Apr 6, 2023 - Politics

Heidi Campbell enters Nashville mayor's race

Nate Rau

State Sen. Heidi Campbell joined the crowded field of candidates for Nashville mayor Wednesday.

Why it matters: In her short time in the legislature, Campbell has emerged as a progressive firebrand on issues like education, gun control and abortion rights. She represents a sprawling district that forms a weirdly shaped ring around southwest, west, north and northeast parts of Davidson County.

What she's saying: "Nashville is in the midst of a hostile takeover," Campbell said in a press release. "As a state senator, I’ve been standing up for our city every day and I have a deep understanding of the issues between our local and state government.

What we're watching: Campbell storms into the race boosted by the support of influential state Reps. Bob Freeman, John Ray Clemmons and Bo Mitchell, and school board member Cheryl Mayes.

State of play: The field of candidates is crowded, with eight contenders already in the race.

Zoom out: This will be her third political campaign in three years.

She previously served as mayor of Oak Hill before unseating Republican incumbent Sen. Steve Dickerson in 2020. That win made her the first Democrat to flip a Senate seat since 2006.
In addition to the 2020 Senate victory, she ran unsuccessfully for the newly formed 5th Congressional District last year.

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Heidi Campbell enters Nashville mayor's race

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