Representative John Gillespie, a member of the Tennessee House of Representatives, addressed several issues on his social media account in mid-April 2026. His posts ranged from commemorating Holocaust Remembrance Day to local public safety concerns and tax policy reminders.
On April 14, 2026, Gillespie marked Yom HaShoah with a statement about the importance of remembering the Holocaust. He wrote: “Yom HaShoah calls us to remember. The Holocaust represents humanity’s darkest chapter; a solemn reminder of what hatred and indifference can produce. We honor the memory of all who perished.”
Later that day, Gillespie commented on a violent incident at Shelby Farms in Memphis involving teenagers. According to his post dated April 14, 2026: “Today a teenager was murdered at Shelby Farms. A water gun fight turned into a shooting because someone brought a real gun into a crowd of kids.
This is why I support Truth in Sentencing. Violent criminals must face real consequences. Memphis will not be safe until they do.” The Truth in Sentencing Act in Tennessee requires certain violent offenders to serve their full sentences without early release or parole opportunities.
On April 15, 2026, Gillespie issued a reminder related to Tax Day and state fiscal policy: “As Tax Day approaches, make sure you file by the end of the day today, April 15th. Tennessee’s commitment to keeping taxes low means hardworking Tennesseans keep more of what they earn. That’s good policy and smart governance.” Tennessee is known for its lack of state income tax on wages and salaries and generally maintains lower overall tax rates compared to many other states.
Gillespie’s statements reflect ongoing legislative debates in Tennessee over criminal justice reforms such as Truth in Sentencing as well as continued emphasis on low-tax policies aimed at supporting working residents.
