Memphis City Councilwoman Jerri Green has set her sights beyond City Hall, launching a campaign for Tennessee's highest office. “I told a group of passionate folks looking for a change in the state of TN politics that I plan to run, and win, because this moment is too important to stand on the sidelines. More details to come soon,” Green stated, as Action News 5 reported. Green, who is currently serving her first term on the Memphis City Council, has officially declared her candidacy for governor.
In her announcement, Green underscored the need for broader representation, "And look, mothers are great at changing the world from their kitchen table. We are the kind of people that are going to raise this next generation. But we can also do it in our city halls, at our county commissions, on our senate floors and at the governor's mansion. We need more women — more mothers — making our laws because they will not leave working families behind," a statement Green made in a video shared on social media, confirmed by The Commercial Appeal. Though her council position is nonpartisan, Green has consistently aligned with the Democratic Party and intends to run as a Democrat in the gubernatorial race.
Green's bid for governor may be perceived as a long shot in a state that historically leans Republican. Current Governor Bill Lee won his previous election by a margin of 32 points, and President Donald Trump also secured the state with an almost 30-point lead, as reported by WREG News. Despite these odds, Green is moving forward with her campaign, facing potential competition from U.S. Rep. John Rose and the possibility of Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn, both of whom have shown interest in the governor's seat.
Further updates on Green's campaign and policy positions are expected to be detailed during her appearance on "News 3 at 3" with Alex Coleman, as mentioned in WREG News' coverage of her candidacy announcement. Her message, focusing on the inclusion of women and mothers in the legislative process is a central theme, which she hopes will resonate with Tennessee voters. The state's governor's race is currently rated as "Safe Republican" by Larry Sabato’s Center for Politics, but Green appears undeterred as she embarks on her campaign trail.
