Tennessee Republican gubernatorial candidates campaign at annual Lincoln Day Dinner
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – News 12 spoke with three Republicans hoping to become Tennessee’s next governor.
Each candidate discussed their vision for the state’s future at the Hamilton County Republican Party’s annual Lincoln Day Dinner.
“It’s the primary, and we need to be certain that everybody gets out and votes.”
Republican gubernatorial candidates Marsha Blackburn, John Rose, and Monty Fritts were all in Chattanooga for the Lincoln Day Dinner, sharing their visions for Tennessee’s future.
Senator Marsha Blackburn, Republican gubernatorial candidate, focused on preparing Tennessee for the future, pointing to technology and innovation as opportunities for continued growth.
“Tennessee should be the leader in our country when it comes to generating nuclear power. We hear a good bit about that. There is so much going on in this part of the state when it comes to advanced manufacturing, quantum technology, computational sciences, and what is happening at Oak Ridge.”
Representative John Rose, Republican gubernatorial candidate, highlighted his years of experience, saying his background has prepared him to lead Tennessee through its next chapter.
“We need a governor who is actually capable and has experience leading an organization. A governor who is job ready, who can roll up their sleeves and go to work on day one, and doesn’t have to get on the job training. That’s something I bring to this race that my opponents in the Republican primary do not.”
Representative Monty Fritts, Republican gubernatorial candidate, emphasized conservative leadership, saying Tennessee’s success depends on staying true to the values that have helped shape the state.
“Maintaining our Tennessee Christian heritage is important. Not allowing ourselves to be inundated with folks from other places that refuse to assimilate into our culture.”
During a press conference, Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp and State Senator Bo Watson openly showed their support for Blackburn.
“We’re looking forward to campaigning and helping Marsha in her race for governor, helping Weston and our county commission folks, as well as our school board candidates. We expect Republicans to have a really successful August.”
While their priorities may differ, all three candidates are working to earn support from Republican voters ahead of Tennessee’s next gubernatorial election.
