Jesse Huseth is a lifelong Memphian and Democratic candidate for the Tennessee House District 97 seat. Born, raised, and educated in Memphis, he attended school from preschool through the University of Memphis. He currently resides in the city with his wife and two daughters, having started his business there and met his spouse locally. His professional background includes significant experience as a teacher for Shelby County Schools, a role he cites as central to his understanding of community needs. Huseth’s campaign focuses heavily on education and equitable opportunity, drawing directly from his tenure in the public school system. He argues that ensuring all students have access to success and happiness is essential for Tennessee’s overall prosperity. His platform emphasizes that everyone deserves the opportunities necessary to thrive, a perspective shaped by his direct work with students and their parents. Public records indicate that Huseth filed a Statement of Interest with the Tennessee Ethics Commission in 2024 as a state official and candidate. This filing is part of standard disclosure requirements for individuals seeking elected office in the state. He maintains an active online presence through social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, Threads, and a dedicated campaign website to communicate with voters and share his policy positions.

John Gillespie is a Republican candidate seeking election to the Tennessee House of Representatives for District 97. Currently serving as a representative in the 112th and 113th General Assemblies, Gillespie brings professional experience in nonprofit development to his legislative career. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from High Point University in North Carolina. His committee assignments reflect a focus on public safety, education, and health policy. Gillespie serves as Vice-Chairperson of the Criminal Justice Committee and its corresponding Extraordinary Session committee. He is also a member of the Education Administration Committee, the Health Committee, and their respective Extraordinary Session counterparts. Additionally, he holds membership in the Criminal Justice Subcommittee and the Higher Education Subcommittee for both regular and extraordinary sessions. Gillespie maintains active involvement in the Memphis community through various organizational roles. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Memphis Shelby County Crime Commission and is a Fellow in the New Memphis Institute Fellows Program. His professional affiliations include former board membership with the Association of Fundraising Professionals and current membership in the Grant Professional Association and The Phoenix Club. An Episcopalian, Gillespie continues to engage with constituents through his campaign website and social media platforms as he campaigns for re-election to the state legislature.