Q&A with Phil Barnes, Candidate for State House District 35
Phil Barnes is running for Tennessee State House for District 35. The election is on November 3, 2026, with early voting available October 14 - 29.
Check out our Q&A below to learn more about Phil!
What motivated you to run for this position?
I couldn’t let the Republican incumbent run unopposed.
I’m tired of not having anyone on the ballot to vote for.
I am tired of the direction TN is going.
What general areas fall into your state house district?
Trousdale County and East Sumner County, including parts of Hendersonville and Gallatin.
What are your top priorities if elected?
Ending School Vouchers
Separation of Church and State
How will you ensure diverse voices in your district are heard?
I would like to conduct monthly town hall meetings throughout the major areas in my district.
Phil reaching out to voters by phone
If people are interested in supporting your campaign, what is the best way for them to contact you or learn more about you?
My website, trekforward.org, has information on where I stand and links to donate – along with links to my social media.
Tell us about a bill that was recently proposed or passed at the state level that concerns you.
HB-1822, The Charlie Kirk American Heritage Act, which allows schools to teach Christianity disguised as history. Additionally, there have been a plethora of bills that allow businesses and people to discriminate against marginalized groups with no repercussions.
Tell us about a bill you’d be excited to support. It could be one that’s already been proposed, or one you’d like to see.
Pot for Potholes.
Countermanding all the atrocious bills the GOP have passed.
Reforming programs originally designed to help people, instead of blaming people in need.
Phil attending the Sumner Dems Blue Wave BBQ
Fun Facts
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Tennessee?
I grew up in San Jose, CA. I’ve lived in TN/Sumner County since February 2002.
What do you love about Tennessee?
It’s where my son grew up.
What’s your favorite movie?
Either Star Trek II or Star Trek VI.
What is the last book you read?
The Fourth Branch by Daniel Squadron.
What kind of music do you like?
‘90s Country; Classic Rock. My favorite band is The Tubes.
Do you have any pets?
Not anymore. After 30 years of pet ownership, and living alone, I decided to be pet free.
Do you have any unique hobbies?
I’m trying to get back into model making. I also recently bought a laser etcher.
What is your most controversial (non-serious) opinion?
In the Star Trek episode City On The Edge Of Forever McCoy goes back in time and alters things resulting in an alternate future. Kirk and Spock go back to stop him from altering it. But I think that the future they live in is also an alternate future than if none of them had been there.
Learn more
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