Lauren Pinkston

Background

Pinkston is a former Lipscomb University professor and a seventh-generation Tennessean. Her 2026 VOTE411 profile identifies her as an independent candidate for Tennessee governor; the sources consulted did not establish how long she has lived in Tullahoma.

Sources: VOTE411 2026 Tennessee Governor Voter Guide, Tennessee 2026 governor candidate profile, MTSU Sidelines

What the candidate has said

Statements are attributed to the linked sources.

• Childcare

  Supports adding 50,000 childcare and preschool slots through business incentives, early-childhood vouchers for qualifying families, and quality standards tied to public funding.

  VOTE411 2026 Tennessee Governor Voter Guide

• Data centers

  Would support a statewide moratorium on data centers until the legislature establishes standards with input from local communities, farmers, conservationists, and energy experts.

  VOTE411 2026 Tennessee Governor Voter Guide

• Growth and infrastructure

  Would work with the legislature on impact fees for new developments and infrastructure grants for high-growth counties; also proposes a 10% data revenue share for residents from qualifying companies.

  VOTE411 2026 Tennessee Governor Voter Guide