Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., is the front-runner in Thursday's Republican gubernatorial primary, seeking to succeed term-limited Gov. Bill Lee. The race for governor is a central contest in Tennessee's nominating contests for state and federal offices in the red-leaning state, where Democrats have not won a gubernatorial election in two decades.
Despite her national profile and consistent support for former President Donald Trump, Blackburn did not receive Trump's official endorsement in the gubernatorial race. Trump expressed a desire for her to remain in the Senate, stating in January, "We don't want to lose you in the Senate." However, he acknowledged she would be a capable governor and also noted the strong loyalty of another contender, Rep. John Rose.
Blackburn has actively showcased her allegiance to Trump. "As President Trump sends power and authority back to the states, I'm ready to deliver for the people of the Volunteer State and make our state America's conservative leader," she posted on social media on the eve of the primary, accompanied by a photo of her and Trump.
In the Republican gubernatorial primary, Blackburn faces competition from Rep. John Rose, a four-term congressman and fellow staunch supporter of Trump, and state Rep. Monty Fritts.
On the Democratic side, five candidates are competing for their party's nomination, including Memphis City Councilwoman Jerri Green.
Senate and House Races
Tennessee's other U.S. senator, Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., is unopposed in the Republican primary as he seeks a second term. A Democrat has not won a Senate contest in Tennessee since former Sen. Al Gore's re-election 36 years ago. Five Democrats are challenging Hagerty in the general election.
In U.S. House races, a new Republican-drawn congressional map has created an additional right-leaning seat. This redistributes districts and has led to longtime Democratic Rep. Steve Cohen not seeking re-election in Memphis. Republican Rep. Andy Ogles, a prominent Trump ally, faces a primary challenge from Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, who has received an endorsement from Gov. Lee. This particular House race has attracted significant funding from outside groups.