On December 8, 2025, Montgomery County Commissioner Michael Lankford was elected by the County Commission to serve as State Representative to State House District 75.  Lankford is filling the vacancy created by the passing of Representative Jeff Burkhart, leaving a vacancy in the Montgomery County Commission for District 6.  

Pursuant to state law, Commissioner Lankford submitted his formal resignation on December 9, effective immediately, thanking the Commission for their collaboration and professionalism.  

The Montgomery County Commission will seek applicants to fill the vacant seat and fulfill the remainder of the term through August 2026. Nominations and voting for the vacancy will take place at the Formal Commission meeting January 12, 2026. 

Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, and a resident within and a qualified voter of the district they represent. Interested candidates may submit a letter of interest, current resume, and a copy of their current voter registration card to Montgomery County Chief of Staff at lharrell@montgomerytn.gov no later than noon Tuesday, December 30, 2025, to be duplicated and distributed to the County Commission prior to the Informal Commission meeting, Monday, January 5, at six o’clock p.m., 2026, where all qualified candidates will be given 5 minutes to speak to the County Commission. 

“Representing District 6 has truly been a privilege, and I’m eager to continue serving our community in Nashville. Jeff Burkhart was a friend and someone I deeply respected, and it is an honor to carry the torch forward in service to the people he cared so much about.  I also want to thank all who stepped forward to run — each did so out of a desire to serve our community. I will gladly assist the next commissioner however I can, to ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted service for our community,” said Commissioner Lankford. 

“Congratulations on your new role in the Tennessee House of Representatives. It has been a pleasure to work alongside you, and we are grateful for your service to Montgomery County. We know you will continue to serve our community well at the state level, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact you will make,” said Montgomery County Mayor Wes Golden