Yesterday, WBIR had this story about the Knox County Circuit, Chancery and Juvenile Court Clerk’s office and specifically Cathy Shanks the elected Clerk. According to the story, the office has failed to turn over excess fees to the Knox County General Fund like the other fee offices the last four years. Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett was quick to jump into the fray.

Shanks current term is up in 2018 as Burchett’s term as Mayor is up. Burchett is term limited as County Mayor, in 2014 a rumor was floated out about challenging Lamar Alexander. Burchett didn’t challenge Alexander. The Circuit Court Clerk is NOT term limited. Shanks is an easier target for Burchett to take on than a Congressional or state wide run. Don Ridings has already announced his intent to run and Shanks has not ruled out a re-election bid. Burchett as Circuit Court Clerk would be an easier win and a guaranteed check for him for a really long time.