Yoshi D. Matthews is running as an independent for U.S. Senate in Tennessee's Nov. 3, 2026, general election.

Matthews is among several candidates certified for the ballot, according to BallotReady election data. The field includes Republican Bill Hagerty, Democrat Marquita Bradshaw and seven other independents: Andrew Gerena, Catherine Barcel Whitson, David Sutman Jr., James William Macon III, Jeremy Dean Hearn, Robert Jones and Tharon Chandler.

On her campaign website, Matthews said Tennesseans deserve leadership reflecting the state's values of fiscal responsibility, public safety, strong local communities and limited government. She said elections should be about ideas, results and a clear vision for the state's future, not party labels or personal background.

Candidate information

  • Party: Independent
  • Office sought: U.S. Senate, Tennessee
  • Education: Bachelor of science in business in accounting, University of Phoenix; master of science in accountancy, University of Phoenix (expected fall 2026), according to her campaign website
  • Professional: Matthews said she is eligible to sit for the certified public accountant exam and plans to take it in 2026
  • Campaign committee: Yoshi Matthews for US Senate, registered at 919 Conference Drive, Suite 4-108, Goodlettsville, Tennessee 37072, with Matthews listed as treasurer, according to FEC records (Committee ID: C00936500)

Experience and public service

Matthews is listed as founder of FTP Nonprofit, according to BallotReady profile data.

On the issues

The following positions are drawn from Matthews' campaign website and her responses on BallotReady. All statements reflect the candidate's own claims.

Economy and cost of living: Matthews said she supports lowering the cost of living, supporting working families and small businesses, and promoting responsible economic growth in Tennessee.

Property taxes: Matthews said she supports targeted property tax relief policies that would allow seniors who have spent decades working and contributing to their communities to remain in their homes. She said her approach focuses on balancing responsible fiscal policy with protections for long-time homeowners.

Border security and immigration: Matthews said she supports securing the border, enforcing immigration laws and supporting a functional legal immigration system.

Education and workforce: Matthews said she supports strengthening education, expanding workforce opportunities and ensuring Tennessee students are prepared for successful careers.

Universal basic income: Matthews said policymakers must begin preparing for changes driven by new technologies. She described universal basic income as a policy concept worth exploring, one that would ensure every American shares in economic growth made possible by new technologies and productivity gains.

Candidate responses were gathered from the candidate's campaign website and public filings. The Hendersonville Register did not interview the candidate for this profile. This profile is part of the outlet's 2026 election coverage. A U.S. senator represents all of Tennessee, including Sumner County.