Commentary by: Marsha Blackburn
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Tennessee is a wonderful state filled with thriving businesses, strong communities, and values that emphasize faith, family, and freedom. These values lay the foundation for a bright future. I’m running for governor because I believe Tennessee should not merely keep pace with the rest of America—we should lead it. With President Trump returning power to the states, we have a great opportunity to demonstrate what effective conservative leadership can accomplish.
As I travel through all 95 counties, I hear from families, farmers, educators, small business owners, and local leaders. Parents express concern about their children’s education. Workers emphasize the need to grow our economy by limiting taxes and reducing government interference. Families consistently tell me they want safety, freedom, and opportunities for their children. These voices inspire my actions every day.
One significant achievement in my career was opposing the state income tax in the State Senate, where I faced challenges from Democrats and even some within my party. People asserted it was impossible, yet Tennesseans made it clear—they didn’t want another financial burden. Winning this battle laid the groundwork for Tennessee’s economic success. Today, we stand as one of the lowest-taxed and lowest-debt states in the nation, a result of genuine conservative leadership.
However, we can’t rest on past successes. The next phase is about creating a Tennessee that is safer, stronger, and more free for today and future generations. Conservative principles are key to achieving this. Thus, I believe Tennessee must position itself as the conservative leader of America.
President Trump is executing what the American people desired when they elected him: placing decision-making back in the hands of the states. In Tennessee, we recognize that true prosperity arises when government regulation is minimal. This means keeping taxes low, reducing unnecessary regulations, and empowering our small businesses. A robust Tennessee economy originates from hard work here at home, not from Washington.
Looking forward, we must prioritize our children’s education. Every child deserves the chance to succeed, and parents, not bureaucrats, should decide what’s best for their children’s education. Just as we protected taxpayers from an income tax, we must now safeguard parental rights in education. When parents have choices, children gain opportunities.
Tennessee is known for its resilience, and so am I. Whether it’s standing up to big tech to keep kids safe online or supporting law enforcement, my track record is clear: I don’t just preach conservative values; I put them into action.
This upcoming election is about more than simply selecting a governor. It’s about envisioning the future we want for Tennessee. Our state needs more than a manager; it needs a leader who has foresight and the ability to assemble a team that can turn plans into reality. My goal as governor is to maintain Tennessee as a model for the nation—strong in our economy, safe in our communities, and resolute in our conservative values—making Tennessee the conservative leader for America.
President Trump has reminded us that power belongs to the people, not Washington. Now, it’s time for Tennessee to demonstrate what true conservative leadership looks like. Together, we will ensure Tennessee remains safe, strong, and free for future generations, and together, we will establish Tennessee as America’s conservative leader.
Senator Marsha Blackburn is the senior United States Senator from Tennessee and a candidate for Governor of Tennessee in 2026.
