The Concord Farragut Republican Club hosted a well-attended meeting on Thursday, April 2, bringing local Republicans together for candidate presentations and direct Q&A ahead of the May 5 Republican primary. The evening focused on two critical countywide races: the open At-Large seats on the Knox County Commission and the race for Knox County Sheriff.
Club members appreciated the opportunity to hear firsthand from the candidates about their backgrounds, priorities, and plans for managing Knox County’s rapid growth while protecting taxpayers and quality of life.
Garrett Holt: Lifelong Knox Countian for At-Large Seat 11
Garrett Holt, Republican candidate for Knox County Commission At-Large Seat 11, shared his story and platform with the group. A Rocky Hill native, West High School graduate, and University of Tennessee accounting alum, Holt has built experience in public accounting, healthcare sales, and real estate investment. He is also pursuing his goal of becoming a physician at Lincoln Memorial University.
Holt stressed the importance of proactive local leadership in a booming county. He highlighted the need to maintain Knox County’s low-tax environment, address infrastructure challenges (including thousands of miles of roads), support schools and public safety, and ensure decisions reflect constituent input rather than top-down mandates. His message centered on fiscal responsibility, transparency, and preserving opportunities for future generations.
During the Q&A, Holt addressed questions about balancing his medical studies with commission service, views on spending and potential tax pressures, and strategies for prioritizing core county services.
Video of Garrett Holt’s presentation and Q&A:
Kimberly Glenn: Republican Candidate for At-Large Seat 10
Kimberly Glenn, longtime Knox County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson and Republican candidate for At-Large Seat 10, also addressed the club. With her deep institutional knowledge of county operations and public communications experience, Glenn brought a perspective grounded in day-to-day county service and collaboration with law enforcement.
She discussed the importance of responsible growth management, supporting public safety initiatives, and maintaining efficient county government that serves all residents of Knox County. Glenn emphasized listening to communities across the county — from urban Knoxville to suburban areas like Farragut and Concord — while keeping taxes affordable and services effective.
Video of Kimberly Glenn’s presentation:
(Note: The seat is currently held by term-limited Commissioner Larsen Jay, who is running for Knox County Mayor.)
David Amburn: In-Depth Q&A with the Candidate for Sheriff
David Amburn, Chief of Detectives at the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and Republican candidate for Sheriff, participated in a dedicated Q&A session. With more than 34 years of law enforcement experience, Amburn has risen through the ranks and currently oversees the detective division and significant budgets.
Attendees welcomed his return (after he had to leave an earlier meeting early) for a full discussion. Topics included his vision for the Sheriff’s Office under term-limited Sheriff Tom Spangler, priorities for proactive policing, supporting deputies amid county growth, addressing issues like homelessness through balanced approaches, and maintaining strong public safety without overextending resources.
Amburn’s responses reflected his commitment to building on the department’s strengths, keeping families safe, and preparing for the challenges of a larger, growing county.
Why Local Races Like These Matter
The May 5, 2026, Republican primary will determine much of Knox County’s leadership for the next four years. With continued population growth comes pressure on roads, schools, EMS, public safety, and budgets. Voters have the chance to select candidates with strong local roots, practical experience, and a focus on fiscal conservatism and community priorities.
Events hosted by the Concord Farragut Republican Club provide an excellent, non-partisan forum for residents to meet candidates, ask questions, and become better informed.
Early voting for the primary runs April 15–30, 2026. Make your voice heard on Election Day, May 5!
Full video coverage from the April 2 meeting (courtesy of TheMegaBullhornofTruth a Brian Hornback Production):
Additional information on the candidates is available on their campaign websites and social media pages.
Garrett Holt, Kimberly Glenn and David Amburn
If you’re in Knox County, consider attending future club meetings, researching the candidates, and voting in the upcoming primary. Informed participation strengthens our local government.
Stay tuned for more coverage of the 2026 Knox County elections.
