NEW: Popular GOP Congressman Eyes Senate Run

The decision from Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) to formally announce her candidacy of governor of Tennessee has kicked off a “shadow race” to replace her, with multiple staunch Trump allies already vying for the nomination.

U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) confirmed that he is interested in running for the seat if Blackburn is elected governor, which is widely expected. Burchett’s interest in running was first reported by CNN and later confirmed by the congressman in a statement to The Hill.

Burchett, 60, was first elected to represent the Volunteer State’s Second Congressional District in 2019 after previously serving as Mayor of Knox County. While not formally a member of the House Freedom Caucus, Burchett is strongly aligned with the staunchly conservative bloc and often votes with them.

The Tennessee lawmaker has also become a favorite on social media due to his candid speaking style, as well as a number of humorous spats with reporters and left-wing trolls.

Fellow Tennessee congressman Andy Ogles also confirmed his interest in running for the seat while speaking with The Hill. “Definitely interested in it. I’ve expressed my interest,” Ogles told the outlet.

The congressman also joked about going up against Burchett for the position. “We’ll probably do some sort of steer wrestling or something like that,” he said.

Under Tennessee law, a special election will be called to fill an existing Senate vacancy the following November. But if the vacancy “will deprive the state of its full representation at any time congress may be in session,” the governor has the ability to appoint a successor until the special election is held.

This means that Blackburn, who was re-elected to a six-year term this past November, could potentially appoint her own successor if she wins the gubernatorial race next year.

Burchett told The Hill that he has not yet discussed his Senate ambitions with Blackburn, though he did offer praise and reflected on their longtime relationship. “We sat beside each other in the state Senate. Literally, she was on my right hand, I was on her left. We’ve had a great friendship,” Burchett said.

Tennessee is a solid red state that was carried by President Donald Trump by a 40-point margin in the 2024 presidential election, meaning that the eventual GOP primary winner will be heavily favored.