Tennessee Shifts Further Right: The Rise Of MAGA Conservatism In The Volunteer State

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Submitted by Kurt Riley –

Tennessee has long been a Republican stronghold, but recent GOP reorganization efforts across the state signal a growing shift toward a more MAGA-aligned, grassroots conservatism.

From Williamson to Hamilton to Shelby County, establishment Republicans are being replaced with staunch America First conservatives, highlighting a broader trend toward MAGA dominance in the state.

While a handful of counties, including Sumner and Knox, remain controlled by establishment “RINO” (Republican In Name Only) factions, the overwhelming trajectory of Tennessee’s Republican Party is toward a more uncompromising conservative future.

Grassroots Conservatives Take Over Williamson County GOP

In Williamson County, the Elevate 2025 slate achieved a complete victory, sweeping all leadership positions despite establishment opposition. Steve Hickey, Diane Chenard, Elliott Franklin, and other conservatives secured commanding wins over their more moderate rivals. Even a hand recount, demanded by establishment figures, confirmed the landslide grassroots victory. The outcome underscores a local Republican base increasingly rejecting career politicians and embracing a platform focused on election integrity, parental rights, and America First policies.

Hamilton County: A Two-to-One Rout of Establishment Republicans

Similarly, Hamilton County witnessed a decisive rejection of its establishment GOP leadership. The “Activate Hamilton” slate won by a staggering two-to-one margin, with Gail Greene defeating establishment favorite Jim Hammond for the chairman position. Other grassroots candidates, including Dan Meehan and Anne Lowery, secured overwhelming victories, solidifying the county’s transformation. With the largest recorded turnout in convention history, it’s clear that the demand for genuine conservative leadership is surging across the state.

Shelby County Follows Suit with Election of Worth Morgan

In Shelby County, Worth Morgan, a former Memphis City Council member, was elected GOP chairman, defeating his more moderate opponent. The election was part of the party’s “Revive 25” initiative, aimed at reinvigorating local conservatism. With over 400 attendees participating in the convention, the Shelby County GOP made a definitive statement that it is moving away from establishment politics and toward a more robust, America First platform.

The Future of Tennessee’s GOP

With county after county embracing grassroots conservative leadership, Tennessee is cementing itself as one of the strongest MAGA-aligned states in the country. The sweeping victories in Williamson, Hamilton, and Shelby counties demonstrate that the old-guard GOP establishment is losing its grip. The question now is not whether Tennessee will continue its shift to the right, but how long holdout counties like Sumner and Knox can resist the inevitable wave of change.

We still have work to do but the message from real Tennessee Republicans is clear: the era of weak, compromising conservatism is over. The Volunteer State is becoming a stronghold of unapologetic, America First leadership, with grassroots conservatives at the helm and establishment politicians being shown the door.

About the Author: Kurt Riley is the Former Chairman of the Sumner County Constitutional Republicans.