CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Six applicants hoping to fill the late state Rep. Jeff Burkhart’s District 75 seat presented their qualifications Monday during the Montgomery County Commission’s informal meeting, outlining what they believe they would bring to the Tennessee General Assembly.
The candidates are Allie Phillips, Michael Lankford, Adolph Dagan, Kent Griffy, Kevin McPherson and Nathan Burkholder. They spoke in the order their applications were received. The commission will vote on an interim representative at the Dec. 8 formal meeting.
Allie Phillips: Education, infrastructure, bipartisan work
Phillips opened by acknowledging Burkhart’s sudden passing. “Jeff was deeply rooted in this district, and I respected his commitment to serving the people of Montgomery County,” she said.
She then noted her previous run for the District 75 seat, where she “earned just over 45% of the vote” in a conservative district. Phillips emphasized her commitment to bipartisanship and said she would focus on public education, higher-paying jobs, affordable housing and expanded childcare access.
She also spoke against the statewide school voucher program, saying states that expanded vouchers saw “lower student achievement” and reduced funding for already under-resourced classrooms.
Phillips also called for expanding Interstate 24, completing Highway 374 and exploring long-term mass transit between Clarksville and Nashville. She highlighted veteran needs, pushing for a “better resourced VA clinic” and stronger mental health services.
Michael Lankford: Continuing Burkhart’s work
Lankford, who represents District 6 on the County Commission, described Burkhart as a mentor and said his goal was to continue the priorities Burkhart set in motion. “We cannot afford a gap in representation when the important decisions are being made that directly shape our future,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of electing someone “who knows the work that’s already begun so the progress can continue uninterrupted.”
Lankford also pointed to his background assisting businesses, farms and families with financial planning. “I listen to what families are experiencing every day. Their concerns, their hopes, and the quality of life that they’re looking for,” he said.
Lankford assured the commission, “Those are the voices that will guide me in Nashville.”
Adolph Dagan: Community focus, business experience
Dagan, a Fort Campbell veteran originally from Togo, highlighted the diversity of District 75 and said he is committed to “representing everybody.” Fluent in Ewe, French, English, and some Spanish, he said his background helps him understand the needs of a wide range of residents.
A local business owner who runs an African market, Dagan emphasized the value he places on family and community engagement. “I’m going to represent everyone. No matter your political party, your religion, your language, and so on,” he said.
“I’m ready to help in any way,” he told commissioners. “We’re going to work together.”
Kent Griffy: Longtime public service
Griffy emphasized his decades of service in Montgomery County, noting his 19 years as a small-business owner and his experience establishing Clarksville’s first used-car dealership designed to treat military customers fairly. He said those experiences taught him the “power of relationships” and the importance of delivering results.
He cited his 18 years on the Clarksville-Montgomery County School Board, including stints as chairman and vice chairman. “It is my public service that prepared me most for this moment,” Griffy said.
He served 14 years as commissioner and 12 years as the president of the Woodlawn Utility District. Griffy also spoke on a recent appointment. “I was honored to be appointed as an at-large member of the Tennessee School Board Association,” he said.
Kevin McPherson: Public safety, quality of life
McPherson acknowledged that most commissioners did not know him personally but said his background makes him well-qualified. “The vast majority of you don’t know who I am,” he said. “But that shouldn’t influence your decision on voting next Monday.”
A former police officer of 20 years, he also served on a local government oversight team. “I have interpreted the law, I have implemented the law, and I have defended the law in court,” McPherson said, noting his work frequently involved homelessness and addressing mental health concerns.
His priorities include improving the quality of life, creating alternative funding methods for infrastructure and enhancing public safety statewide. McPherson said he plans to wear a shirt reading “I’m your state rep. Please tell me your concerns,” because he wants to hear directly from the people he plans to represent.
Nathan Burkholder: Legislative continuity and technical training
Burkholder, who represents District 7 on the County Commission, also reflected on Burkhart’s passing. “The sudden loss has been an incredible loss for his family, our county, our state, and for those of us who had the honor of calling him a friend,” he said.
He said his approach would be grounded in “honor, hard work and integrity,” values he learned through his family’s business.
Burkholder said he would continue supporting the Montgomery County delegation’s legislative agenda, including widening I-24, funding the Trenton Road project and completing the Highway 374 expansion on Dotsonville Road.
He highlighted the importance of funding technical training and Early Technical College programs, a priority he said was shared by both Burkhart and Gov. Bill Lee. “I would use my voice and my vote to attempt to pass and support legislation that is in the interest of our district and our county,” Burkholder said.
Commission to vote Dec. 8
Mayor Wes Golden thanked the applicants for their “willingness to serve our community.” The commission will vote to appoint the interim District 75 representative during its formal meeting on Monday, Dec. 8, at 6 p.m. at the Montgomery County Courts Complex.
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