Shelby County Commission Accepts Ford Jr. Resignation, Sets Timeline for Interim Appointment

Former commissioner pleaded guilty to federal tax evasion charges as part of a plea deal.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Shelby County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to formally recognize the resignation of former commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. and declare a vacancy in Commission District 9. The commission set key dates to accept applications, interview candidates, and appoint an interim commissioner to serve until the August 2026 general election.

Why it matters

Ford Jr.'s resignation comes after he pleaded guilty to five federal tax evasion charges, which disqualifies him from seeking or holding public office in Tennessee. This vacancy on the county commission will need to be filled through an interim appointment process before the next general election.

The details

As part of his plea deal, Ford Jr. agreed to immediately resign from his elected position. The commission will accept applications to fill the vacant District 9 seat on an interim basis until February 20, 2026. Candidate interviews will begin on March 4, 2026, and the commission will vote to approve an interim commissioner on March 9, 2026. The interim commissioner will serve until a permanent successor is elected in August 2026.

  • Ford Jr. submitted his resignation on February 2, 2026.
  • Applications to fill the vacant District 9 seat will be accepted until February 20, 2026.
  • Candidate interviews will begin on March 4, 2026.
  • The commission will vote to approve an interim commissioner on March 9, 2026.

The players

Edmund Ford Jr.

Former Shelby County commissioner who resigned after pleading guilty to five federal tax evasion charges.

Shelby County Board of Commissioners

The governing body of Shelby County, Tennessee that voted unanimously to accept Ford Jr.'s resignation and begin the process to appoint an interim commissioner.

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What’s next

The Shelby County Commission will accept applications, interview candidates, and vote to appoint an interim commissioner to serve in the District 9 seat until the August 2026 general election.

The takeaway

This case highlights the consequences of public officials engaging in criminal behavior, as Ford Jr.'s tax evasion conviction has resulted in his immediate resignation and disqualification from holding future public office in Tennessee.