Meet State Rep candidate Melissa Browder

Melissa Browder is running for the 32nd District seat of the State House of Representatives in the August 6 Republican primary. The district covers Roane County and parts of Loudon County including Lenoir City.

Browder has been serving on the Loudon County School Board since being elected in 2022 She has also served as Loudon County Republican Party Chair.

“I have spent years advancing conservative principles and building the relationships necessary to turn those principles into real results,” she said.

A native of Roane County and currently a resident of Lenoir City, Browder said she understands both the challenges and opportunities facing the district.

“East Tennessee is entering a once-in-a-generation period of growth, and we have a responsibility to get it right,” she said.

She said the tremendous growth the region is experiencing as a result of investment in nuclear energy will require proper management. At the same time, we must protect our rural character, conservative values, and strong sense of community, she said.

“The economic growth coming to Roane and Lenoir City will create tremendous opportunities, but it will also put pressure on our roads, schools, housing, workforce, and local infrastructure,” she said.

Browder said her background includes 27 years in workforce development at Roane State Community College and other organizations. She has also served with the Tennessee Economic and Community Development for the 16-county region.

“I have legislative experience in those roles working with our local and state officials. Throughout my career, I have connected people with opportunities that change lives and strengthen communities,” she said.

Browder said she will focus on the guiding principle of getting growth right. She said she believes growth should pay for growth. Economic development should generate the resources necessary to strengthen our schools, improve infrastructure, support public safety, and keep taxes low for working families, she said.

“My experience has taught me that successful communities don’t simply react to growth—they plan for it. I will advocate responsible investments that prepare our district for the future while protecting the values that matter most to residents,” she said.

Browder said she knows traffic congestion on the interstate has become a major concern for Roane County and Lenoir City residents, businesses, and emergency responders.

“Traffic isn’t going to be solved by talking about it. It will be solved through planning, partnerships, and making infrastructure a priority before we’re overwhelmed. That’s exactly the kind of leadership I intend to bring to Nashville,” she said.

The choice facing East Tennessee is whether growth becomes a burden or a blessing, she said.

“If we get growth right, we can create jobs, keep taxes low, improve our roads, and preserve our quality of life at the same time,” she said.

Browder said her career of service working alongside employers, educators, local governments, and state agencies to solve complex challenges has prepared her for the challenges of working in Nashville.

“Throughout my career, I’ve built partnerships and brought people together to create real results,” she said.