Pictured are Commissioner J. Adam Lowe, his wife Rachel and three children.
County commission Vice Chairman J. Adam Lowe has formally announced his candidacy to replace Eric Watson as the District 22nd state representative. Rep. Watson announced earlier this month that he would be running for Bradley County sheriff. Mr. Lowe, a local business owner and educator, announced his plans to seek the office to friends and family earlier this week.
“My wife and I have known for some time that I was feeling led to serve in a different role in our area,” said Mr. Lowe to a group of supporters at a private gathering. “When it was clear the state seat was open, I knew that it was time to take my work ethic and experience to Nashville.”
Mr. Lowe has a history of service in the Southeast Tennessee area. He is the co-owner of Stage AVL, an audio visual touring and installation company. He said his company has created jobs for dozens of people over the years. Recently, Mr. Lowe and his business partners undertook the renovation of a historical local landmark. The Cleveland’s old Village Theater was transformed into a state-of-the-art events center. Mr. Lowe said the decision was made due to the need for such a space in the community.
In addition to his business, Mr. Lowe serves as the executive director of the Cleveland State Community College Foundation. Each year, the CSCC Foundation awards close to $250,000 for Bradley, Polk, Meigs, McMinn, and Monroe county students to attend college. Further, he has assisted a number of regional and local nonprofits with leadership and policy training.
His news release said, "Mr. Lowe won his first political office in 2010, beating an incumbent in the Republican primary to become 4th District Bradley County Commissioner. While in office, he has gained the reputation of being studied, direct, and diplomatic in governmental relations. He has consistently promoted transparency and efficiency in government, calling for the use of zero-based budgeting in areas. He has served on the finance, law enforcement, juvenile justice, and emergency management committees. Currently, he chairs the education committee which, after years of discussion, finally reached a plan for the reconstruction of Lake Forest, a middle school that has been plagued with building issues and repair needs."
In September, the Bradley County Commission unanimously elected Mr. Lowe as vice chairman for the year. “I am humbled to be elected as vice chairman,” he said at that meeting. “It’s been years since we have selected someone unanimously and having such a vote of confidence means a lot to me.”
His release said, "Mr. Lowe has proven to be a strong advocate for second amendment rights, educational reform, and limited government. While on the commission, Lowe introduced resolutions supporting related policy efforts at the state level."
“The state of Tennessee has made great progress in recent years,” Mr. Lowe said. “However, the coming years will continue to bring challenges for education and workforce development. Debates over states’ rights will continue. We have to lead and stand strong. We must be prepared to take the difficult positions for the future of our children and grandchildren.”
Mr. Lowe is married to Rachel Lowe, the guidance counselor for Polk County High School. Together they have three children, Blaine, Avri, and Maddox.