In a scene that harkened back to a more grounded era of politics where firm handshakes meant more than digital applause and loyalty was built in town halls, not Twitter threads, former Congressman Van Hilleary officially launched his bid for Tennessee’s 6th Congressional District. The setting was classic Americana: a red, white, and blue bunting-draped room at The Bagsby Ranch in Gallatin filled with patriots who’ve worked, served, and fought for conservative values across the Volunteer State.

Hilleary, who previously represented the district from 1995 to 2003 and is a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, stood before an energized crowd of grassroots leaders and Republican stalwarts. The event felt more like a family reunion than a political rally, reflecting the deep trust and familiarity Hilleary has built over decades of public service.

Among the notable attendees were conservative heavyweights from across the district, including former State Representative Randy Stamps, Rep. Deborah Maggart, Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris, Sumner County Sheriff Erick Craddock, Hendersonville Mayor Jamie Clary, and former Sumner County GOP Chairman Craig Garton. The roster wasn’t just symbolic—it was a clear signal that Hilleary is rallying the backbone of the Tennessee Republican establishment.

Sumner County Mayor John Isbell and sitting Congressman John Rose, whose Chief of Staff Hilleary currently serves as, introduced the candidate and offered full-throated endorsements. Rose praised Hilleary’s character, experience, and unwavering support of President Donald Trump’s America First agenda.

In his remarks, Hilleary didn’t mince words about the path forward. He laid out a bold, commonsense conservative platform: defend the Second Amendment without apology, enact term limits to break the cycle of career politicians, restore fiscal sanity with a balanced budget, and uphold the sanctity of life from conception. “We can’t fix Washington with more Washington,” Hilleary declared. “It’s time for men and women who remember who they work for—the people.”

His speech wasn’t filled with platitudes; it was anchored by personal stories from his military service and previous time in Congress, resonating with a room full of Americans who still believe in duty, honor, and country.

With the candidacy of Rep. John Rose for the next Governor of Tennessee, the TN-6 race is officially open, and Hilleary becomes the second Republican to enter the August 6, 2026, primary. But if Friday’s launch was any indication, Hilleary isn’t just entering the race. He’s charging back into the arena with a mission to bring back conservative leadership rooted in principle, not posturing.

In a time when politics often feels more like a performance than a calling, Van Hilleary’s campaign feels like a refreshing return to tradition. He’s not trying to reinvent conservatism—he’s fighting to restore it.