montgomery\u2019s thirty-year accounting background demonstrates financial integrity relevant to collecting and remitting state fees. Her campaign platform emphasizes operational efficiency, promising digital queuing systems to manage high transaction volumes across locations. She pledges transparent leadership to protect taxpayer dollars, addressing financial controls. Montgomery also commits to a staff focused on citizen care and compliance, mapping to customer-service demands. However, her biography lacks specific details regarding direct experience administering motor-vehicle registrations or marriage licenses.","notes":"","party":"R","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nTina Montgomery is the Republican nominee for Shelby County Clerk on the August 6, 2026 general-election ballot [1]. She was unopposed in the May 5, 2026 Republican primary [2]. She faces Democratic nominee LaSonya Hall in the general election. The seat is open \u2014 no incumbent is running.\n\nIn her Ballotpedia candidate survey, Montgomery describes her platform priorities as financial accountability, customer service, and modernization of clerk's-office systems, including a stated interest in digital queuing and streamlined service workflows [1].\n\n## Career\nPer public sources, Montgomery's professional background is in accounting, described as more than thirty years of experience focused on financial integrity and operational excellence [1]. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Memphis [1].\n\n## Sources\n[1] [Tina Montgomery - Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Tina_Montgomery)\n[2] [May 5, 2026 Shelby County primary results - enhancedvoting.com](https://app.enhancedvoting.com/results/public/shelby-county-tn/elections/050526PrimaryMunicipal) (Montgomery was unopposed in the Republican primary)\n[3] [Statement of Interest, 2026 Shelby County Clerk filing - TN Ethics Commission](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=MONTGOMERY&id=103892&f=198347&v=1)","firstname":"Tina","lastname":"Montgomery","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"GUECgcAo1Y"},"token":"tina_montgomery"},{"candidatename":"Bob Green","chatgptsummary":"Green\u2019s thirty-one years in logistics and property oversight demonstrate experience managing high-volume operations and complex supply chains. His current role in law enforcement evidence management highlights a background requiring zero-error precision, relevant to financial controls and statutory compliance. He proposes triage systems and satellite drop-off locations at community hubs to address customer-service capacity and neighborhood access for the Clerk\u2019s office. Green plans to audit leases and replace outdated technology to improve process management across multiple locations.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nGreen\u2019s campaign focuses on treating the Shelby County Clerk's Office as a complex retail and logistics operation rather than a political arena. He argues that the office suffers from \"forced retail\" inefficiencies, such as long wait times for vehicle tags and licenses, which he attributes to poor management rather than political promises ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)).\n\nHis proposed platform includes several specific operational changes:\n*   **Audit and Execute:** Green plans to audit every property lease immediately upon taking office and replace outdated Windows 7 computers that he claims slow down workers ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)).\n*   **The Apple Store Model:** He proposes implementing a triage system to direct citizens upon entry and creating dedicated appointment times for businesses and fleet vehicles to eliminate aimless waiting ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)).\n*   **Neighborhood Access:** Green intends to partner with community hubs, such as local libraries in areas like Bartlett or Arlington, to establish satellite drop-off locations for basic services ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)).\n*   **Staff Empowerment:** His platform includes providing current supervisors with modern tools, compensation adjustments, and leadership support to improve working conditions ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)).\n\nGreen states that he is not running for office to secure a political \"soft landing\" or build a government resume, but rather because he believes his private sector experience allows him to fix the bottlenecks in the Clerk's Office immediately ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)).\n\n## Career\nBob Green is a logistics and customer service professional with 31 years of experience in the private sector, distinguishing himself from career politicians by emphasizing operational expertise over political tenure ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)). His career includes significant roles in supply chain management and property oversight. He previously worked for Memphis-based Hollywood Feed, where he was responsible for training the company\u2019s initial Texas market from the ground up and overhauling inefficient warehousing systems ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)). Currently, Green works in property and evidence management for law enforcement, a role he describes as requiring high-stakes, zero-error logistics daily ([JustMyMemphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3703)).\n\nBob Green is a candidate for Shelby County Clerk in Tennessee, running as a member of the Democratic Party ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Bob_Green_(Tennessee))). He is listed on the ballot for the Democratic primary scheduled for May 5, 2026, with the general election set for August 6, 2026 ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Bob_Green_(Tennessee))). Green has not yet completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey for the 2026 election cycle ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Bob_Green_(Tennessee))).\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=GREEN&id=103875&f=199691&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n\n*Source: [Tennessee Ethics Commission Statement of Interest Search](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/search.htm). Scraped 2026-04-25.*\n","firstname":"Bob","lastname":"Green","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"CzmcFOi9Wl"},"token":"bob_green"},{"candidatename":"Ed Holt, Jr.","chatgptsummary":"As a former accountant for the Shelby County Clerk\u2019s Office in 2023, the candidate possesses direct experience with financial controls and fee collection processes central to the role. His proposal for a Texas-style real-time plate delivery system demonstrates specific knowledge of motor-vehicle registration challenges and technology management. A career educator since 2006 suggests strong communication skills relevant to high-volume customer service interactions. Military service indicates discipline in supervision and process management. However, the biography lacks evidence regarding working knowledge of Tennessee statutes governing marriage licenses or business-tax registrations.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- Candidate for Shelby County Clerk in the Democratic primary on May 5, 2026. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n\n- Running under the platform \"Clerk Connect,\" which proposes implementing a Texas-style real-time plate delivery system to eliminate mail delays and fraud. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3748))\n- Proposes state-level advocacy with the Tennessee General Assembly for dealer-held plate inventory and local infrastructure changes via Clerk Connect. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/view-post/3748))\n- Campaign contact: Edward.Holt2026@gmail.com, (901) 491-2027. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n- [Campaign website](https://www.voteedholtjr.com/)\n\n## Career\n- Career educator who has taught English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science to middle schoolers since 2006. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n- Returned to teaching in 2024 while launching his campaign. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n\n- U.S. Navy veteran who completed his tour of duty in 2002. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n\n- Member of the Memphis Symphony Chorus and the a cappella group DeltaCappella. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n- Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n- Teaches self-defense classes. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n\n## Office history\n- Accountant for the Shelby County Clerk\u2019s Office in 2023. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=HOLT&id=103880&f=201352&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n\n*Source: [Tennessee Ethics Commission Statement of Interest Search](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/search.htm). Scraped 2026-04-25.*\n\n## Family\n- Memphis resident since 2002. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n- Wife: Tammy. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n- Children: Marvin, Nadia, Sabella, and Ethan. ([Just My Memphis](https://justmymemphis.com/ed4clerk))\n","firstname":"Ed","lastname":"Holt","middlename":null,"suffix":"Jr","token":"2e1lEdNeGZ"},"token":"ed_holt_jr"},{"candidatename":"George \"Dempsy\" Summers","chatgptsummary":"Summers ran for Shelby County Register of Deeds in 2022, securing 3.7% of the vote. He previously sought the Republican nomination for Probate Court clerk in 2018 and withdrew from the Democratic primary for General Sessions Court clerk in 2024. These roles involve handling legal documents and court records, which may relate to marriage license administration and business-tax registration oversight. However, his campaigns do not demonstrate experience managing high-volume motor-vehicle operations or supervising multi-location staff. The biography lacks details on education, family, or specific training in Tennessee statutes governing fee collection and financial controls.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- None; candidate in the Democratic primary for Shelby County Clerk on May 5, 2026. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/George_Summers))\n\n- Candidate in the Democratic primary on May 5, 2026 \u2014 one of eleven Democrats running. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/George_Summers))\n- General election will occur on August 6, 2026. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/George_Summers))\n\n## Background and education\n- Information not available in sources.\n\n## Office history\n- None listed.\n\n- Ran as an Independent for Shelby County Register of Deeds in 2022, receiving 3.7% of the vote (4,899 votes) against winner Willie Brooks and Republican Bryan Edmiston. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/George_Summers))\n- Withdrew from the Democratic primary for Shelby County General Sessions Court Clerk in 2024. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/George_Summers))\n- Ran as a Republican for Probate Court clerk in 2018. ([Memphis Flyer](https://www.memphisflyer.com/primary-rosters-set-for-shelby-county-races/))\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=DEMPSY SUMMERS&id=76326&f=201114&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Clerk (SS-8005 (Amended))](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=DEMPSY SUMMERS&id=76326&f=201114&v=2) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2024** \u2014 [General Sessions Court Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=DEMPSY SUMMERS&id=76326&f=176525&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n\n*Source: [Tennessee Ethics Commission Statement of Interest Search](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/search.htm). Scraped 2026-04-25.*\n\n## Family\n- Information not available in sources.\n","firstname":"George","lastname":"Summers","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"kC0GwwvuMK"},"token":"george_dempsy_summers"}],"choices":null,"description":"","district":"shelby","districtgroup":"county","districtgroupname":"County","districtname":null,"job_type":"county_clerk","o.office":"county_clerk","office":"county_clerk","officedescription":"The Shelby County Clerk's office is the busiest transactional office in county government. Its most visible function is the sale of motor-vehicle license plates \u2014 roughly 650,000 per year \u2014 but the Clerk also issues marriage licenses and disabled placards, and handles business-tax registrations. The County Clerk is a separate elected office from the Register of Deeds. The office is governed by state law and the position is limited to two consecutive four-year terms.","officequalities":"- Administration of motor-vehicle registration, license plates, marriage licenses, and business-tax registrations for roughly 910,000 residents \u2014 a high-volume operation across a main office and satellite locations.\n- Working knowledge of Tennessee statutes governing each of those functions, which change regularly.\n- Customer-service capacity: the Clerk's office is one of the most-visited county offices by ordinary residents.\n- Financial controls for collecting state and local fees and remitting them accurately.\n- Supervision of a multi-location office staff handling high transaction volume; technology and process management as more services move online.","officeterm":4,"officetitle":"County Clerk","partisan":1,"pgr":"primary","quantity":1,"referendum":"","source":null,"title":"County Clerk"}