ThinkTennessee

Now accepting applications for our summer internship positions! If you're an undergrad, grad student, or law student interested in public policy, nonprofit management, or communications, consider applying for our program. Application info can be found: buff.ly/aFAf1xy.

Crime and incarceration in TN have declined in recent years, but the state still ranks poorly on key public safety and criminal justice outcomes. Our new brief highlights real progress -- and the structural gaps that persist. Read it on our website: buff.ly/5F49Wwt

We’re hiring! ThinkTN is seeking an External Relations Associate to provide communications, event, and fundraising support for our dynamic team. Find the full job description and how to apply on our website at buff.ly/PqtQ3em. The application deadline is February 16.

In Tennessee, people lose their right to vote after a felony conviction, though in some cases they may be able to get those rights back. Part 1 of our new report series on voting rights restoration takes a closer look at how many Tennesseans are affected. buff.ly/GnknM5o

It’s #GivingTuesday, and all donations to ThinkTN today get matched up to $5k! Help us fuel civic and economic policy research and advocacy in Tennessee. buff.ly/Avos9Rp

📣 Calling all residents of TN's 7th Congressional District -- have you made a plan to vote? Early voting for the Special Election starts TODAY Nov. 12 until Nov. 26, with Election Day on Dec. 2. Find information on polling locations, dates, & times at govotetn.gov.

One year from today, Tennesseans will head to the polls for the 2026 midterm elections. Our latest blog post highlights what we can expect to see and the potential challenges that could affect voter turnout: buff.ly/nZYTNev

Applications are open for our Spring 2026 internship program! If you're an undergrad, grad student, or law student interested in public policy, nonprofit management, or communications, consider our spring opportunities. Apply at buff.ly/2t8sUDD. Application deadline 11/7.

To keep pace with its growing auto manufacturing industry, Tennessee must confront a critical workforce training gap by making strategic investments that prepare its workforce for these high-skill, high-wage careers. Read our latest blog post for more: buff.ly/YcFQ1Vl

Honored to give the welcome at the 2025 @ThinkTN Policy Forum this morning. Tennessee has made big strides since 2019—but we’re not stopping. By investing in workforce development, innovation, and infrastructure, we’re continuing to create greater opportunity for Tennesseans and ensuring that we bring the jobs of the future home.

With a growing economy and household wealth at record highs, why do so many Americans feel left behind? In our newest episode, recorded live at @BassBerrySims in Nashville, Govs. @PhilBredesen and @BillHaslam spoke with Whit Ayres, Founder & President of @NorthStarOpin, Dr. Marianne Wanamaker (@mwanamak), Dean of @UTBakerSchool, and John Lettieri (@LettieriDC), CEO and Co-Founder of @InnovateEconomy, about the gap between economic data and public perception and reforms policymakers could implement to better meet economic demands. Listen to the conversation at #TheBakerSchool's website: baker.utk.edu/podcast-season…. Special thanks to @ThinkTN, @SycamoreTN, and @BeaconTN for helping make this episode possible!

Last Tuesday, ~400 Tennesseans joined us from across the state for our first-ever Policy Forum: Driving Tennessee’s Prosperity! From housing & child care to transportation & workforce development, the message was clear: our future depends on collaboration, innovation, & action.

Why do Americans continue to struggle despite the USA's economic growth? We partnered with @UTBakerSchool to explore this question on a live recording of the @YMBRPodcast with Gov. @PhilBredesen, Gov. @BillHaslam, Whit Ayres, @mwanamak, & @LettieriDC: buff.ly/g8xvG6g

Franklin voters – save the date(s) for your municipal election! Make sure you’re registered to vote by September 29. Visit buff.ly/rxp2P1v for voter registration forms, polling locations, and sample ballots.

Tennessee is experiencing tremendous economic growth—we’re now the 17th largest economy in the US—but not all families are benefiting from that growth. Our latest policy brief highlights how our economy is thriving & where TN workers are being left behind: buff.ly/aSAWKkW

Introducing the experts joining us for the housing panel at the ThinkTN Policy Forum on Sept. 30! Early Bird prices END TONIGHT (Sept. 5), so register now to secure your ticket: buff.ly/u8sWl4Z

ThinkTN is seeking a Director of Strategy & Development to join our leadership team. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in fundraising, operations, & organizational leadership. Application deadline is Sept. 25. Learn more: buff.ly/9D4fDIu.

New speakers added! Commissioner Stuart McWhorter, business leaders Janelle Reilly & Ralph Schulz, and Mayors Gary Davis & Craig Fitzhugh join our Policy Forum speaker lineup. Check out the rest of our agenda and purchase your early bird tickets: buff.ly/khez26Z

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