NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Republican U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn announced Wednesday that she is entering the open Tennessee governor's race in 2026, setting up a primary clash with U.S. Rep. John Rose .

Blackburn's announcement makes official what had been expected for some time from the ally of President Donald Trump. She had made no secret that she was planning on running for the position.

It sets up a Republican primary clash in August 2026 against Rose who is also a Trump backer. They will be competing to replace GOP Gov. Bill Lee, who is hitting his limit of two consecutive four-year terms in office.

Blackburn became the first woman to represent Tennessee in the U.S. Senate . If elected, she would be the state’s first female governor, as well.

Blackburn won her Senate seat

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