Don Bates for Perry County Mayor

08/07/2026

Congratulations to everyone who was elected tonight.

I want to sincerely thank everyone who supported, encouraged, and believed in me throughout these past several months. I am truly grateful for every conversation, every handshake, every kind word, and every vote.

I’m proud of the positive, respectful campaign that my opponents and I ran, and I congratulate John on his victory. I look forward to continuing to work with him in my role with the Town of Linden as we serve our community.

While this campaign has come to an end, my commitment to Linden has not. I will continue working hard for this town, just as I have for many years, and I remain thankful for the opportunity to serve the community I love.

08/06/2026

🇺🇸Today is Election Day🇺🇸

I want to thank everyone that has supported, encouraged, and welcomed me into your homes, as well as sharing your ideas. It truly has been an honor.
I take every single concern, question and suggestion to heart and hope I have the honor to be your County Mayor.
No matter your vote today, I hope everyone takes the time to make your voices heard. Local elections matter because they shape the community we all call home.

Strong Community. Strong Future.

07/31/2026

One of the greatest privileges we have as Americans is the right to vote. Countless men and women have sacrificed to protect that right, and every election is an opportunity to make your voice heard.

Local elections matter because the decisions made close to home affect our everyday lives. They shape our communities, our schools, our roads, our local economy, and the future we leave for the next generation.

Whether you choose to vote during early voting or on Election Day, August 6, I encourage you to exercise that right. Your voice matters, and your vote matters.

I would be honored to earn your vote and the opportunity to serve as your next Perry County Mayor. But regardless of who you support, I encourage every eligible voter to take part in this election. Our community is strongest when its citizens are engaged.

Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me, welcomed me into your homes, shared your ideas, and taken the time to learn about this campaign. It has truly been an honor.

🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

Strong Community. Strong Future.

07/28/2026

EARLY VOTING IS NOW OPEN

Your vote matters.

If you’ve been following this campaign, you’ve heard me talk about one thing over and over again—Perry County’s future.

I believe we can protect what makes Perry County special while creating more opportunities for the people who call it home.

If I’m honored to serve as your next County Mayor, my priorities will be:

• Working to create more job opportunities and support workforce development.
• Supporting our local businesses while pursuing responsible economic growth.
• Creating opportunities that encourage our young people to build careers, raise families, and stay right here in Perry County.
• Being a responsible steward of your tax dollars by making thoughtful decisions and looking for grants and other opportunities that benefit our county.
• Continuing to build strong working relationships with our County Commissioners, both those currently serving and those newly elected, because moving Perry County forward takes teamwork, communication, and a shared commitment to doing what’s best for our community.

Throughout this campaign, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many wonderful people, listening to your concerns, and hearing your ideas for the future of our county. Those conversations have only strengthened my commitment to serve.

If you believe in a future focused on opportunity, responsible leadership, and putting Perry County first, I would be honored to earn your vote during early voting or on Election Day.

Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and your trust.

Strong Community. Strong Future.

07/16/2026

06/25/2026

06/25/2026

Over the past several weeks, I’ve spent many evenings and weekends going door to door across Perry County. Those conversations have been one of the most rewarding parts of this campaign. I’ve enjoyed meeting new people, reconnecting with old friends, and, most importantly, listening.

One thing I’ve heard over and over is, “You have to ask for my vote.”

If I could personally knock on every door in Perry County, I absolutely would. Unfortunately, between working full-time and serving our community, I know there are homes I simply won’t have time to reach before Election Day.

That’s why Beth and I decided to mail a postcard to every mailing address in Perry County.

Please consider this my personal request for your support.

I would be honored to earn your vote and the opportunity to serve as your next Perry County Mayor.

If we haven’t met yet, I hope we will soon. Until then, thank you for taking a few minutes to read our postcard, for following this campaign, and for caring about the future of Perry County.

Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and your vote.

Strong Community. Strong Future.

06/04/2026

I’ve had several people tell me they aren’t sure if they’re registered to vote, where they vote, or how to update their address if they’ve moved.

If you have questions about your voter information, I encourage you to download the GoVoteTN app or visit your local Election Commission office.

The GoVoteTN app allows you to:
✔ Check your voter registration status
✔ Find your polling location
✔ View upcoming elections
✔ See sample ballots
✔ Verify your elected officials
✔ Access election information

If you’ve moved, changed your name, or haven’t voted in a while, now is a good time to make sure your information is up to date.

An informed and engaged community is important to the future of Perry County. I encourage everyone to stay informed and participate in the election process.

Strong Community. Strong Future.




https://web.go-vote-tn.elections.tn.gov/

06/01/2026

Beth and I enjoyed attending the ribbon cutting for Buddy’s Rescue this weekend and spending time visiting with the dedicated volunteers who work so hard to care for animals in our community.

Many people may not realize the number of abandoned and unwanted pets that organizations like Buddy’s Rescue help care for each year. Through donations, volunteer efforts, and the support of the community, they are providing shelter, medical care, and opportunities for these animals to find loving homes.

It was encouraging to learn that 10 dogs found homes this weekend alone. That’s a testament to the hard work of their volunteers and the generosity of those who choose to adopt.

I appreciated the opportunity to listen to their needs, learn more about their future plans, and share information about resources that may help them continue their mission.

If you’re looking for a way to support a local organization making a difference, I encourage you to learn more about Buddy’s Rescue, volunteer, donate, or consider adoption when the time is right.

Thank you to everyone who is helping care for the animals of Perry County.

Strong Community. Strong Future.