Yesterday afternoon, Knoxville Attorney Rhonda Lee kicked off the campaign for Knox County Public Defender with a fundraising reception at her law office. It had Christmas seasonal food and treats. Great conversation with like minded people. Of course, I was there as I am at any event, in order to inform you the readers of the going ons. Lee is an experienced Attorney with many Jury and Judge trials under her belt.
Why is Knox County electing a Public Defender on March 3, 2020, Early Voting February 12-25, 2020?
Mark Stephens the Public Defender that was first elected in 1990, retired on October 31, 2019 to begin work with a local non profit. Initially, three Attorneys applied to Governor Bill Lee by the time the Governor was ready to interview them, one candidate had withdrawn due to heavy case load. Lee interviewed Eric Lutton in the Public Defenders Office and Lee.
The Governor’s appointment is good until the next election and it just so happens that the next election is March 3, 2020. Over the next couple of months, you will likely be hearing from both candidates and the public will decide.
I asked Lee yesterday about a rumor that I heard that she would terminate all the existing employees and Attorneys in the Public Defender’s Office, She assured me that is NOT the case. Check out Lee’s Facebook campaign page, here.
the seasonal fare to enjoy during the Reception.
