Republican U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn declared on Wednesday that she would run for the open Tennessee governor’s seat in 2026
With his announcement, Blackburn formally confirms what was long anticipated a head to head primary with Republican Rep. John Rose.
They will be vying to succeed Republican Governor Bill Lee, who is nearing the end of his two four-year term limit.
Blackburn is the third sitting senator to announce a run for governor this year after Alabama Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville and Colorado Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet.
It’s official! I’m running for Governor to ensure Tennessee is America’s conservative leader for this generation and the next.
I would be honored to have your support. #TNGov pic.twitter.com/5PNN8MkTJQ
— Marsha Blackburn (@VoteMarsha) August 6, 2025
