KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Tennessee voters are not only selecting their next governor this November, but the outcome could also have major implications for the state’s representation in Washington.
Republican U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn is seeking Tennessee’s highest elected office while still serving a Senate term that runs through 2028. Political observers say her bid for governor creates a unique situation that could lead to a vacancy in one of Tennessee’s Senate seats.
Four candidates are on the ballot for governor:
- Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn
- Democrat and Memphis City Councilwoman Jerri Green
- Independent candidate David Hatley of Carter County
- Independent candidate Lauren Pinkston
According to political science professor Mark O’Gorman of Maryville College, it is relatively uncommon for a sitting U.S. senator with years remaining on a term to run for governor.
If Blackburn wins the election, she would remain a U.S. senator until being sworn in as governor. At that point, her Senate seat would become vacant.
One key legal question is who would have the authority to appoint her replacement. O’Gorman noted that Tennessee law gives the appointment power to whoever is serving as governor when the vacancy officially occurs. Depending on the timing, that could be outgoing Gov. Bill Lee or Blackburn herself after taking office.
The vacancy scenario has fueled speculation about potential successors. Congressman Tim Burchett, who is currently seeking another term in the U.S. House, has expressed interest in a possible Senate bid.
However, University of Tennessee political science professor Dr. Andy Busch said appointing Burchett could create another vacancy. If Burchett were selected for the Senate and accepted the appointment, his congressional seat would also need to be filled through a separate election process.
Busch said that possibility could leave East Tennessee without representation in the House for an extended period while a special election is conducted.
If Blackburn does not win the governor’s race, political experts say there would be no impact on her Senate service. She would simply return to Washington and continue serving out her current term through the 2028 election.
The governor’s race has also drawn criticism from Burchett’s Democratic opponent, Michaela Barnett, who said she believes Burchett is focused on advancing his political career while she is focused on representing East Tennessee residents.
Tennessee voters will decide the race on Election Day, Nov. 3.
