Senator Marsha Blackburn, known for her strong alliance with former President Donald Trump, has secured the Republican nomination for governor in Tennessee. NBC News projects her victory over Representative John Rose, despite Trump’s decision not to endorse a candidate in this race.
At 74, Blackburn became the first woman to represent Tennessee in the Senate following her 2018 election. She previously served in the House starting in 2003. A gubernatorial win would make her the first female governor of Tennessee. In this conservative state, she is expected to have a strong standing in the general election to replace term-limited Governor Bill Lee. On the Democratic side, Jerri Green from the Memphis City Council has won the nomination.
Known as one of the most conservative figures in the Senate, Blackburn has taken firm positions on issues like abortion and transgender rights. Her staunch criticism of China’s influence is also notable. Both she and Rose have leveraged Trump’s influence, despite his non-involvement in the race.
The Tennessee Freedom Fund, a group supporting Blackburn, invested heavily to associate her with Trump. Their advertisements feature Trump calling her “an incredible person” and commending her work. At a rally in Washington, Trump expressed his wish for Blackburn to remain in the Senate, saying, “I begged her: ‘Marsha, don’t. We don’t want to lose you in the Senate.’” Yet, during a flight to Memphis, Trump reportedly told Tennessee congressional members that he would refrain from endorsing Blackburn due to his relationship with Rose.
Rep. John Rose, serving Tennessee’s 6th District, is a former state agriculture commissioner who has also maintained a close alliance with Trump. His campaign spent nearly $13 million in self-funding.
The race is noteworthy as a rare instance where Trump has remained neutral. In past contests, he supported multiple candidates, such as in South Carolina, where he endorsed both state Attorney General Alan Wilson and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette.
Blackburn is part of a notable number of senators running for governor this election cycle. Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama won the GOP nomination, while Democratic Senator Michael Bennet lost his primary bid in Colorado. Senator Amy Klobuchar will face the Minnesota governor’s race next week.
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