10/22/2026
A message from Rachel Bray:
Public service has always been important to me, but I never planned to run for office or at least not until retirement.
That changed in 2025, when I attended a community meeting about the county’s push toward “green energy.” Hearing elected officials suggest that proposed solar projects were already done deals and nothing could be done about them was infuriating.
As a teacher who has taught government and has a degree in Political Science, I know our elected officials should never tell citizens their concerns do not matter or that nothing can be done.
That experience motivated me to stand up for our community. Neighbors from across the county, came together to remind our local government that its responsibility is to represent the people and act in our best interests.
Our efforts have never been just about solar farms. They are about ensuring our county government listens and responds to its citizens. Concerns remain about battery energy storage systems (BESS) in Smith Mills, potential wind projects, and the growing interest in data centers.
We deserve transparency, consistency, and leaders who stand by their commitments.
Henderson’s slogan, “Discover Your Nature,” reflects our investment in tourism, agriculture, wildlife, migratory birds, and natural spaces. With a proposed $16.5 million project at John James Audubon State Park, we are continuing to invest in our community and its future.
Why would we work so hard to expand tourism, promote Argo-tourism, and protect our natural resources but then risk losing those investments, our agricultural heritage, and natural spaces that make Henderson County so special?
My job is just beginning. Regardless of the outcome on November 3 (my birthday😉), I will continue advocating for our farms, our families, our natural spaces, and the future of Henderson County.
Our future deserves leaders who listen, stand firm in their convictions, and remember who they represent.
