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MEET JOHN BRADLEY
John Bradley is a lifelong Memphian, born and raised in the historic neighborhood of Orange Mound. He has built a career rooted in service, leadership, community engagement, and advocacy for the communities that raised him.
Through his years of public service, John has worked directly with residents, community organizations, and local leaders to connect people with resources, strengthen neighborhoods, and make government more responsive. Today, his work with the Shelby County Public Defender’s Office focuses on innovation and community engagement, helping strengthen the connection between public institutions and the people they serve.
Before entering local government, John worked on political campaigns and community organizing efforts across Tennessee and around the country. From helping elect local leaders to organizing around issues affecting working families, his work has always centered on expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and making sure people have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.
Now, John is running for Tennessee House District 93 to bring that same commitment to service to the Tennessee General Assembly and fight for stronger schools, good-paying jobs, safer neighborhoods, and a more affordable future for working families.
I did not grow up thinking I would run for office. But I did grow up believing in something bigger than myself: community.
My journey into public service began with my first internship, which took me to MLK50, the 50th anniversary commemoration of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Standing in that crowd, I felt grief, hope, and a hunger for justice all at once. People were crying. People were marching. And in that moment, I felt something I could not ignore: a calling to serve.
That same day, I met Karl Dean, who was running for governor. That conversation opened a door. I began volunteering, then interning, and I realized how powerful community organizing and civic engagement could be when people came together and used their voices.
Growing up in Orange Mound shaped who I am. I saw the challenges facing our neighborhoods, but I also saw their strength, history, faith, and resilience. I made a choice to use my time and energy to serve others and be part of the solution.
Today, I serve because I have seen how leadership and policy shape opportunity. I have seen what happens when people feel ignored, and what can happen when they are heard, respected, and empowered.
I serve because this is not just where I live. It is where I am from. It is who I am. And I am ready to fight for the future District 93 deserves.