Stephen Fincher

Stephen Lee Fincher is a former U.S. Representative who served Tennessee's 8th congressional district from 2011 until 2017. A member of the Republican Party, Fincher was elected during the 2010 mid-term elections, succeeding retiring Democratic incumbent John Tanner. Throughout his congressional career, he focused on fiscal conservatism, social issues, and agricultural policies. Fincher chose not to seek re-election for a fourth term in 2016 and later announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in 2017, although he withdrew from the race shortly thereafter.

Early life and career

Stephen Lee Fincher was born on February 7, 1973, in Memphis, Tennessee. He grew up in a family with deep agricultural roots, being a seventh-generation farmer. Fincher's early exposure to public performance came through his involvement in the Fincher Family singing ministry, a gospel group led by his grandmother. This group traveled extensively throughout the 8th congressional district, participating in over 100 events each year, which likely contributed to his understanding of the local community and its values.

Fincher completed his secondary education at Crockett County High School in Alamo, Tennessee. Following his graduation, he became a managing partner in Fincher Farms, a family-run agricultural business that cultivates a variety of crops, including cotton, corn, soybeans, and wheat across more than 2,500 acres in western Tennessee. The farm has benefited from significant federal and state agricultural subsidies, receiving approximately $8.9 million in farm subsidies over the past decade, primarily from the cotton program. In 2009, Fincher also received a grant of $13,650 from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to assist in purchasing grain hauling and storage equipment as part of the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program.

Fincher resides in Frog Jump, an unincorporated community located west of Jackson, Tennessee, with his wife, Lynn. His background in farming and community engagement likely shaped his political perspectives and priorities during his time in office.

House tenure

Fincher's political career began with his candidacy for the 8th congressional district in Tennessee, which he announced prior to the retirement of the long-serving Democratic incumbent, John S. Tanner. In the Republican primary, Fincher garnered significant support, particularly from rural voters, and won the primary election. In the general election held on November 2, 2010, he faced Democratic State Senator Roy Herron, Tea Party candidate Donn Janes, and Independent Mark J. Rawles. Despite facing criticism for his decision not to disclose his income tax returns, Fincher emerged victorious, receiving approximately 60% of the vote. His election marked a significant shift in the district, as he became the first Republican to represent the 8th District since 1898.

Following his initial term, Fincher was re-elected in 2012 and 2014. The redistricting process after the 2010 census made his seat considerably safer, as he gained territory that was heavily Republican while losing areas that leaned Democratic. In the 2012 Republican primary, Fincher faced minimal opposition and won with a substantial majority of the vote. He continued to build on this momentum in the general election, defeating Democrat Timothy Dixon with approximately 68% of the vote. In his third term, Fincher achieved his largest electoral victory on November 4, 2014, securing around 73% of the vote.

During his time in the House, Fincher was known for his conservative positions on various issues. He identified as a fiscal and social conservative, advocating for limited government and expressing strong pro-life and pro-gun stances. Fincher's approach to politics emphasized his roots in Tennessee rather than traditional political affiliations. His tenure was not without controversy; in 2011, he was named one of the "Most Corrupt Members of Congress" by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, a designation that stemmed from concerns related to his financial dealings.

In February 2016, Fincher announced that he would not seek a fourth term in the House. Shortly thereafter, he expressed interest in running for the U.S. Senate seat held by Bob Corker, who was set to retire. However, Fincher withdrew his candidacy in February 2018, instead encouraging Corker to run for re-election.

Legislative focus and committees

Throughout his congressional career, Fincher's legislative focus reflected his conservative values and his background in agriculture. He was particularly vocal about issues related to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as the Food Stamp program. In May 2013, he advocated for significant cuts to the program, aligning with his House Republican colleagues. This stance drew criticism from opponents who pointed to the substantial agricultural subsidies he received as a farmer, suggesting a potential conflict in his positions.

Fincher's legislative record includes sponsorship of various bills, although specific details on all his sponsored legislation are not fully documented. One notable piece of legislation he sponsored was the Financial Competitive Act of 2013, which aimed to require the Financial Stability Oversight Council to study the effects of differences in financial regulations.

In addition to his work on agriculture and nutrition assistance, Fincher was recognized for his strong support from the National Rifle Association (NRA), receiving the largest election contribution from the organization in 2012 compared to any other U.S. Senator or Representative. His commitment to Second Amendment rights was a key aspect of his political identity.

Fincher's tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives was characterized by his alignment with the Republican Party's conservative agenda, particularly in fiscal and social matters. His background as a farmer and community member informed his legislative priorities, and his electoral success reflected a significant shift in the political landscape of Tennessee's 8th congressional district.