Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN), a staunch ally of President Trump and the MAGA movement, has expressed interest in being considered for Sen. Marsha Blackburn’s (R-TN) seat should she vacate it.
Blackburn announced Wednesday that she will run for Tennessee governor in 2026, a race that would require her to give up her Senate seat if she wins. She was re-elected to the Senate last November.
Explain America host and Conservative Brief editor Carmine Sabia broke the news Thursday on X.
Burchett, a former Knox County mayor who won his fourth term in Congress last year, is known for his approachable and humorous style in the House. In social media videos updating constituents on legislative matters, he’s often seen greeting political figures such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and fellow Republicans alike while walking down the Capitol steps.
Burchett had also weighed a run for governor, but Blackburn’s entry into the race would likely eclipse his candidacy. If she wins and succeeds Gov. Bill Lee (R-TN), Blackburn would be required to appoint a temporary replacement to her Senate seat ahead of a special election—a role that could go to Burchett.
In an interview with the Washington Examiner, Burchett confirmed his interest in the Senate seat.
“My focus is on the second congressional district as a congressman, and nothing takes me away from that,” he told the outlet. “I spend a lot of time going to meetings in my district. So yeah, I mean, that’s my focus, of course. But if I were given that opportunity, I would take it.”
He emphasized that it’s “very premature” to suggest he’s seeking the appointment, noting that Blackburn must still win both the primary and general election. Burchett declined to comment on whether he might run for the Senate in 2030.
“It’s very premature, but if I was asked, I would sure like that opportunity,” Burchett said.
Burchett thanked his supporters on social media for noting he would be a good choice to take over Blackburn’s seat.
Blackburn announced her run for governor earlier Wednesday.
“It’s official! I’m running for Governor to ensure Tennessee is America’s conservative leader for this generation and the next,” she posted on social media.
Last week, the Tennessee Republicans revealed that he had been kicked by a horse recently, leading to a fractured rib.
“Since everyone is asking, here’s the deal: On Sunday, I was kicked by a horse,” Burchett posted on social media. “Broke a rib. He didn’t like being bitten by that horsefly, and my rib was collateral damage.”
That didn’t stop him from traveling more than three hours the next day, attending multiple events, and making it back to his farm after 2 a.m. The next morning, he was up by 6 a.m. and back on the road to Campbell County for more events.
“It’s going to take more than a broken rib to slow me down,” Burchett said. “I sincerely appreciate everyone’s concern and prayers for a quick recovery. Pray for our country.”
Burchett also posted several videos from the road, showing him on his feet and talking with constituents.
“Campbell County, it is freaking God’s country, man. It is the best,” he said in one clip. “Food’s great and I was given an update on Congress and it was just wonderful. It’s always good to be home. Reminds you of what’s really important and Washington, D.C. is not what’s important, it’s the people back home.”