Marsha Blackburn becomes first woman elected to Tennessee governor’s office, per secretary of state

What This Story Is About Marsha Blackburn has been elected the next governor of Tennessee, according to the Tennessee Secretary of State’s Office. Why It Matters Blackburn will be the first woman to hold the governor’s office. Her victory follows a very tight race against Democratic opponent Jerri Green.

What Happens Next She will be sworn in this January. Blackburn will vacate her U.S. Senate seat to take the governor’s office. As governor, she will appoint an interim Senator to fill her vacancy until the next general election in 2028.

For Context Her campaign promises included backing Pres. Donald Trump’s immigration policy “100 percent,” maintaining low taxes, pushing for anti-transgender legislation and continuing school choice. Catch Up See WSMV4’s comprehensive coverage of the 2026 election results here.

Follow along as votes are tabulated here. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Voters have chosen Marsha Blackburn to be the next governor of Tennessee, making her the first woman elected to the state’s highest office.

Blackburn, a Republican senator, will succeed Gov. Bill Lee, who has reached his term limit.

Summary of the outlet's own feed. From WVLT (Knoxville), November 4, 2026.