Republican primary voters in Tennessee House District 11 (Cocke, Hamblen, and Jefferson Counties) have an opportunity to compare two candidates directly from their own words.

Both Republican candidates — Kenny Cody and Jeffrey Fancher — separately appeared on the Charles Cook Podcast and discussed issues important to conservative voters.

After listening to each interview, voters can evaluate where the candidates stand and determine which vision best represents Republican principles in District 11.

Immigration

During his appearance, Jeffrey Fancher made comments indicating a more open posture on immigration issues, stating:

“I’d take a whole classroom of immigrant children.”

Voters will interpret those remarks differently, but conservatives who prioritize stronger immigration controls may see that position as outside current Republican policy priorities.

Kenny Cody has generally positioned himself within a more traditional conservative framework emphasizing secure borders and enforcement of immigration laws.

Constitutional Carry and the Second Amendment

Another notable distinction involved firearms policy.

Jeffrey Fancher discussed gun ownership in terms of wanting individuals to be legal and registered.

Conservative Republicans who support Constitutional Carry often argue that lawful citizens should not face additional registration requirements beyond existing law.

Kenny Cody’s positions have been presented as more consistent with Constitutional Carry principles and stronger protections of Second Amendment rights.

Electoral College

Perhaps the sharpest philosophical divide came in discussion surrounding presidential elections.

Jeffrey Fancher suggested interest in tweaking or potentially moving away from the Electoral College, stating that a vote in Vermont should count the same as one in California.

Supporters of the Electoral College argue that the system was designed to balance representation between large and small states rather than operate as a direct national popular vote.

Conservative voters who support maintaining the constitutional framework may view Fancher’s comments as a significant departure from traditional Republican positions.

Who Is Kenny Cody?

Kenny Cody brings a background that includes:

• Teacher and Coach at Cosby High School
• Former Cocke County Republican Party Chair
• Columnist for several conservative publications
• Current Op-Ed Editor for Human Events

Supporters point to Cody’s background as evidence of long-term involvement in conservative grassroots politics and public engagement.

Final Thoughts

Primary elections are designed to give voters choices.

After hearing both candidates directly on the Charles Cook Podcast, Republican voters in House District 11 can compare not simply campaign mailers or slogans, but the candidates’ own statements and policy perspectives.

For conservative Republican voters prioritizing School Choice, border security, Constitutional Carry, and preserving the Electoral College, the contrast between Jeffrey Fancher and Kenny Cody appears substantial.

As always, informed voters should listen to both interviews in full and make their own decision before casting a ballot.