Scoop: Sen. Bill Hagerty will run for reelection in 2026

What he's saying: "I stood with President Trump then, and I remain committed now to advancing the policies that put hardworking Americans and Tennesseans first," Hagerty said in a media release.

Flashback: Trump appointed Hagerty as ambassador to Japan during his first term and then endorsed his candidacy for the Senate in 2020.

• Hagerty won a rugged Republican primary to capture the seat previously held by Sen. Lamar Alexander. Hagerty was rumored to be a possible cabinet appointee during Trump's second term.
• Prior to running for the Senate, Hagerty served as the state's top economic development official. As a businessperson, Hagerty enjoyed a successful career in private equity.

The intrigue: There's a swirl of rumors regarding who could run for governor of Tennessee in two years since incumbent Gov. Bill Lee is term-limited. Hagerty's name has been tossed around as a possible candidate.

• Sen. Marsha Blackburn has confirmed she is seriously considering a run.

The bottom line: Armed with strong ties to Trump and a $9 million campaign war chest, Hagerty will enter the 2026 race as the clear front-runner.