Smith County Sheriff Steve Hopper has officially announced his candidacy for re-election in the May 2026 Republican Primary.
Sheriff Hopper, a 1978 graduate of Smith County High School, lives in the Riddleton community with his wife, Donna (Nesbitt). Together they have four children — Michael, Stephanie and her husband Craig West, Charlie, and Joel and his wife Jessica Lafferty — along with six grandchildren and one great-grandson.
Hopper’s commitment to public service began in the early 1980s as a member of the Smith County Rescue Squad, where he also served as treasurer. He went on to serve with the Central District Volunteer Fire Department, including time as Fire Chief until 2020, and worked as a paramedic with the Smith County Ambulance Service.
In 1995, Hopper began his law enforcement career with the Carthage Police Department as a patrol officer after graduating from the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy. He was promoted to Sergeant, then to Chief of Police in 2003, a position he held until his election as Smith County Sheriff in 2010. Over his career, he has received numerous specialized certifications.
Currently, Sheriff Hopper serves on the Finance Committee for the Tennessee Sheriff’s Association and on the Board of Directors for the 15th Judicial District Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force. He is also a graduate of the Smith County Adult Leadership Class of 2014 and a retired member of the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police.
Reflecting on his time as Sheriff, Hopper stated that he and his staff have worked hard to uphold honesty, integrity, and professionalism while staying within budget and maintaining the safety of the community.
“These past years serving as your Sheriff has been an honor and a privilege,” Hopper said. “If re-elected, I will continue to conduct the Office of Sheriff in a manner that serves all Smith County residents fairly and equally. I humbly ask for your vote and support in the May 2026 Republican Primary.”
