TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Kate Prince on Mar 24, 2022

Three Republicans are seeking to fill the vacant House District 26 seat. Hamilton County Commissioner Greg Martin of Hixson, Shannon Stephenson of Harrison and David Swinford of Rivermont are all seeking appointment from the Hamilton County Commission, which will make a decision on March 30. Martin, who noted he’d been elected to serve the county as commissioner three times, said he will run for the seat even if he is not appointed. Stephenson is the CEO of Cempa Community Care. She says her experience helping with legislation at the state level to eliminate health disparities in the region makes her the most qualified candidate. Swinford owns a cattle farm and, alongside his wife, sells lesson plans and teaching materials to teachers. He said he has picked up paperwork to run for the seat, and is “90 % committed” to run. The seat was vacated by former Rep. Robin Smith after she pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud. Yahoo News has the story from Times Free Press.