JB Smiley Jr. is a Memphis, Tennessee native who is seeking the Democratic Party’s candidature for the post of governor. The 34-year-old politician is currently serving on the Memphis City Council, and represents Super District 8 Position 1. While the primaries for Tennessee are scheduled for August 4, the general elections are set to take place on November 8. 

Smiley pursued a law degree from UALR William H. Bowen School of Law University of Pikeville Tennessee Technological University, and also had a notable career as a semi-professional in basketball. Smiley was a Cub Scout with the Boy Scouts of America, and has seemingly worked various jobs that include landfill cleaning and dishwashing. 

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While in college, the young politician was the Vice President of the Black Law Students Association, and had also served as a member of the Law Review and Moot Court Board. In his legal career, Smiley is the owner of Smiley & Associates law firm, and has also worked with Munson, Rowlett, Moore, & Boone, a law firm dealing in civil defence. Smiley was the vice chairman for the Black Caucus of the Young Democrats of America, has served as an advisor to the Shelby County clerk, and as the vice president of Shelby County Young Democrats.

In an interview with The Tennessean, regarding why he is the most suitable candidate for the the post of Tennessee’s governor, Smiley said, “I am the only Democratic candidate that has any government experience both as a current member of the Memphis City Council and as a former policy advisor in the Shelby County Government”.

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Smiley also pointed out that Tennessee has the highest rate of bankruptcy in the United States, and also ranks third highest when it comes to the rate of violent crimes. Smiley also said that he will introduce stricter policies for gun ownership if voted to power.