Summary
Carnita Atwater is a Memphis-based community advocate, museum president, and Democratic candidate for Tennessee governor. She previously ran for governor in 2022 and for mayor of Memphis in 2023. Atwater frames her campaign around being the 'People's Governor' with a focus on equity, transparency, and rural economic development. She is the first woman of color to run for Tennessee governor.
Background
Carnita Atwater is a Memphis-based community advocate with over 40 years of experience serving Tennessee communities. She is a museum president and has been involved in civil rights and community development work. Atwater is positioning herself as an outside candidate offering fresh perspective on transparent governance and equitable economic development, particularly for rural and underserved communities.