Tennessee GOP Raises Concerns Over Memphis Schools Audit

Republican lawmakers say ongoing state review is "concerning" but provide few specifics.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Tennessee Republican lawmakers have expressed concerns over an ongoing state audit of the Memphis school district, describing the review as "concerning" but declining to provide details about any specific issues identified. The district has pushed back, stating that state auditors have not presented evidence of fraud or abuse that would warrant further investigation.

Why it matters

The audit of the Memphis school system, one of the largest in the state, has become a political flashpoint, with Republican leaders criticizing the district's handling of public funds. This comes as Tennessee has seen increased scrutiny of school spending and performance, particularly in urban areas.

The details

The Tennessee Comptroller's Office launched the audit of Memphis-Shelby County Schools in 2025 to review the district's financial practices and operations. Republican state lawmakers have since voiced concerns about the findings, but district officials say auditors have not presented evidence of wrongdoing.

  • The state audit of Memphis-Shelby County Schools began in 2025.
  • Republican lawmakers raised concerns about the audit in February 2026.

The players

Memphis-Shelby County Schools

One of the largest school districts in Tennessee, serving the city of Memphis and surrounding Shelby County.

Tennessee Comptroller's Office

The state agency responsible for auditing government entities, including local school districts, in Tennessee.

Tennessee Republican lawmakers

GOP leaders in the state legislature who have expressed concerns about the ongoing audit of the Memphis school district.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

The audit of the Memphis school system has become a political flashpoint, with Republican leaders criticizing the district's handling of public funds. This reflects the broader scrutiny of school spending and performance, particularly in urban areas, that has been a focus in Tennessee.