Andy Holt sworn in as the state's 39th Commissioner of Agriculture
Thursday, October 9, 2025

Andy Holt was sworn in by Governor Bill Lee as the state's 39th Commissioner of Agriculture in October 2025. Before that, he served as Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner for the Business Development Division.
Prior to his post at the department, Holt was a member of the Tennessee General Assembly for 10 years representing House District 76, which included all of Weakley and portions of Carroll and Obion Counties. During Holt’s service in the House of Representatives, he served as the Chairman of the Budget Subcommittee, Vice-Chairman of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, and was granted membership to numerous other committees. Holt had the pleasure of serving as the Chairman of the Ag Day on the Hill Committee for all 10 years of his tenure. His primary goal while serving in the General Assembly was to ensure that the needs and desires of agriculture, forestry, and the rural economy were sufficiently represented. Before his service in the House, Holt worked with Farm Credit Services and the Tennessee Farmers Cooperative.
Holt earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Economics Business with a minor in Animal Science (2004) from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and a Master of Business Administration (2007) from the University of Tennessee at Martin.
Holt and his wife, Ellie, along with their seven children live on their family farm outside of Dresden, Tenn. Although he is a first-generation farmer, Ellie’s family has been farming in West Tennessee for four generations. The Holt’s operation consists of beef, goat, and swine production, as well as custom straw and hay baling. They also host agritourism activities on their farm each fall.
More Stories |
-
Reminder: Don’t miss your chance to make your voice count in The 44th Annual Walking Horse Report Readers’ Choice! Cast your votes by Monday, November 24, 2025 to be included in this year’s results. Everyone’s welcome to vote—no membership required.
Read More
-
The Walking Horse Report recently learned of the passing of trainer Judy Martin. A full obituary will be posted when made available. We extend our thoughts and prayers to all who loved her.
Read More
-
Read More
-
Taylor LeGate, a lifelong member of the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and a World Champion exhibitor, is excited to bring her genuine passion for the Walking Horse to her new role with The Walking Horse Report.
Read More
-
Read More
-
Night Twister was laid to rest on November 5, 2025, at the age of 27. Sired by Pusher’s Twist A Bout and out of Sweet Crowder Lue, he was purchased as a two-year-old by Ann Bailey and began his show career under the guidance of Ann and trainer Steve Aymett.
Read More
-
The deadline to report high point corrections is November 28, 2025. Please take a moment to review your records and send any corrections.
Read More
-
On Wednesday, October 29, 2025, the Lord called Jack Pirkle home after a battle with cancer. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., Trinity United Methodist Church. Reverend Chris Hester will officiate the service.
Read More
-
You don’t have to be a member or an insider to join the fun — it’s time to VOTE in the 44th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards presented by The Walking Horse Report!
Read More
-
Read More
|