Robert C. Vick

Background

Local 3 News identifies Vick as a Tennessee native and educator. Nashville Banner’s 2026 candidate questionnaire lists him as retired after 40 years in K–12 public education; Tennessee Firefly describes his work in East Tennessee schools as teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal and athletic director. The sources do not establish how long he has lived in the area.

Sources: Local 3 News, “DECISION 2026: Tennessee Governor candidates”, Nashville Banner, “Robert Vick” (2026 candidate Q&A), Tennessee Firefly, “Robert C. Vick: 2026 TN Governor Race”

What the candidate has said

Statements are attributed to the linked sources.

• Public education

  He says he is fully supportive of public education and opposes taxpayer-funded vouchers, while supporting parents choosing homeschooling or private school at their own expense.

  Main Street Media, “Main Street’s Q&A with independent governor candidates” (2026)

• Local control

  He says automated license plate readers and data centers should be local decisions, with less state-government interference.

  Main Street Media, “Main Street’s Q&A with independent governor candidates” (2026)

• Grocery taxes

  He is open to reducing grocery sales tax, saying the tax costs poorer residents a greater share of their income.

  Main Street Media, “Main Street’s Q&A with independent governor candidates” (2026)