MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Three candidates in Tennessee’s race for governor have agreed to participate in a statewide gubernatorial forum later this month, giving voters an opportunity to hear directly from contenders before Election Day.
The event, organized by the Tennessee Press Association, is scheduled for 7 p.m. CDT on October 27 at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro.
According to organizers, Democratic nominee Jerri Green, a Memphis city councilwoman, will participate alongside independent candidates David Hatley and Lauren Pinkston.
Green told media outlets that all three candidates have agreed to attend and expressed hope that Republican nominee U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn will also join the forum. Blackburn has been invited but had not confirmed her attendance as of Tuesday.
The Tennessee Press Association says the event is expected to be the only nonpartisan gubernatorial forum scheduled during the 2026 election campaign.
The forum will be held in a studio setting, with production support provided by an MTSU student-led video team. The debate will be livestreamed by Tennessee Press Association member newspapers across the state, allowing voters to watch remotely.
TPA President David Gould said the forum is intended to help Tennesseans make informed decisions as they prepare to vote.
“Members of the press have a duty and public service to inform Tennesseans about government and public affairs, including elections,” Gould said. “This is the first time in eight years Tennessee voters will elect a new governor, and it’s important the public hear from the major candidates in an open forum.”
The debate comes as early voting is set to begin October 14, with Election Day scheduled for November 3.
The governor’s race will determine who succeeds Tennessee’s current administration and will shape policy decisions on education, economic development, healthcare, transportation and other key issues facing the state over the next four years.
