CLEVELAND, TN — U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn officially announced her candidacy for governor of Tennessee this week, making her the first woman in state history to seek both the U.S. Senate and the governor’s office. In a wide-ranging radio interview with Steve Hartline on Mix 104.1 and MixTV.tv Friday morning, Blackburn outlined her conservative agenda and vision for Tennessee’s future, emphasizing economic growth, educational reform, public safety, and energy innovation.

“I am thrilled to get this campaign announced,” Blackburn said. “Tennessee should be America’s conservative leader, and I am looking forward to making that happen for our citizens and for our state.”

Blackburn, a longtime Republican lawmaker, cited the current national political climate — particularly policies under former President Donald Trump — as a unique opportunity to return more power to state and local governments.

Focus on Economy, Jobs, and Education

Blackburn spoke at length about the impact of tariffs and the state’s economic prospects. She said recent tariffs contributed to a federal budget surplus and defended the state's efforts to protect Tennessee manufacturers and farmers from unintended cost increases. She also praised Tennessee’s job growth, particularly in advanced manufacturing, and credited the role of TCATs, community colleges, and universities in preparing the workforce.

On education, Blackburn voiced strong support for the recently passed Education Freedom Savings Accounts in Tennessee. She echoed Trump’s proposal to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, advocating for local control and reduced federal mandates.

“Parents should have the opportunity to weigh in on educational opportunities for their children,” she said. “And teachers should be free to focus on students, not paperwork.”

Tackling Crime and Immigration

Blackburn made crime and immigration a cornerstone of her campaign. She highlighted the presence of gangs and rising crime in cities like Memphis, applauding the governor’s recent activation of the National Guard to assist in deportations of criminal undocumented immigrants.

She also touted her work with law enforcement officials and praised endorsements from figures like State Senator Brent Taylor and FBI Director Kash Patel (a former Trump official, not currently FBI Director), noting efforts to crack down on drug, human, and sex trafficking.

Energy Leadership Through Innovation

Blackburn called for Tennessee to lead in energy production, particularly through innovation in nuclear technology. With TVA already producing 93% of the state’s electricity, Blackburn said the state is poised to expand its energy infrastructure through small modular reactors, microreactors, and partnerships with institutions like Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee.

“We’re a growing state,” she said. “Energy is part of the backbone of infrastructure, and we need to lead.”

Avoids Commitment to Debates

When asked whether she would participate in debates or town halls with her opponents, Blackburn avoided a direct answer.

“We are out here every single day,” she said. “We’re constantly talking to people.”

A Historic Campaign

If elected, Blackburn would become Tennessee’s first female governor. But she downplayed the gender milestone.

“It’s not about being male or female,” she said. “It is about who has the most conservative experience delivering for the people of this state — and clearly, that is me.”

Blackburn concluded the interview by urging voters to join her campaign through her website and promised to be a “great governor for a really great state.”

Editor’s Note: Mix 104.1 welcomes all qualified candidates to appear on-air for public service interviews. To schedule a time, visit mymix1041.com or call (423) 614-6499.