Steve Southerland

State Senator, Tennessee · District 9

Steve Southerland, born on March 8, 1955, is a dedicated public servant and a respected member of the Tennessee Senate. He hails from Morristown and has been serving in the state senate for an impressive 19 years. His district, the 9th, encompasses Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Sevier, and Unicoi counties.

Portrait of Steve Southerland
Role State Senator

Current office, as recorded in the directory.

District District 9

The district this member is elected from.

Service since 2024

Dates of service on record.

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Biography

Steve Southerland, born on March 8, 1955, is a dedicated public servant and a respected member of the Tennessee Senate. He hails from Morristown and has been serving in the state senate for an impressive 19 years. His district, the 9th, encompasses Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Sevier, and Unicoi counties.1

Early Life and Education: Steve attended Walters State Community College, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His commitment to education and community service has been unwavering.

Career and Contributions: As a mortgage broker, Steve Southerland has made significant contributions to the financial sector. However, his true impact lies in his legislative work. Elected to the 103rd - 110th General Assemblies, he has been a tireless advocate for his constituents. Notably, he serves as the Vice-Chair of the Senate Commerce, Labor, and Agriculture Committee. His involvement extends to various other committees, including the Senate Transportation Committee, the Senate Environment, Conservation, and Tourism Committee, the Senate Ethics Committee, and the Joint Fiscal Review Committee.

Steve Southerland’s dedication to conservative values is evident. In a 2004 interview with The Tennessean, he expressed his opposition to abortion and firmly stated that civil unions and domestic partnerships should not be allowed in Tennessee. His principled stance reflects his commitment to upholding traditional values.

Personal Life: Steve is a family man. He is married to Cheri Southerland, and together they have two daughters, Mattea and Mara. His faith plays an essential role in his life, as he actively participates in Buffalo Trail Baptist Church, where he has served as a deacon since 1981.

Steve Southerland’s legacy is one of integrity, service, and dedication. His impact on Tennessee’s political landscape continues to resonate, and his constituents appreciate his unwavering commitment to their well-being.

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References

  1. Steve Southerland, State Senator. wapp.capitol.tn.gov. Retrieved October 10, 2026.
  2. Official website. wapp.capitol.tn.gov. Retrieved October 10, 2026.