How A Washington County Leader Protects The GOP Ballot

Local politics isn’t a side show, it’s the control panel for your taxes, schools, public safety, and the basic services you rely on every day. We’re joined by Anita Hodges, the Washington County GOP committee chairwoman, for a candid conversation about what really happens behind the ballot in Northeast Tennessee and why staying home on Election Day has consequences you can feel in your paycheck. We talk through Anita’s personal “why,” including her years supporting Honor Flight and the lasting influence of veterans who served under leaders like General Patton. From there, we dig into the practical mechanics of local political participation: why Tennessee’s local elections matter so much, how a major tax increase can reshape community trust, and why Anita believes “good people” have to stay engaged even when politics feels messy. Then we get specific about party rules and access. Anita explains the Tennessee GOP bylaws process, what “bona fide” means, how waivers work for candidates who don’t meet the primary voting history requirement, and why open primaries continue to spark debate across the state. We also discuss the role churches can play in voter registration and voter guides, plus the real-world worries pastors have about 501c3 rules. If you care about Washington County, Johnson City, and the Tri-Cities, this is a grounded look at how local leadership is formed and how you can influence it. If you find this helpful, subscribe, share it with a friend in Northeast Tennessee, and leave a rating and review so more listeners can find the show.To help you to navigate the home buying and mortgage process, Jonathan & Steve are currently licensed in Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia, contact us today at 423-491-5405 or visit www.jonathanandsteve.com.