Member of 'Tennessee Three' Hopes to Survive State Democratic Primary for Senate Seat
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — As Tennessee gears up for its primary election on Thursday, all eyes are on state Rep. Gloria Johnson, whose rise to prominence came in the wake of a dramatic Republican-led expulsion effort after her participation in a high-profile gun control protest. Johnson, a Democratic representative, is vying to become the party’s nominee in what is set to be a fiercely contested race for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Marsha Blackburn.
A Political Landscape Ripe for Change
This primary not only holds significance for Johnson but also affects other key races, including the contest for Tennessee’s 5th Congressional District, where Republican Rep. Andy Ogles faces a formidable challenger in Nashville council member Courtney Johnston. As the state braces for these pivotal elections, the dynamics of power could shift significantly depending on the candidates emerging from the primaries.
The “Tennessee Three” Legacy
Gloria Johnson's journey into the national spotlight began last year during a deeply emotional week following a tragic school shooting that claimed the lives of three children and three adults. Alongside fellow Democratic Representatives Justin Pearson and Justin Jones, Johnson participated in a protest on the state House floor, using a bullhorn to amplify the calls for stricter gun control. This powerful act of civil disobedience led to their collective identification as the “Tennessee Three.”
The repercussions of their protests were swift; while Pearson and Jones were expelled from the legislature, Johnson narrowly avoided similar fate by just one vote. This incident sparked intense discussions about race and representation, as Johnson, a white woman, suggested that her race played a role in her ability to remain in office—an assertion denied by her Republican colleagues.
The Road Ahead
As Johnson prepares to face off against Marquita Bradshaw, a community activist from Memphis who previously competed for the Senate nomination in 2020, the stakes are particularly high. Other Democratic candidates in the race include Civil Miller-Watkins and Lola Denise Brown. Whomever secures the Democratic nomination will need to contend with the reality of campaigning in a state where Republican dominance has been nearly unchallenged for nearly two decades.
Marsha Blackburn, who first captured the Senate seat in 2018 by defeating Democratic former Governor Phil Bredesen by nearly 11 percentage points, enters the primary with a significant financial advantage. With close to $8.8 million in cash on hand, Blackburn poses a formidable obstacle for any Democratic challenger.
Funding and Resources in the Race
In contrast, Gloria Johnson has reported more than $2 million in available funds, having raised approximately $5 million since launching her campaign. This financial support is crucial as she navigates the challenges of a statewide campaign. Johnson’s ability to leverage national attention and local grassroots support will be pivotal as she attempts to rally Democrats around her candidacy.
Congressional Contest in the 5th District
The Congressional race to watch in the coming days will also involve Andy Ogles, who is seeking a second term in Tennessee’s 5th Congressional District. Ogles, while backed by former President Donald Trump, faces significant competition from Courtney Johnston, who aims to capitalize on Ogles’ recent controversies—such as scrutiny over his resume and dubious campaign finance reporting. Johnston’s fundraising prowess has put her in a strong position, having outpaced Ogles in campaign contributions despite Ogles maintaining a slight edge in cash on hand.
A Changing Political Climate
The political climate in Tennessee is increasingly dynamic, with the potential for shifts in power as Democrats seek to reclaim footing in a landscape dominated by Republican candidates. With approximately half of the state’s 33 Senate seats and all 99 House seats up for grabs this election cycle, the significance of these primaries cannot be overstated.
As Gloria Johnson and her fellow candidates prepare for the primary, the outcome could signal whether Tennessee Democrats have the momentum to challenge Republican incumbents in the fall. For Johnson, survival in the primary is not only about political ambition; it symbolizes a broader fight for gun control and social justice in a state that has seen consistent pushback against such movements.
With the weight of her past experiences and the hopes of many riding on her candidacy, Johnson’s performance in the upcoming election could define her role in Tennessee politics for years to come.