As a first time candidate, community advocate, mom, wife, and trans advocate, I want to thank everyone who has supported me as a person, and most recently as a candidate for Shelby County Commission. I didn’t run for me. I ran for you.

I ran because our community deserves representation. I ran because we deserve a leader who cares and is accessible. I ran because I believe we can transform our community for the better -- when public servants listen to the needs and wants of the people.

While I wasn’t successful in winning my election, I am proud to have expanded the electorate, introduced new people into the campaign process, and most importantly, laid the groundwork of hope for individuals passionate about their community to understand there is space for them in elected office.

I appreciate all the texts, calls, and emails. I'll be taking the next several days and weeks to spend time with my family and friends who sacrificed personal time with me so I could serve the greater good.

In solidarity and service,
Lena Chipman