NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Senator Marsha Blackburn has officially declared her candidacy for the Tennessee governor’s race in 2026. This announcement sets the stage for a Republican primary showdown with U.S. Rep. John Rose, both of whom are strong supporters of former President Donald Trump.
Blackburn has been expected to run for some time. She aims to replace GOP Gov. Bill Lee, who must step down after serving two consecutive terms. If successful, Blackburn would become Tennessee’s first female governor. She previously made history by being the first woman to represent Tennessee in the U.S. Senate, winning her seat in 2018 by nearly 11 percentage points against former governor Phil Bredesen.
Since her election, Blackburn’s political stance has aligned closely with conservative values, winning reelection last year by a significant 29-point margin over state Rep. Gloria Johnson. She has been an influential figure since her start in politics in 2002, gaining prominence during the tea party movement and campaigning against a proposed state income tax.
In her campaign launch, Blackburn praised Trump’s administration and focused on creating jobs, energy leadership, and traditional conservative issues—like parental rights in education and immigration control. Her bold statements, including a promise to deport illegal immigrants, resonate with her base.
John Rose, who entered the governor’s race earlier this year, also has strong ties to Trump. The state has leaned heavily Republican in recent elections, having supported Trump by a sizeable margin. Blackburn’s intention to run has already influenced others in the party, potentially discouraging other prominent Republicans from joining the race.
Rose, a businessman and farmer, has contributed $5 million to his campaign, reflecting his financial commitment. His campaign emphasizes his experience as a CEO and reformer, contrasting with Blackburn’s focus on Washington politics.
As the race heats up, both candidates are vying for Trump’s endorsement, which could be pivotal in the primary, scheduled for August 6, 2026. Blackburn’s current Senate position is secure, so she can pursue the governorship without risking her seat.
Alongside Blackburn and Rose, Cito Pellegra is also running in the GOP primary. The Democratic side sees several candidates entering the race, including Memphis city council member Jerri Green and activist Carnita Atwater.
This governor’s race marks a critical moment for Tennessee, as it can shape the state’s political landscape for years to come. With voters increasingly engaged on social media, reactions and discussions about the candidates are already surfacing online. Conversations reflect the public’s interests, particularly in economic issues and education policies, which are crucial to many Tennessee residents.
As the contest unfolds, monitoring social media trends and public sentiment will be vital for both candidates, providing insights into what voters truly value in their next leader.
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