Tennessee Senate Republicans have picked Sen. Jack Johnson of Williamson County as their choice to become the state's next lieutenant governor and speaker of the Senate, WSMV 4 reported Tuesday. The report was also carried by WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News.
Johnson, who represents the 27th Senate District, was selected by the Senate Majority Caucus as its candidate to succeed Lt. Gov. Randy McNally. Johnson must still be formally elected speaker by his fellow senators, but because Republicans hold a majority in the chamber, the caucus pick is all but certain to win.
In Tennessee, the speaker of the Senate automatically serves as lieutenant governor. That makes the position first in line to succeed the governor if the governor leaves office early because of removal, resignation, illness or death.
Johnson has served as Senate majority leader for the past eight years. McNally congratulated him Tuesday. "During his eight years as leader, our state and our caucus have cut taxes, helped create jobs and made Tennessee a better place to live, work and retire. He will be an outstanding Speaker," McNally said.
With Johnson moving up, the caucus also chose new leadership. McNally announced that Sen. Dawn White of District 13 was elected to be the next majority leader.
McNally announced in February that he would not seek another term in the state Senate in 2026, meaning he would step away from the lieutenant governor's post. "It has been the honor of my life to represent the people of my community and serve the people of Tennessee," he wrote in his announcement. "My public service has been a team effort every step of the way."
The full Senate is expected to elect its speaker when the new General Assembly convenes. The choice matters for West Tennessee as well, since the speaker shapes committee assignments and the flow of legislation that affects communities across the state. Raw 100.5 will follow the vote.
Sources: WSMV 4; WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News; Office of Lt. Gov. Randy McNally