Q&A with Patricia Smith, Candidate for County Commission
Patricia Smith is running for Sumner County Commission District 11. The election for county commission and other local positions is August 6, 2026, with early voting available July 17 - August 1.
Check out our Q&A below to learn more about Patricia!
What are your top priorities if elected?
Supporting emergency and fire services throughout the county
Solving real problems rather than spending precious meeting time on ideology
Collaborating with other commissioners regardless of party
What motivated you to run for this position?
Since voter turnout in Tennessee is so abysmal and my opponent was unopposed, I ran to give my constituents a choice.
What areas fall into your county commission district?
Saundersville Station, Millstone, Wynbrooke, Hunt Club, Savannah, and the area around Jack Anderson Elementary. View the interactive map below to see if you fall into District 11!
How will you ensure diverse voices in the community are heard?
Support all constituents to speak before committees and the commission
Answer all emails and communications
Use my opportunities to speak to encourage diverse constituents
What does effective local leadership look like to you?
Effective local leadership focuses on solving real issues, and does not focus on and advance ideology.
What was the last governmental meeting you watched or attended? What is something that stood out to you at that meeting?
The County Commission regular meeting on Monday, June 29. I've gone to several commission meetings over the years, and I’ve always been struck by the level of chaos generated by a few commissioners.
If people are interested in supporting your campaign, what is the best way for them to contact you or learn more about you?
Visit my website, follow my Facebook page, or find me on Instagram.
Patricia with SCDP chair Megan Lange and EC member Brooklynn White
Fun Facts
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Sumner County?
I was born and grew up in the St. Louis area. I lived in southern West Virginia for 40 years where I raised my two children, then moved to Hendersonville 14 years ago.
What do you love about Sumner County?
My grandkids and my daughter live here. Springtime here is awesome!
What’s your favorite movie?
The Secret of NIMH.
What is the last book you read?
Democracy Awakening by Dr. Heather Cox Richardson.
Patricia with Vincent Dixie, state house representative and candidate for Congressional District 7
What kind of music do you like?
Any and all classical.
Do you have any pets?
None who live in my house, but I have 4 grandkitties who live in Gallatin and 2 grandkitties who live in Ohio.
Do you have any unique hobbies?
I sing in my church choir and take voice lessons. I am also a certified adult fitness instructor.
What is your most controversial (non-serious) opinion?
Wine is basically fruit salad.
Is there anything else you want to share or want voters to know about you?
I’m a retired principal, and my entire career has been in education.
Learn more
Visit these links to learn more about Patricia Smith or support her campaign:
Find more information about the upcoming elections here. Meet all of our 2026 candidates and sign up to volunteer with a local campaign!