Marsha Blackburn Announces Run for Tennessee Governor

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) announced Wednesday that she would run for governor of Tennessee in 2026.

Blackburn, a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump, is widely considered the favorite in the Republican primary. Her announcement video ties herself to Trump’s agenda.

“In his first six months, 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,” Blackburn said in a statement announcing her run.

“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, and I would be honored to have your support,” she continued.

Blackburn recently won her second term in the Senate in 2024. If elected, Blackburn would appoint her replacement.

She previously served in the House and the Tennessee legislature.

Blackburn is running to replace Gov. Bill Lee (R-TN), who is term-limited. Other Republican candidates running include Rep. John Rose (R-TN). The Republican primary will take place in August 2026.

“Tennessee is the greatest place in the world to rear a family and make a life and a living, and together, we can make our great state even better,” she said in her debut ad. “We’ll make Tennessee America’s No. 1 job-creating, energy-producing powerhouse.”