Montgomery Co. Commissioner Michael Lankford to Temporarily Represent House District 75

By Mike Sparks

As I write this article, I found myself considering which category this story belongs in. I realized it’s more than politics—it’s really about leaving a legacy, a category I created when this site was designed for moments just like this.

The past few weeks have given me pause to reflect deeply on life and the profound responsibility we as elected officials share as public servants. My late Scotch-Irish mother would often remind me growing up that “Life is short and we’re not promised tomorrow.” Her words have never felt more relevant than they do now.

Having two grandchildren—three-year-old Grace and one-year-old Henry David—I often find myself looking into their faces and thinking about the future of our community, our state, and our country. What kind of world are we leaving for them? It’s a question that weighs heavily on my mind, especially when I see excessive conflict, increasing violence in our once small town, and political divisiveness that, in my humble opinion, is mostly driven by excessive bloated egos and pride. Folks have to work together for the betterment of the next generation.

As I am writing this, I just received a phone call from Motlow President Dr. Michael Torrence. Dr. Torrence was catching me up to speed on new programs being offered at Motlow College campuses.

 

We also reminisced about the late Smyrna Mayor Bob Spivey, who told me,
“Mike, I’m going to bring a college to Smyrna. These young people need it.” We discussed those mentioned in this article that he knew personally, and we talked about the power of a positive mentor and leaving a legacy for the next generation.

Just last month, I attended the funeral of Rep. Jeff Burkhart, whose unexpected passing created the vacancy that Representative-elect Michael Lankford will now fill. I had spoken to Jeff just days before his passing. I asked him, “How’s Montgomery County doing?” He responded simply, “We’re doing good.” I didn’t know then that would be the last time I’d ever see him.

Last week, we also mourned the loss of former Tennessee General Assembly Majority Leader Gerald McCormick and local County Commissioner Rhonda Allen.

My heart goes out to their spouses and children, especially during this Christmas season. Sadly, the Christmas season isn’t merry for everyone. The dedication these leaders showed in serving the people of Tennessee will not be forgotten, and their absence is deeply felt across our state. Their hearts were in the right place, and they genuinely desired to make a positive impact on their communities and our state. As we welcome new leadership, we are reminded of the sacred trust placed in those who step forward to serve their communities.
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Montgomery County Commissioner Michael Lankford has been appointed to serve as the interim state representative for Tennessee House District 75.

Lankford was selected by the Montgomery County Commission on December 8, 2025, to complete the term of the late Rep. Jeff Burkhart, who passed away unexpectedly on November 14.

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Michael Lankford Appointed to Represent Tennessee House District 75

Montgomery County Commissioner Michael Lankford has been appointed as the newest member of the Tennessee General Assembly, filling the seat for House District 75.

Congratulations to Representative-elect Lankford on his appointment to serve the people of House District 75. Our state looks forward to his leadership and service in the Tennessee General Assembly.

Lankford was selected by the Montgomery County Commission on December 8, 2025, following a competitive process that began on December 1, when six candidates presented their qualifications and letters of interest to the commission.

“I appreciate the confidence that the commission has in me, and I look forward to working with this body in the future at the state capitol,” Lankford said, addressing the commission after the meeting.

The appointment comes as Lankford steps in to complete the term of the late Rep. Jeff Burkhart, who passed away unexpectedly on November 14, 2025. Rep. Burkhart’s sudden passing left a vacancy that required the commission to carefully consider candidates who could effectively represent the district’s interests in Nashville.

In his remarks following the appointment, Lankford reflected on recent losses in the community and the weight of the responsibility he now carries. His selection represents not only a transition in leadership but also a continuation of dedicated public service for the people of Montgomery County.

Representative-elect Lankford brings his experience as a county commissioner to his new role in the state legislature, where he will join his colleagues in addressing the pressing issues facing Tennessee communities.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​