One Knox County Commission race is particularly crowded. Here's who's running

Allie Feinberg, Knoxville News Sentinel
Updated ·2 min read

The race to represent the 5th District on the Knox County Commission is crowded, with at least three Republicans and one Democrat running.

That seat is held by Commissioner John Schoonmaker, who has served for two terms and can't run for reelection because of term limits.

District 5 covers the far-west communities of Farragut and Concord.

Republicans in the 5th District race

Brian Walker, a 45-year-old insurance company owner, is running for the seat because he wants to monitor the growth of the district.

"People are moving here, and as commissioner I want to help monitor the growth of District 5," Walker said in a statement on his website. "By understanding the needs of the people we can formulate a plan to keep the county as beautiful as the day I moved my family here."

Dale Skidmore, a 51-year-old insurance agency owner, is running because he wants to be a voice for constituents. He told Knox News he isn't nervous about the crowded primary.

"My job is to convince the voters that I am the best choice," he said. "I am most excited about meeting the people of the 5th District and hearing their concerns and ideas on how to make (Knox County) government better."

Brad Hall did not respond to Knox News' request for comment. He returned his nominating petition Nov. 20.

Angela Russell told Knox News she's considering a run, but has not made a final decision. She has until Dec. 14 to do so.

One Democrat plans to run

S. Arthur Moore, a 40-year-old neurologist, also is running. The 5th District seat has been held by Republicans for the past eight years, and Moore told Knox News he's a "purple Democrat."

He told Knox News he wants to help Knox County keep up with demands that come from growth and success.

"It's time for me to put my money where my mouth is," he said. "I've complained (about things in the county) and It's time to step up and make some of those changes."

Moore has not yet returned his nominating petition or released a website, but confirmed he plans to do so soon.

Allie Feinberg reports on politics for Knox News. Email her: allie.feinberg@knoxnews.com and follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @alliefeinberg.

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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Knox County Commission District 5 candidates for 2024