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Senator Marsha Blackburn officially announced her candidacy for governor of Tennessee on Wednesday (August 6). Blackburn, a Republican and ally of President Donald Trump, aims to become Tennessee's first female governor. She previously made history as the state's first female senator.
Blackburn's announcement sets up a Republican primary race against U.S. Representative John Rose. Both candidates are strong supporters of President Trump, and they will vie to replace the term-limited Governor Bill Lee. Blackburn is considered a frontrunner, having already secured endorsements, including from Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs.
In her campaign launch, Blackburn emphasized her conservative values, including opposition to government spending and China's global influence. Her campaign ad features her alongside President Trump and highlights her stances on social issues like abortion and transgender rights. Blackburn stated, "I love Tennessee, I believe in Tennesseans, and I’m ready to deliver the kind of conservative leadership that will ensure our state is America’s conservative leader for this generation and the next."
The Republican primary is scheduled for August 6, 2026. Blackburn's entry into the race has deterred some potential Republican candidates, while several Democrats have already announced their intentions to run.