The 2026 Tennessee governor’s race is already dominated by two Republicans: Sen. Marsha Blackburn and Rep. John Rose. With Blackburn’s entry, the contest has shifted dramatically, fueled by early polls, fundraising power, and key endorsements. Rose, meanwhile, is leaning on grassroots support and pushing for debates to gain ground
Under the current 14-county map, the GOP nominee starts December with a structural edge. That’s why the Oct. 7 Republican primary—shaped by outside spending and high-profile endorsements—may effectively determine who represents TN-7.
Outside groups have poured millions into Tennessee’s 7th District race, with nearly half of the money focused on defeating state Rep. Jody Barrett. His opposition to school vouchers and corporate tax breaks turned him into a test case for how national donors enforce discipline inside the GOP.
Early voting totals in the 7th Congressional District show Democrats keeping pace with Republicans ahead of the Oct. 7 primary. Turnout patterns point to strong support in Davidson County for Aftyn Behn, a solid base for Vincent Dixie in Montgomery, and a narrower path for Bo Mitchell through suburban voters.
Matt Van Epps may hold an edge in Tennessee’s 7th District Republican primary. Endorsements and outside spending suggest he could be the frontrunner heading into the Oct. 7 vote.
The Democratic nominee for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District remains undecided. Among the contenders, Aftyn Behn…
Democrats in Tennessee’s 7th District face a choice between Darden Copeland’s self-funded campaign and Aftyn Behn’s grassroots push, with Vincent Dixie and Bo Mitchell still in the mix as early voting shows low turnout and a wide-open race.
Williamson’s Lee Reeves and Montgomery’s Matt Van Epps are emerging as the key rivals in Tennessee’s 7th District GOP primary, with two counties holding nearly half the Republican vote.
