Knoxville Congressman Tim Burchett has officially endorsed Marsha Blackburn in her run for governor of Tennessee. It comes just a couple of weeks after her initial announcement. 

Burchett’s endorsement came in the form of a video posted to X (formerly Twitter), where he frequently posts his often humorous commentary and legislative updates.  In the brief video clip, sandwiched between portions of Blackburn’s video announcing her campaign, he spoke about the time he spent with Blackburn in the state Senate. Burchett gave Blackburn much of the credit for shutting down a proposal from Republican Governor Don Sundquist, who sought to establish an income tax in Tennessee. Blackburn was instrumental in rallying the “horn honking” protesters who regularly descended on the Capitol to oppose the plan. 

“She is a brave woman, and I am proud to support my friend for governor of the great state of Tennessee,” Burchett said in his video clip. Burchett has expressed interest in being appointed to the U.S. Senate by Blackburn if she wins the Governor’s office in November 2026. 

Burchett joins Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs as an East Tennessee supporter of Blackburn. Jacobs is serving as Blackburn’s campaign treasurer and has also indicated his desire for her Senate seat if she wins.  Chattanooga Congressman Chuck Fleischmann has indicated an interest in the possible appointment as well. 

Blackburn’s main opponent in the GOP Primary is Middle Tennessee Congressman John Rose. 

No significant Democrat has emerged at this point in time.

Steve Gill is the Publisher of TriStar Daily.