Elections in Tennessee

Elections in Tennessee are a vital component of the American democratic process in the state of Tennessee. The state conducts elections for a variety of federal, state, and local offices, including the positions of President of the United States, U.S. Senators, U.S. Representatives, the Governor of Tennessee, state legislators, and local officials. Tennessee's electoral process is governed by both federal and state laws.

Overview

Elections in Tennessee are administered by the Tennessee Secretary of State, with the assistance of the Division of Elections. The state has 95 counties, each with its own election commission that is responsible for conducting local elections and voter registration.

Voting System

Tennessee uses a primarily first-past-the-post voting system for most elections, meaning that the candidate who receives the most votes wins. For presidential elections, Tennessee employs the Electoral College system, as do all other states in the U.S.

Major Political Parties

The two major political parties in Tennessee are the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. However, there are also several minor parties, as well as opportunities for independent candidates.

Election Types

Presidential Elections

Every four years, Tennessee participates in the national election for the President of the United States. The state allocates a certain number of electors to the Electoral College based on its congressional representation.

Congressional Elections

Tennessee elects representatives to the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives. Senators serve six-year terms with staggered elections, while representatives serve two-year terms.

State Elections

State elections in Tennessee include those for the governor, state senators, and state representatives. The governor serves a four-year term, while members of the Tennessee General Assembly—comprising the Tennessee Senate and the Tennessee House of Representatives—also serve terms of varying lengths.

Local Elections

Local elections in Tennessee cover positions such as mayors, city council members, and county officials. These elections can vary significantly in terms of timing and procedures across different counties and cities.

Voter Registration

To vote in Tennessee, residents must be registered. Voter registration can be done in person, by mail, or online, and voters must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as being a U.S. citizen, a resident of Tennessee, and at least 18 years old on or before the next election.

Recent Trends and Electoral Reforms

In recent years, Tennessee has seen shifts in its political landscape, with varying impacts on both state and national levels. Discussions about electoral reforms, including voter ID laws and the handling of absentee ballots, have been prominent.

See Also

• Political party strength in Tennessee
• United States presidential elections in Tennessee
• Tennessee gubernatorial elections