U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) officially announced her candidacy for governor of Tennessee on Monday, setting up what could be a high-profile Republican primary to succeed outgoing Gov. Bill Lee, who is term-limited and cannot seek re-election in 2026.
“I’m running to serve as Tennessee’s next governor to ensure Tennessee is America’s conservative leader,” Blackburn said in a statement.
“President Trump has made historic strides in Making America Great Again, but as he sends power back to the states, he’s going to need strong conservative governors who can bring that revolution home.”
A Proven Conservative Voice
Blackburn, who has represented Tennessee in the U.S. Senate since 2019, was re-elected to a second term in 2024 and has long been considered one of the most outspoken and consistent defenders of conservative values in Washington.
Throughout her tenure, she has aligned closely with President Donald Trump, particularly on issues like:
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Securing the southern border
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Fighting Big Tech censorship
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Protecting unborn life
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Defending parental rights and traditional values
Backed by Tennessee Conservatives
Prominent Republican leaders in Tennessee quickly rallied behind Blackburn’s announcement:
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State Rep. Lee Reeves (R) called her “Tennessee’s conservative warrior” and “the tip of the spear in the fight against the Left.”
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State Rep. Jason Zachary (R) declared her a “proven, conservative leader” and endorsed her campaign for governor.
Not Alone in the Primary
Blackburn enters what is shaping up to be a competitive Republican primary. U.S. Rep. John Rose (R-TN) announced his own gubernatorial bid earlier this year, setting the stage for a federal-to-state showdown between two sitting members of Congress.
The Republican primary is scheduled for August 6, 2026, with the general election taking place on November 3, 2026.
A Clear Message to the Base
Blackburn previously hinted at her intentions earlier this year, telling the Tennessee Journal:
“I intend to run. I will win. And we’ll make certain that Tennessee is the most conservative state in the country.”
With President Trump’s return to the White House and federal power shifting back to the states, Blackburn’s candidacy sends a clear signal: Tennessee will continue to be a conservative stronghold, not just in Washington, but on the ground at home.
