Knoxville, TN: this evening, the Three Rivers Republican Club gathered for its regular meeting in Knoxville’s 8th and 9th Districts. The highlight was a compelling presentation from Kimberly Glenn, candidate for Knox County Commission At-Large Seat 10. Glenn, a longtime spokesperson for the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and close ally of Sheriff Tom Spangler, is seeking to succeed term-limited Commissioner Larsen Jay in the May 5 Republican primary.
The club, which meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, continues to serve as a key grassroots hub for Republicans in East Knox County. The atmosphere was engaged and community-focused, reflecting the club’s role in connecting local conservatives with candidates and issues that matter most to families in the area.
Kimberly Glenn: From Mascot Roots to Countywide Service
Kimberly Glenn introduced herself as a wife, mother, grandmother (“Mamaw” to five grandchildren), Christian conservative, and dedicated animal rescuer. Born and raised in Mascot, Tennessee, she raised her children in Halls before moving to Strawberry Plains about a decade ago.
With 7.5 years working alongside Sheriff Spangler, Glenn emphasized her deep institutional knowledge of county government. She knows department heads across the board and highlighted her experience in constituent services, fundraising for the Sheriff’s Office, and navigating local challenges. “I have no learning curve,” she told the group, positioning herself as ready to hit the ground running on Day One.
Key issues Glenn addressed included:
• Roads and infrastructure: Supporting continued investment to handle growth without overburdening taxpayers.
• Managed growth and development: Concerned about overdevelopment straining roads, schools, and services. She cited a proposed 200-apartment complex near Carter Elementary as an example where the community should engage earlier at the planning stage rather than reacting after approvals.
• Fiscal responsibility: Opposing unnecessary tax increases and pushing to exhaust other options first. She noted that people move to Knox County for its relative affordability and low taxes.
• Real estate background: Glenn brings practical contacts with developers and builders but stressed she won’t be influenced by special interests—she aims to confront issues directly and bring parties together.
Her approach is pragmatic: communicate early, unite neighbors (whether for or against a project), and intervene proactively at the planning commission level, where many decisions currently lack sufficient public checks.
Watch the Glenn Presentation and the Q&A Here
A Small Republican Family Discussion on Growing the Party
A notable part of the evening involved candid conversation about growing the Republican Party in Knox County. Glenn directly addressed the importance of expanding the party’s reach by welcoming new voices and even encouraging thoughtful Democrats to participate in the Republican primary where it makes sense to bring in fresh perspectives and “new blood.”
She referenced her own evolution—drawing from Reagan-era roots and support for Trump—while emphasizing principles over rigid past affiliations. The discussion touched on healing internal divisions within the local GOP, focusing on shared conservative values: being pro-life, protecting children (including opposition to certain gender-related policies in schools), and prioritizing practical governance that serves families.
This “small Republican family” vibe—honest talk among neighbors about how to broaden the tent without compromising core beliefs—felt refreshing in a time of national polarization. Attendees engaged on how to convert more Tennesseans to the Republican vision of limited government, strong public safety, and opportunity, especially as Knox County continues to grow.
Why This Race Matters
Seat 10 is a countywide at-large position, meaning the winner will represent all of Knox County. With early voting underway (April 15–30) and Election Day on May 5, 2026, the primary is critical. Glenn is one of several candidates in the Republican field for at-large seats, but her background in law enforcement communications and hands-on county experience sets her apart as someone who understands operations from the inside.
Her message resonated with the Three Rivers crowd: hard work, listening to constituents, problem-solving, and a commitment to conservative principles without unnecessary drama.
Final Thoughts
Events like the Three Rivers Republican Club meeting remind us why local politics matters. It’s where neighbors meet candidates face-to-face, ask tough questions, and discuss not just policy but the future of their communities. Kimberly Glenn’s presentation combined personal story, professional experience, and a forward-looking call to grow the party through principled outreach.
If you’re a Knox County Republican (or someone open to conservative ideas), take time to learn about the candidates before the May 5 primary. Whether you support Glenn or another contender, active participation at the local level is how we keep building a stronger, more effective Republican Party.
For more on Kimberly Glenn’s campaign, visit her website or follow local coverage. And if you’re in the area, consider joining the Three Rivers Republican Club for future meetings—they’re a great way to stay connected.
What are your thoughts on growing the GOP at the local level? Share in the comments below.
