Three commissioners recently took the oath to serve on the Knox County Election Commission.
Julie Gautreau and Andronicus Thomas have accepted positions on the Knox County Election Commission as Democratic representatives. Former State Rep. Eddie Smith was also sworn in on May 19, 2021, to a four-year term.
The Knox County Election Commission has five commissioners. The majority party in the State House, Republicans at this time, has three Commissioners and the minority party (Democrats), has two appointees. Commissioners are recommended by the district State Representatives.
Attorney Julie Gautreau has been appointed to the Election Commission to replace Tammy Kaousias. She was recommended by State Rep. Gloria Johnson. Gautreau is a criminal defense trial lawyer who recently retired with 30-years of service with the Knox County Public Defender’s Office. Gautreau is a founding member of Face to Face Knox, a grassroots community coalition that advocates for incarcerated people.
Andronicus Thomas is the appointee of State Rep. Sam McKenzie, to replace Cameron Brooks whose term ended. Thomas has been with Knoxville Community Development Corporation for over 30 years and is a housing issues manager.
Former State Rep. Eddie Smith was appointed as a Republican commissioner.
The Knox County Election Commission office is located in the Knox County Courthouse, 300 W. Main St. Ste 229. The KCEC oversees Knox County elections. Its primary duties are to:
- secure the freedom and purity of the ballot
- require voters to vote in the precincts they reside except as otherwise expressly permitted.
- provide a comprehensive and uniform election procedure and encourage maximum participation by all citizens in the electoral process.
For more information about KCEC, visit the website here, KnoxCounty.org/election; or call 865-215-2480.