TFBF Hosts Candidate School

Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation, alongside Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and Tennessee Chamber of Commerce, hosted a first of its kind Tennessee Agriculture and Commerce Candidate School. 23 individuals interested in potentially running for public office attended the two-day event and received valuable information and insight into what it takes to run for office and how to build a successful campaign.

"We couldn't be more thrilled to host this training," said Tennessee Farm Bureau President Eric Mayberry. "As fewer and fewer lawmakers come from an agricultural background, we encourage our volunteer leaders to consider running for public office. This training aims to provide those leaders with the tools and insight that will hopefully lead them to be successful in any campaign endeavor they embark on."

The training was primarily hosted by American Farm Bureau advocacy staff who boast an 80%+ success rated. Mike Sistak, AFBF director of advocacy and political management, facilitated and took attendees through sessions on day one ranging from campaign finance essentials to developing a candidate's platform, strategy and team before concluding with a round of mock media interviews by Tennessee Farm Bureau's communications staff.

Day two of the candidate school started with mock interview critique, additional insight from advocacy staff and then the highlight of the entire event - hearing directly from some of Tennessee's very own political leaders. Jeremy Faison, Chairman of the Tennessee House Republic Caucus representing parts of Northeast Tennessee, shared valuable insight with the group and applauded attendees for already doing some of the hard work to get elected. Additionally, providing a unique perspective most wouldn't receive, Bill Young, executive director of the Tennessee Bureau of Ethics and Campaign Finance, shared how to run a successful and ethical campaign here in Tennessee.

"We are proud to support these folks who are interested in stepping up and ensuring agriculture and rural communities are protected," said Mayberry. "We look forward to the future political leaders the Volunteer State has coming."