Wendell Jackson is running for Tennessee governor as an independent in the 2026 general election. He is certified for the ballot, according to BallotReady election data.

Jackson describes his campaign as a nonpartisan, constitution-upholding, no-money effort, according to his campaign website. He declined to submit answers to the Nashville Banner's policy questionnaire, instead referring voters to his YouTube channel.

Candidate information

  • Name: Wendell Jackson
  • Party: Independent
  • Office sought: Tennessee Governor
  • Election date: Nov. 3, 2026
  • Ballot status: Certified

On the issues

Jackson's platform centers on what he calls T.A.L.K.: Transparency, Accountability, Love and Kindness. The positions below are drawn from his campaign website and his BallotReady responses. All are the candidate's own claims.

Governance and transparency

Jackson said voters would have access to the inner workings of the governor's office if he is elected. He said citizens, as employers of state government, should be able to visit the State Capitol to ask about unaddressed issues. He provided no specifics.

Healthcare

Jackson said a healthcare system that benefits all Tennesseans would be implemented under his administration. He framed the issue as putting people over profit.

Housing

Jackson said secure housing for all Tennesseans would be a priority. He linked housing stability to healthcare access, saying residents should have the opportunity to thrive.

Education

Jackson said he advocates for what he calls a Curriculum of Common Knowledge, which he described as STEAM-rich and logic-based. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. He said the curriculum would help people achieve liberty and balance and work toward world peace.

Economy and workforce

Jackson said he wants to develop workforce training programs and create incentives for businesses that hire and train local workers. He also said he would foster community partnerships to address unemployment and underemployment. He described himself as passionate about supporting local businesses and committed to responsible economic growth and stability, according to his BallotReady response.

The race

The governor's race features a large field of certified candidates. Other candidates on the ballot include Marsha Blackburn (Republican), Jerri Green (Democratic), Charles Van Morgan (Independent), Dave Seeman (Independent), David Hatley (Independent), Dean Brewer (Independent), Eddie Lee Murphy (Independent), Karl Knox Smithson (Independent), L. Webb Taylor (Independent), Lauren Pinkston (Independent), Misam Abidi (Independent), Ray Brown (Independent), Robert C. Vick (Independent) and Victor L. Scoggin (Independent).