Nov 5, 2024 - Election
Marsha Blackburn defeats Gloria Johnson in Tennessee's U.S. Senate race
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Incumbent U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn defeated Tennessee state Rep. Gloria Johnson in Tennessee's Senate election.
- Blackburn, a Republican, was heavily favored to win against Johnson, her Democratic challenger.
- The race was called just as polls closed.
Context: Johnson gained a national profile last year as part of the so-called "Tennessee Three" — a trio of Democrats who led a protest for gun control on the floor of the House chamber.
- The retired teacher focused her campaign on abortion access, lowering prescription costs and fighting for gun reforms.
- Johnson has criticized Blackburn for opposing legislation capping insulin prices while taking donations from pharmaceutical companies.
Blackburn's campaign has castigated Johnson as a "radical socialist." Blackburn is a staunch supporter of former President Trump, who also saw an easy victory Tuesday night in Tennessee.
- In a campaign ad this summer, Blackburn touted her work to protect children on social media through bipartisan legislation.
- A more recent ad recounts Blackburn's 1999 fight against a state income tax, which put her at odds with the Republican governor.
Zoom out: Johnson is simultaneously running to retain her Tennessee House seat, where she represents the Knoxville area. View the latest results.