Jackson, TN – Local business owner, real estate professional, and lifelong Madison County resident Riley Ragan has announced his candidacy for Madison County Commissioner in District 6, Seat 2, in the Republican Primary election on May 5, 2026.
Ragan, owner of Ragan Realty Group, Volunteer Property Management, and Ragan Cattle Company, brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial success, fiscal expertise, and deep community roots to the race. A 2017 graduate of Jackson Christian School and former collegiate basketball player at Bethel University, Ragan has lived in Madison County since 2013 – after spending part of his childhood here – and maintains strong generational ties to South Madison County through his grandparents: Lloyd Ragan and Nellie Ragan, along with Gerald McNeil and Brenda McNeil.
Lloyd and Nellie Ragan owned and operated Ragan’s Citgo (a convenience store and gas station) on Airways Blvd for decades, starting in the mid-1980s and serving the local community with dedication and hard work. This family business instilled in Ragan a strong foundation in business management, customer service, financial responsibility, and community engagement-skills that directly shaped his own successful ventures in real estate, property investment, and agriculture.
Gerald McNeil served for many years as a Sergeant with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and as a Court Bailiff in Court Security before retirement, and proudly retired as Major Gerald McNeil after 31 years of service in the Tennessee Army National Guard (retiring July 1, 1989). Brenda McNeil contributed her expertise as an evidence technician with the Jackson-Madison County Metro Narcotics Unit until her retirement. Their collective legacy of public service, military duty, and entrepreneurship in law enforcement, national defense, county operations, and local commerce underscores Ragan’s commitment to supporting strong public safety, responsible budgeting, small business growth, and community-focused governance.
As a successful real estate broker and investor owning multiple rental properties in Madison County, Ragan has firsthand experience managing budgets, overseeing finances, and navigating local economic and housing issues. His awards include Top Realtor recognition, the Million Dollar Club, and the 15 Million Dollar Club through Ragan Realty Group, reflecting his leadership and respect within the business community.
Ragan is actively involved in the community, serving as a board member on the Central West Tennessee Association of Realtors (CWTAR) MLS Board for two years, organizing fundraising tournaments for Jackson Christian School, and providing ongoing philanthropic support to both Jackson Christian School and Madison Academic Magnet High School through donations and volunteer efforts that benefit local education and youth programs.
“I am running because South Jackson and Madison County deserve fresh ideas and energetic leadership,” said Ragan. “Growing up connected to my grandparents’ longstanding business on Airways Blvd – and inspired by Gerald’s 31 years as a Major in the Tennessee Army National Guard alongside his Sheriff’s service – gave me an early appreciation for dedication, leadership, and service to our community and country. As a young adult planning to raise my family here, I have a personal stake in making decisions that build a thriving, safe, and prosperous community for generations to come – honoring the hard-working legacy of families like mine while driving positive change in areas like economic growth, infrastructure, public safety, and education.”
The qualifying deadline for the May 5, 2026 County Primary is February 19, 2026, at noon. Petitions became available on December 22, 2025. Ragan is actively gathering support and encourages District 6 residents to learn more about his vision by contacting him directly.
For interviews, additional details, or to get involved in the campaign, contact Riley Ragan.
About Riley Ragan
Riley Ragan is a Jackson-based entrepreneur, real estate broker, property investor, and community supporter dedicated to Madison County’s future. With roots in South Madison County dating back generations through family-owned businesses, military service, and public duty, he is committed to transparent, innovative leadership on the County Commission.
