Commits to no tax increases, continue record of great schools under her leadership
Betsy Henderson, a lifelong East Tennessean, proven conservative leader, and two-term Knox County School Board member, today officially announced the launch of her campaign for Knox County Mayor. Henderson is kicking off her campaign with a launch video (video link here), website and county-wide small business tour, underscoring her deep commitment to empowering local businesses and putting families first.
“I’m running for mayor to ensure Knox County remains a place where families prosper, businesses flourish, and our children have every opportunity to succeed. I will always put the needs of your family first,” said Henderson. “As mayor, I’ll fight to provide core services like great roads and schools, keep taxes low, and then get government out of the way so families and businesses can thrive.”
With deep roots in East Tennessee, Henderson brings a lifetime of public service and community leadership to her campaign. A graduate of the University of Tennessee and a proud product of public schools, Betsy served the people of East Tennessee in the office of Congressman Jimmy Duncan in Washington, D.C., beginning her service just days after September 11, 2001. As a member and twice-elected chair of the Knox County School Board, she has built a reputation as a courageous conservative and tireless advocate for families. From keeping schools open during COVID to championing parental rights and securing historic teacher pay raises without raising taxes, Betsy has consistently put common-sense, family-first policies at the forefront.
“As your mayor, my commitment to you is this: I will always put the needs of your family first.
Four years of the Biden Administration crushed families with high prices, and we can’t allow Knox County to follow suit. A lot of politicians think the government is ‘underfunded’. This is part of the game politicians play: run up debt, increase spending, and when the debt comes due, make families pay for it with a tax increase. I’m making a firm commitment today: I will oppose any tax increase on Knox County families,” Henderson concluded.
The first stop on the small business tour will be The Original Louis’ in North Knoxville on Wednesday, May 21 from 5:00-6:00 pm. The Original Louis’ Restaurant, family owned and operated — 4661 Old Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37918, has been an icon of great food in North Knoxville for over 50 years.
“I am blessed with parents who started small businesses. I saw first hand the amount of work that went into turning an idea into reality,” said Henderson. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy: creating jobs, driving innovation, and keeping our community strong. As your mayor, I will champion policies that create an environment where small businesses can flourish, families can prosper, and future generations have opportunities to build their lives right here at home.”
Betsy’s connection to small businesses runs deep. Her mom grew up in South Knoxville, and at age 16, her dad came to the U.S. through Ellis Island from Greece. They didn’t start with much, but through hard work, grit, and determination, they fought every day to provide for Betsy and her sisters. They founded beloved local businesses like the Varsity Inn, Vic’s Lake View Market, and Kampas Liquor, and Betsy understands firsthand the hard work and challenges small business owners face. Her campaign’s small business tour will spotlight and celebrate the small businesses that are the backbone of Knox County’s economy.
Betsy lives in Hardin Valley with her husband, Scott, and their two children, Logan and Molly. They attend Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church.
For more information about Betsy Henderson’s campaign visit here.
