Last week, I had the privilege of attending the 2026 Governor’s Conference on Economic and Community Development, known as GovCon, in Chattanooga. This year’s conference was particularly meaningful because it marked Governor Bill Lee’s final economic development conference as our governor.
The theme was “Legacy,” and I cannot think of a more fitting word to describe the impact Governor Lee and his administration have had on Tennessee over the past eight years.
Great leadership is not simply measured by what is accomplished during someone’s time in office, but by the opportunities created for generations yet to come. Governor Lee has certainly demonstrated that kind of leadership.
Since taking office in 2019, Governor Lee has helped position Tennessee as one of America’s most attractive destinations for business investment, manufacturing, and job creation. His administration has emphasized fiscal responsibility, workforce development, infrastructure improvements, and perhaps most importantly to those of us in rural Tennessee, the belief that opportunity should not be limited to our state’s largest cities.
The results speak for themselves. During his 2026 State of the State address, Governor Lee highlighted approximately 300,000 new jobs created during his administration, more than $11 billion in business investment during 2025 alone, and the fact that more than half of business investment dollars over the preceding seven years had gone into rural Tennessee.
Those numbers represent far more than economic statistics. They represent paychecks, careers, stronger families, and communities with renewed hope for the future.
Here in Lawrence County, we have experienced that commitment firsthand.
Under Governor Lee’s leadership, and through the tremendous work of Deputy Governor and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter and his team, our county has benefited from investments that will produce opportunities for generations.
Consider Magna International’s $200 million investment and approximately 250 quality jobs. Consider the state’s partnership in helping us secure and develop 150 acres along Highway 43 North for future industrial recruitment. Consider the investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and support for our existing industries.
These accomplishments did not happen by accident. They required vision, relationships, cooperation, and a willingness to invest today in opportunities that may not fully materialize until years down the road.
I am especially grateful to Commissioner Stuart McWhorter, whose leadership, accessibility, and commitment to rural Tennessee have made a tremendous difference. During his tenure, the Department of Economic and Community Development has secured more than 320 projects representing over $31 billion in capital investment and more than 44,000 job commitments.
Behind those numbers is an extraordinary team of professionals working tirelessly to strengthen communities across Tennessee.
To Governor Lee, Commissioner McWhorter, and the entire ECD team, I want to express my sincere appreciation on behalf of Lawrence County. Your investments are not simply investments in buildings, land, or infrastructure. They are investments in people, families, and future generations.
Of course, GovCon wasn’t all business!
Two memorable surprises were appearances by Steven Curtis Chapman and Luke Bryan. Their performances brought tremendous excitement to the conference and reminded us of the incredible musical heritage that makes Tennessee such a special place. It was a wonderful way to celebrate our state’s accomplishments!
As Governor Lee approaches the conclusion of his second term, I believe Tennesseans have much to celebrate and even more to anticipate.
Certainly, challenges remain. Economic conditions change, industries evolve, and communities must continually adapt. But strong leadership doesn’t eliminate every challenge. It prepares us to meet those challenges with confidence.
That is what excites me about Lawrence County’s future.
Our strategic location, available industrial property, skilled workforce, strong agricultural heritage, and commitment to fiscal responsibility position us well for continued growth.
Our responsibility is to build upon these investments, pursue quality jobs, support existing employers, and create opportunities for our young people to build their lives and raise their families right here at home.
At the same time, we must preserve the character, values, and quality of life that make Lawrence County special. Economic development should never be about growth simply for the sake of growth. It should create lasting prosperity while protecting what matters most.
One of the greatest lessons of leadership is recognizing that we are temporary stewards of the responsibilities entrusted to us. Our job is to leave something better for those who follow.
That is the very definition of legacy.
Governor Lee, thank you for believing in rural Tennessee and recognizing the potential of Lawrence County. Thank you for assembling a team that understands the importance of partnerships with local communities. Your leadership and investments will continue bearing fruit long after your time in office.
As we look toward a new administration in Nashville and a new chapter in Tennessee’s history, I am confident that the foundation laid over these past eight years will serve our state exceptionally well.
Here in Lawrence County, we are grateful for what has been accomplished, excited about what lies ahead, and determined to continue doing our part.
The greatest investments we make today may be enjoyed most by generations we will never meet.
Our best days are not behind us. I believe they are still ahead.
May God continue to bless Governor Bill Lee, his family, and his administration. And may God continue to bless Lawrence County and the great state of Tennessee!
