Your Questions, Their Answers Election 2026

Over the past several weeks, readers have submitted questions they want answered ahead of the 2026 election—and we’ve taken those directly to your County Executive candidates.

Here is your tweflth question, and answers from those candidates who chose to respond.

Please explain what you know about the role you wish to fulfill.

DENNY WAYNE ROBINSON: The role of County Executive requires far more than managing day-to-day operations. It demands leadership, long-term vision, financial discipline, and the ability to balance public service with sound business principles. The County Executive must serve as the county’s chief administrator, financial steward, and chief advocate while working with the County Commission, constitutional officers, employees, residents, and regional and state partners to ensure effective, transparent government.

I am the most qualified candidate for this position based on my education, professional experience, and proven record of service.

I am a graduate of Tennessee Technological University, where my studies emphasized political science, business management, business law, economics, accounting, and related disciplines that are directly applicable to county government and public finance. I am a Certified County Financial Officer (CCFO), which reflects advanced training and demonstrates competence in governmental budgeting, auditing, financial reporting, and compliance.

My leadership training includes being a graduate of the Appalachian Regional Commission’s Leadership Institute, as well as earning certification as an Economic Developer through the University of Tennessee and TVA. I am also a graduate of TVA’s master-level leadership and economic development program, providing advanced preparation in strategic planning, infrastructure development, and sustainable growth.

In addition to public service, I bring real-world experience from the private sector, having successfully operated a business for over 20 years. That experience instilled fiscal discipline, accountability, and a practical understanding of what employers and working families face every day.

I am also a veteran of the United States Army and National Guard, which strengthened my commitment to service, leadership under pressure, and responsibility to those I serve.

Combined with my years of experience serving as County Executive, achieving financial stability, reducing debt, supporting economic growth, and strengthening core services, I have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of this role and a proven ability to carry them out effectively. I remain committed to leading White County with integrity, transparency, and long-term vision.

KYLE GOFF: The County Executive serves as the chief executive officer of the County. This person is responsible for all offices within the county that do not have an elected official, appointing and leading department heads.

In partnership with the County Commission, the Executive is responsible for creating and managing the county budget. They should lead all facets of the county government, including managing property, overseeing projects, maintenance and infrastructure. The executive should engage in long term strategic planning, vision casting, identify needs and remove barriers. Being a representative for economic development and recruiting new business is essential.

PENNY WHALEY: I know that the County Executive position is to be the administrative officer for the county focusing on key areas such as promote growth, infrastructure, education and government efficiency.  The Executive manages county services, overseeing budget and reviewing economic impact that proposal will have on the county , as well as represents the county on various boards. 

JOE HALLUMS: This role is extremely important for all the citizens of White County. It is a business management position but more so a Servants role to the community. You must have the citizens’ best interests in mind when making decisions. In doing this, first you must be willing to listen to the citizens, second consider all information and options, before acting. This is a high-level leadership role that must be willing to work with all the county department managers strategically and effectively.

The Main Street Journal - Sparta's 2026 Election Coverage is brought to you by Tennessee Credit.