The City of Knoxville is gearing up for a pivotal moment in local democracy with the City Council Primary Election on August 26, 2025. Early voting kicks off from August 6 to August 21, giving every registered voter (except those in District 5, North City) a chance to shape the future of our community. This isn’t just another election—it’s a defining opportunity to influence who represents your district and the direction Knoxville takes in the years ahead. Here’s why you should mark your calendar, get informed, and cast your ballot.

What’s at Stake?

The City Council Primary is where the real action begins. In this election, you’ll vote for one candidate in your district to represent your interests on issues like infrastructure, public safety, economic development, and community services. The top two vote-getters in each district will advance to the General Election on November 4, 2025, where they’ll compete alongside a critical Sales Tax Increase question. Your vote now narrows the field and ensures your priorities are front and center in November.

Who’s Running in Your District?

Each district features a unique slate of candidates, each bringing their own vision for Knoxville’s future. Here’s a quick rundown of the contenders:

First District (South Knoxville and Fort Sanders)

• Karyn Adams: Focused on community engagement and sustainable growth.
• Lindsey Jarmeko: Advocates for affordable housing and local business support.
• Becky Jones: Prioritizes public safety and infrastructure improvements.
• Charles Van Morgan: Champions environmental initiatives and neighborhood revitalization.

Second District (West Knoxville)

• Nathan Honeycutt: Emphasizes economic development and traffic solutions.
• Melody Watts: Passionate about education partnerships and green spaces.

Third District (Northwest Knoxville)

• Nick Ciparro: Pushes for transparent governance and fiscal responsibility.
• Ivan Harmon: Experienced leader focusing on public safety and job growth.
• Doug Lloyd: Advocates for community-driven urban planning.
• Frank Ramey: Committed to small business support and infrastructure upgrades.

Fourth District

• Matthew Debardelaben: Focuses on housing affordability and public transit.
• Jeff Talman: Emphasizes economic diversification and community wellness.
• Note: Jane George is on the ballot but has suspended her campaign.

Sixth District

• Charles Frazier: Advocates for youth programs and community safety.
• Denzel Grant: Prioritizes equitable development and local job creation.
• Stan Johnson: Focused on infrastructure and public service efficiency.
• George Raudenbush III: Passionate about environmental sustainability.
• Lawrence Williams: Champions neighborhood empowerment and public health.

Curious about their platforms? Dive into candidate profiles and positions via campaign election links above to make an informed choice.

Why Vote Early?

Early voting from August 6 to August 21 offers flexibility and convenience. Skip the Election Day rush and cast your ballot at a time that suits you. Polling locations across Knoxville will be open, and every vote counts toward determining which candidates advance. If you can’t make it during early voting, mark August 26 for Election Day. Either way, don’t sit this one out—your district’s future is on the line.

• City-County Building
  Main floor across from Circuit Court Division I
  400 Main St.
  (Opens at Noon on Thursdays)
• Downtown West
  1645 Downtown West Blvd., Unit 40
• Eternal Life Harvest Center at Five Points
  Next to the Love Kitchen
  2410 Martin Luther King Ave.
• Knoxville Expo Center
  5441 Clinton Highway
• New Harvest Park
  4775 New Harvest Lane
• Meridian Baptist Church
  6513 Chapman Highway
  (Closes at 5pm on Wednesdays)

The Bigger Picture

The City Council shapes policies that hit close to home: from road repairs and park maintenance to public safety and economic growth. The candidates who move forward will influence these decisions, and the Sales Tax Increase question in November could reshape Knoxville’s budget priorities. Voting in the primary ensures your voice is heard early and often.

Get Involved, Get Informed

This election is about more than checking a box—it’s about building a Knoxville that reflects your values. Research the candidates, attend local forums, and talk to your neighbors. Every district has a unique set of challenges and opportunities, and your vote is a direct line to addressing them. Check official election resources for candidate details, polling locations, and voter registration status.

Don’t wait for November to make your mark. Vote early between August 6 and August 21, or show up on August 26. Knoxville’s future starts with you.