{"campaigns":[{"candidatename":"Heidi Kuhn","chatgptsummary":"Kuhn\u2019s tenure as Deputy Director of Community Services involved managing victim and offender services alongside aging and veterans divisions, demonstrating executive oversight of social welfare operations within the county government. Her role leading the development of a new Training Center from concept to operation highlights project management capabilities relevant to departmental infrastructure. As Special Assistant and Lead Strategist to Sheriff Bill Oldham, she researched and implemented policies for law enforcement and jail operations, providing direct exposure to corrections administration and strategic planning.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nHeidi Kuhn started her career with Shelby County Government in January 2001 as the Executive Director of the Crime Victims Center, advocating for victims and fighting for their rights. She was then appointed as the Deputy Director of Community Services, where she was responsible for all victim and offender services, as well community support divisions, such as the Aging Commission, the Community Services Agency and Veterans Affairs. Ms. Kuhn then became the Director of Training where she developed a Training Center for the County from concept to fully operational status. Prior to being elected Criminal Court Clerk in August 2018, she served as the Special Assistant and Lead Strategist to Sheriff Bill Oldham, researching, strategizing and implementing innovative policies to enhance law enforcement and jail operations.\n\n\u200b\n\n\u200b\u200bMs. Kuhn holds a Master\u2019s degree from Christian Brothers University Business School and a Bachelor\u2019s degree in Education from the University of New Mexico. She also holds certifications in Leadership, Management and Ethics. Ms. Kuhn believes in giving back to the community and thus has served and continues to serve on several boards and is active within the community.\n\n\u200b\n\n\u200bClerk Kuhn is committed to serving the people of Shelby County to the best of her ability and she is dedicated to making sure the Criminal Court Clerk\u2019s office strives towards effective and efficient government operations.\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [Criminal Court Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=KUHN&id=54369&f=193645&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Mayor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=KUHN&id=54369&f=201313&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2025** \u2014 [Criminal Court Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=KUHN&id=54369&f=189077&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2024** \u2014 [Criminal Court Clerk (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=KUHN&id=54369&f=173833&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":"Heidi","lastname":"Kuhn","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"REMcmPkWrR"},"token":"heidi_kuhn"},{"candidatename":"JB Smiley Jr.","chatgptsummary":"Smiley serves as Chair of Public Works and Vice Chair of City Council, demonstrating executive management experience within a municipal government structure. His role as liaison for shared services like MATA aligns with intergovernmental coordination needs. A Tennessee-licensed attorney, he possesses working familiarity with legal frameworks relevant to county governance. As policy advisor to the Shelby County Clerk, he engaged in local administrative operations.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n[https://twitter.com/jbsmileyjr](https://twitter.com/jbsmileyjr)\n\n[https://www.instagram.com/councilmansmiley](https://www.instagram.com/councilmansmiley)\n\n[https://www.votejbsmiley.com/](https://www.votejbsmiley.com/)\n\n[https://ballotpedia.org/JB_Smiley_Jr.](https://ballotpedia.org/JB_Smiley_Jr.)\n\n[https://www.reddit.com/r/memphis/comments/16gvoxj/city_council_staff_shakeup_leaves_questions_over/](https://www.reddit.com/r/memphis/comments/16gvoxj/city_council_staff_shakeup_leaves_questions_over/)\n\n\n\n\n### Personal Statement ###\n\nA native Memphian, with five siblings, born to a social worker and a Bronze Star army soldier, JB Smiley, Jr., knows the value of hard work and a healthy, supportive community.\n\nAfter JB\u2019s collegiate and semi-professional basketball career, he pursued a legal education, and later, a political career. But his life in serving the most vulnerable started from a young age.\n\nJB\u2019s first experience with teamwork and leadership was as a Cub Scout with the Boy Scouts of America. Never afraid of getting his hands dirty, JB has done everything from working as a landfill cleaner to washing dishes.\n\nAs his father taught him to \u201cnever forget the bridge that brought you over,\u201d JB decided to stay in the region to attend college and then law school at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law.\n\nWhile in law school, JB served as a member of the Law Review, Moot Court Board, and as Vice President of the Black Law Students Association. JB successfully passed Arkansas and the Tennessee Bar exams, while writing his first book, Born With It: Unleashing Your Greatness.\n\nIn 2017, in Memphis, JB started his law practice, Smiley & Associates, PLLC. The following year, JB was named to Memphis Flyer\u2019s Top 20, Under 30 class. During that same year, JB was appointed policy advisor to the Shelby County Clerk and served in such capacity until his election to the Memphis City Council in October 2019.\n\nAs a council member, JB is currently Vice Chair of the City Council and serves as Chair of the Public Works, Solid Waste & General Services Committee, Vice Chair of the Planning & Zoning Committee, and the council liaison for the Urban Art Commission and the Memphis & Shelby County Film and Television Commission.\n\nIn his spare time, JB likes to play basketball, work out, binge watch Netflix shows, and keep his dog, Mighty Mouse, and his nephew, Bryson Maxwell Smiley, smiling!\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Mayor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=SMILEY&id=77685&f=196794&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2025** \u2014 [City/Town Council (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=SMILEY&id=77685&f=185195&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2024** \u2014 [City/Town Council (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=SMILEY&id=77685&f=177505&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":"J","lastname":"Smiley","middlename":"B","suffix":"Jr","token":"asdf8"},"token":"jb_smiley_jr"},{"candidatename":"Melvin Burgess","chatgptsummary":"Burgess served as Shelby County Assessor of Property since 2018, managing a department that contributed to reducing the property tax rate from $3.39 to $2.69 per $100 assessed value. His prior role as Chief Internal Auditor for Memphis/Shelby County Schools and founding of the Commission\u2019s Audit Committee demonstrates financial oversight experience relevant to budget management. He previously represented District 7 on the Board of Commissioners from 2010 to 2018, providing legislative familiarity. Burgess holds a B.S. in Accounting from Grambling State University.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- Shelby County Assessor of Property since 2018; re-elected August 4, 2022. Current term ends September 1, 2026. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Melvin_Burgess), [UT CTAS directory](https://www.ctas.tennessee.edu/official/melvin-burgess))\n- Named 2021 Tennessee Assessor of the Year. ([campaign site](https://www.burgessfor901.com/about))\n- Office: 1075 Mullins Station, Memphis, TN 38134.\n\n- Candidate in the Democratic primary on May 5, 2026 \u2014 one of seven Democrats running for the open mayor's seat after incumbent Lee Harris was term-limited. General election August 6, 2026. ([Wikipedia: 2026 Shelby County mayoral election](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_Shelby_County,_Tennessee_mayoral_election), [Fox 13 Memphis, 7 Dems field](https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/7-democrats-face-off-to-win-nomination-in-shelby-county-mayoral-race/article_6be2d526-e0df-4cb1-ad47-2bdf478e8f25.html))\n- Campaign site: [burgessfor901.com](https://www.burgessfor901.com/)\n\n- Per his campaign, his office's work contributed to a reduction of the property tax rate from $3.39 to $2.69 per $100 assessed value before FY 2026, attributed in part to the assessor's \"new growth\" discovery. ([campaign post, 2026](https://www.burgessfor901.com/post/county-mayor-candidate-talks-mata-taxes-and-development))\n- At candidate forums, has emphasized transit (\"We've got to work together to fix that transportation issue\"), blight (\"All these properties that are out there like that, give them back to the CDCs\"), and inclusive governance (\"Everybody will have a seat at the table\"). ([campaign post, 2026](https://www.burgessfor901.com/post/county-mayor-candidate-talks-mata-taxes-and-development))\n\n## Background and education\n- B.S. in Accounting, Grambling State University. Product of Memphis City Schools. ([campaign site](https://www.burgessfor901.com/about))\n\n## Career\n- Former Chief Internal Auditor, Memphis/Shelby County Schools.\n- Founded the Shelby County Commission's Audit Committee; former Shelby County Board Chairman; founder of the Shelby County Appraisal Institute. ([campaign site](https://www.burgessfor901.com/about))\n\n- Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity; Delta Boule Chapter of Sigma Pi Phi. ([campaign site](https://www.burgessfor901.com/about))\n\n---\n\n*Compiled from publicly available web sources on 2026-04-18. Several campaign accomplishments (backlog elimination, award recognition details) are sourced from the campaign's own site and were not independently confirmed in this pass.*\n\n## Office history\n- Shelby County Board of Commissioners, District 7, 2010\u20132018. Succeeded by Tami Sawyer. ([Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Melvin_Burgess))\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [Property Assessor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=BURGESS&id=18831&f=200748&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Mayor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=BURGESS&id=18831&f=200751&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2025** \u2014 [Property Assessor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=BURGESS&id=18831&f=190053&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2024** \u2014 [Property Assessor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=BURGESS&id=18831&f=174178&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- Wife Sandra; two daughters; family resides in the Evergreen Historic District of Midtown Memphis.\n- Father was Melvin Burgess, a former Memphis Police Director. ([campaign site](https://www.burgessfor901.com/about), [Fox 13 Memphis](https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/7-democrats-face-off-to-win-nomination-in-shelby-county-mayoral-race/article_6be2d526-e0df-4cb1-ad47-2bdf478e8f25.html))\n","firstname":"Melvin","lastname":"Burgess","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"IELQJBLYKr"},"token":"melvin_burgess"},{"candidatename":"Mickell M. Lowery","chatgptsummary":"Lowery\u2019s two decades at FedEx as a Managing Director demonstrate executive management experience within a large corporate structure. His tenure on the Shelby County Commission provides direct familiarity with county governance and budgetary processes. Community board service, including the Memphis Housing Authority, suggests intergovernmental coordination capacity. He holds degrees in Business and Operations Management from LeMoyne-Owen College and the University of Arkansas. Public-facing communication skills are evidenced by his recognition in Memphis Business Journal\u2019s Top 40 Under 40.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\nChairman Lowery was elected to the County Commission on August 2, 2018, to represent the constituents of District 8 which includes areas of Downtown, Frayser, South Memphis, and Central Gardens.\n \nMickell, the son of former Memphis City Councilman and Mayor Pro Tem Myron Lowery, holds a Bachelor\u2019s Degree in Business from LeMoyne-Owen College and a Master\u2019s Degree in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas.\n \nChairman Lowery is a strong supporter of our community, serving on numerous boards, including the Board of Trustees for LeMoyne-Owen College, Board Member for New Memphis, and Board of Directors for the Fire Museum of Memphis. He is the Past-President of the Downtown Neighborhood Association and has been a youth football coach for 13 years; in the Collierville Youth Association, Bartlett Youth Association, and Whitehaven Youth Association, despite not having a child or family member on any of his teams. Mickell has been a youth mentor for Charjean Elementary School and has helped to implement after-school tutoring programs at Georgian Hills Elementary, Sheffield Elementary, Treadwell Middle School, and Kingsbury High School with the A+ Learning Academy. He is the former President and Vice President of the National Alumni Association of LeMoyne-Owen College. Mickell Lowery the past Chairman of the Board of the Memphis Housing Authority and was elected to the Democratic State Executive Committee in Senate District 29 with more than 12,000 votes.\n \nMany awards have been bestowed upon him. Among them are Memphis Business Journal\u2019s Top 40 Under 40, and Ebony Magazine\u2019s Top 30 Under 30. Additionally, Mickell has been recognized for his extensive community service and professional accomplishments by Diversity MBA Magazine and Memphis Crosswords Magazine. Commissioner Lowery is a graduate of Leadership Tennessee, Leadership Memphis Executive Class, New Memphis Fellow / Leadership Development Institute, and alumni of Nexus Leadership.\n \nChairman Lowery has been employed with FedEx for over 20 years and has held positions in Global Product Marketing, IT Strategy management, and U.S. Sales. He currently serves as a Managing Director and is the recipient of the FedEx Five Star Award which is given each year to the top two percent of employees as well as the FedEx Sales Ambassadors Award, given to the top 10% of sales leaders in the corporation.\n \nMickell and his wife, Chonisa, have three daughters, Channise, Myla, and Milan.\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=LOWERY&id=61953&f=191003&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=LOWERY&id=61953&f=181971&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=LOWERY&id=61953&f=175912&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":"Mickell","lastname":"Lowery","middlename":"M.","suffix":null,"token":"1B3ee7PQY8"},"token":"mickell_m_lowery"},{"candidatename":"Harold Collins","chatgptsummary":"As Chief Administrative Officer since 2022, Collins oversees daily operations for Tennessee\u2019s largest county, providing direct executive management experience of a consolidated government structure. His tenure involves coordinating across health, public works, and corrections departments under the Mayor\u2019s direction. Prior service as Memphis City Councilman and Chairman offers legislative negotiation background relevant to budget defense before elected bodies. A Master\u2019s in Public Policy and Administration supports theoretical familiarity with administrative frameworks, while his role as Special Assistant to the District Attorney General highlights engagement with criminal justice systems.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- Chief Administrative Officer for Shelby County Government since June 1, 2022, overseeing daily operations of Tennessee's largest county under Mayor Lee Harris. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n\n- Candidate in the Democratic primary on May 5, 2026. ([Memphis Flyer](https://www.memphisflyer.com/harold-collins-finally-drops-the-other-shoe-hes-running-for-mayor/))\n- Campaign site: [haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about)\n\n## Background and education\n- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Memphis. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n- Master's in Public Policy and Administration from Jackson State University. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n- Memphis Catholic High School graduate. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n\n## Office history\n- Memphis City Councilman (2007\u20132015), elected twice. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n- Memphis City Council Chairman in 2010. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n- Special Assistant to the Shelby County District Attorney General, focusing on combating juvenile crime and truancy. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n- Vice President of Community Engagement at Memphis Shelby Crime Commission. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Mayor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=COLLINS&id=1478&f=198349&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- Married to Kimberly Williams; has two daughters, Sydney and Erin. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n- Raised by Wilbert and Iuka Collins as their 11th child. ([campaign site](https://www.haroldcollins4shelbycounty.org/about))\n\n\n\n---\n*Compiled from publicly available web sources on 2026-04-18.*\n","firstname":"Harold","lastname":"Collins","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"w4lnop03lg"},"token":"harold_collins"},{"candidatename":"John J. Deberry Jr.","chatgptsummary":"DeBerry served over two decades in the Tennessee State House and as a committee chairman, demonstrating legislative experience relevant to negotiating with the County Commission. His appointment as senior advisor to Governor Bill Lee indicates intergovernmental capacity with state leadership. A former pastor and civil rights marcher suggests public-facing communication skills for a diverse electorate. However, his career is rooted in state legislation rather than metropolitan executive management of consolidated departments like health or corrections.","notes":"","party":"R","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- None listed in sources.\n\n- Republican candidate for Shelby County Mayor. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Officially announced his candidacy on February 12, 2026, after filing a petition. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Received the full support of the Republican Party of Shelby County. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Previously considered running for Tennessee governor, traveling the state to gauge support before being asked by Shelby County GOP leaders to run for mayor. ([Daily Memphian](https://dailymemphian.com/subscriber/article/60291))\n\n## Background and education\n- Graduate of Freed-Hardeman University. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Graduate of the University of Memphis. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n\n## Office history\n- Served in the Tennessee State House representing District 90 for more than two decades, from the 99th through 107th General Assemblies. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Served as a committee chairman for 12 years. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Appointed senior advisor to Governor Bill Lee in November 2020; stepped down from this role to focus on his mayoral campaign. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n\n- Previously served as a Democrat. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Was removed from the Democratic Party ballot in 2020 by the Tennessee Democratic Party's executive committee; ran as an independent but lost to Torey Harris. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Known for voting against his former party on issues including abortion, school choice, and a controversial school voucher bill in 2020. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Gained national attention in 2018 for introducing a bill to ban fraternities and sororities on Tennessee college campuses. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Mayor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=DEBERRY, JR.&id=10628&f=199880&v=1) \u2014 filed as a Shelby County official/candidate\n- **2025** \u2014 [Member-Governors Cabinet (SS-8004)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8004.htm?name=DEBERRY, JR.&id=10628&f=189792&v=1) \u2014 filed as a state official/candidate\n- **2024** \u2014 [Member-Governors Cabinet (SS-8004)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8004.htm?name=DEBERRY, JR.&id=10628&f=180063&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- Wife Maria. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n\n- Described as a pastor. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Age 75 as of February 2026. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n- Has a history with the Civil Rights Movement, stating he marched with his father alongside Dr. King, and has met with civil rights icon Jesse Jackson. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/local/meet-the-candidates-john-deberry-jr-the-former-democrat-running-as-a-republican/522-3e1794d5-9f2a-45ea-ba7e-c95aeedb98be))\n\n\n\n---\n*Compiled from publicly available web sources on 2026-04-18.*\n","firstname":"John","lastname":"Deberry","middlename":"J.","suffix":"Jr","token":"LJiZrt6ock"},"token":"john_j_deberry_jr"},{"candidatename":"Rusty Qualls","chatgptsummary":"Qualls operates multiple Shelby County businesses, including tax services, providing direct experience in financial management and small enterprise operations. He describes himself as a small business owner rather than a career politician, having moved to Memphis twenty-five years ago for his family\u2019s education. His background involves building boats and barges in Mississippi before relocating to the region.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- Candidate in the Democratic primary for Shelby County Mayor on May 5, 2026 \u2014 one of seven Democrats running. ([Daily Memphian](https://dailymemphian.com/article/61877))\n\n- Candidate in the Democratic primary on May 5, 2026. ([Fox 13 Memphis](https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/7-democrats-face-off-to-win-nomination-in-shelby-county-mayoral-race/article_6be2d526-e0df-4cb1-ad47-2bdf478e8f25.html))\n- Campaign site: [rustyquallsforshelbycountymayor.org](https://www.rustyquallsforshelbycountymayor.org/)\n- Does not accept donations from PACs. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-rusty-qualls/522-72196486-0822-4509-8ed0-c4d142151493))\n\n## Background and education\n- Information not provided in sources.\n\n- Born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and raised in Greenville. ([Rusty Qualls Campaign Site](https://www.rustyquallsforshelbycountymayor.org/))\n- Was \"building boats and barges\" before moving to Memphis. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-rusty-qualls/522-72196486-0822-4509-8ed0-c4d142151493))\n\n\n\n---\n*Compiled from publicly available web sources on 2026-04-18.*\n\n## Office history\n- No prior elected office; describes himself as a \"small business owner\" and \"not a career politician.\" ([Rusty Qualls Campaign Site](https://www.rustyquallsforshelbycountymayor.org/))\n- Owns several businesses in Shelby County, including tax services. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-rusty-qualls/522-72196486-0822-4509-8ed0-c4d142151493))\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Mayor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=QUALLS&id=103903&f=198878&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- Wife; moved to Memphis 25 years ago with his wife to ensure their children had a better education. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-rusty-qualls/522-72196486-0822-4509-8ed0-c4d142151493))\n","firstname":"Rusty","lastname":"Qualls","middlename":null,"suffix":null,"token":"IpaQlO7CXU"},"token":"rusty_qualls"},{"candidatename":"Marie N. Feagins","chatgptsummary":"Feagins served as Superintendent of Memphis-Shelby County Schools for less than a year before her termination in January 2025. Her campaign proposes an audit of the Shelby County jail and a joint legislative agenda through a mayors' huddle, addressing intergovernmental coordination with suburban municipalities. She advocates for building 500 homes and establishing a shuttle network to improve public safety and transportation. Feagins holds a doctorate and launched her bid with a platform focused on education and economic growth.","notes":"","party":"D","person":{"biography":"## Current office and 2026 campaign\n- None; candidate in the Democratic primary for Shelby County Mayor on May 5, 2026. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-what-we-know-about-marie-feaginss-bid-for-shelby-county-mayor/522-24ab4544-4035-46e0-b48f-8888f430dd9b))\n\n- Announced her candidacy on December 17, 2025, in an event described as featuring \"glitz and glamor\" with music and cheerleaders. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-what-we-know-about-marie-feaginss-bid-for-shelby-county-mayor/522-24ab4544-4035-46e0-b48f-8888f430dd9b))\n- Campaign platform includes public health and safety, education, economic growth, affordable housing, and government performance. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-what-we-know-about-marie-feaginss-bid-for-shelby-county-mayor/522-24ab4544-4035-46e0-b48f-8888f430dd9b))\n- Proposed initiatives include an audit of the Shelby County jail, building 500 homes, a shuttle network for transportation gaps, and a \"mayors' huddle\" for a joint legislative agenda. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-what-we-know-about-marie-feaginss-bid-for-shelby-county-mayor/522-24ab4544-4035-46e0-b48f-8888f430dd9b))\n- Campaign slogan: \"Pre-K to Paycheck\" and \"Literacy-to-Life Pathway.\" ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-what-we-know-about-marie-feaginss-bid-for-shelby-county-mayor/522-24ab4544-4035-46e0-b48f-8888f430dd9b))\n- Campaign website: [mariefeagins.com](https://www.mariefeagins.com/)\n\n## Background and education\n- Holds a doctorate (referred to as \"Dr. Marie Feagins\" on campaign materials). ([Campaign Site](https://www.mariefeagins.com/))\n\n## Office history\n- Superintendent of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) for less than a year, fired in January 2025 after allegations she misled the Board and public on financial decisions. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-what-we-know-about-marie-feaginss-bid-for-shelby-county-mayor/522-24ab4544-4035-46e0-b48f-8888f430dd9b))\n\n## Documented disputes and controversies\n- Filed a lawsuit in February 2025 (amended June) against the MSCS Board, alleging violation of her employment contract. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-what-we-know-about-marie-feaginss-bid-for-shelby-county-mayor/522-24ab4544-4035-46e0-b48f-8888f430dd9b))\n- The lawsuit seeks to void her firing vote and approximately $487,500 in damages. ([Local Memphis](https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/politics/elections/meet-the-candidates-what-we-know-about-marie-feaginss-bid-for-shelby-county-mayor/522-24ab4544-4035-46e0-b48f-8888f430dd9b))\n\n## Business interests and wealth source\n- **2026** \u2014 [County Mayor (SS-8005)](https://conflict.app.tn.gov/conflict/view_form_8005.htm?name=FEAGINS&id=103873&f=199767&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- No family information provided in sources.\n\n\n\n---\n*Compiled from publicly available web sources on 2026-04-18.*\n","firstname":"Marie","lastname":"Feagins","middlename":"N.","suffix":null,"token":"FWsqp1fTKV"},"token":"marie_n_feagins"}],"choices":null,"description":"","district":"shelby","districtgroup":"county","districtgroupname":"County","districtname":null,"job_type":"county_mayor","o.office":"county_mayor","office":"county_mayor","officedescription":"The County Mayor's Office is the governing branch of Shelby County's administration. It is responsible for overseeing the following divisions:\nAdministration and Finance\nCommunity Services\nCorrections\nDisproportionate Minority Contact\nHealth Services\nInformation Technology Services\nPlanning and Development\nPublic Defender\nPublic Works\nIt is also responsible for overseeing the Mayor's Action Center and the county's Public Affairs Office.\nThe Mayor's office is term-limited to two consecutive terms.\nThe Mayor is paid $210,000 per year.","officequalities":"- Executive management of a metropolitan county government of roughly 910,000 residents and a billion-dollar-plus consolidated budget across health, public works, corrections, the Sheriff's Office (administrative side), and many smaller departments.\n- Ability to negotiate and defend an annual budget before a 13-member County Commission.\n- Intergovernmental capacity: coordinating with the City of Memphis, six suburban municipalities, the State of Tennessee, and federal agencies, especially on shared services like MATA, MLGW, EDGE, and the Health Department.\n- Working familiarity with Tennessee county-government law, the Shelby County Charter, open-meetings, and procurement rules.\n- Public-facing communication and crisis-management skills for a large, diverse, news-attentive county.","officeterm":4,"officetitle":"County Mayor","partisan":1,"pgr":"primary","quantity":1,"referendum":"","source":null,"title":"County Mayor"}