Jerri Green is the Democratic nominee for governor of Tennessee following her victory in the August 2026 primary election. Born and raised in Memphis, Green earned a bachelor's degree in English and Political Science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a law degree from Georgetown University. She began her legal career as a juvenile public defender in Nashville before working in criminal defense, public-interest law, and legal education. Green later served as Executive Director of the Community Legal Center in Memphis, providing legal assistance to underserved communities. She also worked as Senior Policy Advisor and Deputy Chief of Staff to Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris, focusing on public safety, healthcare, and economic issues. Elected to the Memphis City Council in 2023, she currently represents District 2 and was appointed Shelby County Chief Public Defender in 2026. Her gubernatorial campaign emphasizes reducing living costs, expanding healthcare access, strengthening public education, and supporting working families. The general election will take place on Tuesday, November 3.
