Heidi Campbell enters Nashville mayor's race

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.