On Thursday night, August 6, 2026, voters in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District headed to the polls in a pivotal Republican primary that serves as a test of former President Donald Trump's political influence.

Incumbent Rep. Andy Ogles, a vocal Trump ally, is seeking a third term representing the Middle Tennessee district, which includes parts of the Nashville suburbs. Ogles has the backing of Trump and prominent House conservatives, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan. Johnson emphasized Ogles's importance, stating, "We're working with a one or two vote margin, and at the end of the day when things are tight, Andy Ogles is one of the members who's a small handful of guys who helps deliver the vote."

Ogles highlighted Trump's role in endorsing conservatives, saying, "I think Trump has really done a good job of making sure that he's choosing conservatives in races, which is also why I have the endorsement of [House Speaker] Mike Johnson, you know, conservative stalwart. [House Judiciary Committee Chair] Jim Jordan has endorsed me."

His opponent, Republican Charlie Hatcher, is the former Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner and previously served as the Tennessee State Veterinarian under both Democratic and Republican administrations. Hatcher received a late endorsement from Governor Lee, who has been friends with Hatcher for 25 years and praised him as a conservative with strong right-wing values. Ogles acknowledged the friendship, stating, "You know, they're friends," regarding Lee's endorsement of his rival.

The race has attracted significant outside spending, with a $1.3 million effort aimed at ousting Ogles. The contest is seen as critical for maintaining and growing the Republican majority in the House, with Ogles described as a key part of that majority.

This primary is closely watched as a measure of Trump's continued sway in Republican primaries ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

Sources