Knox County residents are being called to rally behind a new candidate for sheriff in the 2026 election. Current Chief Deputy Bernie Lyon is set to officially launch his campaign, as announced by the current Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler. The kick-off event is scheduled to take place on April 3, at the Bearden Banquet Hall located at 5806 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN.

Knox County Sheriff Tom Spangler expressed his enthusiasm for Lyon's candidacy in a public invitation shared on his Facebook page, where he encouraged community members to "come together to show our support for Bernie." He hailed Lyon as a leader "dedicated to protecting our community and preserving our values." The event promises to be a mix of political discourse and community engagement, running from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

As the current Chief Deputy, Lyon has been at the forefront of several initiatives aimed at ensuring safety and order within Knox County. The forthcoming event represents not just a campaign launch but also a testament to Lyon's alleged commitment to public service and the values he aims to uphold if elected as sheriff. This is a pivotal moment for Lyon, as he seeks to transition from his deputy role into Knox County's principal enforcer of the law.

The kick-off also signals the continuation of a political legacy, with Sheriff Spangler positioning Lyon as the heir apparent to the sheriff's office. The public endorsement serves to potentially strengthen Lyon's campaign with the backing of a seasoned law enforcement officer. Spangler's message of unity and support for Lyon emphasizes a forward-thinking approach to law enforcement leadership within the community.