The Tri-Star State: How Nashville’s Mayoral Election Could Shape State Politics

Nashville’s mayors have risen in prominence over recent years, not only because of the city’s skyrocketing growth but through outspoken political stances. By pushing LGBT initiatives, decriminalizing marijuana or curbing cooperation with immigration authorities, the city’s leaders have run counter to the state’s Republican supermajority.

Whether that conflict continues has been a central issue in the runoff between Nashville’s incumbent Mayor David Briley and Councilman John Cooper.

WPLN senior editor Chas Sisk spoke to Jason Moon Wilkins about how the winner could reshape the relationship between the state of Tennessee and its biggest city.