Today we’d like to introduce you to Tres Wittum
Hi Tres, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Humble Beginnings, Strong Foundations
Tres Wittum’s story begins with being raised in a working-class family that taught him the value of grit, determination, and standing up for what’s right. His father works in global supply chain management, and his mother as a hairdresser—both instilling in him an appreciation for the everyday challenges faced by hardworking Tennesseans. “I grew up around people who understood the meaning of effort and resilience,” Tres reflects. “That shaped my desire to stand up for ‘the little guy.’”
As a proud descendant of American Revolutionaries, Tres’s commitment to liberty and self-governance runs deep. His family history fuels his passion for preserving individual rights and ensuring that government serves its people—not the other way around.
From Advocacy to Action
Tres’s journey into public life began on college campuses, where he quickly became known for his bold stance on truth and justice. “I’ve always believed in standing up and speaking out, even when it’s uncomfortable,” he says. His academic years at Indiana University Indianapolis and the University of Tennessee Chattanooga sharpened his skills in debate, leadership, and policy. While at UT Chattanooga, Wittum was elected State Chairman of the Tennessee College Republicans, showcasing his early leadership and organizational skills.
His path eventually led him to the Tennessee Senate, where he served for over a decade as an Executive Policy & Research Analyst. In this role, Tres worked on a variety of critical issues including the state budget and transformative policies related to emerging technologies, like ride-sharing platforms and autonomous delivery systems. “I saw firsthand how technology could solve problems but also how unchecked innovation could create new ones,” Tres explains. “It was a wake-up call about the importance of balancing progress with accountability.”
A Vision for the Digital Age
Now, Tres is taking his leadership to a new frontier: the digital revolution. His recently published book, Digital Bill of Rights: A Revolution for We the People 2.100, calls for transformative policies to protect individuals in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
“We’re on the brink of the greatest societal change since the Industrial Revolution,” Tres asserts. “AI, automation, and data are reshaping our world at a pace we’ve never seen. If we don’t act now, we risk leaving everyday people behind.”Tres’s platform emphasizes:
Protecting Individual Data: Advocating for policies that treat data as labor, ensuring individuals are compensated for their contributions to the digital economy.
Transparency and Accountability: Demanding clarity in how algorithms and AI operate to prevent misuse and bias.
Strengthening the U.S. Dollar: Safeguarding America’s currency in the digital economy to maintain its global strength.
Faith, Technology, and Leadership
Tres’s vision for the future is deeply rooted in his faith. “I believe we’re created in God’s image, with inherent worth and purpose,” he says. “As we embrace technology, we must never lose sight of our humanity.” He calls for ethical and spiritual reflection as society grapples with the challenges of the digital age, urging leaders to prioritize dignity and equity in their decisions.
Looking Ahead
For Tres Wittum, the journey is just beginning. Whether it’s standing up for Tennessee values or championing a Digital Bill of Rights, Tres is focused on empowering individuals and shaping a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. “Leadership isn’t about titles or accolades,” he says. “It’s about serving people, solving problems, and ensuring a brighter tomorrow.”
As he steps into this new chapter, Tres remains grounded in the principles that have guided him from the start: integrity, resilience, and an unshakable commitment to what’s right. In a world increasingly artificial—where even leadership can feel fake—Tres offers something rare: authenticity. “People want the real thing,” he says. “You’ve got to walk it like you talk it. Lead by example. There’s nothing like the real deal.”
With a vision rooted in action and a drive to deliver, Tres Wittum is ready to lead for today and tomorrow.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
A Resilient Leader for Changing Times
Like any great leader, Tres Wittum has faced his share of challenges with resilience and determination. In 2017, he was elected Davidson County Republican Party Chairman by his peers, only to have the State TNGOP overturn the election and install a different chairman. The decision was rooted in a debate over his “bona fide credentials,” despite having already been vouched for by a former State Party chairman. Tres had served as the State Chairman of the Tennessee College Republicans and worked for Republican leaders in the Tennessee Senate, making the controversy even more baffling.
Undeterred, Tres turned this setback into motivation, using it to deepen his commitment to serving Tennesseans. His campaigns for Tennessee’s 5th Congressional District in 2022 and the U.S. Senate in 2024 may not have resulted in electoral victories, but they were far from failures. These campaigns highlighted his ability to connect with people across the state, earning him over 43,000 votes for the U.S. Senate. They also underscored his tenacity and authenticity as a candidate willing to stand up for faith, family, and freedom—the core values he holds dear.
“Running for office is humbling,” Tres reflects. “But every conversation, every handshake reminded me why I’m doing this: to champion Tennessee values and stand up for the people who make this state great.”
Tres has never shied away from speaking truth to power, even when it ruffles feathers. “I’m not in this to play politics or cater to party insiders,” he says. “I’m here to stand up for everyday people—the little guy, the forgotten, the ones who feel left behind.” His willingness to challenge the establishment has earned him a reputation as a maverick, unafraid to prioritize principles over political gamesmanship. Tres’s focus is clear: fighting for what’s right, not what’s convenient, and ensuring every voice has a place at the table.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Core Mission
Tres Wittum’s life’s work revolves around empowering individuals and ensuring that government policy and technology serve humanity, not the other way around. His vision is rooted in fairness, innovation, and a commitment to individual rights in an era of rapid technological change.
What Does Tres Do?
Tres Wittum is an author, advocate, and policy expert, blending his experience in governance with his passion for technology and individual rights. His work spans three main areas:
1.) Policy and Legislation:
With over a decade of experience as a policy analyst in the Tennessee Senate, Tres has crafted impactful legislation on emerging technologies like:
Establishing foundational regulations for ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft.
Contributing to autonomous delivery robot policies for companies like Amazon.
Advocating for frameworks that balance innovation with accountability.
2.) Digital Rights and Advocacy:
Tres is the author of Digital Bill of Rights: A Revolution for We the People 2.100. He champions a future where:
Individuals own their data and are compensated for the value it generates.
Big Tech is held accountable for algorithmic transparency and bias.
AI and automation benefit everyone, not just a select few.
3.) Political and Social Commentary:
Tres offers clear, unapologetic insights into key issues affecting Tennessee and the nation. He prioritizes states’ rights, limited government, and individual liberties, while standing up for the forgotten and underserved.
What Sets Tres Apart?
Principled Maverick: Tres is unafraid to challenge the political establishment. He doesn’t just follow party lines but forges solutions rooted in principles.
Visionary Leadership: Tres sees the opportunities and challenges of the digital age, pushing for proactive solutions like his “Digital Bill of Rights.”
Rooted in Tennessee Values: A proud Tennessean, Tres embodies the state’s values of faith, family, and freedom while ensuring these traditions remain relevant in a rapidly evolving world.
Faith-Driven Leadership: Tres is a spirit filled, “Born again” believer. Tres believes in protecting human dignity and fostering equity in both policy and technology.
Connection to the People: Tres is relatable, grounded, and passionate about advocating for the “little guy” and the forgotten voices in our society.
What is Tres Most Proud Of?
Tres is most proud of his:
Work on the Digital Bill of Rights, which he sees as a blueprint for protecting rights and equity in the digital era.
Resilience: His willingness to speak up for truth, justice, and innovation, even when it means standing alone.
Advocacy for Tennesseans: Whether in policy rooms or public forums, Tres has consistently fought for solutions that reflect the needs and values of everyday people.
Legacy of Courage: His boldness in standing up to the establishment, advocating for fairness and accountability, and envisioning a brighter future for all.
As Tres moves forward, he’s committed to bringing thoughtful solutions to modern challenges. His focus on creating a human-centered digital future makes him a leading voice in shaping the intersection of policy, innovation, and human dignity.
“Leadership isn’t about politics or posturing. It’s about solving problems and creating a better tomorrow for everyone. I believe in standing up, speaking out, and ensuring no one is left behind—especially in a world that’s changing as rapidly as ours.”
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What do you like best about our city?
Nashville is a creative bastion of art and entertainment. I love the energy you feel walking down our streets—the music playing throughout downtown, the vibrant art scene, and the creativity we encourage as a community. As someone who came to Nashville in 2008 to work in the film and entertainment industry, I’ve always believed this city has the potential to rival places like New York, LA, or Atlanta for creative opportunities. I still believe I was right. Nashville’s spirit, rooted in innovation and artistry, is something truly special. “I believe in Nashville.”
What do you like least about our city?
While Nashville thrives as an “it city,” rapid growth has brought its challenges. Local government has placed unnecessary burdens on our people, mismanaged the city budget, and made it increasingly hard for many to afford living here. It’s disheartening to see a city with so much promise grappling with underfunded schools, rising crime, and a cost of living that pushes out everyday residents. As the capital of a well-managed state like Tennessee, Nashville should reflect those same Tennessee values: responsible leadership, accountability, and putting people first. We must do better.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://TresWittum.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tennessee_tres/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TRESforTENNESSEE
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tres-wittum/
- Twitter: https://x.com/TresWittum
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TennesseeTRES
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/wittumt3
