Randy Boyd is running for Tennessee Governor. Literally.

Boyd, a self-described "serial entrepreneur" and former Tennessee commissioner of economic development, has committed to run 537 miles and visit all 95 counties in Tennessee. And on August 16, his run brought him to Union County for a lunch with Union Countians at the Winery at Seven Springs Farm.

Boyd is no stranger to Union County, having visited before in his state-level economic development role. But, Rick Riddle of Seven Springs Farm said this visit is important, too.

"You have somebody that is actually where the rubber meets the road, descriptive of his run across Tennessee," said Riddle. "I love his message of opportunity. I think he has the clearest and strongest message of economic opportunity."

Boyd had an outdoor lunch with guests who included members of the Union County Chamber of Commerce and Union County Business and Professional Association, county commissioners, Union County Mayor Mike Williams, Maynardville city manager Jack Rhyne, Union County Director of Schools Dr. Jimmy Carter, and many more.

Boyd gave a short talk covering many topics, then opened the floor to questions. When asked about healthcare, Boyd said one thing is missing from the nationwide healthcare discussion.

"We never talk about what it costs," he said.

Boyd said about seven years ago he went in for "an unmentionable test men have to get," and asked the receptionist how much the procedure costs.

"She said, 'It's whatever your insurance says,'" Boyd continued. "I said, 'No, what is the price?' She said, 'Nobody's ever asked me that before.' Imagine a marketplace where no consumers ever asked the price. We need very basic accountability and transparency in the price of healthcare."

Boyd closed the session with a request that folks vote for him in the upcoming election.

"I'm the world's worst politician, and I always forget to ask this," he said.

Boyd staffers mentioned that he had plans to meet with Mayor Mike Williams later that afternoon.

Info: www.randyboyd.com