MEMPHIS, Tenn. — It was a decisive night for the Republican Party in Shelby County, as GOP candidates secured key victories across the area.
U.S. Congressman David Kustoff and State Representatives John Gillespie and Mark White all secured re-election, further solidifying the party’s influence in the county.
Kustoff, re-elected to his fifth term representing Tennessee's 8th Congressional District, delivered his acceptance speech, expressing gratitude to his family, supporters, and voters.
“I just want to continue to work hard for the people of the 8th Congressional District and Shelby County,” Kustoff said, referencing the high number of Republican victories in Tennessee. "Before the election, eight of the nine congressmen in Tennessee were Republican. That’s a pretty good batting average."
Gillespie, who represents Memphis and parts of Shelby County, also celebrated his victory, securing re-election to a third term.
During his acceptance speech, Gillespie said his campaign centered on addressing the pressing issues that impact the lives of Memphians and Shelby County residents.
"Do you feel safe going about and enjoying the events that Memphis offers? That’s what this campaign was about,” Gillespie stated. “Now that I’m going back for two more years, I’m going to continue that work, and I will not stop.”
White, who represents Germantown and parts of Shelby County, also secured a strong victory, receiving 60% of the vote. White, who is focused on improving educational outcomes, promised to work on pressing issues during the next legislative session.
“There’s a lot that needs to be addressed from an educational standpoint in next year’s session,” White said. “I want to be a better servant to my constituents in the Germantown area and beyond.”
As Kustoff returns to Washington for his fifth term and Gillespie and White head back to the state legislature, Republicans in Shelby County remain committed to addressing key issues like crime, illegal immigration, and inflation, while also focusing on the quality of life for their constituents.
The results reflect the continued political strength of the GOP in this part of Tennessee, where Republicans have maintained a firm hold in recent years.