Sen. Marsha Blackburn Considers Run for Tennessee Governor in 2026

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee still has two years left in his term, but speculation about his potential successor in 2026 is already heating up. U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn has emerged as a prominent figure in the conversation, hinting at a possible run for the state’s top office.

Blackburn, who recently secured a second term in the U.S. Senate, has been vocal about her interest in the governor’s race. “I will give it all serious consideration,” Blackburn said during an interview on 104.1 The Mix‘s Morning Show in Cleveland, Tennessee. “I am so honored that so many of our elected officials in this state and our state legislature have asked us to give it consideration, and we will do that.”

Her comments echo statements made to Fox News over the weekend, where she emphasized the need for strong leadership at the state level. “It is going to take strong governors and strong state legislators, so we are strongly considering it,” she said.

Blackburn first gained political prominence in 1999 as a state senator opposing a proposed state income tax. “It’s the people’s money. This is the people’s business, and the people deserve to have their vote,” she said in a 1999 interview. She later served 16 years in Congress before winning her Senate seat in 2018 against former Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen.

While Blackburn’s name recognition could be an asset, Tennessee’s political landscape has shown a willingness to embrace outsiders. Gov. Lee, a political newcomer, defeated established figures like then-Rep. Diane Black in the 2018 gubernatorial primary. This raises questions about whether Blackburn’s extensive political experience will be an advantage or a liability.

Blackburn’s potential candidacy may also influence other contenders. Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs, once considered a likely candidate, has already pledged his support for Blackburn if she runs. Other rumored candidates include Damon Hininger, CEO of private prison operator CoreCivic, Joe Baker, owner of Ole Smoky Moonshine and Yee Haw Beer, and U.S. Rep. John Rose.

As the 2026 race begins to take shape, Blackburn’s decision will undoubtedly shape the field and set the tone for what promises to be a highly competitive election.