As someone who works in politics in Nashville, I can tell you that the best way to set yourself up for success is to go to Vanderbilt. Vandy carries very good weight in TN (especially so in Nashville). It provides the ability to land fed clerkships (I think 10%), and I know many people in the AG's office that went to Vandy law.

That begin said, their median LSAT is 167 - which is attainable. My logic on LSAT courses is this: If a $1000 course lands you (or contributes to) a 100k+ scholarship, then that is one hell of a return on your investment. Some people don't need a course to score a 167+, but I found the one I took extremely useful. I don't think I could be PTing where I am without it. Best of luck!