TDOC Commissioner Resigns After Failed Execution
October 3, 2026, 2:14 p.m.

NASHVILLE, TN - Today, Governor Bill Lee announced that Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) Commissioner Frank Strada has offered his resignation and will step down from his role this month.

“Commissioner Strada has served with integrity, and I appreciate his willingness to put the interests of Tennesseans first during this difficult moment,” said Gov. Lee. “I have accepted his decision to step down and am grateful for his commitment to ensuring a smooth leadership transition. I thank Commissioner Strada for his dedicated service to Tennessee and pray God’s blessings over him in the days ahead.”

“Serving as commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Correction has been a great honor, and I continue to believe the Department carried out its responsibilities in accordance with the established protocol,” said Commissioner Strada. “Even so, stepping aside is in the best interest of Tennesseans as the independent review moves forward. I believe this review is entirely appropriate and necessary, and I look forward to doing everything I can to help determine exactly what occurred.”

An interim commissioner will be announced at a later date.