Nashville voters are heading into a busy election season, with several key judicial and administrative positions set to be decided in the Davidson County Democratic primary on May 5.
With no Republican or Independent candidates qualifying for many of the races, the primary will effectively determine who fills seats on the city’s criminal, circuit and general sessions courts, along with several clerk positions. The outcome will shape leadership in some of Nashville’s most important legal and administrative offices.
Early voting for the primary ran from April 15 through April 30, giving residents multiple opportunities to cast ballots ahead of Election Day. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 5, and voters must cast ballots at their assigned precincts.
Among the most closely watched races are contests for criminal court judge in Division III, circuit court judge in Division III and general sessions judge in Division VI. These positions play a critical role in overseeing felony cases, family law matters and high-volume misdemeanor and civil proceedings.
In addition to judicial races, voters will also decide on candidates for circuit court clerk and county clerk. These offices handle essential functions such as maintaining court records, processing vehicle registrations and issuing marriage and business licenses.
Several other positions are on the ballot but are uncontested in the primary, including criminal court clerk, juvenile court clerk, chief public defender, sheriff, county trustee and register of deeds. Incumbents in those roles are expected to continue serving without opposition unless challenged in future elections.
The May 5 primary is part of a broader election calendar that includes the Aug. 6 state and federal primary, county general election and Oak Hill municipal election and the November 3 State and Federal General, Belle Meade, Forest Hills, Goodlettsville Municipal Elections.
While the ballot may appear lengthy, many voters will only see a portion of the races depending on their district. Four Metro Nashville Public Schools board seats—Districts 2, 4, 6 and 8—are also up for election, adding another layer of local decision-making for residents.
Election officials are encouraging voters to confirm their polling locations in advance by checking their voter registration cards, using the Davidson County Polling Place Finder or visiting GoVoteTN.gov. A valid photo ID issued by the state of Tennessee or federal government is required to vote in person. College IDs are not accepted.
Voters are also reminded that campaign materials, including apparel and buttons, are not allowed inside polling places.
As Nashville continues to grow, the results of this primary will play a significant role in shaping how the city’s courts and public offices operate in the years ahead, making participation in the election especially important for residents across Davidson County.
