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Tennessee Secretary of State Names Ben Hill as Communications Director

Secretary of State Tre Hargett has selected Ben Hill to lead communications efforts for the Tennessee Department of State.

Michael Reeves
Michael ReevesStaff Reporter
Published April 4, 2026, 11:34 AM GMT+2Updated 2h ago
Tennessee Secretary of State Names Ben Hill as Communications Director - Wikimedia Commons
Tennessee Secretary of State Names Ben Hill as Communications Director - Wikimedia Commons

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE — Secretary of State Tre Hargett announced the appointment of Ben Hill as the new Director of Communications for the Tennessee Department of State, effective immediately.

Hill brings extensive experience in government communications and public relations to his new role overseeing the department’s media relations, public information efforts, and communications strategy. The position reports directly to Secretary Hargett and manages all external communications for the state’s elections, business services, and regulatory divisions.

Background and Experience

The new communications director previously worked in various government and private sector communications roles throughout Tennessee. Hill’s appointment comes as the Secretary of State’s office continues expanding its public outreach efforts ahead of upcoming election cycles.

“We’re pleased to have Ben join our team and lead our communications efforts,” Hargett said in announcing the appointment. “His experience and skills will help us better serve Tennessee citizens and businesses.”

Department Responsibilities

The Tennessee Secretary of State’s office oversees state elections, business registrations, professional licensing boards, and the State Library and Archives. The communications director position plays a key role in explaining these services to the public and media.

Hill’s duties will include coordinating with county election officials during voting periods, managing public information requests, and developing communications strategies for new initiatives. The office regularly handles inquiries about business formations, professional licensing requirements, and election procedures.

Looking Ahead

The appointment comes as Tennessee prepares for continued population growth and increased demand for state services. The Secretary of State’s office processed record numbers of business registrations in recent years, requiring enhanced public communications.

Hill will work with existing department staff to maintain transparency and public access to information. The office operates under Tennessee’s public records laws, providing citizens access to various state documents and data.

Secretary Hargett has served in his role since 2009, overseeing multiple election cycles and modernization efforts within the department. The communications director position supports these ongoing initiatives while ensuring public awareness of available services.

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