Authentic Representation: Why I’m Trading Polarizing Politics for Front-Porch Conversations
Meet The Candidates | April 18, 2026
District 7 is a mosaic of unique voices. Jamie Naylor discusses her commitment to authentic leadership and learning from every corner of the district.

Written By Jamie Naylor

There is a common trap in politics: candidates often think they have to be the loudest person in the room with an answer for everything. But true leadership starts with the humility to say, "I want to learn from you."

I am a proud Memphian. I grew up in Midtown and East Memphis, attending Sherwood Elementary and White Station. But I am the first to acknowledge that my experience is not the same as every neighbor in Burclare or Frayser. To walk into those communities and claim I have a "one-size-fits-all" solution would be inauthentic. District 7 is a beautiful, diverse mosaic of different needs and histories.

My approach as your Commissioner will be rooted in "Meeting People Where They Are." I am trading the polarizing national rhetoric that clogs our newsfeeds for real, front-porch conversations. I don’t believe national partisan labels belong in local government. We don’t need "Red" or "Blue" solutions for our potholes, our precinct safety, or our parks. We need citizen-led solutions.

I’ve spent my career in hospitality and operations—from co-owning Kelter Crossing to managing complex nonprofit budgets. In those worlds, you don't succeed by ignoring people; you succeed by listening to them. On Day 1, my agenda isn't a list of personal demands—it’s a commitment to collaboration. I want to sit down with my fellow commissioners, put the maps on the table, and ask the hard questions that haven't been asked in years. I am running to be your voice, but first, I am here to be your ears.

Learn more about Vote Jamie Naylor

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