Senator Bo Watson

Foy W. “Bo” Watson (born October 21, 1960) is an American politician and a Republican member of the Tennessee Senate. He has been serving in the 11th district since 2007.

Early Life and Education: Bo Watson was born on October 21, 1960, in Chattanooga, TN. He is the son of Doris Juanita (Hoppe) and Foy W. Watson, Jr. Watson graduated from the Baylor School, a private school in Chattanooga, where he was a state high school wrestling champion. He then attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, graduating magna cum laude with a B.A. in biology. Later, he received education and training in physical therapy at the University of Tennessee Center for Health Sciences in Memphis.

Career and Accomplishments: Watson has been a practicing physical therapist for over 30 years. Currently, he serves as the Director of Sports Medicine and Therapy Services at HCA - Parkridge Medical Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

In 2006, Watson was first elected as a Tennessee state senator for the 105th Tennessee General Assembly. Prior to that, he served as a state representative during the 104th General Assembly. He represents the 11th district, which includes part of Hamilton County. From July 2011 until January 2017, he held the position of Speaker pro tempore in the Tennessee Senate.

Committees and Community Involvement: Watson is actively involved in various committees and community organizations. He became chairman of the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee in January 2017. Additionally, he chairs the Senate Rules Committee and the Joint Committee on Pensions and Insurance. He is also a member of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee, the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee, and the Fiscal Review Committee.

Beyond politics, Watson has contributed to his community. He has been associated with the Junior Achievement program at Orchard Knob Elementary School, Habitat for Humanity, and the American Heart Association. He also served on the board of the Wesley Center at UTC and the American Cancer Society Relay for Life.

Personal Life: Bo Watson is married to Nicole (née Osborne) Watson, an attorney, and they have one son, Grey Watson. He attends First Presbyterian Church of Chattanooga.

Senator Watson is recognized as one of the most conservative members in the Tennessee Senate, consistently receiving high ratings on his conservative voting record from the American Conservative Union.