Former Pegram Mayor John Louallen enters race for District 78 as Rep. Mary Littleton announces retirement
State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, has announced she will not seek re-election in 2026, ending more than a decade of service in the Tennessee House of Representatives.
Littleton, who has represented House District 78 since 2013, said her decision followed “thoughtful conversations with my family and doctors” and was motivated by a desire to focus on health and family. The district includes all of of Cheatham county and portions of Dickson.
During her tenure, Littleton championed legislation related to children and family affairs, juvenile justice and domestic violence prevention. According to recent reports, 19 of 23 bills she sponsored in the last session passed, reflecting a strong legislative record over her 12-year career.
Her announcement signals a shift in local politics in Cheatham and Dickson counties ahead of the 2026 election cycle, and tees up a potential competitive Republican primary for her open seat in District 78.
Former Pegram Mayor John Louallen, a Republican and longtime Pegram resident, has already declared his candidacy for the seat. Louallen previously served as mayor and has been active in local civic and community affairs.
In his announcement, Louallen emphasized his focus on representing the values of small towns and rural communities across Cheatham and Dickson counties.
“I know firsthand the challenges and opportunities our community faces. We need strong, compassionate leadership that listens to the concerns of working families, small business owners, and the next generation of Tennesseans,” Louallen said when he announced his candidacy in April. “I’m running to ensure that our voices are heard in Nashville and that our district gets the attention and resources it deserves.”
The qualifying deadline for candidates to file for the Tennessee House race is Feb. 19, 2026, at noon. The state primary election will take place Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, followed by the general election on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.
