Monty Fritz Declares Candidacy for Governor in 2026
Monty Fritz, a representative from Kingston, declared on September 5 his intention to run for the Republican nomination for governor in 2026. He aims to challenge what he views as excessive government spending and overreach.
His decision to enter the race stems from a desire for greater individual freedom and less governmental interference. This comes after the state’s attorney general criticized appeals related to a court ruling that could overturn the state’s “armed intent” law and restrictions on firearms in parks.
Fritz expressed concern over political groups in Nashville that, in his view, are attempting to take more tax money and redistribute it under the guise of corporate welfare and socialist programs. He believes Tennessee residents would rather retain their funds and make decisions about healthcare and parenting themselves.
A retired Army veteran with a background in the nuclear industry, Fritz is joining a competitive Republican field that includes Senator Marsha Blackburn and Senator John Rose. He noted in a video that while he may not have the $25 million typically required for a successful campaign, he is determined to combat what he referred to as the “prideful rog haughty class” in the state capital that pushes for more regulations and taxes for social programs.
Fritz criticized the connections between Nashville’s political elite and other influential circles, emphasizing a disconnection from everyday citizens.
To address Tennessee’s budget, which has increased by 59% in the past six years, Fritz advocates for a realignment of government operations. He believes that state officials should prioritize constitutional adherence instead of catering to special interest groups. He also aims to halt what he calls a “power grab” that allows bureaucrats undue decision-making power.
Part of his economic plan includes eliminating the 4% sales tax on groceries, and he has expressed intentions of trimming the budget further.
Fritz has been vocal about his stance on educational funding, having opposed the private school voucher bill that recently passed. He has also stated on his campaign website that he would cut funding for what he refers to as “financially irresponsible” voucher programs.
On issues of immigration, he mentioned the Plyler v. Doe ruling, which mandates that schools must accept students regardless of their citizenship status.
His website indicates a commitment to life from conception, and he voted against measures this year thatguaranteed women’s access to contraceptives and reproductive rights.
In 2024, Fritz gained attention when he passed legislation aimed at preventing the federal release of climate-altering chemicals into Tennessee’s atmosphere. At the time, he remarked on its connection to “geoengineering,” while distancing himself from the prevailing “chemtrail” conspiracy theories.
Recently, he sent a letter to Governor Bill Lee and Attorney General Jonathan Skulmetti. Skulmetti is appealing a court ruling declaring the state’s “armed intent” law and the prohibition on guns in parks as unconstitutional. Fritz received backing from several Republican lawmakers on this issue.
As of now, he reports having an $11,050 balance in his campaign account, alongside a self-approved loan of $15,000. While he has officially announced his candidacy and registered with the election finance office, he has yet to submit a comprehensive financial report.
