Blackburn officially announces run for Governor in Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Republican U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn has announced that she is entering the open Tennessee governor’s race in 2026.

The second-term senator’s announcement Wednesday sets up a primary clash with U.S. Rep. John Rose. Blackburn is a two-time statewide elected official and ally of President Donald Trump. She says she is running to ensure Tennessee is America’s conservative leader.

Rose has been another loyal Trump supporter and has tapped into his personal wealth to loan his campaign $5 million. Republican Gov. Bill Lee is hitting his limit of two consecutive four-year terms in office. The state has heavily favored Republicans in recent elections.

(IMAGE: Office of Senator Marsha Blackburn / Official X account)