By Laura Lombardi
When the results of the August 4, 2026, Primary Election in Sumner County became official, just 10 votes separated the candidates in the County Commission District 3 race. Incumbent John R. Cooney received 464 votes, while newcomer Steve Richey received 474.
Cooney, who has served as the District 3 county commissioner for eight years, decided to launch a write-in campaign after the close primary results, with the goal of regaining his seat.
A write-in candidate is someone whose name does not appear on the ballot but who can receive votes when voters write in the candidate’s name.
“People in the community encouraged me to continue to serve as commissioner, so I registered to run a write-in campaign,” said Cooney. “This is one of the best teams of people that I’ve ever worked with, and I’d like the opportunity to continue.”
During his time in office, Cooney said the county has prioritized investing in its facilities, replacing roofs and air-conditioning systems and addressing structural repairs to preserve county buildings for the future.
“Over the last seven years, on average, we have been able to keep increases in spending to about 7% in a world that’s seeing about a 32% increase during that same time,” Cooney said.
Cooney said responsible budgeting is important to him and that he has spent time “drilling down on each line item” to review spending in every county department.
He added that serving as a county commissioner requires a detailed understanding of county infrastructure, employees and the working relationships among elected officials.
“Regardless of how you choose to vote, I encourage everyone to learn about the candidates, review the issues, and participate in the election,” said Cooney. “It’s all well and good to say you believe in lowering taxes, but unless you have an actual plan to do it — it’s meaningless.”
