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Photo of Robert Vick

Robert Vick

IndependentFirst-time candidate

Education Administration

An educator with 40 years in Tennessee public schools, Vick is an independent candidate running for his first term. He emphasizes expanding mental health resources, addressing homelessness and poverty, and strengthening the education system.

From the candidate’s published profile

Background

Robert Vick graduated from Jefferson County High School. Vick earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 1985, a graduate degree from Lincoln Memorial University in 1995, and a graduate degree from East Tennessee State University in 2004. Vick's career experience includes working as an education administration.[1]

Graduate:
Lincoln Memorial University, 1995
Bachelor's:
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 1985
High school:
Jefferson County High School

In their own words

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a lifelong resident of Jefferson County in East Tennessee, where I was born and raised. Having recently completed my 40th year in public education as a teacher, coach, and administrator, my life's work has been dedicated to investing in the future of Tennessee's children and supporting our communities.

My campaign is built on three core pillars: improving mental health resources, addressing homelessness and poverty, and strengthening our education system. As a Christian Independent running for Governor, my faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of who I am. While I will never push my personal beliefs on others, my faith serves as my steady moral compass. If elected, I am committed to leading our state by striving to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). I offer an independent mind, a Tennessee heart, and a commitment to delivering new results for all Tennesseans. I will work tirelessly to make our state stronger and more unified for all Tennesseans.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

1. Independent Mind. Tennessee Heart. New Results.

Tennessee deserves leadership focused on solving problems, not playing partisan politics. With a 40-year career rooted in public education, I bring an independent mind that looks at the facts, a deep Tennessee heart that truly cares for our people, and a commitment to delivering real, practical results.2. Investing in Our People: Education, Mental Health, and Poverty

My administration will focus heavily on the critical issues that impact everyday Tennesseans. We must fully support our public education system, expand access to essential mental health resources, and tackle the root causes of homelessness and poverty to build a stronger, healthier state for everyone.3. Led by Faith, Committed to Serve All

My personal faith in Jesus Christ serves as my moral compass, guiding me to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly. As an Independent Governor, I will never push my beliefs on anyone; instead, I will use these principles to ensure that every single Tennessean is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My policy passions stem from 40 years as a Tennessee educator. I am focused on three areas:

Education: Fully supporting public schools, empowering teachers, and ensuring every child has a safe, high-quality education.

Mental Health: Expanding statewide access to care, early intervention, and crisis resources.

Poverty & Homelessness: Tackling root causes through workforce development and nonprofit partnerships.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

List found on my website.

On the 2026 ballot

Links

Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.

Source(opens in new tab)
Robert Vick — Governor of Tennessee candidate, 2026 | True Vote