Tennessee State Representative and House Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) announced on Thursday that he will not seek reelection this year.
Faison, who represents District 11 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, said in a video for his constituents, “Over the last 16 years of my life, I’ve had the most amazing privilege in representing you in the Tennessee House of Representatives.”
Apart from the faith in my Savior and the blessings of my wife and family, there is no greater honor in my life than serving you at the State Capitol. I am deeply grateful to the citizens of Cocke, Greene, Jefferson, and Hamblen counties for the privilege of representing you over… pic.twitter.com/xlsLAaEYQe
— Jeremy Faison (@RepFaison) January 15, 2026
“It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Faison added in the video posted to social media. “It has been a true joy and honor for me, but my time has come to say goodbye, my time has come to say this is it for me. At the end of 16 years this November, I’ll say goodbye to this legislature for the last time.”
Faison said he is leaving the Tennessee House with “the greatest amount of respect and love” for the chamber, adding, “We have the greatest state in all of America and I, just a country boy from Cosby, I’ve had the amazing privilege of speaking on your behalf.”
First assuming office in 2010, Faison went on to chair the House Republican Caucus in 2019.
Faison’s retirement announcement was met with an outpouring of gratitude and respect from his colleagues.
House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) said, “For 16 years, your leadership has made Tennessee stronger. You’re leaving this state better than you found it, and that’s the highest compliment any public servant can earn. Honored to have served with you.”
House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-Portland) added, “You will be missed my friend. All our lives are better due to your service.”
U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN-02) also weighed in, saying, “Sorry to see you go Brother.”
The Republican primary for the seat Faison occupies will be held on August 6, 2026. Candidates seeking to run in the now-open primary race for State House District 11 must qualify by Tuesday, March 10, 2026, according to the Tennessee Secretary of State’s office.
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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network. Follow Kaitlin on X / Twitter.
