The parking lot at Lighthouse Knoxville on Baum Drive was overflowing for Knox Co. Mayor Tim Burchett's campaign kickoff event. We estimated that about 500 people came through, maybe more.

It seem like every candidate for county office was there, along with lots of local officials and most of Burchett's staff. There were also some known Democrats, including Greg Mackay, Randy Tyree, Mike Padgett and others.

With less than two days left to qualify, Mayor Burchett is running unopposed. He is clearly popular among voters and local officials, so it appears Knox Co. can expect another blowout County Mayor election in August.