Clarksville, TN – Brad VanKirk, a longtime resident of Montgomery County, has officially announced his candidacy for the Montgomery County Commission, representing District 21. The announcement signals a potential shift in the upcoming election as VanKirk aims to bring his business experience and community involvement to the local government.
VanKirk’s decision to enter the political arena comes after encouragement from members of the community, according to a press release. He intends to leverage his expertise, particularly in zoning and property taxation, to guide responsible growth and strategic planning throughout Montgomery County. He believes a balance between thoughtful development and fiscal responsibility is crucial for maintaining the quality of life while fostering continued economic progress.
Background and Experience
Born in Warsaw, Indiana, VanKirk’s connection to Montgomery County runs deep. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Austin Peay State University, where he competed on a golf scholarship. During his time at APSU, he was actively involved in the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, serving as pledge master, and remains engaged with the organization as the current president of the alumni housing committee.
Professionally, VanKirk has amassed over 40 years of experience across diverse sectors. He began his career with a decade in healthcare sales, transitioned into the mortgage industry, and for the past 16 years, has focused on real estate. He currently serves as the principal broker and co-owner of both Hospitality Realty and Hometown Property Management, demonstrating a strong foothold in the local property market.
Focus on Growth and Education
VanKirk’s platform centers on responsible growth and smart planning within Montgomery County. He emphasizes the importance of carefully considering development projects and ensuring fiscal prudence in all county operations. He believes these principles are essential to preserving the area’s character while supporting economic advancement.
As a father of three daughters who attended Clarksville-Montgomery County School System and a grandfather of children currently enrolled, VanKirk has a vested interest in the future of local education. While acknowledging the County Commission’s limited role in directly managing the school system’s budget, he stresses the need for strong collaboration between the commission and the school board to ensure quality educational opportunities for all students.
According to the Montgomery County Election Commission, as of January 23, 2026, VanKirk is running unopposed for the Republican nomination in District 21 as reported by the Clarksville Leaf-Chronicle. Candidates had until February 26, 2026, to withdraw their petition to run.
Looking Ahead
The May 5, 2026, primary elections will be a key moment for Montgomery County voters as they begin to select candidates for all 21 County Commission seats. Early voting is scheduled to take place from April 15-30, 2026. VanKirk’s candidacy adds another layer to the political landscape, and his focus on responsible growth and education will likely be central themes in the upcoming debates. The general election is scheduled for August 2026.
What impact will VanKirk’s candidacy have on the District 21 race? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with your network.
