Following Senator Marsha Blackburn’s announcement of running for governor, followed by a flurry of State Legislators endorsing her, many political observers believed Governor Bill Lee might be adding his name as well. But Lee said this week he hasn’t and won’t endorse in the Governor’s race. 

Lee made the comments during a groundbreaking ceremony for Barrett Manufacturing and Technology Campus in Murfreesboro. 

Blackburn issued a video announcement that Lee apparently hasn’t seen. 

“I didn’t see what she put out,” Lee said. “I’ve been friends with Marsha for a long time, and she served as my congressman and representative in the General Assembly. I’m proud we have really good people running for governor in this state.”

Blackburn will face off against Congressman John Rose in the GOP primary in August 2026. At this point, there is no well-known Democratic candidate who has announced an entry into the campaign. 

Last week, while in East Tennessee, Lee also stated that he is not planning to run for U.S. Senate following the conclusion of his second term as Governor.