'A better way': David Linkous runs for Hawkins mayor

HAWKINS COUNTY — Businessman David Linkous is running for Hawkins County mayor in this year's elections. He said he doesn't like how the county is currently being operated. "I don't think there's accountability and common sense," Linkous said. "They just spend money left and right. Their only excuse is to keep raising taxes, and they don't think about the community itself. They take the easy way out — and there's always a better way than the easy way." Linkous is a Marine veteran. He's been a business owner for almost 20 years. Linkous said he's started his own businesses, and taken over existing ones and "made them very prosperous." He owns a jerky retailer in Gatlinburg and other locations, as well as a heavy equipment rental outside of Rogersville. "I know how to manage. I know how to take care of my employees," Linkous said. "I'm a problem-solver." He said his vision for the county, if elected, boils down to one word: prosperity. He wants to see the county grow, particularly regarding the economy and job market. Linkous said he would actively seek businesses to come to Hawkins. "This county deserves more than leftovers. This county deserves more than copy-and-paste resolutions from other counties," he said. "Over $17 trillion is being invested in America. What's wrong with us asking for one-tenth of a percent of that?" Linkous said the government's priorities should be to take care of the county's kids, public safety agencies and roadways. "Hawkins County deserves better," he said. "I know I can give them better." This is part of an ongoing series of candidate profiles for Hawkins County races. Primary elections for county offices will be held on May 5, 2026. General elections will be on Aug. 6. Other candidates for Hawkins County mayor include: Mark DeWitte, the current mayor; and Keith Gibson, a Church Hill alderman; and Kenneth Stapleton, a community member.