Former wrestling star announces run for public office

Former WWE star "Kane," whose real name is Glenn Jacobs, is tossing his name back into the ring — for public office.

Jacobs, who has lived in the eastern Tennessee for more than two decades, announced Tuesday that he is running for mayor of Knox County, Tennessee, as a Republican. During his announcement speech, Jacobs advocated for principles he says will make Knox County "what President Reagan referred to as “the shining city upon a hill.”

Those principles, as laid out on his campaign website, include low taxes, more jobs, and a more transparent government. Jacobs says he will also focus on keeping communities safe, improving infrastructure and education. All of these are part of a "fresh outlook on limited government."

The former wrestler adds on his campaign website that because of his career, he has been to many different places, but that when it came to choosing a place to live, it wasn't even a competition: "We live here because want to live here. Because we love it here. Most of all, we love the people. Folks here are kind and friendly, and possess a quality that is lacking in many other places...loads of common sense."

“This is a great place to work, live and raise a family. I want to do my part to make sure it remains a great place and that our future is as bright as ever," Jacobs added, according to the Knoxville News Sentinel.

Knox County commissioner Bob Thomas has filed paperwork to run against Jacobs. Knox County Sheriff Jimmy “J.J.” Jones is also expected to announce his bid for mayor.

The Republican primary is scheduled for May 1, 2018 and the general election is slated for Aug. 2, 2018, according to the Knoxville News Sentinel.

If elected, Jacobs would replace the current Knox County mayor, Tim Burchett, who is ineligible for another term.