At the End of the TVRA Candidates Forum

At the close of the recent TVRA Candidates Forum, the issue of groupthink was raised. I’ve heard and read some commentary about that moment, but I believe it’s important to share my own thoughts.

First, I have to wonder — did the person who brought up “groupthink” ever actually Google what it means? I’m not so sure he did.

So, what is groupthink, and where did it begin?

Groupthink happens when everyone in a group goes along with a decision—either because they’re pressured to agree or because they don’t want to speak up. Or they commonly believe  without influence.  It’s not new. In fact, it’s as old as humanity itself.

Let’s start at the very beginning: Adam and Eve. They were told to leave the fruit on the tree alone. But Eve followed the pressure of the serpent, took the fruit and Adam followed. An  example of small groupthink, you might say!

Fast-forward to World War II. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, President Roosevelt called for war. Congress agreed, and young men across America rushed to enlist. Was that groupthink—or a nation uniting behind a just cause?

Now, let’s move to something closer to home.

This past Saturday, the Tennessee Volunteers played the University of Arkansas at Neyland Stadium. When the Vols ran through the “T,” 100,000 fans cheered in unison—groupthink! When Arkansas scored first, that same crowd groaned. When the Vols scored, the stadium erupted in jubilation. That, too, could be called groupthink—shared emotion, shared energy, shared purpose.

So let’s look right here in Tellico Village. 

Current and former Board members — bound by NDAs—voted for excessive water bills, an $80 surcharge, and projects that continues to rise in cost. Was that not groupthink? Just asking.

Now, consider this alternative. Three men—three independent thinkers—with a shared vision to restore Government in the Sunshine. Limited NDAs. Open voices. Accountable leadership. Financial prudence. A reliable infrastructure. Continuous improvement.

These aren’t radical ideas—they’re common-sense goals for a stronger, more transparent Tellico Village.

We are three individuals with different backgrounds, but one purpose: to do what’s best for our community and for the families who call it home.

You’ve seen what bad groupthink can do.

How about trying a little good groupthink for a change.