Political tensions are heating up in Tennessee as Nashville Metro Council member Courtney Johnston considers throwing her hat into the ring to challenge U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles in the GOP primary. Despite some heavy-hitting Republican endorsements for Ogles, including U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty and former President Donald Trump, local party members are pushing for new representation.
Johnston is reportedly taking a "very close look at the district" in preparation for a potential bid. "The people of Middle Tennessee deserve better than Andy Ogles," Johnston said, according to State Affairs. "We need a tested conservative leader who can deliver and not just talk. If I run, I intend to win."
Her potential candidacy might be seen as a refreshing challenge to Ogles, who came under fire for his behavior in Congress and response to the Covenant School shooting. The alteration of the 5th Congressional District's lines by Tennessee’s Republican-controlled legislature has also been a point of contention, creating a district that now leans Republican, as per the Nashville Scene.
One of the standout concerns among local Republicans is the need for a united front against Ogles, who is often viewed as an inflexible incumbent — a dynamic that could lead to a bruising primary battle. "Many believe the best chance to unseat Ogles is for a single opponent to face him in the primary to avoid splitting up the more moderate vote," as reported by the Nashville Scene.
Yet, for Johnston, the decision to run is paired with her track record as a fiscal conservative and her council service during Nashville's pandemic recovery efforts. As per her role in the Council, Johnston has a history of substantial fundraising and avoiding deeply partisan conflicts. With more than $50,000 raised for an uncontested 2023 reelection and her ties to the business community, it may position her as a formidable opponent against Ogles. Axios states that she's been an "influential Metro Council member" and has "high name recognition," which could sway voters in her favor.
