Born and raised in Blount County, Art Swann is a 7th generation East Tennessean who understands the meaning of hard work, personal sacrifice, and giving back to the community. Public service runs deep in Art’s family as his grandfather served in the Tennessee State Legislature over 100 years ago.
Art has served as a businessman, community leader, and office holder on both the local and state level. A trusted legislative representative, Art has built a solid reputation as one of the top lawmakers in Nashville with a keen awareness of how the state operates. His common-sense approach to governing has earned Art the respect of his colleagues and constituents alike.
Art Swann is a true social conservative who also believes that state government needs to live within its means just like families do. He is pro-life and is a staunch supporter of the 2nd amendment.
A 1975 graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin with a BS in Political Science, Art was first elected to the Tennessee General Assembly in 1982 serving two terms before returning to the state house in 2010. He served on the House Commerce Committee, House Conservation and Environment Committee, and was Secretary of the House Children and Family Affairs Committee.
In December of 2017, Art was appointed State Senator in District 2 by the Blount County Commission to fill the senate seat left vacant when former Senator Doug Overbey was appointed U.S. Attorney by the Trump Administration. Art currently is 1st Vice Chairman of the Transportation and Safety Committee and serves on the Senate Health and Welfare Committee.
Art served on the local level as a Blount County Commissioner from 1978-1982 when the county enjoyed incredible economic growth and began building his accomplished career as a public servant. Nippondenso and Rubbermaid are just two of the companies that located to Blount County because of Art’s focus on job creation and work force development. Art worked tirelessly to insure a better quality of life for the community while also preserving Blount County’s rich heritage.
Art has served on several boards in Blount County including the Maryville College Building and Grounds Committee, Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority Board, Maryville-Alcoa Home Builders Association, Overlook Mental Health Board, and Nine Counties One Vision Board of Directors.
Art and his wife Janet have been married for 29 years.