U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN) has confirmed his intention to seek the Senate seat in Tennessee as Senator Marsha Blackburn prepares to transition to the governor’s office.
Burchett, currently serving Tennessee’s 2nd Congressional District, expressed his interest in the position that will become available once Blackburn takes her oath as governor. Although Blackburn plans to hold her Senate seat until January 2027, she will appoint a successor at that time.
According to Tennessee law, this appointee will serve until a special election in 2028 to fill the remaining term, which ends in January 2031. Following that, a regular election will take place in 2030 for a full six-year term.
During an interview on Fox News, Burchett remarked, “It’s totally up to her. I’ve prayed about it. I would absolutely take on that role. And if not, I would absolutely run for it in two years.” He highlighted positive polling and fundraising strength should he decide to seek a full term.
He also extended his congratulations to Blackburn, reiterating that she will excel as governor. “I think I’ve got a good shot at it. It’s totally up to her,” he mentioned regarding the Senate role.
If he is not appointed, Burchett is committed to running for the seat in two years.
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BREAKING: Rep. Tim Burchett announces US SENATE candidacy for Tennessee
He's praying that Governor-elect Marsha Blackburn appoints him. If not, he'd run in 2 years
THIS IS AMAZING NEWS!
"It's totally up to her. I've prayed about it. I'd ABSOLUTELY take on that role. And… pic.twitter.com/hlZaSTI17M
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) November 8, 2026
Burchett’s interest in the seat is not new. Previously, he shared with Punchbowl News that he would certainly begin campaigning for the role, irrespective of receiving the appointment. He emphasized a robust grassroots network within the state, stating, “Our bills just go there to die.”
In a declaration to Knox News, Burchett noted, “It is a tremendous honor to represent the fine folks of Tennessee District 2 in the United States House of Representatives, and my sole focus is delivering a strong win for them on November 3. I’ve made no bones about the fact that I would be honored to serve the Great State of Tennessee in the United States Senate.”
Other potential candidates for the appointment have included former Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs and U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reportedly not being considered.
