Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry endorsed Tennessee State Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon) in his reelection bid for State Senate District 17.
Pody’s endorsement was included in the Tennessee Chamber’s first round of legislative endorsements for the 2026 election cycle, recognizing candidates the organization says have demonstrated a commitment to job creation, economic opportunity, and the long-term success of Tennessee employers.
In announcing its endorsements, the Tennessee Chamber said it was backing candidates who understand “the importance of policies that help businesses grow and invest in communities across our state.”
“Tennessee’s success depends on creating an environment where businesses can grow, families can thrive, and good-paying jobs continue to come to our communities,” Pody said after receiving the endorsement. “I am grateful for the Tennessee Chamber’s endorsement. I’m honored to continue fighting for policies that strengthen our state’s economy.”
Tennessee Chamber President and CEO Josh Brown praised the endorsed candidates, saying, “These candidates understand the importance of policies that help businesses grow and invest in communities across our state. We are proud to support these leaders as they seek to serve Tennessee in the General Assembly.”
Pody joins State Senators Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun) and Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville), along with nine state House candidates, in receiving the chamber’s first round of endorsements. The organization said additional endorsements will be announced in the coming weeks.
The endorsement comes shortly after Pody was endorsed by Americans for Prosperity (AFP) State PAC, which cited his support for lower taxes, constitutionally limited government, educational opportunity, and individual freedom.
Pody, who was first elected to the Tennessee Senate in 2017, is seeking another term representing Senate District 17, which includes portions of Davidson and Wilson counties. He faces challenger Butch Baker in the August 6 Republican primary.
Early voting for the primary begins July 17.
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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network.
