KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – A Republican candidate for Knox County sheriff is challenging the outcome of the May 5 primary election, citing concerns about its integrity.
Mike Davis, along with his attorney Lance Baker, has notified the Knox County Election Commission of plans to formally contest the results. The challenge comes after two former candidates in the race, David Amburn and JJ Jones, were indicted just days after voting concluded.
Baker told commissioners the primary was “severely tainted,” arguing that voters lacked critical information at the time ballots were cast. Amburn and Jones together received more than 18,000 votes, accounting for over 41% of the total. Brent Gibson led the race with more than 19,000 votes, while Davis received just over 6,300.
Davis is not alleging voter fraud or illegal ballots, but instead contends that the timing of the indictments denied voters insight into the candidates’ qualifications and fitness for office.
“What happened on May 5 was grossly unfair to Knox County voters,” Davis said, adding he plans to request action from the State Republican Party.
At this time, it remains unclear whether the contest will lead to further action or a possible re-vote.
