Clay Doggett Celebrated as Legislator of the Year by Tennessee Republicans

State Rep. Clay Doggett has been named the Legislator of the Year by the Tennessee Republican Party. The award was presented by House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Lt. Gov. Randy McNally during the 48th annual Tennessee Republican Party Statesmen’s Dinner in Nashville.

“It’s a privilege to be named Legislator of the Year, and I’m grateful to Speaker Sexton and Lt. Gov. McNally for their support,” Doggett said. “My colleagues and I have worked together to improve public safety, protect children, and preserve individual freedoms. It’s an incredible honor to serve the residents of Giles, Lawrence, and Lincoln counties, and I look forward to continuing to fight for all Tennesseans.”

The Legislator of the Year Award was first established in 2024 to mark the 30th anniversary of Tennessee’s transformation into a majority Republican state. That year, Republicans secured both U.S. Senate seats, the governor’s office, and five of the state’s nine congressional seats. The honor is reserved for lawmakers who show exemplary public service while championing conservative values.

Speaker Sexton praised Doggett’s contributions to the legislature, noting his record of achievement in key areas. “Rep. Clay Doggett’s well-deserved recognition as Legislator of the Year reflects his tireless work in criminal justice reform and his advocacy for Tennesseans with special needs,” Sexton said. “His dedication is making a real difference for families across our state.”

The Statesmen’s Dinner has grown into the largest Republican Party dinner in the country, with this year’s event hosting an estimated 1,700 people under the theme “Tennessee’s Golden Age.”

Doggett has played a leading role in several legislative initiatives during the first half of the 114th General Assembly. He successfully advanced laws strengthening justice for victims of child sexual abuse and cracking down on violent crime. He was also a key figure in moving forward a proposed constitutional amendment known as Marsy’s Law, designed to expand victims’ rights. Tennesseans will have the opportunity to vote on this amendment during the November 3, 2026, election.

His legislative record also includes the 2024 passage of the Debbie and Marie Domestic Violence Protection Act, which created stronger protections for victims of domestic violence. Recognizing the importance of school safety, Doggett addressed Tennessee’s shortage of school resource officers by opening the door for retired law enforcement to return as full-time SROs.

In addition, Doggett has sponsored measures improving government transparency and tackling the spread of dangerous drugs such as fentanyl. His efforts reflect a focus on both safeguarding public safety and ensuring accountability within state government.

Doggett brings personal experience to his role as a legislator. A small business owner and former law enforcement officer from Giles County, he has represented District 70 in the Tennessee House since 2019. He currently serves as chairman of the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee and is also a member of the Judiciary Committee, Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, Children and Family Affairs Subcommittee, and the Private Acts Committee.

His colleagues point to his background as an asset in shaping legislation that directly impacts Tennesseans. By combining practical law enforcement experience with a small business perspective, Doggett has positioned himself as a leading voice on issues of justice, safety, and personal freedom.

As the legislature looks ahead, Doggett will continue to play an influential role. The 114th General Assembly is set to reconvene in January, and with this recognition as Legislator of the Year, Doggett is entering the next session with renewed visibility and momentum.

For residents of Giles, Lawrence, and Lincoln counties, his work in Nashville is more than just policymaking—it is a reflection of the values and priorities of their communities. For the state party, Doggett’s recognition is meant to highlight not only his record but also a broader commitment to what Republicans describe as Tennessee’s ongoing “golden age” of leadership.