Early Voting July 17 - August 1 | Election day is Thursday, August 6

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Meet  John DeBerry

John Deberry is a dedicated public servant and is recognized as a true Tennessee Statesman. He was a respected member of the Tennessee House of Representatives, serving District 90 of Memphis for 26 years. John earned the respect of his colleagues both Democratic and Republican by consistently standing for what was right, not what was popular.

Representative Deberry was often called the “Conscience of the Legislature” using plain talk, common sense and courageous leadership. He is considered a bridgebuilder who has worked with both Republicans and Democrats to create legislation for the betterment of all of Tennessee.

Deberry served from 2022 until 2026 as a member of Governor Bill Lee’s cabinet with the title of Senior Advisor. He made history as the first African American to hold a high level cabinet position with an office on the first floor of the Tennessee State Capital building.
With 26 years of lawmaking experience and 6 years in Tennessee’s executive branch working directly with the Governor, experience, relationships, and recognized political skills are recognizable and formidable.

John Deberry is a man of faith. He has been a minister of the gospel since age 16, serving congregations in Memphis since 1974.

John has degrees from Freed-Hardeman University and the University of Memphis.

Our pledge is transparent communication, unity, cooperation and fiscal responsibility for all of Shelby County.

John Deberry, building bridges for a unified Shelby County. United we Stand.

Important Issues

Responsible government

As mayor, we will take immediate fiscal responsibility of Shelby County Government. 
It is our intention that every taxpayer dollar be spent to the benefit of those we serve. 
  • Continue to work to keep communities safe
  • Address the needs of the Walter L. Bailey Jr. Criminal Justice Center
  • Address the ongoing needs of Regional One Hospital.
    •  

Public safety

Law and order is a top priority for Shelby County.
  • Support our brave law enforcement officers
  • In only five months of the law enforcement surge, murders are down 39%, vehicle thefts are down 70%
  • Ensure Shelby County Sheriff’s Office is the best equipped, best paid force of any county in Tennessee
We must demand a safe community

Education

While Memphis and Shelby County Schools have many dedicated teachers, administrators and concerned engaged parents, we know we can do better. 
  • 28% of children proficient in math
  • 34% of students proficient in math
  • 43% proficient in reading
    • These issues demand focused, professional attention for our children and the funds which have been targeted for their education. We will demand better.

Education

Memphis-Shelby County Schools are failing our children. A failing school system is a burden on every Shelby County taxpayer.
  • 28% of elementary school children are proficient in math, 29% proficient in reading
  • 34% of high schoolers are proficient in math, 43% proficient in reading

We must demand better schools

Responsible government

As Mayor, my first act will be an immediate fiscal audit of Shelby County government.
  • Local government has failed to keep our community safe
  • Memphis-Shelby County Schools has failed to provide our kids with a quality education
  • Jail is deteriorating and in need of replacement
  • Regional One is outdated and in need of replacement
We must demand responsibility, communication, and cooperation from county government

Public safety

We will work with County Mayors and Police Chiefs of Shelby County to support our brave law enforcement officers and first responders.

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By providing your phone number, you are consenting to receive text message updates, including automated text messages (updates, marketing, polling/surveys, and possible donation solicitations) to that number from John DeBerry for Shelby County. Message & Data rates may apply, and message frequency may vary over time. Reply "STOP" to opt out of these text message updates. Reply HELP for help. Privacy Policy.

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