Marsha Blackburn, an American politician serving as the senior United States senator from Tennessee, announced her bid for Tennessee governor.
Blackburn has been a prominent conservative voice in Tennessee politics for over two decades. She built a career in marketing before entering public service.
She is a steadfast Republican who has championed limited government, free-market principles, and traditional values throughout her tenure in office.
Blackburn began her political career in the Tennessee State Senate before winning election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2002, representing Tennessee’s 7th District.
She is famous for her strong conservative record and gained national attention as a vocal supporter of the Tea Party movement, advocating for lower taxes, deregulation, and fiscal responsibility.
In 2018, she became the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Tennessee, defeating former Democratic Governor Phil Bredesen. Since joining the Senate, Blackburn has been a fierce ally of former President Donald Trump.
In 2024, she was reelected to a second Senate term against Democratic nominee Gloria Johnson.
Sen. Marsha Blackburn Announces Bid for Tennessee Governor
Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn announced her campaign for Tennessee governor on Wednesday, vowing to position the state as “America’s conservative leader for this generation and the next.”
Trump is back, America is blessed and Tennessee — better than ever. Here in the Volunteer State, we always lead the way. And that’s why I am announcing my candidacy for governor.
Blackburn made history as Tennessee’s first female senator.
Her 2018 race drew national attention when pop star Taylor Swift broke her political silence to criticize Blackburn’s record and endorse her Democratic opponent. Despite the high-profile opposition, Blackburn won decisively and secured reelection in 2024.
If successful, she would become Tennessee’s first female governor. The 73-year-old conservative has long aligned herself with former President Donald Trump, praising his “historic strides in Making America Great Again” in her campaign launch.
She emphasized that Trump “is going to need strong conservative governors who can bring that revolution home.
Blackburn will face fellow Tennessee Republican Rep. John Rose in the primary, who entered the race in March. The winner will succeed term-limited GOP Gov. Bill Lee.
Her bid reflects a growing trend of U.S. senators seeking governorships, including Colorado Democrat Michael Bennet and Alabama Republican Tommy Tuberville, who launched gubernatorial campaigns earlier this year.
A Glimpse into Marsha Blackburn’s Personal Life
Marsha Blackburn is renowned for her strong conservative values and political career, but her personal life reflects her deep roots in faith, family, and community.
Mary Marsha Blackburn, the daughter of Mary Jo and Hilman Wedgeworth, was born on June 6, 1952, in Laurel, Mississippi. Her father worked in sales and management, instilling in her the values of hard work and determination.
In 1974, she married Chuck Blackburn, and the couple settled in Brentwood. Together, they raised two children, maintaining a strong family foundation throughout Blackburn’s political rise.
A devoted Presbyterian, Blackburn is an active member of Christ Presbyterian Church. Her faith plays a central role in her life, guiding both her personal and professional decisions.
She is also part of The C Street Family, a prayer group that includes members of Congress, highlighting her commitment to spiritual fellowship among peers.
Beyond politics, Blackburn has contributed to cultural and educational institutions, having served on the Smithsonian Libraries Advisory Board.
In 2020, she authored The Mind of a Conservative Woman: Seeking the Best for Family and Country, a book outlining her political philosophy and advocacy for conservative principles.
