10/15/2026
We’ve received a few questions about why candidates for Johnson City Commission and Jonesborough Mayor & Alderman are listed as Independent Candidates on the ballot when they are running in a Municipal Election. We’d like to take a moment to explain!
In Tennessee these municipal races are nonpartisan, meaning candidates do not run in a Republican or Democratic primary for these offices. Adding Independent Candidate beneath each candidate’s name helps keep the ballot consistent and uniform in its appearance.
So, what’s the difference? You may also see candidates for other offices listed as Republican Party Nominee or Democratic Party Nominee. These candidates earned their party’s nomination through the respective party’s primary election in August or March during Presidential election years. Since the municipal candidates do not go through that process, they are not identified as a party nominee on the ballot.
It’s also important to understand that Tennessee voters do not register under a political party, and Tennessee does not have a separate Independent Party designation for voter registration. The term Independent Candidate on this ballot does not mean the candidate belongs to an Independent political party.
Our goal is to help voters understand what they see on their ballot and feel confident when they head to the polls. The Washington County Election Commission is a nonpartisan office and does not endorse or oppose any candidate or political party. We are here to provide election information and help voters understand the process.
