Lonnie Parker III launches campaign for Madison County Commission

JACKSON, Tenn. — Lonnie Parker III, a lifelong Jackson resident, has officially launched his campaign for Madison County Commission, District 1, Position 1, pledging to bring honest leadership, transparency, and a people-first approach to county government.

A resident of District 1, Parker says his campaign is rooted in a principle that too often gets overlooked in local politics: listening to the people who live in the community.

“Too often, decisions are made without truly hearing from the people they impact,” Parker said. “I believe leadership starts with listening — not just to a small group, but to everyone.”

Rooted in Jackson: Education, Athletics, and Leadership

Parker’s connection to Jackson runs deep. He attended Lincoln Elementary School and Parkway Middle School, before graduating from Jackson Central–Merry High School. While at JCM, Parker played football, ran track, and was recognized for his leadership and performance on the field, earning Defensive Player of the Year honors.

He went on to play football at the University of Tennessee at Martin, before transferring to Jackson State Community College, where he earned his Associate Degree. Parker then continued his education at the University of Memphis, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science.

While at the University of Memphis, he served as a Student Government Senator, gaining early experience in leadership, representation, and advocacy.

Parker later earned his Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, graduating with honors.

Listening First: A Campaign Built on Community Input

Parker has already begun canvassing neighborhoods throughout District 1 and says his goal is to gain a working understanding of every street and every community within the district. Building on that groundwork, he will begin hosting District 1 Listening Sessions starting in March 2026, providing residents with direct opportunities to share concerns, ideas, and solutions.

“These listening sessions are about real conversations,” Parker said. “Not talking at people, but hearing from them.”

• Key Issue Priorities
  • Parker’s campaign is guided by a simple question: How can we all win? His priorities include:
• Economic Stability and Growth for District 1
  • Strengthening financial security for working families and addressing everyday economic challenges.
• Support for Small Businesses
  • Creating opportunities for small businesses in District 1 to start, grow, and thrive.
• Workforce Access and Opportunity
  • Helping individuals who are struggling to find work connect with training programs,
    employment resources, and career pathways that lead to a livable wage.
• Community-Driven Solutions
  • Working alongside residents, faith communities, nonprofits, businesses and other local
    partners to build solutions that reflect real needs.
• Transparent and Accountable Government
  • Promoting openness in county decision-making and ensuring residents have a voice in how decisions are made.

An Independent Voice Focused on People.

With more than 30 years of corporate professional experience, Parker understands that many hardworking individuals feel left out because they don’t have inside connections or political access. He believes real change does not come from cutting corners but from listening honestly and working to create solutions.

Lonnie believes that if the community wants real and lasting change, it must start with leaders who grounded, and willing to listen — even when it is inconvenient.

I’m running because too many people work hard and still feel unheard,” Parker said. “Real leadership means showing up, listening without an agenda, and doing what’s right.

A Democrat Focused on Community, Not Division

While Parker is running as a Democrat, he emphasizes that his values go beyond party labels. He believes effective leadership requires fairness, collaboration, and respect for all residents and stakeholders.

“I don’t care if you’re a Democrat, Republican, or Independent,” Parker said. “What matters is that we work together to make our community better for everyone.”

A Local Neighbor Driven by Family, Faith, and Service

Parker lives in District 1 and is active throughout the community. He is a member of East Jackson Church of Christ, the 100 Black Men of West Tennessee, and the Jackson–Madison County Voters Council, reflecting his commitment to faith, mentorship, civic engagement, and service.

Above all, Lonnie says he is most passionate about his family, which continues to shape his values and his desire to build a stronger future for District 1.

“This campaign is about people,” Parker said. “I live here, I listen here, and I’m committed to making District 1 better for all of us.”

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