Republican U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn made the announcement that she will run for Tennessee governor next year.
The second-term senator’s announcement Wednesday sets up a primary clash with Congressman John Rose.
Blackburn is a two-time statewide elected official and ally of President Trump.
The Mississippi native was a congressman before she sought the Senate seat.
Blackburn says she is running to ensure Tennessee is America’s conservative leader.
Congressman Rose, who earlier announced he would be seeking the governor’s chair, has been another loyal Trump supporter and has tapped into his personal wealth to loan his campaign $5 million.
Gov. Bill Lee is termed out. The election is next August.
